currant7's reviews
478 reviews

 This book came at the right time for me. It is a YA novel about grief, love, loss, family, and continuing after a significant, unexpected loss. This book also brings up a lot of thoughts on a loved one's passing - though not through an accident.

The book talks about what happens to the people left behind by loved ones who passed away after seven years, and then this particular deceased loved one came back as if that person didn't die in the first place. The main character, Amber, discovers what happened to her family, friends, and loved ones, whom Amber left behind after an unfortunate accident. Reading through the book from multiple reader's POVs was enlightening and poignant. Clearly, good, bad, and ugly elements eventually revealed the truth of what happened to Amber and what happened "behind the scenes." While Amber's death was a devastating tragedy, the resolution and healing that unfurled seven years later was so powerful for all because of her mysterious reappearance. It was an impactful read.

I cried so much in the latter part of the book. I like the message - our departed loved ones are not gone forever.

Some points:-

We honor our departed loved ones through our memories of them. (I think that is why I enjoy traveling —making new memories)

Making little decisions leads readers to different paths that can ultimately affect others around them. 

 

Overall, Sneaking Out (graphic novel) is an excellent read for young adults. It was a nice and quick read, appropriate for middle-grade readers (8-12 years old) who love a bit of mischief and fun stories. There is an OG (published initially) paperback of the same title on which this graphic novel is based. I cannot fully remember if I read the original paperback book, but I would have hated Jessica if this was purely written work (no pictures/ illustrations). In the entirety of the story, she kept bullying, manipulating, and lying to so many people that it was seriously messy. In this adapted graphic novel, Jessica's actions seem less severe since the illustrator placed some lighthearted emotions into it, which lends more to young teens learning and takes it more like how I see Archie comics or the like. 

 RATING BREAKDOWN:-
Character: ★★★★
Atmosphere: ★★★★
Writing: ★★★★
Plot: ★★★★★
Intrigue: ★★★★★
Logic: ★★★
Enjoyment: ★★★★★
OVERALL: 3.7 ~ 4 stars ★★★★

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I eagerly dived into this book without realizing how much more and crazier I was entering. The plot is dynamic and outrageous—it could be a possible reality! The story comes in two parts: the mystery of Chloe's unexplained death and the weird group that Julie is involved in.

The first part of the story, learning about Julie, her situation, and her relationship with Chloe, was good, even if it was slow. I enjoyed the details and flashback experiences shared with readers. Although there is a massive disparity in life experiences between Chloe and Julie (physically and emotionally) - it was all juxtaposed with very similar types of abuse - manipulation and control. It was blatant and sad to read that although Julie was not living the high life, her sister Chloe had to put up much more and hide it all from the world. Her death might be the result of Chloe trying to do the "right thing" in the latter part of her life.

The book's second part involves Julie juggling being an influencer, evading exposure (of the truth), learning more about Chloe's life and the details leading up to her death, and surviving an important influencer trip.
I was on the edge of my seat as I devoured the latter part of the book for the "unexplained," especially the eerie and later horrific events at an influencer trip. I formed so many conspiracy theories and suspects that few were impossible NOT to get, and I was right! The culprit was totally with the group, and most of the "important people" knew of Julie's secret upon meeting her at Julie's first influencer event with them. I didn't realize how much deeper the book is written - from the intricate plot, complex characters (love-hate going on for me), and nuances that highlight and critique societal issues, injustices, or cultural norms within the "influencer space."

The author may have read many conspiracy theories and tabloid stories to shape this absurdly diabolical ending. I enjoyed the craziness and madness! I hate most of the characters because of how shallow a good chunk of them are, and when I do find an influencer that I like because she seems friendly, down-to-earth, and helped Julie, I am betrayed by the horrible choices this particular character made for the views, likes, and social media algorithms. It was frustrating! I liked how Julie ended the book by seizing the narrative, but it came at a cost. There was no going back to the "normal SuperFoods Supermart cashier." Chloe Version 2.0 is gone, and Julie the Influencer 2.0 morphed from what happened.

In summary, I highly enjoyed Julie Chan is Dead! The book's intriguing premise and great suspense made my reading experience enticing. It reminds me of Yellowface (5 stars), but it isn't so. It's different in how the twists and turns unfold. There was a balance of the murder/mystery genre with implied and explicit social commentary on how our current society sees the influencer relationship. The book has so many pros and cons of the business that "peasants" like myself would never think of seeing without the author venturing into this realm's "toxic" side. I am a fan of this debut author's mind!

Thank you to Simon & Schuster and Edelweiss for my gifted eARC. 

 POV: multi-POV
Genre: Fantasy, Sci-fi

Summary: a young girl, Synali, grew up with only one thing in mind - to avenge her mother's death. With vengeance in her heart and the help of a mysterious noble Synali made a deal with, she enters a world of mechanical steed and lance games. From a small

After a slower start, I did not expect to be so hooked in the end, and I got distracted a bit. It was not my best reading mood at the time. However, as I returned a few months later, I felt the pace improved significantly after 25% of the book. I don't know if I was just busy, but this book took me a bit to finish (see my date start vs. finish) because of its interesting concept. It reminds me of the Japanese anime - Gundam, Iron Widow (most certainly), and The Hunger Games.

The world-building could have been more or maybe incorporated better, but I got used to the author's style by the middle. I enjoyed the plot and the twists in the end.
The main character, Synali, is a no-nonsense, determined-for-revenge/retribution strong lady.
Overall, I will continue with the duology (?) and cannot wait to see what will happen to the characters. 

 

Heavenly Tyrant, Book 2 of Iron Widow, is my most anticipated read after finishing Book 1. Book 2 continues immediately where Book 1 ends. It is a different switch to fighting to "overturn" the government. Now, Zetian is in the position that she craved in all—to make changes in the government—the beginning of revolutionary changes. But is it really how she envisioned taking over and ruling the Huaxian? 

As expected, the book's world-building is impeccable. Each description takes readers on a fantastic journey of Kunlun Mountains to the Heavenly Court (yes, iykyk)! I am a fan of good world-building since that sets the mood of the characters and diving into a more engrossing read. I appreciate the new places introduced in this book. There are returning lands, but the places beyond the real-world realm were a terrific add-on to the storyline. It also intrigues readers at what goes on with the "gods." 

Wu Zetian (Zetian), FMC, undergoes significant character development in this book, making her more relatable to readers. In the most horrific scene in Book 1, she loses her partner, Shimin, and the Vermillion Bird, their Chrysalis - so she now needs a new and powerful partner AND Chrysallis to continue with the revolution. In Heavenly Tyrant, Zetian had to learn quickly about court politics and manipulation as she refocused vengeance on a scale beyond familial duty under a new world order, new allies/foes, and new rules; things never come easy for Zetian. Written in first-person POV, Zetian had to be more cunning and, most importantly, patient in reaching a goal in her male-dominated world. It was one problem after another. Each failure or despair reverberates each bone in my body. Each anger she swallowed, I had to swallow. She had more control over her emotions, especially for Shimin, than I could have mustered being on the political stage. She develops well in the book by learning to adapt to situations and manipulate when she can, garnering her respect in my eyes. The author did her much justice and has surely patterned her to many of the empowered women in history - based on the author's research. No matter what happens, I am still so proud of Zetian (and the author), who can get a reader like me involved and invested in this book. 

Qin Zheng (Zheng), MMC, is the pilot of the Yellow Dragon and has been freed by Zetian to help with her cause. He had to catch up with being "awoken" into a time and place beyond what he expected and hoped for. All these past works seem to have not come any closer to his "ideal world." So, his conviction lies heavier on a particular side that can seem extreme, but when explained to the masses, it works as idyllic as Zetian wanted in the first place. He is the morally grey character that I love, and compared to Shimin (in Book 1), he is the strongest-willed pilot-partner Zetian will ever encounter. He has strong ideology beliefs that will make heads turn with the legislative changes that come into the regime he sees in Huaxia in the future.

There were many returning interesting secondary characters, like Sage, who was thought to have not survived, a partner who revealed more about his past, who would later manipulate the power struggle between familial claims, etc. These characters created more complex side storylines between Zetian and Zheng that will create further complexity.

Regarding the underlying message, the author imparted many nuances to governmental systems. Her points in the book made me think about the world (good and bad), but they are a good jumping point to start asking more from the government. At some points, there are controversial themes of patriotism, human rights, and equality, but the important thing is that these points make readers reflect and consider possibilities. I will admit that I felt unsettled by some of the "hard choices" made, but they are all part of what the author wants to direct readers to. The ending tied all those choices well.

In summary, Heavenly Tyrant is a non-stop, suspenseful read that will keep you "on the edge" of your seat. The author's skillful storytelling and the twists and turns made it a hard book to put down! The story climaxes exponentially by the cliffhanger ending, not only because of the gore, violence, and tension but also because of what the novel says about humanity and the politics that rule it. The ending gave me chills that will last till the next book. 

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I am grateful to Colored Pages Book Tours, Tundra Books, and Penguin Random House of Canada for my gifted copy. I voluntarily shared my honest review and emphasized that a positive review was unnecessary.

 

What's inside:-

* Enemies to Lovers

* Series continuation

* Ballet lifestyle - older and retired

* Photography/Influencer life

* Second-life, Second-wave

Pros:

- Discussion on Vaginismus/Pelvic Floor Dysfunction ("broken vagina")

- Sex positivity

- Mental Health Education

- Dancer rights and progression

- Travelesque feel and wonderful exploration, not typically expected from Australia

- Ending wrapped well

Cons:

Although Pointe of Pride offers excellent topics and discussions, a few things would improve the book. The book needs a bit more editing. I have issues with how the dialogue switches between internal and external discussions. There needs to be better format or spacing. However, there were many moments when I needed clarification on the constant switching between thought and speaking. The transitions between POVs could have been smoother. It might need better editing or a revisit. 

The descriptions could be more concise than wordy, and the excessive, sometimes repetitive, analysis could be held back. I believe less is more. The book could be shorter, which might help the pacing and momentum of some revelations.

The above made the pacing a bit unpredictable, which may be why I lost interest when I reached some parts. 

Summary:

Overall, I enjoyed Pointe of Pride. Although there were moments that hindered a faster read due to the pacing being a bit slow, I appreciated the thought process of the author for putting the topics like people who deal with a "broken vagina" while still at the same time being active sexually and sex positivity. This book takes a refreshing book on the life of a dancer (a ballerina, in this case) that made me rethink and reassess what a few of my friends in the same field are going through, like what happens to a ballerina who grows older in a corp dance company. Lastly, I want to say "kudos to the author" for sparking my intrigue and curiosity about Australia's unique and natural beauty spots not generally mentioned in romance/rom-com books. I recommend this book to readers who love to dance, are in dance, love to travel, and want a cute enemies-to-lovers genre. 

 

Coming into this book, I was worried I would be lost in the characters and storyline since this is Book 2 of the author's One Night Stand series. It's safe to say that even if it's a series, this book stands well alone with new and exciting characters that are complex and cute at the same time.

What do an author (Carlie) and a gym trainer (Adam) have in common? A scarred past and an exclusive/secretive invite to Club Nocté's Upper Tier event. This one-night rendezvous was supposed to be one time, but somehow Fate has these two MCs bound tightly after their first meet, with Carlie having Adam as her assigned trainer! What happens next isn't a full-blown recognition of who the other person is, but a connection that is shown through their unexplainable instinct and association by working through how to boost Carlie's confidence, get her out of her writing slump, and gain back her confidence to start looking forward and not be stuck with her cheating ex-boyfriend. On the other end of the story, Adam has to thread through his ex-girlfriend, who dumped him out of nowhere and yet has work in the same place as she is while trying to start his own business at the same time.

My first thought was that the book is lengthy for a contemporary romance. Not to say that the length could have been better, but I thought it would be a simple romance, one-night stand, some misunderstandings, and then HEA. It is almost double what I was used to, but my reader's advice is to keep going! Surprisingly, there was more to the story - character development and plot that intrigued me. Not only was there a viral scandal in the mix of a writer and gym trainer, but also a lot of internal conflict within Carlie (FMC) and Adam (MMC) that needed to be addressed and later evolve with the help of each of their friends. I find books that take care of building characters and a loving, supportive environment a real gem!

The slow-burn pace did not help ease the full-on angst for any reader since both MCs had suspicions about the other but could only confirm something far beyond the chapters! I initially dismissed the story as "easy to solve attraction," without realizing how impossible it was to rush the "healing" both characters were going through individually. Note that both were so badly scarred from their past relationships that it would have been a disservice to have them both jump into each other impulsively and assume it all. I appreciate the author's decision to give long enough time for both characters to connect and discover each other while helping Carlie feel empowered again.

I liked how the author chose an author (pun intended) to be her FMC, which is perfect since she can write from experience regarding the book industry and how anonymity is essential, yet sometimes, a problem with later finding out one's self. Carlie has to step out of her "author hat" to heal and find the happiness she deserves. It took her some time and time with the people around her to learn how to stand up for herself, but she eventually did so because social media pushed her to do that. (No spoilers from me!)

I enjoyed Carlie's grandma, who injected so much humor into the scenes, and Carlie's internal comedy skits playing off embarrassing moments in the book. The Dirty B's were a great supporting cast that brought so much color and charisma to the story. Their help and shared outlook brought Carlie back to the empowered woman she writes about in her book! (Note: semi-spoiler alert...the Dirty B's will have their books/stories to share in this series!)

Overall, Dirty Books is an interesting and angsty (positive) read. The book will take readers on unexpected hurt, healing, and later empowerment journeys, with its deep dive into meaningful relationships and internal struggles for two very impressionable characters. Expect a lot of seduction, attraction, angst, and the need to start working out or going to a gym, or if not, to meet or have someone like Adam. 

Top 5 Reasons to Read Song of the Six Realms

#1: Epic Worldbuilding

The introduction to the realms helped a lot at the start of the book. Still, the author's descriptive words and descriptors gave stimulating visuals for readers, from the atmosphere of melodic music notes filling the air from a qin to exploring Meng Compound, wherein readers are taken straight to the beauty of oriental architecture and garden delights, etc. It was a feast of the tastes and sounds of the Orient. While I appreciate the author's diving into the court politics and landscape before GuXue (Xue) was born and wanting to educate and inform Xue (and the readers), I had a problem with the "too-many" descriptions provided. It can sometimes slow the story's pace and character development. 

#2: Intricate and Intriguing Storyline

Kudos for stumping me, the reader, with how the story unfolded. I was so engrossed in everything in the book that I missed a few connections linking one MC to another. I appreciate the book stating the hierarchy of Realms at the beginning of the chapter, which gives a better grasp of the Realms. Also, non-spoiler trigger warnings provided a good summary of what might come. 

A side note: Although I enjoyed the story, the pacing may seem discouraging. The author did not kid on her statement that the book is a slow-burn angst read. It definitely is! The complex scenes, relationship-building, and numerous backstories made me stop a few times to reflect and understand their correlation to the story.

#3: Imperfectly Perfect Characters

All the characters were interesting since readers get only one POV—Xue, the main character. Little did Xue know that many things were happening behind the scenes and even in front of her that affected the story. I realized how all the characters were slowly interconnected throughout the book, creating a complex yet cohesive ending.

Be warned, though—many characters appear in the book. It can get overwhelming, so if you need to make an organizational chart or notes on the side to track the character roles, their importance in the story, etc., do it early so you won't flip back and forth to find the names after reading ten chapters, like me.

#4: Unique Connections and Relationships

I appreciated the author's relationship-building—Xue's familial connections and the slow-burn connection with JingLang. Many past flashbacks greatly impacted her devotion to her Uncle, and she took heed of every piece of advice he imparted. He prepared her for everything, and his "contingency plans" were perfectly orchestrated when the time arose!

I like the demisexual connections made since this is a rare topic in romance. I have a love-and-hate relationship with the angst, slow-burn books. Sometimes, it works, while other times, it falls flat. This book initially gave me doubts, but the latter chapters made me believe in Jinglang and Xue's connection. I love the author's beautiful message of love and family.

#5: Last but not least...Inclusion of Chinese Myths

I thoroughly enjoyed the myths/legends' backstory imparted before each chapter, which foreshadows the upcoming scenes and even within the chapters. I was familiar with a lot, but a good chunk was a surprise. 

The Song of the Six Realms was a long yet enjoyable read. It has its share of slow moments and complicated connections/twists, which were later tied nicely to create a cohesive and satisfying ending. I enjoyed reading a fantasy that is not heavily dependent on romance to move the storyline. Instead, the urgency of the events and the "saving the world" themes made me push to finish this as fast as I could. 

What to expect:
Slow-burn romance
Fake relationships
In-denial
Dating later in life
Meddling 👩
Mother-daughter relationship development
Nosey roommates
Author problems
Middle-child syndrome
Dealing with Siblings
Surprising family revelations in the end
Judgemental 🐈

Pacing:
The pacing is moderate to slow due to the slow-burn element and relationship denial. Nonetheless, the book was easy to relate and understand. The storyline was engaging storyline, even if the spice (🌶) started only in the middle of the book because of FMC's stubborn denial of the "potential relationship" in front of her.

Characters: 
- Parents of MC: funny at times, primarily hilarious and straightforward; love them all!
- FMC: funny, very patient and thoughtful to a fault, over-analyzing things too much, insecure at first but more confident in the end
MMC: down-to-earth, sweet and sensible.

I enjoyed a lot of aspects of the book like:-
-The complex revelations that came out and sorted the complex relationship between mothers and daughters.
- The super rational-irrational juxtaposition between MMCs. Only one character was rash and impulsive, while the other may be confused and distressed on the inside; nothing showed through on the outside, which was relieving.
- The intricacies of being an author, in general, were eye-opening for me. The road to being published is complex and complicated, especially living in the cosmopolitan city of Toronto.
- Annoyed as one can predict, FMC's mum and dad are my favorite surprise.

Overall, Love, Lies and Cherry Pie was an enjoyable read.
I relate to the book's complex look at relationships from an Asian child/family's POV. The balance between emotional connection and lifestyle stability has always been at the forefront of my life experiences.
I cannot wait to see other books by the author again!

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Thank you to the publisher for graciously providing this ARC through Edelweiss for an honest review.  

As a child, I have always been curious about the possibility of rewinds - that would be an exciting and less problematic childhood. There were many instances that I found myself in a situation because I missed crucial signs like not reading the instructions carefully or taking note of my instincts on certain events. Although this concept is not new (remember the movie Sliding Doors), I am glad that the author gave more nuances and depth to the characters in the book. 

There was a lot of political intrigue and strategic manipulation that I enjoyed. A series of intricate plot twists captivated me in my reading nook. Despite its moderate pace, some scenarios maintained tension. The world-building was descriptive and very colorful. The royal court's descriptions were accurate to the time and culture, wherein the societies were complex. The book explores socio-political issues like class struggle and misogyny (still prevalent even now) and gives nuances on the justification for each character's choices and actions. Things were more "cut-throat," like what historians talked about.

I love Mingshin's wit and insight. She is the main character I needed - strong, brave, patient, and wise. Her take on her "second life" was eye-opening as she navigated through the intrigue and deceit of a royal court and its political controversies. Readers will see a total character change - a 180-degree turn and will surely excite anyone coming from where the first chapter or two started. She perfected the balance of a timid facade while ensuring she exacted her revenge at the right time. She guided others around her without giving much away on why. She was the "invisible hand" that foiled the villains in their plans but still maintained a faultless innocence in other people's eyes.

She played the political game like how a Grand Master chess player crushed one's opponent in a very satisfying ending that I will remember for a while.

Summary: A Bright Heart captivates the reader with its fresh take on reincarnation and revenge - two elements in the novel that will capture and engage readers on the possibilities of a "redo life." With a strong female protagonist with special powers, the book didn't go "over" with the feminist ideology (since it wouldn't be possible in Asia in general) but somehow manipulated things to her advantage and her safety. There was a good balance of strong/brave heroes with uncertain futures.

I am excited to see what is next for the author in the coming years!