Why You Should Read Crazy Rich Asians Now

Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Crazy Rich Asians is a hilarious, quirky read about social class, love, and family loyalty. It is definitely a novel that stands out as "one-of-a-kind" because of the premise as well as the writing style.

The book follows Rachel Chu from New York to Singapore as she goes home with her boyfriend, Nicholas Young, for the summer. However, once there, Rachel realizes there is so much she doesn't know about the man she's shared her heart with--especially when it comes to his family. She is swept up in a world of extravagance, wealth, and culture as she navigates the fact that her boyfriend is from an excessively wealthy family with high social standing.

The book was difficult to get into at first just because there are so many characters, family histories, and cultural aspects to get used to. I had a hard time navigating the family trees as well as understanding some of the references, but I think that was sort of the point. The author, Kevin Kwan, sort of overwhelms the reader just as Rachel is overwhelmed at the beginning of the trip. It made me realize how social classes really do have their own culture, and the crazy rich certainly have their own rules that outsiders do not understand.

The book definitely had a "Prince and Me" vibe but with a modern twist. I loved Rachel and Nick as a couple and enjoyed watching Rachel navigate the difficult situations. I felt like she was easy to relate to and also a strong character. I also loved seeing all of the lavish events she went to. The writer made me feel like I was actually there.

The side stories with the other characters were also very engaging. Overall, I really liked this read because it was part romance, part family saga. I thought the ending was perfect and made me want to read the next book in the series.

This book is definitely one I will remember for its ability to stand out in a crowd of love stories and for bringing light to social class differences in a unique way.

View all my reviews

Best Dark Romance of the Summer: Pepper Winters The Girl and Her Ren

The Girl and Her Ren by Pepper Winters
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I'm always hesitant about a sequel because I always worry it won't stand up to the first book. Pepper Winters' The Girl and Her Ren not only stood up to the first book but enhanced it. I loved book one even more thanks to this second book.

This book picks up where book one left off, and I was so happy to see the story continue because I was definitely left wanting more from book one. This series is so unique because it really does explore how love is multi-faceted and really doesn't care about rules. There is a constant back and forth to the plot and the emotions in book one; this continues in book two. I found myself weaving in and out of emotions, from anger to joy to sorrow and back again. Pepper Winters really makes you invest in the characters and their love story in a way few other authors can manage.

The formatting of the book is also unique in that it is told not only from the male and female perspective but also from the format of a manuscript. As a writer, I enjoyed that tie-in and loved how Pepper Winters tied up the series.

I really can't say anything negative about the series. I don't have any critiques. It wrapped up the series in a satisfying way, leaving an impression on me about Della and Ren like no other romance couple. I also love that in the book, Winters highlights that this was never intended to be a romance story, necessarily, but a life story. She accomplishes just that by showcasing how life is a winding, unpredictable journey of pain, sorrow, loss, regret, and guilt. However, through Ren and Della's story, she shows us that love always makes it worth it.

There is certainly a unique aspect to Ren and Della's love story. If you read book one, you understand that their history is very different. Some may even get a bit of a taboo vibe from their union. However, I thought Winters did a great job at acknowledging how their relationship is different but also at not backing down from the love story. Love doesn't follow the rules. It doesn't even follow our own rules. The heart wants what it wants, and it was satisfying to watch Ren and Della experience that very sentiment.

I applaud Pepper Winters for her candid writing, her unabashed look at some darker themes, and the ability to weave such a heartbreaking and beautiful tale about a couple I won't soon forget.

View all my reviews

Honest review of the must-read "Night Circus"

The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

"The circus arrives without warning."

To review and explain the magnificence of this book is a difficult task. Morgenstern weaves a dreamlike tale of a dreamlike circus in such a fantastical way that it is almost impossible to put into words what the book is about, and, more significantly, what it actually means.

Essentially, this book is a romance about two people, Marco and Celia, who are fated to compete against each other in a competition of magical possibilities. Both illusionists are pitted against each other in a competition with few explanations, obtuse roles, and abstract concepts. For this reason, it is somewhat jarring for the reader to partake in this journey. This is a book where you never 100% understand what is happening.

I enjoyed the layers to the book and the different perspectives. There are many characters in this book, but Morgenstern weaves them together in exciting ways. Part of the attraction to this book is the fact that you never quite know whose story you are really reading. Who is actually important? What is the main purpose? Who is really going to rise as the central figure? There are so many swirls and whirls in the narrative that it begins to feel like the dreamlike circus she writes about.

The circus itself essentially becomes a character in this book. This circus is very different than the one you are probably imagining, however. It is a place where magic is real and the impossible really is possible. The illusions aren't really illusions, although the cover of night makes patrons of the circus understand that reality is perhaps the biggest illusion.

The narrative voice in this book does give it a bit of a distant feel from the reader at times. I have read critiques of this book where readers are not a fan because they couldn't connect. I can understand where that comes from. There are certain points where the narrative voice is second-person narration and you feel utterly connected. Then, there are parts where it is difficult to even understand what's going on or who is who, so it can be difficult to hang onto the connection.

I think the brilliance of this tale, though, is the fact that Morgenstern was able to create the dreamlike feel in which the reader can question what reality really means. I also loved the layering of tales and story lines. I cannot begin to imagine the process of coming up with this story and writing it. I think it is a testament to the creativity of Morgenstern and her writing skill that she pulled off this book.

I do wish the romance element had been more thoroughly established. I felt there was a disconnect between Marco and Celia at times, which is understandable but also frustrating. The love story could have been more clearly developed to provide more satisfaction to the reader.

The ending was superb. It was perfect and everything a reader could hope for in a book like this.

Overall, this is a unique read that is like nothing you've ever read. It will stand out in your mind for a long time after you're done reading. Most of all, it will make you realize that you should never be constrained by expectations or realities in your own life.

View all my reviews

An Honest Review of Book 2 in the Arc of a Scythe Series

Thunderhead by Neal Shusterman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was nervous going into this one because I LOVED Scythe so much, and sequels usually fall short for me. This was the exception.

I really didn't know if Shusterman would be able to up the game in the second book in this awesome young adult series... but he did. Thunderhead follows our beloved characters from book one, Citra and Rowan. They have gone very different paths in this book; however, as the book progresses, you realize that there is still a deep connection between them in more ways than one. I loved watching both of their journeys to identity and finding their place in this odd world.

Shusterman further develops the world of scythes in this sequel, adding details and dimensions that weren't fully explored in part one. Mainly, this book (as the name suggests) delves much deeper into the concept of the Thunderhead. Diary entries from the Thunderhead give a unique glimpse into this futuristic technology and allows the reader to understand the purpose of it, the benefits, and of course, the downfalls.

This book ends with a huge cliffhanger that left me wanting more. I cannot wait until 2019 to read book 3 in this series. New heroes are named in this book, and I can't wait to explore their story. Also, major shifts have happened by the end of this book, and I know book 3 is going to be epic.

Kudos to Shusterman for again delivering an imaginative, fully-developed world that really makes readers think about technology, what it means to be alive, and what the purpose of this thing called life really is.

View all my reviews

Scythe by Neal Shusterman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

"Thou Shalt Kill."

I love a good dystopian read, and this book did not disappoint. Set in a chilling, futuristic time period where humans have cured all illnesses and have found the key to immortality, Scythe looks at the problems with doing just that.

In this world, all diseases and injuries have been cured. Humans are now immortal. However, every civilization has its limitations--with out-of-control population concerns, the Scythes became an instrumental group in society. Charged with the task of killing humans to keep the population down, they mimic death in our current world. Filling their quotas and carrying out "gleanings," the term for murder in their society, Scythes are seen as figures to be revered. To be a scythe is the highest honor.

Citra and Rowan are two teenagers who, thanks to certain circumstances, are chosen to be apprentices for this position. Those trained to be scythes must meet one major stipulation--they can't want to be a scythe. Citra and Rowan certainly fit the bill. Assigned to the same Scythe, Faraday, both begin a journey to a life they never imagined for themselves.

Things get complicated as emotions bubble between them. In addition, as Citra and Rowan enter the secret world of the scythes, they learn that like in so many societies, not all is what it seems. As they uncover major issues and corruption within the scythes' secret society, they must question what is right and what is wrong--and how they will play a role in the path they choose.

I adored this book because it was such a unique concept. Nonetheless, it made so much sense. We always seek immortality but never really think about the consequences of achieving it. I also love the characters in this book. Shusterman has a wide range of characters, allowing the book to feel dynamic and engaging. All aspects of this society are really well thought out, leaving no plot holes. I also loved the format, with a diary entry from a scythe coming between every chapter or so.

I already bought book two in the series and am starting it immediately. If you like dystopian literature, this book is definitely for you. Even though it is young adult, it definitely is engaging for all ages as it raises interesting, ethical questions.

View all my reviews

The Boy and His Ribbon by Pepper Winters
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Boy and His Ribbon is a dark, winding tale of abuse, survival, and forbidden love. This book is definitely not a traditional romance and has elements that are somewhat taboo. Nonetheless, I found this book to be very well written, intriguing, and emotional.
The story follows Della and Ren, two children on the run after escaping from an abusive house of terrors. Della is the McClary’s biological daughter, while Ren is not. He was being held hostage and forced to do labor for them. When Ren, who is much older than Della, escapes, he takes her with him and their saga of survival begins.

As Ren tries to learn how to survive in a world away from the horrendous farm, he takes on a caregiver role for Della. The two grow up and grow together, both each other’s world entire. Nonetheless, when decades pass and the two are grown, those feelings of love will get more complex and confusing.

I will say that some people may find this book a bit taboo. Nonetheless, Pepper Winters handles the topic in a respectable, understandable manner. She manages to make the somewhat taboo topic the central conflict and also something the reader can fathom and even accept. The characters were well-crafted, and the plot was so intriguing. Nothing about this story is cliché or overdone—it truly is a piece that stands out in a crowd of stories.

I loved the back and forth feel of the book thanks to the alternating point of view. It really helped me understand both characters and their reasoning for their actions. In a dark world full of violence and abuse, Ren and Della find hope in each other, which is a beautiful thing.

I cannot wait to read the next book, The Girl and Her Ren, which releases this June. Thank you, Pepper Winters, for a uniquely engaging storyline that really had me thinking about the lines in love, survival, and what it means to truly love someone unconditionally.


View all my reviews

The Lying Game by Ruth Ware
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

"I have spent so long running from the memories, pushing them away, drowning them in drink and routine and everyday life."

Ruth Ware's The Lying Game is a psychological journey through secrets, lies, and relationships.

The book follows Isa and her former classmates through a journey of horrible memories, lies, and secrets. As they uncover truths they'd tried to overlook, they will learn that sometimes the lying game comes back to haunt you.

I loved that this book truly kept me on the edge of my seat. Just when I felt confident I had figured it out, I changed my mind. The suspense is well-built and keeps you on edge. I also liked Isa's character's imperfections and struggles. She felt very realistic and was easy to like. I found myself rooting for her.

The ending was very well done. The last page, especially, really brought everything full circle.

Overall, this book had a feel of In a dark, dark wood. The concepts were somewhat similar, and Ruth Ware's detailed style didn't disappoint. Overall, this was an engaging story about how dangerous lies can be and how they can haunt us well beyond what we ever thought possible.

I highly recommend this book and will definitely be reading the next Ruth Ware book released.

View all my reviews

Sleeping Beauties by Stephen King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I was intrigued by the premise of Sleeping Beauties before I ever picked it up. The idea of all of the women falling asleep and getting a sickness from which they could not awake was super interesting to me. From page one, this book truly did the plot justice.

This book is not really horror, despite the King name. I found it to be more psychological/suspense/fantasy. I really enjoyed the writing style, which was poetic at points. The description and character development is out of this world. There are so many characters in this book, but I didn't feel confused. The development is so good that I was able to keep all of the characters distinct in my mind.

I enjoyed seeing so many characters' perspectives in this book. It keeps it engaging because there are so many sub-plots happening at once. I found the premise to be interesting. I was constantly looking at the deeper meaning of the book. If you're looking, I really think the book has a lot to offer in terms of gender roles, life's meaning, and the power of secrets. I like that there is so much depth to a very different, engaging story.

The book has a very apocalyptic feel. I also felt like it had similarities with The Handmaid's Tale, which is one of my favorite books. I like the commentary on gender roles and felt that this book did a job at illuminating interesting talking points without being over-the-top or "preaching."

My only dislike came near the end of the book. I had a hard time getting through the last 100 pages because I felt like the book really slowed down. The book was exciting up through about page 600. For me, it slacked off at that point and lost my interest. I felt like the ending was way too long and lost its intensity.

I also would have liked a deeper ending. It felt like a little bit of a letdown.

This book is certainly a time investment due to its length. However, if you're looking for a very different read that deals with gender roles in an apocalyptic background, grab this book.

View all my reviews

5 Stars for Lou Clark's Return in Still Me

Still Me by Jojo Moyes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Louisa Clark is back... and she is, true to the title, still the fun-loving, quirky, bumble bee tights wearing girl we all fell in love with in Me Before You.

I was ecstatic to see this series continue because in honesty, I wasn't pleased with the ending of After You. In Me Before You, Louisa won me over with her witty charm, penchant for saying crazy things, and her lovable family. I wanted to be best friends with her, and I was rooting for her success.

Then, of course, Me Before You gutted my soul. If you haven't read Me Before You yet...do. And grab your tissues.

I understand why After You needed to be what it was. Still, I was left utterly disappointed. Louisa Clark was flat in After You. I missed her humor and charm. I missed her zest for life.

Still Me proves that even after horrific loss, you can find yourself again. Lou is able to reconnect with the girl she was with Will Traynor. She's able to find her exuberance for life and her passion. However, after all she's been through, she is a little different. How could she not be? In this story, Lou has to reconcile the girl she was before Will and the woman she wants to be now.

I loved the premise of this book. Lou moving to New York City was exciting and vibrant. I loved watching her explore and figure herself out. I also love the problems she encountered living with an extremely wealthy family. I thought it was imaginative and gave me a glimpse at a very different lifestyle than Lou's and my own.

Jojo Moyes did a great job at showing Lou's indecisiveness at this stage of life, something so many twentysomethings can relate to. Lou doesn't have it all figured out, and that gave me hope for myself. I liked watching her figure out who she is and what she wants.

I also enjoyed the romantic elements in the book. I thought Jojo Moyes presented a realistic problem for Lou and carried it through. I was thoroughly satisfied with the ending, which made me happy.

I am so thankful Jojo Moyes wrote this book and didn't leave Lou where she was at the end of After You. All in all, I thought this was an amazing addition to the series and helped get Lou back to a resemblance of the girl we fell in love with in Me Before You.

View all my reviews

Saenz's Complex Teen Read Encompasses Identity, Tough Topics

Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

""Something happened inside me as I looked out into the vast universe. Through that telescope, the world was closer and larger than I'd ever imagined. And it was all so beautiful and overwhelming and I--I don't know___it made me aware that there was something inside of me that mattered."

Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe is an award-winning young adult novel... and deservedly so. This book is rich with depth, meaning, and realism. It deals with so many heavy issues in a way that feels genuine and not forced. From PTSD to sexuality to identity, this book is a great one for teens and adults alike because it reminds us to be who we really are and go after our dreams.

Dante and Ari's friendship throughout the novel reveals so many layers to each of the characters. The author does a good job at capturing the feel of teenage relationships in a way that feels natural. I enjoyed the dialogue between the two as well as their quirky families. The characters are memorable in a John Green kind of way. They each have their own personalities and quirks that make them stand out in a world of young adult literature.

The continual symbolism of the the universe and stars was beautiful. The title fits perfectly, and I love it when a book makes you say: "Oh! I get why the title is what it is."

This book is an inspiring read for anyone searching for their identity and trying to mold their own personality in spite of family challenges. This is one of those books you could read multiple times due to the layers of meaning and the symbolism in so many of the lines.

A deep teen read that stands out thanks to its complexity and realism... I definitely recommend it.

View all my reviews