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zoeferry's reviews
567 reviews
Julia by Sandra Newman
dark
tense
medium-paced
3.75
This novel is a captivating feminist retelling of George Orwell’s 1984 from the perspective of Winston’s lover, Julia. Sandra Newman masterfully weaves elements of the original story with a fresh, insightful take that breathes new life into this classic tale. Despite not being a huge fan of dystopian fiction and having not revisited Orwell since high school, I found this reimagining surprisingly enjoyable. While some parts felt a bit excessive (I wouldn’t mind erasing the torture scene from my memory), the overall experience was compelling and thought-provoking.
I Need You to Read This by Jessa Maxwell
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
3.75
I was thrilled to see that Jessa Maxwell had published another book, and *I Need You to Read This* did not disappoint. While the story had a slower build than I anticipated, the unexpected ending more than made up for it. Maxwell captures the cozy mystery vibes that made *The Golden Spoon* such a delight, but this time with a slightly sharper edge. By the end, I couldn’t put it down. It’s definitely a must-read for fans of cozy mysteries!
Gallows Hill by Darcy Coates
Although I initially found Margot's character a bit frustrating, she undergoes significant development that makes her journey all the more compelling. Coates crafts an atmosphere so tense and unnerving that I was hooked from start to finish, eager to uncover the next twist. If you're a zombie lore and horror fan, this novel is a must-read.
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
3.75
"Gallows Hill" by Darcy Coates is a gripping exploration of a family's dark legacy. After her parents' sudden death, Margot returns to her eerie childhood home, a place steeped in mystery and foreboding. As she unravels the chilling secrets her family has kept hidden, she finds herself in a deadly struggle for survival.
Although I initially found Margot's character a bit frustrating, she undergoes significant development that makes her journey all the more compelling. Coates crafts an atmosphere so tense and unnerving that I was hooked from start to finish, eager to uncover the next twist. If you're a zombie lore and horror fan, this novel is a must-read.
The Underworld: Journeys to the Depths of the Ocean by Susan Casey
adventurous
informative
inspiring
medium-paced
5.0
Susan Casey masterfully captures the thrill and mystery of deep-sea exploration in The Underworld: Journeys to the Depths of the Ocean. In a year when the ocean has often been in the news for troubling reasons, Casey offers a refreshing and awe-inspiring glimpse into a world few have ever seen firsthand.
Her vivid narration, whether recounting dives as an onboard observer or immersing herself as a participant, is so evocative that readers can almost feel the pressure of the deep and the anticipation of discovery. Casey also shines a spotlight on the passionate individuals dedicated to uncovering the ocean’s secrets, and she does so with such enthusiasm that it’s impossible not to share in her excitement.
Overall, this is a must-read for anyone curious about the mysteries beneath the waves or for those looking to see the deep-sea industry in a new, more positive light.
Her vivid narration, whether recounting dives as an onboard observer or immersing herself as a participant, is so evocative that readers can almost feel the pressure of the deep and the anticipation of discovery. Casey also shines a spotlight on the passionate individuals dedicated to uncovering the ocean’s secrets, and she does so with such enthusiasm that it’s impossible not to share in her excitement.
Overall, this is a must-read for anyone curious about the mysteries beneath the waves or for those looking to see the deep-sea industry in a new, more positive light.
A Sorceress Comes to Call by T. Kingfisher
adventurous
dark
tense
medium-paced
4.5
A Sorceress Comes to Call by T. Kingfisher is a delightful reimagining of the Brothers Grimm tale “Goose Girl,” showcasing Kingfisher’s remarkable talent for breathing new life into classic stories. Her ability to transform a well-known fairy tale into something fresh and engaging is truly impressive.
Although the first third of the book felt a bit slow, it quickly gains momentum, leading to an incredibly satisfying conclusion that would do the Brothers Grimm proud. Despite the initial pacing issues, the story’s charm and creativity made it an enjoyable read overall. Had the beginning been as strong as the rest, this would have been a solid 5-star experience.
Although the first third of the book felt a bit slow, it quickly gains momentum, leading to an incredibly satisfying conclusion that would do the Brothers Grimm proud. Despite the initial pacing issues, the story’s charm and creativity made it an enjoyable read overall. Had the beginning been as strong as the rest, this would have been a solid 5-star experience.
A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara
challenging
dark
emotional
sad
slow-paced
3.75
Hanya Yanagihara masterfully brings her story to life, capturing her characters' profound joy and deep suffering with such vivid realism that you feel immersed in their world. Her storytelling is unique, weaving together moments of tenderness and despair in a way that resonates long after you’ve turned the last page.
While the book is undeniably engaging, I struggled to empathize with Jude fully. His character is complex and often unlikable, at times oblivious to the impact of his actions on those around him. This, combined with the novel's length and some particularly drawn-out chapters, made the experience challenging, though these elements also contribute to the story's depth.
Overall, A Little Life is a powerful read that requires emotional preparation. It's a journey into heavy and often harrowing themes, and I recommend approaching it with the right mindset, ready to confront the intense emotions and complex subjects Yanagihara explores.
While the book is undeniably engaging, I struggled to empathize with Jude fully. His character is complex and often unlikable, at times oblivious to the impact of his actions on those around him. This, combined with the novel's length and some particularly drawn-out chapters, made the experience challenging, though these elements also contribute to the story's depth.
Overall, A Little Life is a powerful read that requires emotional preparation. It's a journey into heavy and often harrowing themes, and I recommend approaching it with the right mindset, ready to confront the intense emotions and complex subjects Yanagihara explores.
House of Bone and Rain by Gabino Iglesias
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
4.0
This thoroughly chilling novel, set in Puerto Rico during the chaos of a hurricane, follows five friends on a relentless quest for vengeance after one of their mothers is brutally murdered. Iglesias masterfully delves into the blinding nature of grief and revenge, exploring how these emotions can distort reality and drive people to the brink. With elements of the supernatural woven seamlessly into the narrative, this book offers a haunting and atmospheric read that lingers long after the final page. Perfect for those seeking a spine-tingling experience.
The Bayou by Arden Powell
dark
tense
fast-paced
3.0
Arden Powell does a good job of creating a haunting, mysterious vibe that draws the reader into the plot. While the setting and mood were well crafted, the plot felt uneven with some parts moving slowly and others feeling rushed. Overall, its not bad if you enjoy southern gothic stories.
Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
5.0
I absolutely loved this book! Abby Jimenez has a gift for creating characters that feel so real and relatable. The ending took me by surprise and even brought tears to my eyes. This might just be my favorite in the entire series.
Death in the Spires by KJ Charles
dark
mysterious
medium-paced
3.0
I found this book dragged a bit at the beginning. The writing was ok, but didn’t really captivate me at all. Overall it was an ok read but it’s not one I’d reach for again.