literarycherub's reviews
80 reviews

This Blood That Binds Us by S.L. Cokeley

Go to review page

Did not finish book. Stopped at 5%.
awful writing 
A Witch's Guide to Fake Dating a Demon by Sarah Hawley

Go to review page

funny lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix

4.0

We Had to Remove This Post by Hanna Bervoets

Go to review page

challenging dark informative reflective fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? N/A
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.0

while this novella kept me engaged, it just didn't dive deep enough. the story ended just as it became interesting! however, it left me with plenty to think about.
Death Valley by Melissa Broder

Go to review page

emotional hopeful reflective tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

In Melissa Broder's latest novel, Death Valley, readers are taken on a journey through the complexities of family and anticipatory grief. The book, which is a relatable read for those who have experienced loss, offers a unique perspective on these difficult topics. While the themes are heavy, Broder's signature surrealism and erotica add a refreshing element to the story that keeps readers engaged throughout. 

One particular scene that stands out is the cactus scene, which showcases Broder's ability to blend humour and heartbreak seamlessly. The use of bite-sized chapters is another notable aspect of the book, as it helps readers digest the difficult topics at hand. 

Overall, Death Valley is a great read that explores existentialism in a fresh and relatable way. Through Broder's expert storytelling, readers are able to navigate their own grief with the help of her guidance. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for comfort through dark humour and a unique perspective on the complexities of life and loss. It's a beautifully written novel that captures the essence of what it means to grieve and to find meaning in the face of sorrow. Broder's vivid descriptions and ability to create a mystical atmosphere make this book a true gem. 
shine your icy crown by Amanda Lovelace

Go to review page

hopeful informative inspiring lighthearted reflective relaxing fast-paced

3.75

Amanda Lovelace's writing is very dear to me. For much of my twenties, her work has been a big part of how I've grown and processed my own life and art. As always, Break Your Glass Slippers has that minimalist and honest quality to it that makes you want to nod your head in agreement. It is full of a world of whimsy and dark truths that, in the end, empower us to use our voices. By the end of Break Your Glass Slippers, readers will feel as though the clock struck midnight long ago; ready to start the next chapter of their own story.

What always strikes me most about Lovelace's prose is not only how much it, and she, has grown in throughout the years--I've been following her since our Tumblr book blog days--it is the manner in which she tells her stories. Poetry is meant to reach out and grip readers; Lovelace's writing always does. It feels like a warm drink, after wandering in the cold. It feels like long nights that are followed by a heart-to-heart with your dearest friend.

There's this simplicity in how each line reads in Break Your Glass Slippers. Never does it feel cheaply drawn out--it's a sharp and rich pull of facts. Lovelace never wastes any time in her writing.

Everything is laid out there for readers to dive into and bask in.

Each word embraces its readers in a way that is intimate, blunt and lively.

Amanda Lovelace speaks to her readers in a way that makes you feel as though she is right beside you. Her fears and triumphs are your own. Words do not pass through you. They settle in for the night, the week, the month, the year, and linger at the back of your mind. She is you, your best-friend, your sister, your nearest and dearest.

Break Your Glass Slippers works in the way that all her collections do. Because she is so familiar and never holds back. She doesn't overstay her welcome. Instead, her writing is exactly what we all need in the moment. Break Your Glass Slippers shows us that Lovelace is in no way slowing down and will continue to be a voice of strength, honesty and warmth.
break your glass slippers by Amanda Lovelace

Go to review page

hopeful inspiring lighthearted reflective relaxing fast-paced

3.75

Amanda Lovelace's writing is very dear to me. For much of my twenties, her work has been a big part of how I've grown and processed my own life and art. As always, Break Your Glass Slippers has that minimalist and honest quality to it that makes you want to nod your head in agreement. It is full of a world of whimsy and dark truths that, in the end, empower us to use our voices. By the end of Break Your Glass Slippers, readers will feel as though the clock struck midnight long ago; ready to start the next chapter of their own story.

What always strikes me most about Lovelace's prose is not only how much it, and she, has grown in throughout the years--I've been following her since our Tumblr book blog days--it is the manner in which she tells her stories. Poetry is meant to reach out and grip readers; Lovelace's writing always does. It feels like a warm drink, after wandering in the cold. It feels like long nights that are followed by a heart-to-heart with your dearest friend.

There's this simplicity in how each line reads in Break Your Glass Slippers. Never does it feel cheaply drawn out--it's a sharp and rich pull of facts. Lovelace never wastes any time in her writing.

Everything is laid out there for readers to dive into and bask in.

Each word embraces its readers in a way that is intimate, blunt and lively.

Amanda Lovelace speaks to her readers in a way that makes you feel as though she is right beside you. Her fears and triumphs are your own. Words do not pass through you. They settle in for the night, the week, the month, the year, and linger at the back of your mind. She is you, your best-friend, your sister, your nearest and dearest.

Break Your Glass Slippers works in the way that all her collections do. Because she is so familiar and never holds back. She doesn't overstay her welcome. Instead, her writing is exactly what we all need in the moment. Break Your Glass Slippers shows us that Lovelace is in no way slowing down and will continue to be a voice of strength, honesty and warmth.
Love, Theoretically by Ali Hazelwood

Go to review page

lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

I have been making everyone read Love on the Brain because Levi was my number one book boyfriend.. Well, I have dumped Levi and I am now with Jack 🥰