Review: The Constraints of Desire: The Anthropology of Sex and Gender in Ancient Greece by John J. Winkler

The Constraints of Desire: The Anthropology of Sex and Gender in Ancient Greece by John J. Winkler
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

For many years, there has been a heated scholarly debate regarding the role of women in classical Athens. The question of whether women held significant informal power or were treated as little more than slaves has been a focal point of discussion. However, Winkler takes a fresh approach to this topic by utilizing feminist anthropology methods and expanding the scope to examine the cultural construction of sex and gender in ancient Greece. By doing so, he sheds light on the potential for female autonomy that existed within Greek society, offering a new perspective on the position of women in classical Athens.

This book has proven to be a valuable resource for my college thesis, as it covers a wide range of topics and texts in the field of Classics. Winkler delves into foundational works such as the Odyssey, Sappho's poetry, and Daphnis and Chloe, offering insightful analysis. What sets this book apart is its inclusion of lesser-known technical texts like medical writings, dream interpretation manuals, and ancient scholia (literary commentaries). By exploring these diverse sources, Winkler effectively exposes the inherent bias in Classical Studies, which has often obscured our understanding of the ancient world.

Through his research, Winkler convincingly argues that despite the scarcity of direct evidence about the lives and perspectives of ancient women, they were likely aware of the sexist society they lived in and possessed the ability to navigate it skillfully. This challenges the prevailing notion that women in ancient Greece were passive and powerless. By shedding light on their potential agency and resilience, Winkler provides a fresh and compelling perspective on the experiences of women in the classical period.

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Review: The Girl Who Survived Auschwitz by Sara Leibovits - ARC

The Girl Who Survived Auschwitz by Sara Leibovits
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Harper 360 via NetGalley.

In the midst of the chaos and horror of Auschwitz, 16-year-old Jewish girl Sara Leibovits and her family face a devastating fate. Separated from her loved ones, Sara experiences unimaginable pain and hardships during her time in the Death Camp. Despite the atrocities, she holds onto her family's values of courage, faith, and kindness. This poignant true story also intertwines with the narrative of Sara's daughter, Eti, seventy years later, who gives voice to the second generation and completes the narrative of Holocaust survivors. The story highlights the enduring strength and resilience of those affected by one of history's darkest chapters.

Leibovits skillfully captures the profound sadness of this historical period, and I was deeply moved by Sara's incredible strength and resilience as depicted in the book. Despite the immense challenges she faced, Sara's determination and courage shone through, inspiring admiration and awe.

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Review: The Storyteller of Auschwitz by Siobhan Curham - ARC

The Storyteller of Auschwitz by Siobhan Curham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Bookouture via NetGalley.

In the horrifying setting of Auschwitz in 1942, Etty Weil, a Jewish author, endures the atrocities of the Nazis. Determined to survive and share the truth of the Holocaust, Etty forms a bond with a young girl named Danielle, whom she treats like a sister. Each evening, Etty tells stories to Danielle and the other women in their hut, offering them a temporary escape from their harsh reality. As Etty strives to keep her promise of preserving their stories, Danielle's rebellious nature puts both of their lives at risk. The tale explores themes of resilience, sacrifice, and the enduring power of storytelling amidst unimaginable circumstances.

Curham skillfully portrays Etty's character, immersing the reader in her journey of resilience and suffering. Despite the overwhelming adversity she faces, Etty remains an inspirational heroine who confronts the harsh realities of life with unwavering strength. Through Curham's storytelling, the reader is able to empathize with Etty and gain a glimpse into the depths of her pain and endurance.

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Review: False Family by Mary Anne Wilson

False Family by Mary Anne Wilson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

In this intriguing tale, an eccentric billionaire devises a plan to protect his fortune from avaricious individuals vying for his inheritance. He enlists the help of a young actress, who assumes the role of his long-lost daughter. However, as she immerses herself in this charade, she becomes entangled in a web of danger and uncertainty. There is someone lurking in the shadows, determined to eliminate her. Amidst the suspenseful plot, questions arise about the motives of the billionaire himself. Can she truly trust him, or does he harbor hidden intentions for her removal?

Beyond the thrilling twists and turns, this story delves into the profound theme of what truly constitutes a family. As the young actress navigates this complex situation, she grapples with her own identity and the meaning of familial bonds. This exploration adds depth to the narrative, inviting readers to reflect on the significance of love, trust, and belonging. This book offers an engaging reading experience.

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Review: The Girl at the Party by Danielle Stewart - ARC

The Girl at the Party by Danielle Stewart
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Bookouture via NetGalley.

Stephanie's mysterious disappearance and subsequent murder have left a lingering sense of guilt among her closest friends. As they delve into the events leading up to that tragic night, they uncover a side of Stephanie they never knew existed. The image of the perfect friend begins to crumble as they realize she had secrets worth killing for. Haunted by the past, Laura and Chris are determined to uncover the truth. However, the pursuit of justice is met with escalating threats and acts of violence. It becomes clear that the killer is watching their every move, lurking in the shadows, and willing to go to great lengths to silence them.

The situation takes a chilling turn when they discover that Stephanie was acquainted with her own murderer. The shocking revelation raises unsettling questions about their own safety and how well they truly knew their friend.

Stewart skillfully portrays distinct personalities through their writing styles, particularly in the case of Laura and Chris. This clever technique captivated me, leaving me uncertain and questioning the true identity of the murderer. Her ability to keep me guessing throughout the story was impressive, constantly keeping me on edge and engaged in the plot.

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Review: The Casual Vacancy by J.K. Rowling

The Casual Vacancy by J.K. Rowling
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

When Barry Fairbrother dies the small town's dirty laundry starts to air (not literally).

I thought this was going to be an entertaining murder mystery. I was sorely dissappointed! Not only were the characters flat but the boring was so boring it was hard to get through. I would not recommend this book to anybody.

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Review: The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón

The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón
My rating: 1 of 5 stars

Set in post-war Barcelona in 1945, "The Shadow of the Wind" follows the story of Daniel, the son of an antiquarian book dealer, who is grieving the loss of his mother. Seeking solace, he stumbles upon a mysterious book titled "The Shadow of the Wind" by Julian Carax. Intrigued, Daniel embarks on a quest to uncover more works by the enigmatic author.

To his shock, Daniel discovers that someone has been systematically destroying all copies of Carax's books. As he delves deeper into the mystery, Daniel realizes that he may possess the last remaining copy of Carax's work. In his pursuit of the truth, Daniel uncovers a dark secret hidden within the streets of Barcelona, involving murder, madness, and ill-fated love.

Firstly, the writing style employed by Zafón is characterized by an excessive verbosity that becomes wearisome. It appears as though the author has made a deliberate effort to showcase an extensive vocabulary, often opting for obscure or convoluted words. This relentless display of synonyms becomes distracting and gives the impression of an author who is trying too hard to impress. Even when describing the perspectives and dialogues of a ten-year-old character, this style persists, further diminishing the reading experience.

Additionally, the portrayal of female characters is disappointingly shallow. They are divided into two clichéd categories: either depicted as excessively attractive individuals, with a focus on their physical attributes and sexual appeal, or as unattractive older women who are deemed undesirable for intimate encounters. This oversimplified and objectifying portrayal of female characters feels outdated and lacks depth. Furthermore, the depiction of sex scenes within the narrative is described as awkward and lacking authenticity, leading one to question the author's understanding or experience in this regard.

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Review: Capturing the Devil (Stalking Jack the Ripper, #4) by Kerri Maniscalco

Capturing the Devil by Kerri Maniscalco
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Audrey Rose Wadsworth and Thomas Cresswell have landed in America, a bold, brash land unlike the genteel streets of London they knew. But like London, the city of Chicago hides its dark secrets well. When the two attend the spectacular World's Fair, they find the once-in-a-lifetime event tainted with reports of missing people and unsolved murders. Determined to help, Audrey Rose and Thomas begin their investigations, only to find themselves facing a serial killer unlike any they've heard of before. Identifying him is one thing, but capturing him---and getting dangerously lost in the infamous Murder Hotel he constructed as a terrifying torture device---is another.

Even though the timeline was a little off, I really enjoyed the way Maniscalco entwined the World's Fair story into the Audrey Rose and Thomas mystery. I was less thrilled with their particular personal story than I have previously been in the other three books.

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Review: 22 Seconds by James Patterson

22 Seconds by James Patterson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

In a race against time, Sergeant Lindsay Boxer faces a critical decision that could cost her everything. With just 22 seconds left, she is on the brink of losing her badge or even her life. The San Francisco Police Department officer is consumed by thoughts of firearms as rumors circulate about a final illegal shipment of drugs and weapons across the Mexican border before new gun laws take effect. However, her attention is diverted when her trusted informant alerts her to a case that strikes a personal chord. The victims, former police officers, have been targeted by professional assassins, their bodies marked with a chilling warning: if they speak, they will die. Lindsay must now make a fateful choice that will shape her fate.

While not the best installment in the Women's Murder Club series, this book still manages to provide entertainment, albeit with occasional predictability. One notable difference is that only two of the main club members, Lindsay Boxer and Cindy, take the spotlight, with Clair having a minor role in a subplot involving a missing child. The other members make only brief appearances during their regular restaurant meetings. The character development is lacking compared to previous books, assuming that readers are already familiar with their personalities. Joe, Lindsay's husband and an FBI consultant, also plays a significant part in the story. Perhaps the reason this particular installment didn't resonate with me as strongly as some others is its lack of distinctiveness. It felt like a story that could easily be transplanted to any other set of characters, as it centered around the familiar themes of guns and drugs.

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Review: Twist of Fate by Linda Randall Wisdom

Twist of Fate by Linda Randall Wisdom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Alice Walker and Brianne Sinclair led vastly different lives. Alice worked tirelessly as a waitress, donning a pink uniform, while Brianne reveled in the glamour of the night, adorned in exquisite strapless gowns and priceless jewelry. It seemed unimaginable that these two women could be one and the same.

Allie, as Alice preferred to be called, harbored dreams of a more extravagant life. However, she never expected to find herself trapped in the body of the world's most beautiful millionaire, Brianne. It should have been a dream come true, but fate had other plans. When Allie awoke as Brianne, a shocking scene unfolded before her eyes—a lifeless fiance at her feet and a smoking gun in her hand.

Amidst the chaos, only one person believed in Allie's innocence—struggling private investigator Pete Hackett. As Allie, she had long held a deep admiration for Pete, and now, as Brianne, she seized the opportunity to make him fall in love with her. Yet, the question remained: Which woman had truly captured Pete's heart?

This paranormal romance offers an intriguing premise and revolves around two murder mysteries, making it a quick and engaging read. It is well-suited for those seeking a light and entertaining book to enjoy during vacation or while lounging at the beach.

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New Releases - July 2023

The Block Party by Jamie Day

The residents of the exclusive cul-de-sac on Alton Road are entangled in a web of secrets and scandals utterly unknown to the outside world, and even to each other.

On the night of the annual Summer block party, there has been a murder.

But, who did it and why takes readers back one year earlier, as rivalries and betrayals unfold—discovering that the real danger lies within their own block and nothing—and no one—is ever as it seems.

The Paris Agent by Kelly Rimmer

1970—In the aftermath of his war-ravaged past, Noah Ainsworth is still haunted by memories of his time as a fearless British operative in France. But a critical head injury left Noah with frustrating memory gaps and a burning question that plagues him—who was the agent who saved his life during that tragic final mission?

Determined to find answers, Noah's daughter Charlotte embarks on a quest from their cozy home in Liverpool, leading her to the incredible lives of two ordinary women—Chloe and Fleur—who transformed into fearless spies on foreign soil. But as Charlotte unravels the heroic exploits of these women and their connection to Noah, she inadvertently stumbles upon evidence of a double agent lurking disturbingly close to home, drawing her into a treacherous web of secrets and unearthing a shocking story from those final days of the war.

Once again, Kelly Rimmer takes readers on a gripping journey, one that threads the lives of two remarkable women into the fabric of history, unveiling the power of courage, family and the indelible mark left by the darkest era of human conflict.

Dead of Winter by Darcy Coates

When Christa joins a tour group heading deep into the snowy expanse of the Rocky Mountains, she's hopeful this will be her chance to put the ghosts of her past to rest. But when a bitterly cold snowstorm sweeps the region, the small group is forced to take shelter in an abandoned hunting cabin. Despite the uncomfortably claustrophobic quarters and rapidly dropping temperature, Christa believes they'll be safe as they wait out the storm.

She couldn't be more wrong.

Deep in the night, their tour guide goes missing...only to be discovered the following morning, his severed head impaled on a tree outside the cabin. Terrified, and completely isolated by the storm, Christa finds herself trapped with eight total strangers. One of them kills for sport...and they're far from finished. As the storm grows more dangerous and the number of survivors dwindles one by one, Christa must decide who she can trust before this frozen mountain becomes her tomb.

The Life She Wanted by Anita Abriel

New York in the 1920s—a time when fortunes are made and a woman’s dreams are challenged against all odds in a sweeping historical novel by the international bestselling author of The Light After the War.

1926, Hyde Park, New York. Born to modest means but befriended by the wealthy, aspiring dress designer Pandora Carmichael has been surrounded by privilege yet never at home in it. That hasn’t stopped her from dreaming—of a romance in a rarified world that could also give her the status and resources to start a business of her own. When she’s introduced to a charismatic Princeton student, Pandora’s future begins to fall into place.

Marriage provides Pandora with a devoted husband, comfortable love, and the prominence and affluence to open a boutique. It’s a fantasy realized, until scandal and tragedy upend Pandora’s life and she flees Hyde Park with a heart-wrenching secret. As the Depression looms, Pandora must rethink everything she’s ever wanted.

I Know What You Didby Cayce Osborne

Petal Woznewski is content with her quiet, introverted life in New York City: she has her junk food, her movies, and her on-again, off-again boyfriend, Gus. That peace is shattered when her name appears on the dedication page of an anonymously written thriller with a cryptic note: “I know what you did, Petal Woznewski. And now everyone else will, too.”

As she reads, Petal realizes the story is rooted in a secret she buried thirty years earlier, when she was fourteen. A secret involving the tragic death of her friend, Megan. A secret that only one other person knows—their old friend, Jenny. Armed with a copy of the book and her own suspicions, Petal returns to her hometown of Madison, Wisconsin. There, she discovers more questions than answers. Jenny has disappeared, and Petal’s old high school crush, Ben, doesn’t know anything about the book—at least not anything he’s telling.

As sinister clues pile up, and the thriller’s plot detours dangerously from the facts, Petal has no choice but to confront her past and solve the mystery of who wrote it—before her very real life ends as tragically as the novel.

Review: Bite Club by Rachel Caine

Bite Club by Rachel Caine
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The book takes readers back into the captivating world of Morganville, where vampires and humans coexist in a delicate balance. In this installment of the series, the protagonist, Claire Danvers, finds herself facing new challenges and dangerous encounters within the vampire-controlled town.

Claire, a young student, continues to navigate the complexities of living in Morganville. She is determined to uncover the truth behind the town's dark secrets while balancing her relationships with her friends, who also happen to be vampires. As tensions rise and power struggles ensue, Claire must confront her fears and make difficult choices to protect herself and those she cares about.

While the book maintains the fast-paced and suspenseful nature of the Morganville Vampire series, there were aspects that prevented it from reaching its full potential. The plot felt somewhat repetitive, revisiting familiar conflicts and dynamics that had been explored in previous books. Additionally, certain character developments felt predictable and lacked depth, leaving room for further exploration and growth.

Despite these limitations, Caine's writing style remains engaging, capturing the essence of the Morganville universe and keeping readers invested in the outcome. The action sequences and twists in the story provide moments of excitement, keeping the narrative moving forward.

While the book offers an entertaining continuation of the Morganville Vampire series, it falls short in terms of originality and character development. However, fans of the series will still find enjoyment in reuniting with familiar characters and experiencing the dark and mysterious atmosphere of Morganville once again.

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Review: The Party on Laurel Street by Ruth Heald - ARC

The Party on Laurel Street by Ruth Heald
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Bookouture via NetGalley.

"The Party on Laurel Street" is a suspenseful thriller that revolves around a fateful night of celebration on Laurel Street. The story unfolds when Gabbie, a troubled friend, has a heated argument with her husband and disappears without a trace. The neighborhood, haunted by a past tragedy involving the protagonist's, Mel's, best friend Erin. She is determined to find Gabbie and avoid another devastating loss. As secrets and suspicions emerge, Mel's husband, Luke, becomes a person of interest, leading her to question her trust in him and Gabbie. The stakes rise as Mel realizes that her long-held secret may have consequences and that someone might be seeking retribution.

The main character, Mel, is relatable and serves as a compelling anchor for the narrative. The book's overall enjoyability factor is high, thanks to its smooth and engaging writing style. The pacing is commendable, as it effectively maintains a sense of suspense and keeps the plot moving. Personally, I found myself anticipating the "wow" moments before they actually occurred, which added to the intrigue. By the halfway point, I had already formed a strong suspicion regarding the original murder, albeit only in part.

Overall, the book offers an enjoyable reading experience, characterized by relatable characters, a well-paced plot, and moments of anticipation. While not without flaws, it succeeds in delivering a satisfying thriller narrative.

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Review: Bad Moon Rising by Sherrilyn Kenyon

Bad Moon Rising by Sherrilyn Kenyon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fang Kattalakis, a powerful wolf and the brother of influential members of the Omegrion, finds himself caught in the midst of a war among the lycanthropes. As alliances shift and enemies unite, Fang's loyalty and love are put to the test. When the woman he loves is accused of betrayal, Fang must decide whether to believe in her innocence and defy his own people. In order to save her, he risks breaking the laws of his kind and betraying his brothers. The consequences of his actions could have far-reaching effects, potentially bringing an end to both their races and forever changing their world.

Bad Moon Rising, the seventeenth installment in Sherrilyn Kenyon's captivating Dark-Hunter series, is a spellbinding roller coaster ride through a world teeming with supernatural beings, intricate alliances, and passionate romances. This book combines the best elements of paranormal fiction, weaving together an enthralling story that will leave readers craving more.

Kenyon's masterful storytelling takes readers deep into the intricate mythology of her universe, introducing us to a rich tapestry of characters that have become beloved fixtures in the series. In Bad Moon Rising, she expertly expands the scope of the narrative by interweaving the storylines of the Dark-Hunters, Were-Hunters, and Hellchasers, creating a seamless blend of action, intrigue, and forbidden romance.

One of the standout features of Kenyon's writing is her ability to create deeply complex and relatable characters. In this installment, she introduces us to compelling new protagonists while also revisiting beloved familiar faces. Each character is distinct, with their own strengths, flaws, and emotional baggage, making it easy to become fully invested in their journeys. The chemistry between the characters is palpable, and the romantic relationships are both steamy and emotionally satisfying.

The world-building in Bad Moon Rising is nothing short of extraordinary. Kenyon's attention to detail and her ability to seamlessly integrate supernatural elements into our modern world is truly commendable. From the bustling streets of New Orleans to the treacherous supernatural realms, every setting comes alive with vivid descriptions and atmospheric charm. The action-packed sequences are flawlessly executed, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they navigate through battles, treachery, and heart-stopping confrontations.

What sets Bad Moon Rising apart from other paranormal romance novels is Kenyon's ability to infuse deeper themes and social commentary into her storytelling. She tackles issues of prejudice, redemption, and the power of love in the face of adversity, adding layers of depth that resonate long after the final page is turned.

As a long-time fan of the Dark-Hunter series, I can confidently say that Bad Moon Rising does not disappoint. It is a testament to Kenyon's talent and imagination, showcasing her ability to craft a gripping narrative that leaves readers yearning for more. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a newcomer to the series, this book is a must-read for anyone who craves a thrilling and emotionally satisfying supernatural adventure.

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Review: The Retreat by J.A. Baker - ARC

The Retreat by J.A. Baker
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Boldwood Books via NetGalley.

In the atmospheric setting of Chamber Cottage, Alec and Peggy find themselves grappling with their troubled pasts and struggling to salvage their troubled marriage. As they seek solace in their new retreat, they become increasingly aware of a sense of being observed. Peggy, already burdened by the scars on her face, experiences heightened paranoia and agoraphobia, seeking refuge within the cottage's protective stone walls. However, her sanctuary is shattered when she learns that her estranged mother is stalking her and Alec, claiming to possess a dangerous secret that threatens Peggy's life. Doubt and uncertainty plague Peggy as she grapples with questions about the origins of her facial scars, the true nature of Alec, and the dark secrets harbored within Chamber Cottage. The story unfolds as Peggy navigates a treacherous path, unsure of whom to trust and where the truth truly lies.

From the very start, the book plunges the reader into a bewildering maze. The initial chapters leave much to be desired in terms of establishing a solid foundation for the story. Instead of captivating the reader, I was very confused. Even at the halfway point, the story remains incoherent, leaving the reader without a sense of direction.

One of the book's major drawbacks lies in the glaring lack of communication between Peggy and Alec. Their inability to convey their thoughts and feelings effectively results in a series of miscommunications and misunderstandings. This recurring theme not only impedes the development of their relationship but also contributes to the overall confusion experienced by the reader.

The ending of the book proves to be the final blow to an already bewildering narrative. The unanswered questions and unresolved plotlines only serve to compound the confusion experienced throughout the book.

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Review: The Party by Triona Walsh - ARC

The Party by Triona Walsh
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Bookouture via NetGalley.

Claire believed her first husband, Declan O'Shea, was dead. Five years later, she has moved on and is preparing to marry again. But on her wedding day, Declan reappears, claiming it was all a misunderstanding and that he won't let her go again.

As Claire and her family try to heal and move forward, Declan's return disrupts their newfound happiness. The once-perfect wedding celebration is shattered as Declan asserts his love for Claire and his determination to reclaim his family.

Amidst the chaos and confusion, Claire's loyalty and protective instincts are put to the test. She will do whatever it takes to safeguard her children and the life she has built. However, as shocking secrets emerge, Claire begins to question the trust she has placed in those she loves most.

Despite an intriguing premise that captured my interest from the start, this book fell short of my expectations as the story progressed. The unraveling of the plot left much to be desired, with characters lacking clear motivations for their actions. Furthermore, apart from the protagonist Lizzie, the supporting characters felt one-dimensional and failed to leave a lasting impact.

One aspect that added to my disappointment was the title's lack of coherence with the actual plot. It left me questioning the connection between the book's name and the unfolding events.

While the initial chapters showed promise, the overall execution of the story left me wanting more depth and development. The lack of compelling character motivations and the title's disconnect from the plot were notable drawbacks.

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Review: Fern Gully by Diana Young

Fern Gully by Diana Young
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

The peaceful forest faces a dire threat when an ancient enemy named Hexxus starts manipulating the weather. To protect their home, Crysta, a young fairy, joins forces with her friends Pips, Batty Koda, and Zak. Together, they embark on a mission to save FernGully from impending destruction caused by Hexxus.

Get ready to scratch your head and wonder what on earth you just read! This book is a mind-boggling roller coaster of confusion. It's like the author took cramming so much into its measly 130 pages that it forgets to actually touch on anything substantial.

The illustrations are the saving grace in this topsy-turvy tale. Sadly, though, this book missed its mark. It had so much untapped potential that it only managed to reach the motion picture adaptation.

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Review: The Chaperone by M. Hendrix - ARC

The Chaperone by M. Hendrix
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from SOURCEBOOKS Fire via NetGalley.

In the controlled society of New America, Stella follows strict rules and lives under constant supervision. After her chaperone, Sister Helen, passes away, Stella is assigned a new chaperone, Sister Laura, who behaves differently and exposes Stella to forbidden experiences. As Stella spends more time with Sister Laura, she begins to question the purpose and effectiveness of the rules imposed by the Constables. Challenged by newfound freedom and unsettling truths about New America, Stella embarks on a perilous journey across the former United States, risking everything to fight against the oppressive world she knows.

This story was a rollercoaster of unsettling and thought-provoking moments that left me both intrigued and unnerved. It struck a chord with the issues we face in today's society, making it incredibly relevant. The mere possibility that events depicted in the story could actually unfold is utterly terrifying.

While the story had its merits, I couldn't help but feel that it had the potential to be even better. It left me wanting a more extensive narrative. Certain aspects felt rushed and underdeveloped, leaving me craving a more comprehensive understanding of the story's intricacies.

Review: The Shadow Sister by Lily Meade - ARC

The Shadow Sister by Lily Meade
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Sourcebooks Fire via NetGalley.

Casey's world is turned upside down when her sister Sutton goes missing. As she joins the search efforts, Casey grapples with her anger towards Sutton, unable to reveal their recent argument. Despite the perception of Sutton as a perfect and popular girl, Casey knows the truth about her sister's manipulative nature, even stealing from her. However, the disappearance of Black or mixed-race girls often goes unnoticed, and Casey is determined to find her sister, believing there is an angel in need of saving.

When Sutton mysteriously reappears, Casey's initial relief turns to unease. Sutton has no memory of her time away or her previous life, including the pain she caused Casey. Her behavior is unsettling, particularly her intense interest in spending time with Casey and observing her goldfish.

Driven by her growing suspicion, Casey embarks on a journey to uncover the secrets Sutton kept hidden. The more she delves into her sister's past, the more questions arise. Did Casey truly know Sutton at all? Why is there silence surrounding the other missing girls in their community? And what sacrifices will Casey have to make to uncover the truth behind it all?

This book had a plethora of well-crafted characters. Seriously, they were so on point, even the side characters stole the show. I loved how diverse and intriguing their backgrounds and motivations were. And let's talk about the main character's attitude towards her sister—hilariously relatable! It had just the right amount of teen angst to keep things interesting without going overboard. Kudos to the author for capturing that dynamic so well.

Now, let's talk about the resolution. I mean, come on! I needed more!

All in all, if you're a YA reader looking for a quick and easy read, this book will hit the spot. Just be prepared for some unresolved subplots and a villain that needs a serious upgrade. But hey, the characters and the magical elements will make it worth your while.

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Review: The Weekend by L.H. Stacey - ARC

The Weekend by L.H. Stacey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Boldwood Books via NetGalley.

The death of Thomas Kirkwood was never solved. Now ten years later, his mother is bringing everyone that was there that night back for a reunion but her real motives are to find out exactly who that murderer is.

I really liked how the story revolved around the supposed girlfriend that never quite fit in. None of the people involved in this weekend getaway were all that great. I know everyone has their flaws but man these people were really screwed up. I also enjoyed going back into the past with the characters and getting a glimpse of what happened that weekend and trying myself to put all the pieces together.
Also, definitely read until the very end, I was not expecting that.

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