Tag: fantasyst95

Book Review: Dark Matter – Blake Crouch

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Dark Matter is a thriller novel I devoured and happily rated 5 stars. In today’s review post, I share just what I loved about it!


Dark Matter – Blake Crouch

Genre: Thriller

Pages:  342

Audience: Adult

Publisher: Ballantine Books

Publication Date: 26 July 2016

Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟


Goodreads –  Dark Matter


‘Are you happy in your life?’

Those are the last words Jason Dessen hears before the masked abductor knocks him unconscious.

Before he awakes to find himself strapped to a gurney, surrounded by strangers in hazmat suits.

Before the man he’s never met smiles down at him and says, ‘Welcome back.’

In this world he’s woken up to, Jason’s life is not the one he knows. His wife is not his wife. His son was never born. And Jason is not an ordinary college physics professor, but a celebrated genius who has achieved something remarkable. Something impossible.

In this other life, Jason has created a box. Transport into infinite alternate universes – every possible outcome of his life, one behind each door. In this other life, Jason chose a door. And he stole the life he wanted.

If Jason Dessen wants his life back, he will have to find it among infinite possibilities. And he will have to battle a terrifying, seemingly unbeatable foe: himself.


My Thoughts


Plot

I really enjoyed Dark Matter for its interesting and twisty plot. If you read the synopsis after the book, you can see just how it fits so well to what happens. It’s clever in that it doesn’t really give it away either, so I’m impressed.

If I told you that the overarching plot involved some degree of quantum physics and parallel universes, your brain may instinctively want to back away and hide in the nearest hole. However, please do not let that intimidate you.

This is included in the storyline in the absolute best ways. There isn’t too much detail or advanced knowledge needed to understand the premise. In my opinion, it is balanced perfectly so that the subject is approachable by readers of all levels and not limited to science nerds of the century.

And if you enjoy the kind of rabbit hole of thinking what would happen if each of these parallel universes interact with each other, then you are going to have a field day!


Characters

I liked Jason’s character and he was interesting throughout the book. Throughout the book, we see multiple versions of Jason and what would’ve happened if he had taken different paths in life.

Developing one character to such an extent that they can uphold a main character role is enough of the challenge without then having to develop them further and think about how different they could be in different circumstances. Crouch did this very well as I found all versions of Jason intriguing to read about.

But of course, he is not the only character in this book. Although a lot of time and effort must’ve gone into developing Jason as a character, that’s not happened at the expense for the characters. There is naturally a full cast to get to know over the course of the book and how they each play their part in the overall storyline.


Setting

Even though the narrative deals in quantum physics and alternate realities, I was able to keep track of where we were throughout the book.

Dark Matter is clever in that it touches on this topic for a good deal of the narrative, but not in such a technical way to intimidate readers. If you can read books like Stephen Baxter’s The Long Earth, I’d say it’s on par with that.


Narrative Style

Dark Matter is nice and easy to read. With enough going on in the plot, the really easy to understand and follow narrative style compliments perfectly.

I read the book over the course of just over a week. I admit that it’s difficult to remember exact details given I read this book about two years ago now. At the same time, the overarching impression of my experience of the book is a great one. I loved picking this up at every opportunity I could.


Summary

If you love the idea of this kind of plotline but have reservations on the subject matter, please let me reassure you that it is well suited to readers of all levels. However, if you really can’t get yourself past the idea of trying the book, I believe there is a TV series that may be more approachable for you instead. I haven’t watched it myself, but would be inclined based on my love of the book!

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Monthly TBR – September 2024

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I’m back with my reading list for September in this monthly TBR post!

I’ve been pushing myself these last few months to try and read more, but ultimately not got through the reading list. I now need to consider that I am studying for an exam in November. As a result, I have less time to read than usual, so I’ve tried to shorten the reading list to allow for that and without feeling guilty.

Here are the reads I have been, and will be reading, this month. Let’s get stuck in!


Fixed Reads


Eruption

Eruption is one of the reads I carried over from August. I’m pleased to say that I just finished the book last night. However, it’s only fair to include the 155 pages so I’ve read this month;  the time taken to read that will naturally affect what time I have left for the rest of this TBR.

Undoctored

My second carryover is Undoctored by Adam Kay. It’s another book that I’ve already finished so far this month!

I was listening to the audiobook version and it’s been great to have a humorous non-fiction read for a change. If you’ve already read and loved other books by Adam Kay, such as This is Going to Hurt, Undoctored will offer you the exact same experience with brand-new anecdotes and personal stories. Where the first book focuses on his years as a junior doctor, this latter focuses more towards the end of his doctoring career and his move into becoming a writer and comedian.


The Lost Apothecary

I’m including The Lost Apothecary on my fixed reading list because it is a library loan due back in just over a week.

I picked up this book at the very beginning of the month as I wasn’t feeling the reads I had originally lined up. Instead, I wanted to pick up something a lot lighter, and the synopsis of this book appealed to me.

I’ve only really sat and read this for any length of time once so far at the beginning of the month. I’ve been prioritising finishing Eruption. However, I really enjoyed what I read and I managed to get about 20% through the book in that one sitting. I’m expecting this to be a nice quick read and as it’s now my priority read as of drafting this monthly wrap-up, I hope to get through it soon!


Defiant

The last book I’m including in the fixed section of this monthly TBR is Defiant by Brandon Sanderson. I am determined to finish this series and to make that possible this month, I’ve picked up the audio copy of this book. I’ve read the previous instalments of the series are the physically. However, I currently have no qualms about switching to audio as it’s a form format that means I can access reading at a time where I can’t sit down conventionally. That’s happening more often than it ever used to so it makes sense to adapt.

I’ve not long started the audio of this book, but already I’m getting back into the setting and familiarising myself with where we left off in Cytonic.

I’m looking forward to listening to this audio and finishing this series. It’ll be bittersweet I think.


Mood Reads


Three Sisters

Another audio I’m hoping to pick up this month is Three Sisters by Heather Morris. This is the third book in The Tattooist of Auschwitz series and will mark another series completion for me once read.

I’ve had this audiobook for some time. Given my reading time constraints, having another audio will make the reading list a little easier. It’s also the format I have read the other books in, so it will be consistent.

It’s been a little while since I picked up any books in the series. However, as I don’t think this directly relates or follows on from either of the earlier books, that doesn’t really matter.


The Kingdom

I mentioned in my Sunday Summary last week that I was planning on changing up some of the books I had planned for this TBR. Some of the books stayed on the list, and The Kingdom is the first of these.

The setting of this book is a little whimsical. Combine fantasy theme park with AI and a murder, and you’ll get an idea of what this book is about. I also think the book is told through a variety of formats. I’m excited to pick up something that I wouldn’t typically.


Jingo

Another series I would like to progress with is Terry Pratchett’s Discworld universe. The next book on my list is Jingo, which is part of the city watch series. I’m quite looking forward to this book as it deals with the topic of war, and will feature a character I enjoy and find quite relatable – Sam Vimes.

If I recall correctly, the last city watch book I read was Feet of Clay. I wasn’t as much of a fan of this one, but I’m confident this will be a much more interesting read.

If nothing else, Terry’s books usually contain quite a bit of humour and they are relatively light-hearted. Given I’ve got a busy month ahead at work, as well as studying, it will be good to help carry me through. It’s for this reason that Jingo survived the TBR switch up alongside The Kingdom.


Summary

I’m glad I revised my monthly TBR down a little from what I had originally planned. On the off-chance I get through all of the books on this list then I’ll be able to pick up what I want and when.  However, there’s enough here that should keep me challenged for the month.

I’m also happy that I’ve taken off some of the larger and heavier books out of this monthly TBR. I was originally thinking of continuing with Wolves of the Calla by Stephen King. I also entertained picking up Fool’s Errand by Robin Hobb. Neither are quick reads. Whilst they’re both still on my list, I’ll read them at a time that better suits and give myself plenty of time for them.

What are you reading right now?

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Monthly Wrap-Up – August 2024

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Hello readers and welcome to this monthly wrap-up for August. I had a decent month of reading, and this post is about sharing what I read over the last month.

I had a couple of carryover’s from July, as well as a varied list for August. As usual now, I didn’t get to all the books I set for August – but I had a great time with the books I did read.

Let’s take a look!


Books Read


The Power of Habit

Picking up from last month’s monthly wrap-up post, I was 30% into The Power of Habit.

I really enjoyed this book, and I’m hoping I have some good take away knowledge from it. The book has great examples of the consequences of bad habits – personal, organisational and as a society. The key takeaway I have from the book is that you can often change a habit by making changes in a seemingly unrelated way and gradually introduce change from there.

I’m hoping this will help me build more good habits in my own life!


The Other People

In my Monthly TBR post I shared that I was nearly through this audiobook. I’d already listened to 80%, so this month I was hoping for a quick conclusion.

Mum loved and strongly recommended The Other People and having finished it, I get why. If you enjoy mysteries that keep you guessing all the way along, this is perfect. Even up until the very end I was still trying to put pieces together and work out character’s involvement in the story line.

The Other People is the third book I’ve read by C.J. Tudor, and I still have plenty to read!


The Midnight Library

For our first ever book club at work, we chose The Midnight Library by Matt Haig to read and discuss. For me it is a re-read, but I agree with some feedback from another member that it’s better second time around!

I re-read The Midnight Library very quickly. It’s only a short read – one of the reasons I recommended it to book club in the first place. At the same time, it raises plenty of discussion points; it doesn’t lack for content! Admittedly I did leave this a little last minute. I finished it the night before book club. I wasn’t the last though – Helen spent the first half hour of the meeting finishing it!


Eruption

I’ve prioritised picking up our next book club read, Eruption, as I’m sharing a physical copy with another member.

As of the end of August I was 65% into the book. I’ve started reading it again after my bout of covid (so as not to contaminate the book!) so as of drafting this monthly wrap-up I’m a little futther.

I hope to finish this soon so I can pass on to Helen ASAP.


Wolves of the Calla

A book I very briefly started, but ended up shelving temporarily, is Wolves of the Calla by Stephen King.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with the book and I fully intend to pick it up again soon. However, I started to read this right at the end of the month when I became unwell. I decided the time wasn’t ideal to pick up such a tome. When I’m back into the swing of things I’ll pick it up again.


Breathtaking

A short audiobook I enjoyed this month was Breathtaking by Rachel Clarke. Make no mistake, it’s an eye-opener.

I totally appreciate the book and subject may not be for everyone right now. However, I enjoyed listening to this perspective on the pandemic. I had no idea that care homes were so woefully under-supplied with PPE. What I also found interesting was Rachel’s (and colleagues) views of the advice being issued by the government. It is very much a view of too little and too late.

 

Undoctored

My last non-fiction to share with you in this monthly wrap-up is Undoctored by Adam Kay.

As of drafting this monthly wrap-up I have just finished the book this morning. You’ll get more thoughts on it in Sunday’s Sunday Summary update.

However, as a snapshot of where I was at month end, I was a couple of hours shy of completion.


Summary

I read quite a number of non-fiction books in August – more than average I’d say. However, given I was a little behind in my mid-year review on this goal, it’s a good change. I’m still slightly behind, but only by one book or so.

August was a good month of reading for subject diversity and I’m looking forward to an equally productive September. My reading list is coming out in the next day or so, so stay tuned!

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Goodreads Was Wrong Book Tag

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The Goodreads Was Wrong Book Tag was created by booktuber GabsAboutBooks. I found it on Zeezee with Books and thought it would be great fun to try!

I apologise that this post is coming to you a day later than I originally planned. I was hoping to get this to you guys yesterday, but unfortunately, I haven’t been well. Yes, I’ve come down with the beloved Covid 🎉 I am on the mend though, so fingers crossed I’m better soon and normal life can resume…

Now, let’s get into the tag!


What is the highest-rated book that you gave a low rating?

(Sort your books in Goodreads based on Average Ratings and find the highest-rated book you gave a low rating.)


Defiance (The Torcian Chronicles) – P.J. Reed

It’s a shame I didn’t get on with this book as I was reviewing it for a blog tour. I persevered where perhaps I wouldn’t have were I reading the book of my own volition.

It Just wasn’t for me. Writing style is a big make or break for me when reading and I couldn’t gel with writing style.

 

What is the lowest-rated book that you gave a high rating?

(Sort your books in Goodreads based on Average Ratings, in reverse order, and find the lowest-rated book you gave a high rating.)

 

Vox – Christina Dalcher

Vox averages 3.5 stars on Goodreads, but I loved it! Then again, I’m a sucker for Feminist fiction.

I’m not sure why this sticks so hard in the average category on Goodreads. I can see why this kind of book wouldn’t be everyone’s cup of tea. But then again, why would you read it if you know that about yourself?

I regret that this book will be judged on this average rating. I personally thought it was great!


What is the most popular book that you disagree with the average rating?

(Sort your books in Goodreads based on Number of Ratings and find the first book you disagree with the average rating.)

Circe – Madeleine Miller

On the other end of the spectrum, I really didn’t feel Circe in the same way the general community has…

The Goodreads average rating is 4.23 stars, but I only rated it 3 stars. In theory I should have loved the book, but something about it helped me back. I didn’t really like Circe and that made it difficult to like the rest of the book.

I am sorry if you disagree with me, but that’s just my opinion.


What is the least popular book that you disagree with the average rating?

(Sort your books in Goodreads based on Number of Ratings, in reverse order, and find the first book you disagree with the average rating.)


Former.ly – The Rise and Fall of a Social Network – Dane Cobain

I don’t have many books like this on my list, but the one I have chosen to feature is a book I have rated a whole star lower than the average.

The Goodreads average is 3.92 stars, but I put this as a 3 star book. Personally, I found it was full of unrelatable characters and lack to spark that would warrant a higher rating from me.


Choose two books that have an average rating of 3/5 stars but you gave a higher rating.




Choose two books that have an average rating of 3/5 stars but you gave a lower rating.

I’ve only featured one book here because I can’t actually feature another. Generally speaking, if a book is reading that low in my mind, I’m not that inclined to finish it. Not one for struggling through books if I’m not enjoying them. Frankly, there are plenty more metaphorical fish in the sea.


Choose two books that have an average rating of 4/5 stars but you gave a lower rating.



Choose two books that have an average rating of 2/5 stars but you gave a higher rating.

Again as above, I don’t typically read books that would have this low a rating. If the general theme is that the reviews are not good, I’m not taking a recommendation to read them.


Do you tend to agree or disagree with Goodreads average rating, and do you use Goodreads as a guide for books you want to read?

I would say I broadly agree with Goodreads ratings, but clearly there are a few outliers!

If you’ve enjoyed this tag and would like to take part yourself, I would love to see your answers to these questions!

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Book Review: The Silence of the Girls – Pat Barker

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In today’s review post I share my thoughts on The Silence of the Girls by Pat Barker. If you enjoy fiction with a feminist angle then it’s definitely one for you to try!

With the conventional narrative of the period turned on its head, we see the human (and often female) cost of war play out.

Let’s find out more!

 

The Silence of the Girls – Pat Barker

Genre: Historical Fiction / Greek mythology

Pages: 325

Audience: Adult

Publisher: Penguin

Publication Date: 04 Sept 2018

Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟


Goodreads –  The Silence of the Girls

‘There was a woman at the heart of the Trojan War whose voice has been silent – until now. Discover the greatest Greek myth of all – retold by the witness that history forgot . . .

Briseis was a queen until her city was destroyed. Now she is a slave to the man who butchered her husband and brothers. Trapped in a world defined by men, can she survive to become the author of her own story?


My Thoughts


Plot

Often, Greek retellings glamourise war as bold and heroic, but neglect to mention the human cost. In The Silence of the Girls, we get a unique perspective that strips away glory and valour. It highlights the upheaval of the female survivors and the fate they are later subjected to.

The main storyteller is Briseis, former Queen and now slave to Achilles. After her husband and family are murdered, she is taken as a sex slave. Over the course of the book we experience what it is like to be a woman, taken from home and imprisoned in a war camp. It’s a much more realistic view of war, and especially as a woman I found Briseis relatable and a good narrator.


Characters

Through Briseis we get a perspective that in the nicest possible way, we wouldn’t from a male, glory-drunk warrior. Women aren’t people with feelings and livelihoods, they’re prisoners and conquests. You can do what you want with them after all. They aren’t in control.

The lives and treatment of women is a big focus of the book. Naturally, with a protagonist subjected to the same atrocities as the rest of the women, even if her oppressor is almost exclusively one of the most prominent men of the myth, is sympathetic.

I even liked how the male characters, depicted as heroes in other tellings of the stories, are emphasised as fathers, brothers and sons. It’s a very human perspective – one we can all relate to.


Setting

The setting of the book is really immersive. Especially when details that normally are glossed over in these books are brought to the fore.

Sacked cities, battlegrounds and war camps are chaotic things. Thousands of men and women living together in close confines, and many in captivity, is a harrowing experience.

However, I found The Silence of the Girls an easy read for being able to put myself in the positions of the characters. Imagine the stink and chaos of unwashed bodies. The oppression and fear. The writing is powerful to be able to put is in the shoes of these women, and we find ourselves angry.


Narrative Style

Although the narrative covers more sensitive or downright difficult subjects, the prose itself is easy to read. I read the book in less than a week as a break from another I was struggling with. It picked me (and my desire to read) back up for sure!

The perspective switches a few times, keeping us interested in the narrative. Personally I enjoy books that do this ans give a more rounded view of events.


Summary

The Silence of the Girls, and the remainder of the Women of Troy series, are great reads for feminist fiction and Greek mythology fans.

I’m yet to read any other books in the series, but I will!

Have you?

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First Lines Friday – 16/08/2024

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Today’s First Lines Friday feature includes a book that I added to my reading list earlier this week. In last week’s Sunday Summary I shared that I was keeping the topic of this First Lines Friday open. Given this is a recent addition, it felt like a natural feature.

Whilst I’m trying to keep myself on the straight narrow and not purchase any more books at the moment, I confess that I have added this to my reading list without purchasing as I was intrigued by the synopsis.

What also makes this book more interesting is that it is translated from Japanese. I can’t say I’ve ever read Japanese dystopia before, so it’s going to be something new!

Here is today’s First Lines Friday intro, followed by details of the book:-


I sometimes wonder what disappeared first – among all the things that have vanished from the island. “Long ago, before you were born, there were many more things here, “ my mother used to tell me when I was still a child. “Transparent things, fragrant things… fluttery ones, bright ones… wonderful things you can’t possibly imagine.

“It’s a shame that the people who live here haven’t been able to hold such marvellous things in their hearts and minds, but that’s just the way it is on this island. Things go on disappearing, one by one, it won’t be long now,” she added. “You’ll see for yourself. Something will disappear from your life.”

 


The Memory Police- Yōko Ogawa

Genre: Dystopian / Japanese Literature

Pages: 274

Audience: Adult

Publisher: Pantheon

Publication Date: 13 Aug 2019

 

Goodreads – The Memory Police

On an unnamed island, objects are disappearing: first hats, then ribbons, birds, roses. . .

Most of the inhabitants are oblivious to these changes, while those who remember live in fear of the Memory Police.

To the people on the island, a disappeared thing no longer has any meaning. It can be burned in the garden, thrown in the river, or handed over to the Memory Police. Soon enough, the island forgets it ever existed.

When a young novelist discovers that her editor is in danger of being taken away by the Memory Police, she desperately wants to save him. For some reason, he doesn’t forget, and it’s becoming increasingly difficult for him to hide his memories. Who knows what will vanish next?


My Thoughts…

It’s the uniqueness of The Memory Police that caught my attention. I have never read anything like it. Given that I’m also trying to branch out my reading, picking up a Japanese translation definitely falls into that bracket.

I love a good dystopian novel. There is something about reading of otherworldliness that stretches my imagination and captures my attention. It brings home what we value in real life society by reflecting its absence in fiction.

I was already captivated by the synopsis, but the introduction I have shared with you today has cemented my want to pick up the book. It leaves a lot of questions before we even really dive into the book. What is disappearing? Who are the memory police, and what are the consequences of remembering that which others forget?

Personally, I’m looking forward to getting stuck into this book down the line.

Have you read The Memory Police?

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Discussion Post: Favourite Books to Recommend

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As a blogger and book reader/reviewer, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that I love to share my love of reading. Or, that I want to press books into your hands. In today’s post, I share my favourite books to recommend. That might be because they are from my favourite genre or author, offer something unique or are great for readers of all levels.

I’ll explain the why’s and wherefore’s for each book as we go. For now, here are my top books to recommend!


Fantasy


A Game of Thrones / A Song of Ice and Fire

It shouldn’t be a surprise this series makes it to the top of my recommends list. If I were only ever allowed to read one series again, I’d pick this hands down!

I love the storyline, the complexity, the intricacy and detail we get to enjoy. My only preference would be for the series to be complete… but I’ll just have to wait for that!


The Realm of the Elderlings

Robin Hobb’s Realm of the Elderlings series is a fairly new discovery and addition to this list. I’d been meaning to pick up Assassin’s Apprentice for a good while before my friend Rachael encouraged me to read it.

Since then I’ve read six out of the sixteen books in the series in the last two years. Considering the number of books I read, I’ve gotten through these comparatively quicker than most other series I’m reading.


Mistborn

Brandon Sanderson is another favourite author. I debated which series of his to feature here, as I’ve read quite a few. At least, in part. However, the one that got me into his writing the most, and the series I’ve read in full, is his Mistborn series.

I was so sad to reach the conclusion but I’d happily re-read this from start to finish again! I especially loved how the timeline change was handled and how we see advancement in the world between the timelines. It’s for that reason that I will recommend this to any fantasy reader!


Harry Potter series

Whatever your feelings are on the author, I think it’s important to separate their work from their personal life. I can’t say I’m all too versed on the controversy about J.K. Rowling. And anyway, I’ll love the Harry Potter books regardless.

The books start off pretty easy to read but get quite dark towards the end. Personally, I love that! I grew up reading these books in my teenage years so I was always the perfect age to read them. Even re-reading them as an adult, I enjoyed each and every book.


Lord of the Rings

Whilst not the easiest books to read in terms of superfluous language and descriptions of food, they make a great storyline. The fact that I intend to re-read the books gives you an idea of how much a fan I am.

They’re also favourite books to recommend as they’re classics in the fantasy genre. I’ve also read The Hobbit and this is a great starting point to the books. However, if you are looking for a classic trilogy of books to immerse yourself into, Lord of the Rings is a natural choice.


Nevernight Chronicles

Nevernight
On the other end of the spectrum, I also can’t recommend this trilogy about a young female assassin with a serious vendetta enough. Mia is quite the character, and her character history, development arc and the setting are all really enjoyable to dig into. The narrative is great, but as a unique addition, the book includes footnotes with everything from contextual information to snarky commentary. They’re hilarious!

Jay Kristoff is an author I’m reading more of, but this was the series that introduced me to his work. I initially listened to this series on audio but I want to re-read with the physical copies I own in future.

 

Blackwing

Blackwing

The Blackwing trilogy is a favourite to recommend because I don’t think enough people have read it! If you love magical fantasies with great, detailed worlds and most of all, non-altruistic main characters, this is up your street.

Ryhalt is a great character because he doesn’t try to be. He’s selfish and rude, lacks optimism in humanity. He is far from your ideal hero, and yet he finds himself wearing these shoes reluctantly.

The storyline, world building and support characters make this a fun and engaging trilogy to read. Seriously, why are you still here? Get reading!


Non-fiction

 

This is Going to Hurt

I recommended this to my work book club as a future read as Adam Kay is hilarious. This is Going to Hurt is a discussion on the state of the NHS as it provides the best care it can for those who need it. However, it’s also full of personal, heartfelt and funny stories too.

If you love a dose of humour, this is a favourite book of mine to recommend. A heads up though – it is an emotional rollercoaster…


Contemporary

 

The Midnight Library

You can also tell that The Midnight Library is a favourite book to recommend as I put it forward as our work book club’s first read. And you know what? It went so well!

Although Adrian and Claire admitted it wasn’t a book they’d have chosen for themselves, they enjoyed it. We also had a great conversation about it too. It’s focused on mental health, individuality, choices and regrets. It’s a book I’ll re-read over again as it’s a great reminder of what’s important in life. It really puts things into perspective.


Satire

Discworld series

If humour and tackling a multitude of real social issues is your thing, but set in a fantasy setting, may I introduce Discworld by Terry Pratchett. As of this favourite books to recommend post, I’ve read half of this 41 book series. Even so, I’ll happily recommend the whole series!

I love how Terry talks about real world issues in a setting that takes us out of reality. Does a young woman trying to gain admission to university to study magic and being pushed back because she was born a girl instead of a boy sound ridiculous? Well I hate to break it to you, but not so long ago, women faced the same push back.

That’s just one example. The way Terry tackles each societal issue makes adequate light of it to make it funny to read, but also make a point at the same time is entertaining but also interesting social commentary.


So, those are my favourite books to recommend! What are yours?

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Shelf Control #80 – 09/08/2024

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I’m overdue picking up the sequel I feature in today’s Shelf Control post. I started this series by a new-to-me author over six years ago now. I really enjoyed it too! It’s a young adult magical fantasy with a lot of West African cultural representation. I’m trying to branch away from Westernised fantasy for a change, and this book fits the bill.

Before we get into it, here is what this Shelf Control feature is about.

Shelf Control is a meme run by Lisa at Bookshelf Fantasies. It’s a celebration of the unread books on our shelves! The idea is to pick a book you own but haven’t read and write a post about it (suggestions: include what it’s about, why you want to read it, and when you got it), and link up.

If you want to read more about the Shelf Control feature, check out Lisa’s introductory post.


Children of Virtue and Vengeance – Tomi Adeyemi

Genre: Magical fantasy

Pages: 544

Audience: Young Adult

Publisher:  Henry Holt Company

Publication Date: 06 Mar 2018

 

Goodreads – Children of Virtue and Vengeance

 

Full of magic and danger, Children of Virtue and Vengeance is the breathtaking sequel to Tomi Adeyemi’s ground-breaking, #1 New York Times-bestselling West African-inspired fantasy Children of Blood and Bone.

After battling the impossible, Zélie and Amari have finally succeeded in bringing magic back to the land of Orïsha. But the ritual was more powerful than they could’ve imagined, reigniting the powers of not only the maji, but of nobles with magic ancestry, too.

Now, Zélie struggles to unite the maji in an Orïsha where the enemy is just as powerful as they are. But with civil war looming on the horizon, Zélie finds herself at a breaking point: she must discover a way to bring the kingdom together or watch as Orïsha tears itself apart . . .

 

My Thoughts

If you want to see what I made of Children of Blood and Bone, you can find that review linked here.

I’m looking forward to picking up this second instalment of the series. It’s fair to say that it’s well overdue. Given that I’m trying to branch out and read more non-westernised fantasy, it’s an ideal book to pick up and read. It would also be a quick one to catch up with and count towards my progress in series goal this year.

I loved the magical element to the first book the series and I gather this only expands from there. I confess I will have to catch myself up on the plot of the first book before picking up the second, but I’m not going to re-read the first to do so. Given it’s quite unique compared to other books I have read so far, I think a quick refresher of the plot will bring everything back fresh in my mind.

Have you read Children of Virtue and Vengeance; would you recommend it?

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Book Review: Golden Son – Pierce Brown

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In today’s book review post I share my thoughts on a book I’ve put off reviewing for a while. I loved Red Rising, and if you want to read my rave review of the first book in this series, you can find that here.

My problem is that same sentiment definitely did not carry forward to the sequel. There are aspects of the book I enjoyed, but I had some difficulty with it too. When I finished the book I was of very mixed opinion whether to carry on with the series.

Now that I’ve let some time pass and can look at the experience a little more objectively, I think I’m going to give the next book Morning Star a try. If that redeems the series, then great! I’ll carry on. If I have the same problems though, I’m going to take that as my cue to retire the series.

 

Golden Son – Pierce Brown

Genre: Dystopia / Science Fiction

Pages: 466

Audience: Young Adult

Publisher: Del Ray

Publication Date: 06 Jan 2015

Rating: 🌟🌟🌟

 

Goodreads –  Golden Son

 

‘I’m still playing games. This is just the deadliest yet.‘

Darrow is a rebel forged by tragedy. For years he and his fellow Reds worked the mines, toiling to make the surface of Mars inhabitable. They were, they believed, mankind’s last hope. Until Darrow discovered that it was all a lie, and that the Red were nothing more than unwitting slaves to an elitist ruling class, the Golds, who had been living on Mars in luxury for generations.

In RED RISING, Darrow infiltrated Gold society, to fight in secret for a better future for his people. Now fully embedded amongst the Gold ruling class, Darrow continues his dangerous work to bring them down from within. It’s a journey that will take him further than he’s ever been before – but is Darrow truly willing to pay the price that rebellion demands?

A life-or-death tale of vengeance with an unforgettable hero at its heart, Golden Son guarantees Pierce Brown’s continuing status as one of fiction’s most exciting new voices.

 

My Thoughts


Plot

If there is one prevailing thing I remember from the plot of this book, it’s violence. Lots of violence. Backstabbing and betrayal.

A lot happens in this book. It’s good, and it all makes sense in the world. However, I was a bit overwhelmed with how much was going on. There was barely a break between one event and another. Admittedly, I had to refresh myself and read a plot summary to fill in the blanks before writing this review. I had forgotten a good few aspects of the book…

If you enjoy a complex and fast paced dystopian sci-fi then Golden Son will be right up your alley. Whilst I feel that the events that take place in this book are packed into a short page count (by comparison), I did enjoy the storyline.


Characters

I like Darrow’s character overall. He undergoes a lot of change in the series up to this point. He retains his competitive nature and fiery temper, but his priorities naturally change through circumstance.

Darrow is a victim of a lot of internal conflict and I enjoyed this about him. He’s by no means a simple character. That’s the kind of detail I like to explore in books like this.

There are plenty of side characters to get behind too. I have a soft spot for Sevro, even if he is cunning and cruel at times. I also believe he becomes a narrator later on in the series which I’m excited about. It’s why I’m tempted to push on with the series and break away from purely Darrow’s viewpoint.


Setting

Dystopia and science fiction aren’t necessarily genres you would meld together. However, I really like this combination. It’s what sold me on the series in the first place.

Where Red Rising has a few limited settings, I feel that we got to see more of a wider universe in Golden Son. Normally I’d say that’s great, but with the execution of the book the way it is (and in particular the pacing), I’m not sure I favour this here. I talk about pacing more below, so stay tuned.

I enjoy balance in my narrative style, especially when it comes to making time for world building. In this example, it’s all well and good having the narrative set in multiple locations… but if we don’t stop to look at the significance of it and take it in, we might as well not bother.

If I had my way, I’d liked to have seen a little more world building from Golden Son. I don’t know whether this would be better in future books or not, but that’s just my feeling on this one alone.


Narrative Style

The narrative style is what I struggled with most in Golden Son. I like the author’s writing style, as testified by the fact I loved Red Rising. What felt off to me in this book is the pacing. It was far too fast for me. The book is full of relatively short and snappy chapters, and something happens in every one.

I felt I had barely any time to take in what’s already happened and see what the consequences were before the rug was pulled from my feet yet again. I found it unsettling, and to be honest, I dragged my feet finishing this book because I didn’t like it. Honestly, I’m sure I skim read it in the end to call it done.

 

Summary

I have mixed feelings about Golden Son and whether I will get on with the rest of the series. When I first finished this book I seriously doubted whether I’d pick up another. Now I’ve taken a step back and found out more about the series in general, I’m inclined to stick with it and see if it’s just this one book I didn’t jive with fully.

Have you read this series? Should I stick with it?

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Monthly TBR – August 2024

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I’m excited to share my upcoming reading list in this monthly TBR post. I always look forward to planning my reading and sharing the fantastic books I’ve got coming up on my blog.

This month’s list looks a little longer, but I also have some shorter than average reads. Do I think I’ll complete this TBR by the end of the month? Unlikely. However, I’m going to try and stretch myself as always!

Shall we get into this monthly TBR and take a look at what’s coming up?


Fixed Reads


The Power of Habit

The Power of Habit is a carryover from July, but I’m already a good way through this relatively short book.

This book weighs in at just under 300 pages. It’s quite an easy read too, so I should fly through the remainder of it.

So far I’m enjoying the easy writing style, multiple interwoven anecdotes and threads to explain and reiterate the author’s points. I’m hopeful that I can learn from this book and have the ability to be more mindful and influential of my own habits in future.


The Other People

My only other carryover this month is my audiobook listen of The Other People by C.J. Tudor.

I’m even closer to completion with this book. I’m now about 80% done and eager to get to the end and see how the story comes together. I’ve only got just over 2 hours listening time to go; I’m going to try and finish it before the weekend!


The Midnight Library

My last fixed read of August is a re-read of The Midnight Library by Matt Haig.

There is a new book club at work and this is the selected read. We’re meeting to discuss it on the 13th, so I’ll be getting a wiggle on with it. Thankfully it’s only a short one, and not a new story to me. It shouldn’t take long to read, and I’ve heard it’s better second time around!


Mood Reads

A lot of this monthly TBR has been set with my 2024 reading goals in mind. If you want to recap what those are, check out my Resolutions post I shared in January.


Wolves of the Calla

The first of the books on this TBR which aims to continue/complete series is Wolves of the Calla by Stephen King.

Wolves of the Calla is the fifth book in his The Dark Tower series. I’m enjoying the series so far, although I didn’t expect the last book, Wizard and Glass, to be on as much of a tangent from the ‘current’ storyline as it was. I’m hoping we pick up where we left off and the context we learn in the prior book makes sense in this next instalment!

Wolves of the Calla is the longest book on this reading list at a whopping 800 pages. Depending on how I go, I may end up reading this in tandem with other books and take a little longer to work my way through it. I’ll make a start and see how I get on!


Defiant

The second series related book I plan to pick up is Defiant by Brandon Sanderson. It’s the final book of the Skyward series and the only book I didn’t get to on my July TBR.

I think finishing this series will be bittersweet. I’ve loved it so far and of course I want to know how it all comes together. At the same time, I suspect I’ll be sad at the same time that once I’ve read it, it’s done. Finito.

It’s a good job there are plenty more Sanderson books I haven’t read yet, right?!


Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon

I featured Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon in my last First Lines Friday post and I am so intrigued by the beginning that it’s inspired me to read it. As a bonus, it contributes to my reading goal of more non-fiction.

I love A Game of Thrones and everything about it! The series as it is, all the backstory and lore and now (with any luck at least), the behind the scenes of filming the TV show.

It’s very unlike anything I’ve read before, so it will be something entirely new to me!


Undoctored

Having read two of Adam Kay‘s books already (This is Going to Hurt and T’was the Nightshift Before Christmas), I’m looking forward to picking up.

My experience of his books so far is that he is great at combining an interesting non-fiction topic with lots of humour. If non-fiction isn’t normally your cup of tea, I would strongly recommend you trying this anyway. Adam’s humour goes along way towards making these books both fun and an emotional rollercoaster. When reading both of his prior books I could be laughing one minute and crying the next.

He has a very candid way of expressing himself and really highlighting where there are major problems with the national health services in the UK through his own experience.


Breathtaking

Another medical based non-fiction book I plan to pick up in August is Breathtaking. For some people, the pandemic may be just a little too recent to read about. However, I’ve never wanted to shy away from such a difficult subject.

If you watched the TV documentary of the same name, I have every reason to believe that you would like this book also. It is because I watched that four part series that I realised it was based on a book. Naturally, I added it to my reading list.

It’s a relatively short book, so it should be quite a quick read. It’s a topic I also find compelling even though it is an event in all of our lives that has changed the way we live.


Summary

I have a fair bit of variety in this monthly TBR and I’m looking forward to picking up each and every book. Whilst the list is on the side of ambitious, I’m hopeful I can make as much progress as possible in the coming weeks. They all sound like great books and I’ll share them with you in my upcoming Sunday Summary posts to let you know how I’m getting on.

Have you read any of the books on this monthly TBR? Would you recommend any of them to myself and/or fellow readers?

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