mk_loisirs's reviews
414 reviews

Fable for the End of the World by Ava Reid

challenging dark emotional mysterious sad tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.75

tear out my heart why don’t you.

Okay here’s the real one:
Thank you to Harper Collins for the digital arc in exchange for my honest review!

Yet again Ava Reid has crafted such a complex and well crafted story. This dystopian enemies to lovers definitely filled me with a sense of nostalgia for the early dystopian titles (Hunger Games, etc). In a world run by a singular corporation, when a debt reaches its maximum, a “lamb” can be put up for the Gauntlet in exchange for the exoneration of the debt. They are led to slaughter by the Angels, beautifully & perfectly crafted assassins (à la blade runner, ghost in the shell, terminator type cyborg - human).

In addition to weaving an emotionally charged story, it had clear parallels to current society and can be considered a cautionary tale of what could happen if capitalism continues unchecked and the what happens with the dehumanization of peoples trauma through voyeurism and societal expectations.

I felt the story was strongest in its commentary of those things as well as Ava’s ability to make the story feel like a real possibility (with the inclusion of current pop culture - streamers, etc). The world-building in this was thorough and not overwhelming.

I did struggled with the love between Mel & Inesa because it essentially started with “love/attraction” at first sight…and it didn’t sit as right with me given the rest of the story. However, I still very much believed them as a couple despite my hang-ups. Overall, I felt more connected to her relationship with her brother - but that probably has to do with me being an older sister to a brother. That being said, thinking those things about M & I’s relationship did not stop the tears from flowing at the end. WHAT WAS THAT ENDING AVA!? *minor spoilers*

I know what it was, you gave us hope and sometimes that’s the best and the worst thing to give.

Another stunner and I can’t wait to read even more Ava books!

Content Warnings

Januaries: Stories of Love, Magic & Betrayal by Olivie Blake

Go to review page

emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted mysterious relaxing tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

I loved every single one of these short stories. I already am planning a reread of some.

Fantastic.

The Cinnamon Bun Book Store by Laurie Gilmore

Go to review page

funny hopeful lighthearted relaxing medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.25

The Pumpkin Spice Café by Laurie Gilmore

Go to review page

funny hopeful lighthearted mysterious relaxing medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.75

A cozy hallmark movie of a book but with spice and less cringe! It’s was extremely predictable but that added to the charm. You know what you were getting into and are relaxed the whole time.

The Bog Wife by Kay Chronister

Go to review page

dark emotional hopeful reflective sad medium-paced