Showing posts with label ARC. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ARC. Show all posts

Saturday, September 9, 2023

ARC Review: Puzzle House: A Novel by Duncan Ralston

Puzzle House: A Novel Puzzle House: A Novel by Duncan Ralston
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

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Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Wicked House Publishing via NetGalley.

Six strangers converge upon the enigmatic Puzzle Master Alexei Vasiliev's residence for the reading of his will, setting the stage for a captivating mystery in 'Puzzle House.' Among this eclectic group are Vasiliev's soon-to-be-ex-wife, a virologist haunted by his past actions, and a convicted murderer granted a day's reprieve. Their potential windfall: a share of Vasiliev's staggering $150 million fortune, provided they partake in his final enigma.

The choice is stark: depart the house empty-handed or accept the challenge of unraveling the interconnected escape rooms concealed within. Yet, beneath the surface of Puzzle House, a malevolent undercurrent surges. The seemingly innocuous puzzles turn perilous, and the participants realize that their journey through the rooms may be a life-and-death matter. Someone, somewhere, observes their every move, manipulating them, sowing discord. As their survival hangs in the balance, they grapple with a haunting question: is this a sadistic game orchestrated by a gleeful tormentor, or something far more sinister?

Initially, the book holds promise, sparking excitement as readers attempt to decipher the intricate puzzles alongside the contestants. However, the narrative takes a rapid and unexpected plunge into the bizarre. By the story's conclusion, words fail to convey the full scope of the surreal journey. This book emerges as one of the most peculiar books I've encountered in quite some time.


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ARC Review: A Teenage Girl in Auschwitz: Basha Freilich and the Will to Live

A Teenage Girl in Auschwitz: Basha Freilich and the Will to Live A Teenage Girl in Auschwitz: Basha Freilich and the Will to Live by Douglas Wellman
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

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

In January 1943, young Basha Anush, just fourteen years old, and her family endured the harrowing experience of being forcibly taken from their Pruzhany, Poland home by Nazi soldiers, then transported to the notorious Auschwitz concentration camp. Tragically, within a matter of days, five members of her family succumbed to the horrors of the camp, leaving Basha to face two-and-a-half years of unimaginable abuse, a grueling death march into Germany, and months of wandering alongside other displaced girls as the Third Reich crumbled. Remarkably, throughout this ordeal, she held fast to a last-minute promise she made to herself: to survive and share her story with the world.

This memoir is an unflinching account of one young girl's indomitable spirit amid humanity's darkest hours. Basha Anush's storytelling is a testament to the human capacity for hope and strength in the direst of circumstances. This book is a profoundly moving and thought-provoking narrative that reminds us of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of a promise kept.


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Sunday, August 27, 2023

ARC Review: The Wedding Guest by Kathryn Croft

The Wedding Guest The Wedding Guest by Kathryn Croft
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

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

In the midst of the anticipation surrounding her impending marriage, Emily harbors a truth that threatens to upend the life she's about to commit to. When an unexpected presence among her cherished guests, seated amidst those who hold her dearest, this uninvited figure possesses knowledge of a harrowing event that transpired a decade ago. This person, who seems determined to deny her any happiness, holds the power to expose her deepest secrets. The realization dawns that her past, no matter how fervently she tries to escape it, continues to haunt her.

The question is how to thwart an adversary who appears relentless in their mission to dismantle the life she's worked so hard to construct. And in the face of this relentless pursuit, she must grapple with the lengths she's willing to go to safeguard her carefully guarded secrets.

I found the initial sections of the book far more engaging than its conclusion, particularly in regard to Emily's interactions with Jeremy and Lexi. As the narrative progressed towards its finale, I noticed a sense of rushed pacing, and the ending struck me as somewhat strange.

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ARC Review: Scenes of the Crime by Jilly Gagnon

Scenes of the Crime Scenes of the Crime by Jilly Gagnon
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Random House Publishing Group via NetGalley.

A locked-room mystery, a determined screenwriter takes it upon herself to uncover the truth behind her friend's baffling disappearance. Set against the backdrop of a remote winery on the Oregon coast, this thrilling story follows Emily Fischer and her group of friends as they attempt to unravel the enigma surrounding Vanessa Morales' vanishing. Vanessa was the heart of the group, and her unexplained absence has haunted them all.

Years later, Emily stumbles upon someone who could be Vanessa's look-alike, sparking her resolve to tell Vanessa's story and unearth the truth of that haunting night. With a brilliant plan in mind, Emily orchestrates a reunion weekend under the pretense of reconnecting. As the group reconvenes, secrets start to unravel. Among the friends - including Vanessa's cousin Brittany, strong-willed Paige, and introverted Lydia - lies the key to understanding what truly happened. Emily must navigate a web of hidden truths and confront her own memories to uncover the reality of that fateful night.

The overall plot line of the story seemed to take an unusual and almost unbelievable turn, which left me feeling quite puzzled and disconnected from the narrative. The progression of events felt rather unusual and even bordering on the absurd, which made it challenging for me to fully engage with the story.

Additionally, the scenes involving screenwriting appeared to lack a certain level of authenticity or resonance. These moments didn't seem to seamlessly integrate with the rest of the story, and at times, they felt out of place or disconnected. As a result, these scenes didn't manage to capture my interest as I had hoped they would, contributing to my sense of disconnect from the overall narrative.

Saturday, August 19, 2023

ARC Review: The Scarlet Veil (The Scarlet Veil, #1) by Shelby Mahurin

The Scarlet Veil The Scarlet Veil by Shelby Mahurin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from HarperCollins Children's Books via NetGalley.

Six months after Célie embraced her sacred vows and became a huntswoman among the Chasseurs, she strives to establish her place alongside her fiancé, Captain Jean Luc. As they both work to safeguard their realm of Belterra, echoes of her past linger, and a fresh malevolence emerges, one that Célie must confront to prevent succumbing to its darkness.

I did not know this was a spinoff series, so I was quite confused when I started the book. However, I felt the author did an excellent job of explaining what had happened without the reader needing to read the previous series.

The protagonist, Celie, stood out to me, not as a typical weak character despite moments of self-doubt. Her true strength emerged through her bonds with friends. Although I had reservations about Michal initially, the author masterfully crafted a blend of tension and captivating moments between Celie and Michal when they were in each other's company.

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ARC Review: The Hike by Lucy Clarke

The Hike The Hike by Lucy Clarke
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from PENGUIN GROUP Putnam via NetGalley.

Maggie, Liz, Helena, and Joni, old friends with a shared history of adventures and hidden secrets, embark on a hiking trip in the enchanting Norwegian wilderness. Amidst towering mountains, serene lakes, and picturesque cabins, they find themselves entwined in a murder mystery as a lifeless body is discovered in a ravine. In the midst of the breathtaking landscape, a sinister presence lurks, and the friends become entangled in a dangerous pursuit to uncover the truth behind the woman's death.

Contrary to my initial expectations, this book took me on a surprising journey. The author's use of different character viewpoints added a unique layer to the story. Among the cast, Maggie stood out as my personal favorite. She embodied the underdog archetype, and I found myself genuinely invested in her journey, rooting for her every step of the way.

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Sunday, August 13, 2023

ARC Review: The Marriage Retreat by Laura Elliot

The Marriage Retreat The Marriage Retreat by Laura Elliot
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

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

In the mortuary, I brace myself as I prepare to identify the body of the man I've been married to for over two decades. Together, Victor and I built Serenity Falls, a thriving couples' retreat founded on principles of trust and openness, which also defined our marriage. Guiding couples toward healing was our shared mission.

Now, my world has been upended. In the wake of Victor's death, I'm confronted with a woman lying in a hospital room, comatose. She had been with Victor when he passed away. Struggling to identify her, I'm forced to confront the unsettling realization that my husband held secrets. My grief morphs into anger as I grapple with his deception. How could he keep such things from me?

Delving into Victor's hidden past, I unearth the startling truth about the mysterious woman without a name or memory. The journey unravels a web of secrets, leading me to make a crucial decision to safeguard my family.

This book was engaging at the start, but the narrative loses its momentum as it progresses. Unfortunately, I struggled to form a connection with any of the characters, which subsequently diminished my investment in their fates.

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Sunday, August 6, 2023

ARC Review: Suddenly a Murder by Lauren Muñoz

Suddenly a Murder Suddenly a Murder by Lauren Muñoz
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from PENGUIN GROUP Penguin Young Readers Group via NetGalley.

If an eye for an eye makes the whole world blind, be sure your eye is taken last.

To celebrate the end of high school, Izzy Morales and her close friend Kassidy, along with five others, embark on a 1920s-themed getaway at the lavish Ashwood Manor. Amidst vintage dresses and opulent diamonds, their festivities take a dark turn when Kassidy's boyfriend is discovered dead.

Declared a murder by investigators, the atmosphere at the manor becomes tense as every guest becomes a potential suspect. Among them, the profoundly enamored girlfriend, the desolate acquaintance, the melancholic old friend, the distressed newcomer, and the enigmatic presence, all fall under suspicion. And then, there's Izzy—the one who brought the knife!

In the midst of the looming suspicion, a grueling interrogation ensues as they remain confined within the estate. As innocence becomes the most valuable currency, the journey to unmask the murderer unfolds against the backdrop of this luxurious yet treacherous setting.

I'm quite fond of intriguing mystery novels, especially those that unfold in the midst of an ancient mansion nestled on a remote island. Izzy's character struck me as quite amusing; her demeanor resonated with a journalist's curiosity. The beauty of this situation is that every individual seems to possess a compelling reason, and the camaraderie within the group might not be as solid as it appears to the investigating authorities.

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Saturday, August 5, 2023

ARC Review: Beneath the Surface by Kaira Rouda

Beneath the Surface Beneath the Surface by Kaira Rouda
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

3.5 Stars

Note:
I received an advanced copy of this book from Thomas & Mercer via NetGalley.

A wealthy family gathers on Catalina Island following an invitation from billionaire CEO Richard Kingsley. The purpose is to secure their futures and gain control over a real estate empire, leading to a succession battle among his sons and their wives. Sibley, Richard's estranged daughter, adds a surprising twist to the event. As the contest for the Kingsley legacy intensifies, the idyllic atmosphere of the island contrasts with the escalating tensions and deceptions within the family. With money, lies, and deception at play, the weekend unfolds as a high-stakes game where one member stands to gain while another risks losing everything. Amidst a brewing storm, the family's plans could easily go awry.

In this novel, imagine a dysfunctional family saga set against the backdrop of a luxurious yacht. The initial half of the book brims with captivating family dynamics, adding a generous dash of tension and intrigue. However, as the story progresses, the family drama takes on a life of its own, verging into the realm of overwhelming.

By the time the conclusion approached, the narrative took an unexpected turn, delving into territories that stretched the bounds of believability. While the story's outset was engaging, the culmination seemed to take a detour into the realms of the implausible and downright outrageous.

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Sunday, July 23, 2023

ARC Review: The Last One by Will Dean

The Last One The Last One by Will Dean
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Simon & Schuster via Edelweiss+.

Caz embarks on a dream vacation with her new love, Pete, aboard the luxurious cruise liner RMS Atlantica. However, their blissful journey takes a chilling turn when Caz wakes up to find Pete missing and the ship eerily deserted. With no passengers or crew in sight, she realizes she is entirely alone as the ship sails through the mid-Atlantic. Caz is now caught in a gripping and suspenseful mystery that unfolds onboard the empty vessel.

The book began with an intense and captivating suspense, drawing me in from the start. However, halfway through, the plot started to lose its grip on me. It became overwhelming and required a significant suspension of disbelief, which affected my overall enjoyment.

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Thursday, July 13, 2023

ARC Review: A Bakery in Paris by Aimie K. Runyan

A Bakery in Paris A Bakery in Paris by Aimie K. Runyan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from William Morrow Paperbacks via NetGalley.

Sometimes greatness had to be born of the ashes

Set in two different time periods, the book follows the stories of two resilient women as they navigate challenges, loss, and the pursuit of love in the ever-changing city of Paris.

In 1870, Lisette Vigneau, a headstrong young woman from a wealthy family, finds her life upended by the Prussian invasion of Paris. Drawn to the cause of the people, she abandons her privileged existence to join the fight for a better Paris. Through her determination, she opens a bakery to provide much-needed support to the impoverished community. As famine and rebellion grip the city, Lisette's resolve is tested, and she must confront the sacrifices she's made.

In 1946, nineteen-year-old Micheline Chartier grapples with the loss of her father and the absence of her mother. Left to care for her younger sisters, Micheline feels trapped and ill-equipped for the responsibility. When she enrolls in a prestigious baking academy, her life takes an unexpected turn. Alongside her classmate Laurent Tanet, Micheline searches for her missing mother while discovering her own path forward.

Both women encounter profound sorrow, but they find solace in the transformative power of love and make courageous decisions. They believe that through the act of baking, which combines simple ingredients like flour, yeast, and sugar with a touch of love, they can ignite personal revolutions. The strength and resilience displayed by both women are truly remarkable and go beyond what can be easily understood.

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Wednesday, July 5, 2023

ARC Review: The Prenup by Arianne Richmonde

The Prenup The Prenup by Arianne Richmonde
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

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

Ava feels fortunate to be marrying her perfect husband, Lucas, who showers her with love and affection. However, doubts arise when she recalls signing a prenuptial agreement, questioning if Lucas sees her as a gold digger. Despite this concern, she believes they will be together forever.

Three years later, everything has changed. Ava feels unsafe in her own home and notices a drastic shift in Lucas's behavior, causing her to question her decision. Trapped in a deteriorating marriage, she realizes she never truly knew her husband. Fearful for her life, she navigates the confines of their house, desperate to escape the dangerous situation she finds herself in.

The book's description initially drew me in, but the execution fell short of expectations. The plot twists added depth to the story, but the pacing was uneven, with a strong start, a slump in the middle, and a more engaging ending. Repetitions of thoughts and events could have been minimized through tighter editing. The excessive focus on the Malibu house and unnecessary details detracted from the overall narrative. Furthermore, the characters Ava and Lucas were unlikable. However, the book redeemed itself slightly with a significant twist at the end, which was a highlight.

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Wednesday, June 28, 2023

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

The Girl Who Survived Auschwitz 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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Tuesday, June 27, 2023

Review: The Storyteller of Auschwitz by Siobhan Curham - ARC

The Storyteller of Auschwitz 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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Saturday, June 24, 2023

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

The Girl at the Party 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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Friday, June 16, 2023

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

The Party on Laurel Street 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.

Thursday, June 15, 2023

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

The Retreat 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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Wednesday, June 14, 2023

Review: The Party by Triona Walsh - ARC

The Party 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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Monday, June 12, 2023

Review: The Chaperone by M. Hendrix - ARC

The Chaperone 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.

Sunday, June 11, 2023

Review: The Shadow Sister by Lily Meade - ARC

The Shadow Sister 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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