Tag Archives: book
Blood Rose Rebellion
Blood Rose Rebellion, Book 1
Young Adult Fiction
Knopf Books for Young Readers
March 28, 2017
416
In this first book in a fantasy trilogy, social prestige is derived from a trifecta of blood, money, and magic. However, one girl has the ability to break the spell that holds the social order in place. Sent from England to her family's once powerful but now oppressed native Hungary, Anna Arden finds herself in the company of nobles, revolutionaries, and Romani. She must choose to either deny her unique power and cling to the life she's always wanted, or embrace her gift, spark a rebellion, and change the world forever.
Review:
I’m going to keep the main review of “Blood Rose Rebellion” short, because there are some other issues I’ve seen mentioned that I feel it’s important to give my opinions on.
This book has complex world-building, a fun romance, and quite a bit of action. It’s an enjoyable read for those who like historical fantasy. The characters are developed to a certain degree, with some mystery being left for the next book in the series. If you like those things, this book is worth a read.
Now for the heavy stuff. I’ve seen some complaints about there being racism in the book. Some people have not finished it. Yes, the word gypsy is used quite a bit. That’s because the story is set in mid-1800s Hungary. As the main character gets to know them, her opinions change and that is reflected in her attitude. In fact, the author introduces the term Romani at that point, even though historically it wasn’t in use at the time. There’s an entire section at the end written by the author about the treatment of the Romani during the time, along with a bibliography for more information.
What I’m saying is please don’t let accusations of racism scare you away from “Blood Rose Rebellion.” Ignoring the harsh realities of history is a disservice to everyone, and I applaud the author for being brave enough to tackle it.
This unbiased review is based upon a complimentary copy provided by the publisher.
Content Warning:
Language, Sexual Situations, Violence, Racist Speech and Actions
The Inexplicable Logic of My Life
Young Adult Fiction
Clarion Books
March 7, 2017
464
"A story set on the American border with Mexico, about family and friendship, life and death, and one teen struggling to understand what his adoption does and doesn't mean about who he is"--
Review:
“The Inexplicable Logic of My Life” is a book I had mixed feelings about, but in the end I found it well worth the time to read.
The plot is meandering, and while that can be a good thing, in this instance I wish about a quarter of the length had been shaved off. The repetitiveness sometimes took me out of the story. The plot itself is a good one about the nature of friendship and family instead of romance. That’s refreshing to find in a young adult book. Extra points for being a diverse book with both lgbtq and Mexican-American characters.
The flaws in the length of the story were more than made up for in the absolutely stunning writing. Every chapter contained at least one beautiful sentence. It felt like candy in the brain. The characters, because of the writing style, seemed to jump off of the page and into my life. They will undoubtedly live on inside of my mind, and I’ve already found myself repeating quotes.
Overall, I can definitely recommend “The Inexplicable Logic of My Life” to any older young adults and adults who are looking for beauty over a fast-paced plot.
This unbiased review is based upon a complimentary copy provided by the publisher.
Content Warning:
Language, Violence, Hate Speech
The Flintstones Vol. 1
The Flintstones
DC Comics
March 28, 2017
Paperback
168
Fred and Barney reunite for Mark Russell's modern take on Hanna-Barbera's most famous stone-age family! This new series starring the first family of Bedrock (and civilization, really) tells the story of who we are and why we do what we do as if it all began with Fred, Wilma, Barney, Betty, and the rest of the citizens of Bedrock. Shining a light on humanity's ancient customs and institutions in a funny origin story of human civilization, Mark Russell (PREZ) blends modern interpretations with Hanna-Barbera's classic character's, bringing a breath of fresh stone-age air. Hanna-Barbera has created some of the most recognizable animated characters of all time. As part of DC Comics' re-imagination of cartoons like Scooby-Doo, The Flintsones, Johnny Quest, Space Ghost, and Wacky Racers, these new series will be infused with modern and contemporary concepts while keeping the heart and soul of the classic animation. Collects THE FLINTSONES #1-6.
Review:
I’m finding it difficult to come up with words to describe how much I loved “The Flintstones Vol. 1.” These are not the Flintstones of your childhood. There is biting satire about the world today that has you laughing one moment and thinking deeply the next. My favorite was issue five. I won’t spoil it, but it is a top-notch political commentary on the state of our elections. The top it all off, the artwork is detailed and beautiful. Highly recommend! All of the Stars!
This unbiased review is based upon a complimentary copy provided by the publisher.
Lucifer Vol. 2: Father Lucifer
Lucifer Vol. 2: Father Lucifer
Lucifer Comics
Vertigo
March 7, 2017
144
The antihero who made his debut in THE SANDMAN and starred in his own hit series continues his comeback in the second volume of this new series by best-selling writer Holly Black ("The Spiderwick Chronicles")! God is dead--and Gabriel has accused Lucifer of His murder. Lucifer had motive and opportunity, but claims he can prove his innocence. If Gabriel finds the killer and takes the culprit into custody, Lucifer's sins will be forgotten, and he'll be welcomed back to the Silver City. So, despite the fact that Lucifer just opened a new nightclub on Earth and is hiding a mysterious wound, the two brothers set off to solve their Father's murder. Their investigation will span Heaven, Hell, Earth, and beyond in this antagonistic buddy-cop noir with an angelic flare. This daring new graphic novel reintroduces the former King of Hell to a new generation of readers watching Fox's new 2016 series "Lucifer"! Collects issues #7-10.
Review:
“Lucifer Vol. 2: Father Lucifer” has beautiful artwork and a main story with potential, but it strays in way too many directions to be cohesive. I’m hoping that the next volume stays with a single storyline. Word of caution: If you’re coming to this comic because of the television show, it is almost completely different. In my opinion, the show is better. Your mileage may vary.
This unbiased review is based upon a complimentary copy provided by the publisher.
Adventure Time Comics Vol. 1
Adventure Time Comics Vol. 1
Adventure Time Comics
KaBOOM!
February 28, 2017
Paperback
112
Oh My Glob! We’ve unleashed some of the industry’s best cartoonists into the Land of Ooo to share their most algebraic and original stories!
WHAT TIME IS IT?!
It’s ADVENTURE TIME COMICS time! These sweet shorts come in many shapes and sizes, featuring all of the beloved characters from the Land of Ooo, written and illustrated by acclaimed cartoonists and storytellers from all over the world.
Featuring work by: Katie Cook (My Little Pony), Art Baltazar (Tiny Titans), Tony Millionaire (Maakies and the Sock Monkey), Box Brown (Andre the Giant), Greg Smallwood (Moon Knight), Sophia Foster-Dimino, Marguerite Sauvage (DC Bombshells), Kelly Thompson (Jem And The Holograms), Savanna Ganucheau (Bloom), S. M. Vidaurri (Iron), Veronica Fish (Archie), Jim Zub (Wayward), Derek Charm (Jughead), James Lloyd (Above the Dreamless Dead), and many more!
Review:
“Adventure Time Comics Vol. 1” is the perfect comic collection for beginning readers. All of the beloved characters from the show are there, and the stories are short but fun. Each story features a different artistic style, so it is also a good introduction to the world of comics in general. Of course, it isn’t just for kids!
This unbiased review is based upon a complimentary copy provided by the publisher.
Big Mushy Happy Lump
Comics & Graphic Novels
March 7, 2017
128
Swimsuit season is coming up! Better get beach-body ready! Work on those abs! Lift those butts! ...Um, or how about never mind to all that and just be a lump. Big Mushy Happy Lump! Sarah Andersen's hugely popular, world-famous Sarah's Scribbles comics are for those of us who boast bookstore-ready bodies and Netflix-ready hair, who are always down for all-night reading-in-bed parties and extremely exclusive after-hour one-person music festivals. In addition to the most recent Sarah's Scribbles fan favorites and dozens of all-new comics, this volume contains illustrated personal essays on Sarah's real-life experiences with anxiety, career, relationships and other adulthood challenges that will remind readers of Allie Brosh's Hyperbole and a Half and Jenny Lawson's Let's Pretend This Never Happened. The same uniquely frank, real, yet humorous and uplifting tone that makes Sarah's Scribbles so relatable blooms beautifully in this new longer form.
Review:
“Big Mushy Happy Lump” is the newest addition to the Sarah Anderson collection, and it’s just as good as all of her previous work. Everyone will find something to relate to and laugh at. It’s a real joy.
This unbiased review is based upon a complimentary copy provided by the publisher.
Denton Little’s Still Not Dead (Denton Little #2)
Denton Little's Still Not Dead
Denton Little, Book 2
Young Adult Fiction
Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers
February 7, 2017
352
"Denton and his quirky friends are laugh-out-loud funny, even as their riotous adventures raise deeper questions about science, government control, life, and death." -- SLJ You only live once--unless you're Denton Little! Denton Little lives in a world exactly like our own except that everyone knows the day on which they will die. The good news: Denton has lived through his deathdate. Yay! The bad news: He's being chased by the DIA (Death Investigation Agency), he can never see his family again, and he may now die anytime. Huh. Cheating death isn't quite as awesome as Denton would have thought. . . . Lance Rubin's debut novel, Denton Little's Deathdate, showed readers just how funny and poignant imminent death could be. Now in this sequel, he takes on the big questions about life. How do we cope, knowing we could die at any time? Would you save someone from dying even if they were a horrible person? Is it wrong to kiss the girl your best friend is crushing on if she's really into you instead? What if she's wearing bacon lip gloss? Praise for Denton Little's Deathdate: "Highly original, fantastically entertaining, and laugh-out-loud funny, Denton Little's Deathdate is a wild romp through a night like no other." --Jennifer E. Smith, author of The Geography of You and Me "Let's all pray the grim reaper is even half as witty (and wise) as the deadly talented Lance Rubin. Till then: skip this book at your own peril." --Tim Federle, author of Better Nate than Ever and The Great American Whatever "Rubin is really funny, but like John Green, he manages to be poignant. . . . In other words, it's a keeper." --Bustle
Review:
“Denton Little’s Still Not Dead” is a hilarious follow-up to last year’s “Denton Little’s Deathdate.” It features all of the fun of the original with a heaping dose of existentialism. This series is definitely for a certain set of readers. The science of the world is explained a little, but a suspension of disbelief is a requirement. It won’t make you smarter, but it will definitely make you laugh. Highly recommended for the weird readers among us (which includes yours truly).
This unbiased review is based upon a complimentary copy provided by the publisher.
Content Warning:
Language, Violence, Sexual Situations, Drug Use
Optimists Die First
Young Adult Fiction
Wendy Lamb Books
February 21, 2017
240
Award-winning author Susin Nielsen has written a laugh-out-loud and heartrending novel for fans of Robyn Schneider's Extraordinary Means and Cammie McGovern's Say What You Will. Beware: Life ahead. Sixteen-year-old Petula de Wilde is anything but wild. A former crafting fiend with a happy life, Petula shut herself off from the world after a family tragedy. She sees danger in all the ordinary things, like crossing the street, a bug bite, or a germy handshake. She knows: life is out to get you. The worst part of her week is her comically lame mandatory art therapy class with a small group of fellow misfits. Then a new boy, Jacob, appears at school and in her therapy group. He seems so normal and confident, though he has a prosthetic arm; and soon he teams up with Petula on a hilarious project, gradually inspiring her to let go of some of her fears. But as the two grow closer, a hidden truth behind why he's in the group could derail them, unless Petula takes a huge risk. . .
Review:
“Optimists Die First” was a decent enough book about anxiety and a quick read, but it was missing that something extra to push it over into good. It also seemed to resolve things way too quickly. I can’t recommend nor not recommend it. Read the description and give it a try if it piques your interest.
This unbiased review is based upon a complimentary copy provided by the publisher.
Content Warning:
Language, Sexual Situations, Underage Drinking
10 Things I Can See From Here
Young Adult Fiction
Knopf Books for Young Readers
February 28, 2017
320
Maeve, a sufferer of severe anxiety, moves in with her recovering alcoholic father and her very pregnant stepmother and falls for a girl who's not afraid of anything.
Review:
“10 Things I Can See From Here” is one of the best books that I have read about anxiety disorder.
The way the story is written does an excellent job of showing the stream of consciousness that happens when something triggers anxiety. At times I was feeling the anxiety creeping in to my own head. The novel is by no means a one-trick pony, either. The issues of coming out, gay bashing, familial drug abuse, divorce, step-family dynamics, and first love are tackled head-on. All of the characters are developed, and for the most part, likable.
I can’t stress this enough: My favorite part is that it did not follow the false trope of mental health issues being solved by meeting the right person. Salix helps Maeve, but she is not a miracle cure. Only Maeve’s dad can kick his drug habit, no matter how hard his family tries to help. Good lessons, in my opinion.
I recommend “10 Things I Can See From Here” for anyone looking for books about anxiety or a wonderful lgbt romance. Yay for diverse books!
This unbiased review is based upon a complimentary copy provided by the publisher.
Content Warning:
Language, Sexual Situations, Hate Words, Drug Abuse
The Bone Witch
The Bone Witch, Book 1
Young Adult Fiction
Sourcebooks Fire
March 7, 2017
400
In the captivating start to a new, darkly lyrical fantasy series for readers of Leigh Bardugo and Sabaa Tahir, Tea can raise the dead, but resurrection comes at a price... Let me be clear: I never intended to raise my brother from his grave, though he may claim otherwise. If there's anything I've learned from him in the years since, it's that the dead hide truths as well as the living. When Tea accidentally resurrects her brother from the dead, she learns she is different from the other witches in her family. Her gift for necromancy means that she's a bone witch, a title that makes her feared and ostracized by her community. But Tea finds solace and guidance with an older, wiser bone witch, who takes Tea and her brother to another land for training. In her new home, Tea puts all her energy into becoming an asha--one who can wield elemental magic. But dark forces are approaching quickly, and in the face of danger, Tea will have to overcome her obstacles...and make a powerful choice. Memoirs of a Geisha meets The Name of the Wind in this brilliant new fantasy series by Rin Chupeco!
Review:
“The Bone Witch” is a satisfying fantasy filled with well-researched mythology and folklore that is exactly what I needed to read right now.
Tea finds out she is a Bone Witch when she accidentally raises her brother from the dead at his funeral. As you would imagine, that was disturbing to anyone witnessing it. The rest of the book is split between her story from that point and on into her training as an asha (witch) and the present, in which she is in a vastly different situation recounting it all to an exiled bard from another kingdom. It doesn’t create confusion, as the story comprises the main chapters and the present is in italics between them.
My favorite part is that much of the story reaches a conclusion, while some remains a mystery, and other parts have foreshadowing you can only guess at what it means. And the ending. Oh man. The ending.
If you love mythology, folklore, revenants, kickass girls who turn into kickass women, diverse characters, just a touch of romance, all-around creepy stuff, and Tom Hiddleston (I’ll leave it to you to figure that one out), then “The Bone Witch” is for you. Highly recommended!
This unbiased review is based upon a complimentary copy provided by the publisher.
Content Warnings:
Language, Violence, Disturbing Imagery
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