When T. Kingfisher writes it, I read it! This is yet another incredible hit. I love how the author creates an atmosphere that enriches the book on mulWhen T. Kingfisher writes it, I read it! This is yet another incredible hit. I love how the author creates an atmosphere that enriches the book on multiple levels. Unfamiliar with Grimms' "Goose Girl," I found everything fresh and original in Kingfisher's voice. The story felt like a dark coming-of-age tale, infused with mystery, magic, and murder! While the pacing occasionally seemed uneven, I never mind slowing down in T. Kingfisher's books to savor the story. I also felt the pacing reflected the main character's emotions and the lull in her life before everything intensified and a lot started happening. I felt like a conspirator along with the characters, and always interested in what was going to happen next.
If you enjoy T. Kingfisher's work, this book will be another hit for you!
I had a chance to also listen to the audiobook and the narration was great. I don't think that it necessarily added anything to the story but I can always appreciate a crisp and clear narration.
Thank you to the publisher for an advanced readers copy of this book. ...more
A mesmerizing dance between history, romance, and betrayal, Huang transports readers across epochs, where love's flame burns eternal amidst the chaos A mesmerizing dance between history, romance, and betrayal, Huang transports readers across epochs, where love's flame burns eternal amidst the chaos of changing worlds.
The narrative's structure, which shifts between three distinct time periods, left me feeling frequently disjointed. The transitions from historical settings to modern-day billionaire parties felt jarring and out of place, detracting from the overall cohesion of the story. My least favorite time period, the most modern, also appeared to be the author's weakest, lacking the depth of emotion present in the other two narratives. While the historical perspectives exuded love, adoration, and betrayal, the modern storyline seemed to falter in comparison, diminishing the overall impact of the novel.
The abundance of explicit content within the book was a significant drawback for me. While I understand the character-driven motivations behind these encounters, the overtly explicit nature of the content felt gratuitous and detracted from the storytelling. A more subtle approach or a reduction in the frequency of such encounters could have maintained the novel's effectiveness without compromising its thematic elements. However, it's important to note that 'The Emperor and the Endless Palace' falls within the romantasy genre, where explicit content is often expected. While it may not align with my personal preferences, I recognize its significance within the genre. Additionally, the scarcity of achillian romantasies makes this novel a pioneering effort, potentially paving the way for more diverse narratives in the future. It's essential to acknowledge that this is an adult novel, catering to a specific audience seeking themes of love, passion, and intrigue in a fantastical setting.
'The Emperor and the Endless Palace' remains an epic fantasy debut with substantial strengths in both writing and storytelling. While I was disappointed by certain aspects of the book, I am eager to see what future works the author produces, hoping for a more refined and cohesive narrative in their upcoming endeavors.
Thank you to the publisher for an advanced readers copy of this book. ...more
Set against the backdrop of World War II, "The Curse of Pietro Houdini" by the Dagger Award-win
I am eagerly waiting for my copy at the library.
Set against the backdrop of World War II, "The Curse of Pietro Houdini" by the Dagger Award-winning author follows the harrowing journey of fourteen-year-old Massimo, who, orphaned and fleeing Rome after a devastating bombing raid, is rescued by a mysterious man named Pietro Houdini. Claiming to be the "Master Artist and confidante of the Vatican," Pietro takes Massimo under his wing as they seek refuge in Montecassino, a Benedictine abbey. As the war threatens the monastery, the unlikely duo hatches a daring plan to smuggle priceless Titian paintings to safety down the mountain. Joined by a diverse group of characters with their own secrets, including a nurse with a shady past, a cafe owner-turned-murderer, a cheerful German soldier, and a pair of lovers, they navigate a treacherous path through battlefields, resorting to deception, theft, and violence to survive. The narrative unfolds as a gripping adventure heist, intertwining forgotten history with a coming-of-age tale, exploring moral complexities on the enigmatic frontlines of World War II.
A literary feast of love and enchantment, with prose as sweet as honey cake.
"The Honey Witch" transports readers to a whimsical world where sapphic rA literary feast of love and enchantment, with prose as sweet as honey cake.
"The Honey Witch" transports readers to a whimsical world where sapphic romance blooms amidst the poetic ambiance of a cottagecore magical apothecary nestled on a serene island.
The prose is as enchanting as the setting itself, inviting readers to delve beyond the storyline and into introspective realms. Each character, even those initially challenging to embrace, gradually reveals layers that evoke empathy and understanding. I found myself eagerly anticipating moments to highlight and savor upon receiving my physical copy. The dynamic between sunshine and grumpiness, though not my usual preference, was expertly portrayed and surprisingly endearing.
Experiencing "The Honey Witch" in both early reading and audio formats proved equally delightful. While initially uncertain about the audio narration, I soon found it complemented the narrative beautifully, enhancing my immersion in the magical tale.
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Thank you NetGalley and RED HOOK for an eARC of this book. ...more
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