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a_reader_obsessed's Reviews (3.12k)
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Loveable characters:
Yes
We’re back with the wonderful Wilbies, and I am a happy reader!
Though this is technically just another day in Isolde and Warren’s life, solving small and large mysteries, this book, and ultimately the entire series, is so much more! Front and center is this married couple who continue to work together instinctively and complementary, always with the aid of Isolde’s father’s mysterious valise of dangerously unpredictable, but typically useful, magical artifacts.
This time around, a suspicious death and a sense of dreadful deja vu spurs these two to find out what really happened, uncovering a grand and dark scheme involving art, drugs, government machinations, and scary time manipulation.
What I want to strongly point out is that in and amongst the standard plot of a whodunnit, Bancroft continues to pull out all the stops, further layering this world he’s created with its own unique history and foundational origin story explaining the what and why magic exists. He also expands insightfully on his lovely protagonists and their wonderfully solid relationship that made me smile often, as well as reveals a twisty shocking secret that will very likely change the narrative journey going foward.
I obviously had a fantastic time with this second installment! So, If a historic alternate fantasy set in a quasi 1920-40s era adjacent Europe, filled with creatures galore, impossible and scary portals into other universes, a talking genius + gourmand of a dragon to boot, and of course, magic, sounds good to you (it truly is) then seriously start with The Hexologists. You won’t regret it!
Thank you to the author and Orbit Books via NetGalley for an ecopy in exchange for an honest review
hopeful
reflective
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
A Pride and Prejudice reimagining of the not so beloved Mr. Collins, providing a plausible alternative and explaining the motivations and reasons behind his oh so haughty marriage proposal to Elizabeth Bennett.
Here, Welch brings a different lens to Mr. Collins, a man who is a lot persnickety, who values solitude and privacy, and always plays by the rules lest he incur the displeasure of his demanding patroness Lady Catherine. What we learn is that he’s stuck by circumstance, riddled with insecurity and anxiety, only wanting to do best by his congregation in and amongst appreciating the small joys in life when he can. His situation takes a drastic change for the better when his childhood friend Jem returns from a long absence looking for work and shelter.
However, life’s serendipity can’t last forever as Mr. Collins’s idyllic life is upended when Lady Catherine insists he’s overdue for taking a wife, and he knows he has no choice but to play by society’s rules and expectations despite vehemently not wanting to marry.
Though absent on explicit details, this continued the tone of Austen’s creation, seamlessly inserting itself in the grand narrative, lending a behind the scenes look at the before, during, and after that titular wedding proposal that went so awry. Welch deftly brings such great nuance to this character, where the reader feels empathy and then cozy satisfaction when it all ends very cleverly and serendipitously for Mr. Collins and all those involved.
Overall, if you’re a fan of the original creation, then one should revel in this alternate MM detour!
A big thank you to the author for a copy to review honestly!
A big thank you to the author for a copy to review honestly!
adventurous
dark
emotional
hopeful
reflective
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
As per the blurb, an irresistible message is sent out into the deep depths of space, enticing scavengers from all around with an ungettable get. This prize not only hones your senses but gives the wearer valuable survival skills where milliseconds count. What heroine Wylla doesn’t expect is something beyond comprehension with uncharted abilities, and imagine her shock when the tech comes with its very own impossible sentience whose creator wants back.
As Wylla and the embedded intelligence Sable are prudently forced to get to know and trust each other (and fast), they find solace and empowerment in shared past experiences where their autonomy mattered little to those in power. Thus they decide on a path of vindication and revenge as they investigate the hows and whys of Sable’s existence.
Perhaps as a warning, this is told in first person POV alternating with a second person narrative, lending an unique presentation style as one doesn’t see this often. What this does very well is the actual outer space setting along with interspersed intense action scenes that fully immerses the reader in its science fiction roots while showcasing a burgeoning sapphic romance and an apt commentary on identity.
This ends on the limitless potential of Wylla and Sable’s partnership. Good thing this is going to be a duology so we can see what else is in store for these two!
Thank you to the author and Tor Publishing Group via NetGalley for an e-copy to review honestly
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
reflective
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Another 4.5 Stars!
Having loved the first book, this second installment about killers who choose to kill no more was just as entertainingly suspenseful and poignantly heartbreaking. The struggle is very real as all members of Assassins Anonymous fight years of intense dopamine hits and rigidly honed muscle memory to consciously decide every day to fight the dark pull of what they do best, and that’s unaliving people.
Here, the story continues with Mark, Booker, and Valencia where last we saw them, they had welcomed Astrid into their circle, supporting each other in ways that only shared experiences can. When Astrid doesn’t show up to their regularly scheduled meetings, Mark must face the harsh truth that perhaps she wasn’t quite ready to “retire” or maybe sadly, her past caught up to her. The worst thing about the situation is just not knowing the truth and facing the reality that they may never know.
One day though, Mark and company get a cryptic delivery which can only mean one thing. Astrid is alive, and she’s calling for help.
What unfolds is a compelling read as Hart weaves in Astrid's origin story along with the present day dual storyline of Astrid methodically planning to get out of her dire predicament and Mark going to extensive lengths to get her back, all of which makes for propulsive reading as they are both committed to their recovery despite the deadly mission that lays ahead of them.
Full of expected action and mostly nonlethal fight scenes, this expands on the world of hired killers (and the mysterious Agency), bringing some good ole fun along with hitting the angsty notes with painful precision. I loved Astrid, who just like Mark, tries to live with her regrets, who tries to make healthier decisions and atone for her actions which have brought, and will continue to bring, many difficult challenges. Never though is she, nor Mark, weak, nor should one mistake mercy for kindness as they do what must be done to save each other and survive.
Overall, this series is about choices, choices that destroy, condemn, forgive, and redeem. It’s about the consequences of one’s past and how that past shapes who they are and the future they want for themselves. It’s about deciding what you want and how you choose a path forward with the found family you’ve now built.
Again, Assassin's Anonymous was my introduction to Rob Hart, and this sequel just proves that I’m still a major fan of his work. This ends on a triumphant note, where Hart has set up this engaging addictive series to delve into many more characters seeking a different path and all the players and factors that don’t want them to.
More please!
Thank you to the author and GP Putnam’s Sons via NetGalley for a copy in exchange for an honest review
adventurous
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
An intriguing introduction to the infamous kaiju, Gaea-Tima, who came 10 years ago and left in its wake not only destruction but a mysterious essence that allowed the beleaguered port city to rebuild again on the abundant marine life that thrived in the monster's wake.
This also tells the tale of Myako, who, having created tchotchkes of Gaea-Tima, has caught a little fame herself over the years. When another kaiju attacks, it starts a strange chain reaction tying her to Gaea-Tima’s return and ultimately, to its very existence.
Admittedly, for unknown reasons I’ve been drawn to entertainment featuring kaiju, having enjoyed both the Pacific Rim and recent Godzilla movies, not to mention having had a grand ole time reading The Kaiju Preservation Society. This first volume was a nice teaser to the mysterious Gaea-Tima and visually portrayed the tension, emotions, and action in a fun and interesting way. I obviously liked what I got and look forward to the next installment!
Thank you to the creator and Kodansha Comics via NetGalley for a copy to review honestly
adventurous
dark
tense
medium-paced
Another solid entry in the life and times of Melinda West, gunslinger extraordinaire who never misses her mark!
Last we saw Melinda and her partner Lance, they had accomplished their last job before retiring, but it was not without some heavy losses. It’s been a year, and they have finally found some peace, running the ranch of their dreams and maintaining a low profile. However, their reputation precedes them, and though they want to say no to a neighboring town’s cry for help, they just can’t do it. Something is killing their townsfolk rapidly, and it's spreading quick.
What Melinda unravels is a horrifying new monster that has leaked from the Edge, a crack between dimensions that released a slew of creatures big and small over the years. This time, these “gremlins” aren’t like the typical animal type critters they’ve encountered before, but beings with an unsettling sinister intellect. If Melinda didn’t know better, these gremlins have an agenda that soon will threaten the preservation of all humankind.
Overall, this has remained consistent in violent action, grim and dire circumstances, all with touches of gory horror. Melinda, Lance, and the various people they enlist for help are a solid group of characters to root for. If you have a problem or challenge to overcome that’s monster related, then one would definitely want Melinda on their side for she will never ever give up. Again, this delivers great Wild West vibes, high stakes monster slaying, and a stalwart heroine who will never let you down!
Thank you to the author and Brigids Gate Press via NetGalley for an ecopy to review honestly.
adventurous
lighthearted
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Loveable characters:
Yes
The end game is here, and though this took a few minor turns I didn’t expect, be reassured that the conclusion was a win!
What this series has always been consistently about is subterfuge, not only with Ada, our dubious spunky heroine, but with straight-laced government official Rian as well. Secrets and hidden agendas hang heavily between these two people whose moral compasses are “slightly” at odds with each other. Luckily and thankfully, they both ultimately want the same outcome - to restore earth to its former glory.
Last we saw, Ada had forced Rian’s hand and though he knows she’s right, he doesn’t have to like the fact that her way is the only way to save Earth. Plus, there’s a barely simmering romance between these two, a connection that can’t be denied but a distraction that neither can afford should they want to successfully complete their mission.
Overall, though I would’ve loved to have had more flash and bang, I obviously have been consistently entertained with this trilogy. It has its fun moments, and I especially liked the push pull between Ada and Rian, the one upmanship (mostly on Ada’s behalf), and their admiration of the other despite knowing that them truly being together isn’t really a possibility.
It’s not the destination but definitely, the journey, and it brings a smile to my face that these two will continue that lively spirit of rivalry out in the universe!
Thank you to the author and DAW via NetGalley for a copy to review honestly
adventurous
challenging
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
If you’re a fan of RJB or enjoyed the first installment of this series, The Tainted Cup, then I want to reassure you that this second endeavor in this wholly original world will be well worth your time.
Once again, a dead body starts an investigation revealing some scary truths, resulting in another race against time to stop a mad genius hell bent on taking the entire Empire down. Thankfully, there’s always the beleaguered Dinios Kol and his superior, the eccentric and unsettling investigator Ana Dolabra, who are at the ready to do what’s necessary to find the answers needed.
As a reminder, this is a world whose very existence and advancements rely on harvesting giant sea monsters (think football stadium size) whose wondrous but volatile, and often deadly, essence fuels a multitude of products that keep said cogs of life turning. These leviathans also contribute to humanity in the forms of grafts/suffusions/augmentations that can amplify all 5 senses, enable cognitive function to unimaginable heights, or give a person the ability to remember everything they experience to the most minute detail. In a cruel twist of fate, it's these very creatures, these destructive behemoths that are also the greatest physical threat to the Empire, becoming larger and more aggressive every season they attack the shoreline.
What stands out to me the most here are the copious details that this book contains which enrich the reader experience rather than suffocate or drown it. RJB truly immerses one in the sights, the sounds, and the smells, pointing out the unique races and classes, the civil servants who are distinctly delineated by physical attributes and mannerisms, as well as giving weight and presence not only in where this story takes place but also an anxiety driven urgency to solve the convoluted crimes taking place. Add to that the tenuous political balance that the Empire must maintain for its safety and survival, he deftly weaves in the cultural stakes, the extensive social hierarchy of the people who fall both within and outside the Empire’s jurisdiction, and all the non-leviathan threats (both internal and external) that constantly push at the seams holding this society together.
Overall, if you want another truly complexly layered, locked door murder mystery with twisty reveals against a fascinating science formed fantasy backdrop, just know that this delivers. Reassuredly, RJB brings further insight to our hero Din, his struggles with wanting to make a significant difference and feeling stuck in what he views as a thankless job but ever steadfast in what is expected of him. More light is also shed on the cryptic Ana, her uncanny powers of extrapolation and deduction lending an otherworldly aura to her as she faces her smartest foe yet. I continued to enjoy their banter and seeing that their dynamic has deepened since last we saw them, the new revelations lending a more meaningful weight to Din and Ana’s shared convictions towards their loyalty and duty.
So, this is my long winded way of saying that this is far from an idealistic world, the truths and revelations often mirroring our own past and present where there’s a multitude collaborating to take the system down with whatever means necessary. However, like in real life, I assume that there are a lot of unseen heroes fighting the good fight, those we’ll never know of but should be grateful to for their valiant efforts to keep us safe, or at the very least from further harm. I feel that this is an ode to them in the form of such great characters as Din and Ana, and I look forward to their next insurmountable challenge and ultimately, their triumphant win.
Thank you to the author and Del Rey of Random House Publishing Group via NetGalley for an ecopy to review honestly
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I became a dedicated fan when I read Bonam-Young’s Out on a Limb last year, and this quasi sequel featuring BFF Sarah and her devoted hubby Caleb was a no brainer!
This is less a marriage on the rocks and more about processing grief, emerging from the safety net of your partner, and trying to find your identity and self worth, all along forging ahead to tackle life’s challenges together. Sarah has been in survival mode for the last decade, still deeply affected by her mother’s untimely chronic illness that took her too quickly and too soon. However, she’s trying to make some headway towards having more purpose and is determined to prove she can accomplish that.
Ever by her side is her wonderful husband Caleb, who is the epitome of support, but when does that become a crutch? Sarah thinks it’s high time she does some deep diving into her psyche instead of just coasting through life. Thus, she enrolls herself and Caleb into a couples boot camp to see if they can figure out individual and relationship goals.
Don’t worry. This isn’t all serious drama, but know that it is a thoughtful, emotional look at Sarah and Caleb’s dynamic, seeing them in flashbacks on how they met and fell in love, and how they are wholly committed to each other despite these uncomfortable issues they’re facing.
Bonam-Young doesn’t fail the reader on the vulnerability and the authentic range of growth these two go through. This author knows how to bring the humor (though a bit less than its predecessor in my opinion), the sexy, and the feels. She also doesn’t fail in regards to Caleb who embodies the devoted hot nerd very very well.
Overall, an uplifting and valid love story, warts and all, and for really sensitively paying homage to the memory of a beloved one who is no longer around. These two soulmates just needed some fine tuning on themselves so they could be fully present for each other and just know that Bonam-Young delivers!
Thank you to the author and Dell via NetGalley for a copy to review honestly
