blkbltchic's reviews
65 reviews

Heraldry: An Introduction to a Noble Tradition by Michel Pastoureau

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informative inspiring slow-paced

4.75

Only knocked down as the individual images weren't credited on page in a way where it would be easy to find them or research them/their artists further. Otherwise a good jumping off point into the world of arms, devices and heraldry. It includes awesome artwork, though the initial problem still stands. I honestly only read passages that pertained to trends before the 16th century.
That's Not My Name by Megan Lally

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dark tense fast-paced

2.5

I feel that this book would have been better had we only focused on one of the perspectives. The ending twist doesn't warrant the need for both. Drew's perspective was annoying. Not because of the people around him not believing him in his endeavors (since that happens) but a lot of the "teen" choices and internal monologues were annoying. Jfc. The resolution did make everything worth enough to finish but I wouldn't recommend it. 
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab

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adventurous emotional inspiring medium-paced

4.75

Nearly perfect. I can't place my finger on what exactly knocked it down from a 5 but this was a great read. I cared about the characters the twists in the deals were fun. It did take a sec to get in rhythm with the time hopping and character perspectives (mostly since I was listening and not reading) but once I understood the pattern all was well. Darkness is a ten. 
The Roaring Days of Zora Lily by Noelle Salazar

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emotional inspiring lighthearted slow-paced

3.5

It was a pretty good story, fun, a little predictable at times but lighthearted. I didn't really care for the framing device with the museum, the only thing it did was spoil the LA section and then offer resolution that I don't think was needed. Otherwise a good time.
The Satanic Verses by Salman Rushdie

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Did not finish book. Stopped at 30%.
I was trying so hard but I couldn't really get into it. I may try again another time. For now all I'll say is that what I've read did not warrant a stabbing.
American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins

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adventurous dark emotional informative sad tense medium-paced

4.5

This was an incredible journey and so absolutely heartbreaking. Definitely worth a read and shines a light on those fleeing into the US. 
Only Human by Sylvain Neuvel

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adventurous tense fast-paced

4.5

I did it again! I read a later (possibly final?) book in a series I somehow missed was a series. I believe it speaks on the story that "Only Human" still delivers being a standalone story despite this. The writing style within the book being solely in a dialogue format was really refreshing and made it a fast read which felt super good after a longer book. I marked it down because there were moments I thought Eva was self-righteous and annoying, and the ending wrapped very quickly and almost too easy given the circumstances. Would recommend to someone who enjoys mecha though for sure. 
Howl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones

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lighthearted fast-paced

3.0

It was a fun little book and it's clear which scenes Miyazaki pulled from. I think I would have enjoyed it more if I were in the mid-grade range. Very slice of life. 
The Ghosts of Beatrice Bird by Louisa Morgan

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challenging emotional hopeful sad tense slow-paced

4.75

This was a wonderful read. The leading ladies were so relatable and their stories heartbreaking. It was so nice to watch everything wrap up in such a cozy space as an island cottage that houses two bossy cows. The ending felt a little on the schmultzy deus ex machina way but I don't know how else it could have gone, honestly it fit well enough that I don't really care. I'm happy our girls and Benjamin get to be happy. 

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The Diamond Eye by Kate Quinn

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informative medium-paced

5.0

Considering this book is making me look into Lady Death herself I think this is an excellent historic fiction yet autobiographical take on such an interesting figure that could have been entirely lost to history. Mila is interesting and incredibly human. The problems that arose with her nasty ass husband really made me feel for her. Looking forward to learning more about her for sure.