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ambershelf's reviews
1294 reviews
Mask of the Deer Woman by Laurie L. Dove
4.25
Finished copy gifted by the publisher
The author aptly explored themes of missing indigenous women/girls and not getting much media attention, what she describes as “twice lost” in the story.
I had some hesitation with the FMC being in law enforcement initially, but the examination of how a system failed a people and the subsequent distrust within the native community, as well as the FMC’s own reflection of whether she’s doing more harm than good as a cop, adds nuance and depth to the book.
In the author’s notes, she mentioned her indigenous heritage while growing up with white adopted parents, inspiring her to write a story examining this feeling of “in betweenness” that the FMC experienced. I feel that aspect is very well done in the book through the character’s arc, but can’t comment on whether the descriptions of native lives on reservations are accurate depictions.
I really love the multiple layers of mysteries, even though I wish it were faster paced.
The author aptly explored themes of missing indigenous women/girls and not getting much media attention, what she describes as “twice lost” in the story.
I had some hesitation with the FMC being in law enforcement initially, but the examination of how a system failed a people and the subsequent distrust within the native community, as well as the FMC’s own reflection of whether she’s doing more harm than good as a cop, adds nuance and depth to the book.
In the author’s notes, she mentioned her indigenous heritage while growing up with white adopted parents, inspiring her to write a story examining this feeling of “in betweenness” that the FMC experienced. I feel that aspect is very well done in the book through the character’s arc, but can’t comment on whether the descriptions of native lives on reservations are accurate depictions.
I really love the multiple layers of mysteries, even though I wish it were faster paced.
The Rainfall Market by You Yeong-Gwang
3.75
ARC gifted by the publisher
A very cute and heartwarming story about a lonely girl searching for the best life in a magical market. I really enjoyed the world building, even though it got a tad repetitive with all the “looking for my best life.” I enjoyed the element of the mystery that added more twists and stakes to the otherwise a very comforting cozy read. And the cat is just the best.
This one will work great for fans of THE MIDNIGHT LIBRARY and BEFORE THE COFFEE GETS COLD. Not the deepest character development or most intricate writing but a very heartwarming read!
A very cute and heartwarming story about a lonely girl searching for the best life in a magical market. I really enjoyed the world building, even though it got a tad repetitive with all the “looking for my best life.” I enjoyed the element of the mystery that added more twists and stakes to the otherwise a very comforting cozy read. And the cat is just the best.
This one will work great for fans of THE MIDNIGHT LIBRARY and BEFORE THE COFFEE GETS COLD. Not the deepest character development or most intricate writing but a very heartwarming read!
Heaven by Mieko Kawakami
4.25
Phenomenal writing as usual. I really appreciate the themes of making heaven out of hellish situations. A beautiful story about friendship, kindness, and strength that explores very dark situations. The ending felt a bit abrupt for me
Reading this one hurt 💔
Reading this one hurt 💔