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thelibraryskeeper's reviews
662 reviews
The Assassin's Blade by Sarah J. Maas
adventurous
challenging
emotional
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
When I originally read through the TOG series I somehow missed reading this as book one. Having read it now for the first time there was so much I missed. There was so much that is so critical. I really think it's VERY important to read these novellas before getting into Throne of Glass.
Not only were there character reveals that will absolutely come up again later in the series but also just filling in who Celaena is.
Not only were there character reveals that will absolutely come up again later in the series but also just filling in who Celaena is.
Fourth Wing (Parts 1 & 2) [Dramatized Adaptation] by Rebecca Yarros
adventurous
emotional
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I have never listened to a GraphicAudio book before so this was amazing. It really engaged me in the story even more than just reading it. I've read Fourth Wing before so this was my re-read before Onyx Storm. This time I started taking notes from the beginning as I'm determined to figure out some things Rebecca has recently hinted at. No spoilers here.
Seven Days in Tokyo by José Daniel Alvior
emotional
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Slow paced contemporary fiction that takes a deep look into love, loneliness, and the unique feeling of finding one's place in a new country.
There is so much emotion in this novel. It is written as a stream of consciousness from the viewpoint of Louis as he meets up with Landon with whom he had a one night stand the year prior. They meet in Tokyo to share 7 days together.
They both are seeing if there is a deeper connection there between them. During the trip however, Louis starts to examine himself and how he fits into the world he finds himself in and he realizes that maybe what he thought he wanted isn't right for him. This book is deeply introspective and really brought up some emotions for me. It was a bit slow paced but I was okay with that as it actually allowed me to slow my reading and enjoy it more. Overall I thoroughly enjoyed enjoyed the book and am deeply greatful to Netgalley and Unbound Publishing for sending this book my way.
There is so much emotion in this novel. It is written as a stream of consciousness from the viewpoint of Louis as he meets up with Landon with whom he had a one night stand the year prior. They meet in Tokyo to share 7 days together.
They both are seeing if there is a deeper connection there between them. During the trip however, Louis starts to examine himself and how he fits into the world he finds himself in and he realizes that maybe what he thought he wanted isn't right for him. This book is deeply introspective and really brought up some emotions for me. It was a bit slow paced but I was okay with that as it actually allowed me to slow my reading and enjoy it more. Overall I thoroughly enjoyed enjoyed the book and am deeply greatful to Netgalley and Unbound Publishing for sending this book my way.
The Fox and the Falcon by Piper C.J.
adventurous
challenging
dark
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Book two picks up where book one left off. Marlow has witnesses the killing of one of the Canaanite goddesses. Azrames and Caliban have been taken prisoner and Marlow and Fauna are left to make a plan to break them free. Along the way Marlow will learn more about herself and starts to wonder if maybe Fauna isn't who she says she is.
Piper has done an absolutely incredible job (once again). I can honestly say book two is even better than book one. I forced myself to read slower than I normally do so I could really draw it out and take in the entire plot. The last quarter or so I was unable to stop as it was just insane and I absolutely did not guess the big reveals before they were laid out.
I really have to take time to once again say how well done Pipers research is. As a religious studies scholar how she handles each of the pantheons is just outstanding. I really appreciate the care that very clearly went into this part of writing.
I'm basically foaming at the mouth for book three and book two isn't even published yet. Which brings me to say a HUGE thank you to Bloom and Netgalley for sending this ARC my way. I can't believe I'm lucky enough to get the experience of advance reading for one of my favorite authors.
Piper has done an absolutely incredible job (once again). I can honestly say book two is even better than book one. I forced myself to read slower than I normally do so I could really draw it out and take in the entire plot. The last quarter or so I was unable to stop as it was just insane and I absolutely did not guess the big reveals before they were laid out.
I really have to take time to once again say how well done Pipers research is. As a religious studies scholar how she handles each of the pantheons is just outstanding. I really appreciate the care that very clearly went into this part of writing.
I'm basically foaming at the mouth for book three and book two isn't even published yet. Which brings me to say a HUGE thank you to Bloom and Netgalley for sending this ARC my way. I can't believe I'm lucky enough to get the experience of advance reading for one of my favorite authors.
The Empress by Kristin Cast
adventurous
emotional
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Thank you to Netgalley and Bloom for this ARC!
Nothing is working for Hannah. Work romance, family, life in general. Shes failing. Everything seems to be going wrong, when suddenly she is transported to s new realm and a new life that seems to just fall into her lap. But this new world is not without its challenges. Hannah will discover what it means to seize knes purpose and make a place for herself.
I have to mention here that I have never read anything from this author so I cannot compare this to any of her previous books. This book was an easy fast read that felt like a good intro to fantasy novel. Nothing was too complex and everything felt well explained.
I was very annoyed with Hannah, our FMC, for most of the book. I hate when MCs don't listen or try to run away when they end up in a new world or a new role. Like girl, everything was awful just go with this! But I know this is how the general trope goes so okay. In the last bit of the book she really embraced herself and her role and it was amazing. The romance in the book is spicey insta lust to love which I enjoy so no complaints. Overall the book was enjoyable without being too complex.
Nothing is working for Hannah. Work romance, family, life in general. Shes failing. Everything seems to be going wrong, when suddenly she is transported to s new realm and a new life that seems to just fall into her lap. But this new world is not without its challenges. Hannah will discover what it means to seize knes purpose and make a place for herself.
I have to mention here that I have never read anything from this author so I cannot compare this to any of her previous books. This book was an easy fast read that felt like a good intro to fantasy novel. Nothing was too complex and everything felt well explained.
I was very annoyed with Hannah, our FMC, for most of the book. I hate when MCs don't listen or try to run away when they end up in a new world or a new role. Like girl, everything was awful just go with this! But I know this is how the general trope goes so okay. In the last bit of the book she really embraced herself and her role and it was amazing. The romance in the book is spicey insta lust to love which I enjoy so no complaints. Overall the book was enjoyable without being too complex.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Misogyny, Sexism, Toxic relationship, and Toxic friendship
Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas
adventurous
dark
emotional
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Second time reading through this and I still haven't read The Assassin's Blade. I find it hilarious that the first time I read through this i had no idea what was going on. Definitely better this time around. Can't wait to listen to the whole series. I really enjoyed the narrator on this edition.
For One Night Only by Jessica James
emotional
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
A huge thank-you you to Netgalley and Berkley publishing for sending me a copy of this second chance romance debut.
Valerie and Caleb had a failed secret relationship when they were younger and part of the band Glitterbats. It ended with their separation and the bands break up. Years pass and Valerie is spiraling and her reputation is tanking. As a last pitch effort, she tries to bring her old band back together - and realizes she might have feelings still for Caleb. But the band is only together for the lead up to a one night concert. Will hearts prevail?
I honestly hated Valerie - she was attention and fame hungry. I felt she took advantage of sweet cinnamon roll Caleb. She did absolutely get what she deserved but her redemption felt too convenient and quick. Overall I do love a good second chance romance and this fit the bill.
Valerie and Caleb had a failed secret relationship when they were younger and part of the band Glitterbats. It ended with their separation and the bands break up. Years pass and Valerie is spiraling and her reputation is tanking. As a last pitch effort, she tries to bring her old band back together - and realizes she might have feelings still for Caleb. But the band is only together for the lead up to a one night concert. Will hearts prevail?
I honestly hated Valerie - she was attention and fame hungry. I felt she took advantage of sweet cinnamon roll Caleb. She did absolutely get what she deserved but her redemption felt too convenient and quick. Overall I do love a good second chance romance and this fit the bill.
The Sunbearer Trials by Aiden Thomas
adventurous
emotional
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I enjoy a well written tournament novel. This was positively gorgeous. Teo is perfect in every single way and to be honest I don't know if I've actually ever read a book with such lovely trans representation. I had advice before I started to make sure I had book two on hand before starting it and I am 100% in agreement with that. That cliff hanger!!!! Ahhh!!!
Spy x Family, Vol. 1 by Tatsuya Endo
adventurous
funny
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
After starting the anime and absolutely adoring it i knew i needed to start on the manga. To my absolute delight they are nearly identical. I always worry when I watch an anime first and then catch up on the source material it'll be wildly different. I adore the premise of the story and thr fact that none of the characters can reveal who they really are to each other. Both the manga and the anime are hilarious.
Breath of the Dragon by Shannon Lee, Fonda Lee
adventurous
emotional
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
"Marked or not, every one of us has breath enough to will our own destiny into being."
Twin brothers Jun and Sai—one is born marked and thus has a destiny, while the other is not. Jun always had to work twice as hard to earn anything his brother did. Due to an unfortunate series of events, Jun and his father are banished to the West, while his mother and brother are sent to the town where his brother will become something great. Jun is determined to make something of himself, despite his father's wishes. After being forbidden to compete in a martial arts tournament, Jun sneaks out and hitchhikes a ride there.
Along the way, he meets an unexpected teacher and begins to learn there is much more to the world than he thought. The tournament is not what anyone expected, thanks to a war-hungry general. Jun must face many trials and learns that maybe who he thought he was and what he thought he wanted wasn't what he was destined for at all.
This book was gorgeously written, and I greatly appreciated that the MMC actually felt young, because he is. He's impulsive and gets angry, jealous, and prideful. He learns along the way. Also, the ending has me feeling. I need book two immediately. A huge thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to receive an ARC of this one.
Twin brothers Jun and Sai—one is born marked and thus has a destiny, while the other is not. Jun always had to work twice as hard to earn anything his brother did. Due to an unfortunate series of events, Jun and his father are banished to the West, while his mother and brother are sent to the town where his brother will become something great. Jun is determined to make something of himself, despite his father's wishes. After being forbidden to compete in a martial arts tournament, Jun sneaks out and hitchhikes a ride there.
Along the way, he meets an unexpected teacher and begins to learn there is much more to the world than he thought. The tournament is not what anyone expected, thanks to a war-hungry general. Jun must face many trials and learns that maybe who he thought he was and what he thought he wanted wasn't what he was destined for at all.
This book was gorgeously written, and I greatly appreciated that the MMC actually felt young, because he is. He's impulsive and gets angry, jealous, and prideful. He learns along the way. Also, the ending has me feeling. I need book two immediately. A huge thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to receive an ARC of this one.