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jedore's reviews
492 reviews
Untamed by Glennon Doyle
This part self-help/part memoir challenges societal expectations and encourages readers to trust themselves, reclaim their voice, and live authentically. The book traces Doyle's personal journey from a seemingly perfect personal life—a married Christian woman with children—to falling in love with soccer star Abby Wambach, ending her marriage, and rediscovering herself in the process. Through a collection of essays, Doyle speaks about embracing inner truth, the struggles of womanhood, and the importance of shedding external expectations to become "untamed."
As I'm fresh out of an 11-year relationship, I thought it was time to finally read this book, which I've owned for a while. I’m on a mission to de-center men in my life, and while this book isn’t specifically about being single (in fact, Glennon moves into another relationship quickly after her marriage), it still helped me. I found it intriguing—and lovely—that her new partner is a woman.
I'm not typically a fan of self-help-style books, so I didn’t expect to love this one as much as I did. But Glennon’s honesty about her own messiness makes her incredibly relatable. She’s not trying to present a perfect image—she’s real, raw, and human, which is so refreshing. It’s empowering to witness someone drastically change so openly.
Each chapter is an essay that focuses on a relevant topic—whether it’s a serious social issue, an experience of womanhood, or a personal anecdote. Every page is filled with heart and common sense. Doyle’s writing had me laughing, sniffling, and cheering throughout. Definitely a highly impactful read.
I must admit, I developed a bit of a platonic crush on Glennon. She’s been added to the very short list of people I’d love to have dinner with—joining Tupac Shakur. What a blast it would be!
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
5.0
"I am a sensitive, introverted woman, which means that I love humanity but actual human beings are tricky for me. I love people but not in person."
This part self-help/part memoir challenges societal expectations and encourages readers to trust themselves, reclaim their voice, and live authentically. The book traces Doyle's personal journey from a seemingly perfect personal life—a married Christian woman with children—to falling in love with soccer star Abby Wambach, ending her marriage, and rediscovering herself in the process. Through a collection of essays, Doyle speaks about embracing inner truth, the struggles of womanhood, and the importance of shedding external expectations to become "untamed."
As I'm fresh out of an 11-year relationship, I thought it was time to finally read this book, which I've owned for a while. I’m on a mission to de-center men in my life, and while this book isn’t specifically about being single (in fact, Glennon moves into another relationship quickly after her marriage), it still helped me. I found it intriguing—and lovely—that her new partner is a woman.
I'm not typically a fan of self-help-style books, so I didn’t expect to love this one as much as I did. But Glennon’s honesty about her own messiness makes her incredibly relatable. She’s not trying to present a perfect image—she’s real, raw, and human, which is so refreshing. It’s empowering to witness someone drastically change so openly.
Each chapter is an essay that focuses on a relevant topic—whether it’s a serious social issue, an experience of womanhood, or a personal anecdote. Every page is filled with heart and common sense. Doyle’s writing had me laughing, sniffling, and cheering throughout. Definitely a highly impactful read.
I must admit, I developed a bit of a platonic crush on Glennon. She’s been added to the very short list of people I’d love to have dinner with—joining Tupac Shakur. What a blast it would be!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Addiction, Grief, and Religious bigotry
Moderate: Drug abuse and Eating disorder
Minor: Ableism
Beasts of a Little Land by Juhea Kim
This is a sweeping historical novel set against the backdrop of Korea’s fight for independence from Japanese rule in the early 20th century. The story follows several intertwined lives: from Jade, a young girl sold to a courtesan school, to JungHo, a street orphan turned soldier, and the wealthy, powerful figures whose fates are inextricably linked with theirs. Through personal struggles, love, loss, and the brutality of war, Juhea Kim explores themes of survival, identity, and the transformative power of hope.
At first, I was a little worried because there were so many characters introduced in the beginning, and it was challenging to keep track of them all. But then, suddenly, everything clicked—and I couldn’t put the book down!
dark
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
sad
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? It's complicated
4.5
“There are just two things in the world that give you true confidence. One is overcoming difficulties on your own, and the other is being deeply loved. If you experience both, then you will be confident for the rest of your life.”
This is a sweeping historical novel set against the backdrop of Korea’s fight for independence from Japanese rule in the early 20th century. The story follows several intertwined lives: from Jade, a young girl sold to a courtesan school, to JungHo, a street orphan turned soldier, and the wealthy, powerful figures whose fates are inextricably linked with theirs. Through personal struggles, love, loss, and the brutality of war, Juhea Kim explores themes of survival, identity, and the transformative power of hope.
At first, I was a little worried because there were so many characters introduced in the beginning, and it was challenging to keep track of them all. But then, suddenly, everything clicked—and I couldn’t put the book down!
I absolutely loved the book. Kim’s writing is beautiful and the story spans a lifetime, covering decades of history and personal evolution in a way that isn't cliché or predictable. It's also educational, offering a personal glimpse into a turbulent time in Korea's history without feeling like a history lesson. The depth of the characters and the unexpected turns kept me hooked until the very end.
If you enjoy novels that are intricately layered, historical, and beautifully written, I highly recommend this book!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Adult/minor relationship, Death, Misogyny, Sexism, Trafficking, Abandonment, Colonisation, and Classism
Moderate: War
Traveling With Pomegranates: A Mother-Daughter Story by Sue Monk Kidd
This is a reflective memoir co-authored by Sue Monk Kidd and her daughter, Ann Kidd Taylor. The book follows their journeys through Greece and France as they each navigate pivotal moments in their lives—Sue grappling with the transition into midlife and the empty-nest phase, and Ann seeking direction after college while struggling with self-doubt. As they explore these ancient lands, their personal reflections deepen, revealing the complexity of their mother-daughter relationship and their own individual quests for identity and purpose.
This book was not what I expected. For no clear reason, I assumed it was about a mom-daughter U.S. road trip, not an introspective journey through Greece and France. I liked how Greek mythology was a significant part of the storytelling; not being Christian, I couldn't relate at all with the large amount of content about Mary (mother of Jesus).
As a mother of an adult daughter whom I cherish, I was eager to dive into this book. We moms can always use all the help we can get as we navigate the sometimes-tricky terrain of relating to our daughters as they enter adulthood. This book invited me to reflect on my own relationship, and I was interested in the way Sue and Ann shared their different perspectives. The lesson of never taking anything personally was constantly running through my head.
Beyond the mother-daughter relationship, the book is a good one for empty-nester women who are looking to redefine their lives in a new chapter and for young women at the end of college who are struggling to launch themselves into the world.
While I found bits and pieces of the book helpful, the pacing was quite slow for me. It’s a very reflective narrative that moves at a gentle, sometimes sluggish, pace. At times, it felt like it dragged, and it wasn’t one of those books I was rushing to pick up again.
Any woman with a deep love of Greece or an appreciation for its mythology, history, and landscape will especially enjoy the book.
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
slow-paced
3.5
“My children have always existed at the deepest center of me, right there in the heart/hearth, but I struggled with the powerful demands of motherhood, chafing sometimes at the way they pulled me away from my separate life, not knowing how to balance them with my unwieldy need for solitude and creative expression.”
This is a reflective memoir co-authored by Sue Monk Kidd and her daughter, Ann Kidd Taylor. The book follows their journeys through Greece and France as they each navigate pivotal moments in their lives—Sue grappling with the transition into midlife and the empty-nest phase, and Ann seeking direction after college while struggling with self-doubt. As they explore these ancient lands, their personal reflections deepen, revealing the complexity of their mother-daughter relationship and their own individual quests for identity and purpose.
This book was not what I expected. For no clear reason, I assumed it was about a mom-daughter U.S. road trip, not an introspective journey through Greece and France. I liked how Greek mythology was a significant part of the storytelling; not being Christian, I couldn't relate at all with the large amount of content about Mary (mother of Jesus).
As a mother of an adult daughter whom I cherish, I was eager to dive into this book. We moms can always use all the help we can get as we navigate the sometimes-tricky terrain of relating to our daughters as they enter adulthood. This book invited me to reflect on my own relationship, and I was interested in the way Sue and Ann shared their different perspectives. The lesson of never taking anything personally was constantly running through my head.
Beyond the mother-daughter relationship, the book is a good one for empty-nester women who are looking to redefine their lives in a new chapter and for young women at the end of college who are struggling to launch themselves into the world.
While I found bits and pieces of the book helpful, the pacing was quite slow for me. It’s a very reflective narrative that moves at a gentle, sometimes sluggish, pace. At times, it felt like it dragged, and it wasn’t one of those books I was rushing to pick up again.
Any woman with a deep love of Greece or an appreciation for its mythology, history, and landscape will especially enjoy the book.
At the Water's Edge by Sara Gruen
This book is set during World War II and follows Maddie, her husband Ellis, and their friend Hank as they journey to the Scottish Highlands in search of the Loch Ness monster. While the men are obsessed with proving its existence, Maddie faces her own battles, grappling with personal revelations about her marriage and the war-torn world around her. Along the way, she uncovers secrets and builds unexpected relationships, leading her to question her life and identity.
Overall, this was a pretty average read for me. The story itself felt somewhat formulaic and lacked depth. There wasn’t anything particularly unique or insightful about the plot that made it stand out from other historical fiction.
The characters felt underdeveloped and didn’t have much complexity. Their motivations and personalities followed familiar tropes, making it difficult to fully invest in their journey. The emotional growth felt superficial, and I found the relationships and interactions rather formulaic.
The ending was also quite predictable, and I saw it coming well before the final chapters. It wrapped up neatly, but without any surprises or significant emotional impact.
I would characterize this as a solid "beach read." It’s light and easy to get through but doesn’t offer much in the way of depth or lasting impressions. If you’re looking for something quick and entertaining, it’s a decent pick, but I didn’t find it particularly memorable or thought-provoking.
dark
hopeful
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
“In all its beautiful, tragic fragility, there was still life.”
This book is set during World War II and follows Maddie, her husband Ellis, and their friend Hank as they journey to the Scottish Highlands in search of the Loch Ness monster. While the men are obsessed with proving its existence, Maddie faces her own battles, grappling with personal revelations about her marriage and the war-torn world around her. Along the way, she uncovers secrets and builds unexpected relationships, leading her to question her life and identity.
Overall, this was a pretty average read for me. The story itself felt somewhat formulaic and lacked depth. There wasn’t anything particularly unique or insightful about the plot that made it stand out from other historical fiction.
The characters felt underdeveloped and didn’t have much complexity. Their motivations and personalities followed familiar tropes, making it difficult to fully invest in their journey. The emotional growth felt superficial, and I found the relationships and interactions rather formulaic.
The ending was also quite predictable, and I saw it coming well before the final chapters. It wrapped up neatly, but without any surprises or significant emotional impact.
I would characterize this as a solid "beach read." It’s light and easy to get through but doesn’t offer much in the way of depth or lasting impressions. If you’re looking for something quick and entertaining, it’s a decent pick, but I didn’t find it particularly memorable or thought-provoking.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Addiction, Death, Domestic abuse, Infidelity, Misogyny, Toxic relationship, Forced institutionalization, Abandonment, and War
The Bird King by G. Willow Wilson
The book is set in 1491, at the tail end of Muslim rule in Spain, and follows Fatima, a concubine in the court of the last Sultan of Granada. She helps her friend Hassan, a royal cartographer with the magical ability to create maps of places he's never been, escape persecution from the Spanish Inquisition. The novel weaves together elements of historical fiction and magical realism, as the two journey to find the mythical island of the Bird King, a place from Hassan’s maps where they hope to find freedom.
G. Willow Wilson is best known for being the creator of the critically acclaimed *Ms. Marvel* series. She’s also a convert to Islam, and her diverse background and deep knowledge of Islamic culture impact her writing.
This book solidified my realization that I am not a fan of historical fiction blended with magical realism. While I love historical fiction for its ability to bring to life real people, places, and events, the inclusion of magical elements disrupts that experience for me.
Furthermore, I struggled to connect with the characters. Neither Fatima nor Hassan felt fully developed, and I found it difficult to bond with them or care much about their journey. In fact, I often dreaded picking up the book and felt frustrated while reading, which made it hard to stay engaged.
Despite my issues with the character development and the magical realism, I did appreciate learning about the Muslim presence and influence in Spain during this period, as well as the history of the Spanish Inquisition.
I have to give honorable mention to the cover art of this book…absolutely stunning.
dark
hopeful
informative
mysterious
sad
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
2.5
“It’s an awful thing, you know, to be tolerated—everyone needs you, nobody wants you.”
The book is set in 1491, at the tail end of Muslim rule in Spain, and follows Fatima, a concubine in the court of the last Sultan of Granada. She helps her friend Hassan, a royal cartographer with the magical ability to create maps of places he's never been, escape persecution from the Spanish Inquisition. The novel weaves together elements of historical fiction and magical realism, as the two journey to find the mythical island of the Bird King, a place from Hassan’s maps where they hope to find freedom.
G. Willow Wilson is best known for being the creator of the critically acclaimed *Ms. Marvel* series. She’s also a convert to Islam, and her diverse background and deep knowledge of Islamic culture impact her writing.
This book solidified my realization that I am not a fan of historical fiction blended with magical realism. While I love historical fiction for its ability to bring to life real people, places, and events, the inclusion of magical elements disrupts that experience for me.
Furthermore, I struggled to connect with the characters. Neither Fatima nor Hassan felt fully developed, and I found it difficult to bond with them or care much about their journey. In fact, I often dreaded picking up the book and felt frustrated while reading, which made it hard to stay engaged.
Despite my issues with the character development and the magical realism, I did appreciate learning about the Muslim presence and influence in Spain during this period, as well as the history of the Spanish Inquisition.
I have to give honorable mention to the cover art of this book…absolutely stunning.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Slavery, Forced institutionalization, Colonisation, and Classism
Girl Waits with Gun by Amy Stewart
This is the first book in a delightful historical fiction series set in the early 1900s. The story revolves around Constance Kopp and her sisters, who find themselves in the middle of a serious crime after their buggy is hit by a reckless silk factory owner. As the women (mostly Constance) stand up to him, the situation escalates into a series of threats and intimidation. Based on true events, the book follows Constance as she navigates her way through this ordeal with determination, eventually becoming one of the first female deputy sheriffs in the U.S.
Constance Kopp and her sisters actually existed, and Stewart stumbled upon their story while researching another project. This added authenticity to the book, knowing that the plot was inspired by true events.
The story is both informative historical fiction and tense crime fiction. Even though it's centered around a serious situation, Stewart brings a lighthearted tone to the narrative. It’s not a heavy or dark crime novel—instead, it feels more playful and fun, with plenty of humor and wit. The sisters, especially Constance, are likable, relatable, and have a small-town charm about them.
One sensitive aspect of the story was some subtle anti-Semitism. Stewart doesn’t shy away from addressing these societal issues, but she does so in a way that feels authentic to the setting without overpowering the main narrative. It's a reminder that, despite the humor and lighthearted tone, the Kopp sisters are living in a harsh time.
While there aren’t any jaw-dropping twists or turns, the story is engaging enough to hold your attention until the end. I’m usually not one for series, but I’m genuinely looking forward to reading more about the Kopp sisters.
funny
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
“If I could give something to Fleurette—if I could give her one silent gift from a mother she didn't know she had—it would be this: the realization that we have to be a part of the world in which we live. We don't scurry away when we're in trouble, or when someone else is. We don't run and hide.”
This is the first book in a delightful historical fiction series set in the early 1900s. The story revolves around Constance Kopp and her sisters, who find themselves in the middle of a serious crime after their buggy is hit by a reckless silk factory owner. As the women (mostly Constance) stand up to him, the situation escalates into a series of threats and intimidation. Based on true events, the book follows Constance as she navigates her way through this ordeal with determination, eventually becoming one of the first female deputy sheriffs in the U.S.
Constance Kopp and her sisters actually existed, and Stewart stumbled upon their story while researching another project. This added authenticity to the book, knowing that the plot was inspired by true events.
The story is both informative historical fiction and tense crime fiction. Even though it's centered around a serious situation, Stewart brings a lighthearted tone to the narrative. It’s not a heavy or dark crime novel—instead, it feels more playful and fun, with plenty of humor and wit. The sisters, especially Constance, are likable, relatable, and have a small-town charm about them.
One sensitive aspect of the story was some subtle anti-Semitism. Stewart doesn’t shy away from addressing these societal issues, but she does so in a way that feels authentic to the setting without overpowering the main narrative. It's a reminder that, despite the humor and lighthearted tone, the Kopp sisters are living in a harsh time.
While there aren’t any jaw-dropping twists or turns, the story is engaging enough to hold your attention until the end. I’m usually not one for series, but I’m genuinely looking forward to reading more about the Kopp sisters.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying, Misogyny, Violence, and Gaslighting
Moderate: Adult/minor relationship and Pregnancy
Minor: Animal cruelty, Antisemitism, and Car accident
The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson
I finally got around to reading this book after watching the movie adaptation on Netflix several years ago. I have to say, the book is a classic for a reason.
The story follows four people who come together at Hill House, a mansion with a mysterious and creepy past. Dr. Montague, an investigator of the paranormal, invites three others to join him in his study: Eleanor, a shy woman with a troubled past; Theodora, a bohemian artist; and Luke, the future heir of Hill House. As they settle in, the house’s sinister nature starts to reveal itself, particularly to Eleanor, who becomes increasingly affected by the house’s eerie presence.
The Haunting of Hill House is considered one of the best ghost stories ever written and has influenced countless other works in the genre. Shirley Jackson’s ability to build suspense and a sense of dread without relying on cheap scares really sets this book apart. It’s more about what’s happening in your mind than what’s jumping out at you from the shadows.
While I found the book interesting, I couldn’t help but notice it doesn’t dive too deeply into the characters’ inner lives. I mean, there’s definitely some psychological complexity, especially with Eleanor, but the writing feels a bit distant. Maybe that’s because it was written in the 1950s, and that kind of character intimacy just wasn’t as common back then. To me, it felt like a less sophisticated version of “Rebecca” by Daphne du Maurier—similar gothic vibes but without quite the same depth of character exploration.
That said, I really enjoyed the complex psychology that’s woven into the story. If you’re in tune with what’s going on in the characters’ heads, the plot becomes pretty predictable, but that didn’t bother me too much. The psychology is so much bigger than the ending itself that it almost doesn’t matter where the story ends up.
This is definitely a must-read for anyone who’s into gothic horror. It’s more about atmosphere and psychological tension than anything else, and Jackson does that so well.
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.75
To learn what we fear is to learn who we are.
I finally got around to reading this book after watching the movie adaptation on Netflix several years ago. I have to say, the book is a classic for a reason.
The story follows four people who come together at Hill House, a mansion with a mysterious and creepy past. Dr. Montague, an investigator of the paranormal, invites three others to join him in his study: Eleanor, a shy woman with a troubled past; Theodora, a bohemian artist; and Luke, the future heir of Hill House. As they settle in, the house’s sinister nature starts to reveal itself, particularly to Eleanor, who becomes increasingly affected by the house’s eerie presence.
The Haunting of Hill House is considered one of the best ghost stories ever written and has influenced countless other works in the genre. Shirley Jackson’s ability to build suspense and a sense of dread without relying on cheap scares really sets this book apart. It’s more about what’s happening in your mind than what’s jumping out at you from the shadows.
While I found the book interesting, I couldn’t help but notice it doesn’t dive too deeply into the characters’ inner lives. I mean, there’s definitely some psychological complexity, especially with Eleanor, but the writing feels a bit distant. Maybe that’s because it was written in the 1950s, and that kind of character intimacy just wasn’t as common back then. To me, it felt like a less sophisticated version of “Rebecca” by Daphne du Maurier—similar gothic vibes but without quite the same depth of character exploration.
That said, I really enjoyed the complex psychology that’s woven into the story. If you’re in tune with what’s going on in the characters’ heads, the plot becomes pretty predictable, but that didn’t bother me too much. The psychology is so much bigger than the ending itself that it almost doesn’t matter where the story ends up.
This is definitely a must-read for anyone who’s into gothic horror. It’s more about atmosphere and psychological tension than anything else, and Jackson does that so well.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Suicide and Abandonment
The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh
This debut novel is an emotional exploration of resilience, trauma, and the power of human connection. The story is told through the eyes of Victoria, a young woman who spent most of her life in foster care. Her journey is a rollercoaster ride through conflicting emotions and challenging relationships. Her complex character, which is both strong and vulnerable, makes her incredibly relatable. While her actions sometimes frustrated me, her journey of self-discovery was very inspiring.
The novel's exploration of trauma and its lasting effects is raw and honest. Diffenbaugh doesn't shy away from the harsh realities faced by a young woman who grew up in the foster system, but she also offers a glimmer of hope through Victoria's resilience and her connection to flowers.
This is a powerful and thought-provoking read that will stay with you long after the final page. It's a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity and find beauty even in the darkest of times.
dark
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
“There was only one way to the other side, and that was through the pain.”
This debut novel is an emotional exploration of resilience, trauma, and the power of human connection. The story is told through the eyes of Victoria, a young woman who spent most of her life in foster care. Her journey is a rollercoaster ride through conflicting emotions and challenging relationships. Her complex character, which is both strong and vulnerable, makes her incredibly relatable. While her actions sometimes frustrated me, her journey of self-discovery was very inspiring.
The novel's exploration of trauma and its lasting effects is raw and honest. Diffenbaugh doesn't shy away from the harsh realities faced by a young woman who grew up in the foster system, but she also offers a glimmer of hope through Victoria's resilience and her connection to flowers.
This is a powerful and thought-provoking read that will stay with you long after the final page. It's a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity and find beauty even in the darkest of times.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Grief, Pregnancy, and Abandonment
Stolen by Lucy Christopher
This is a gripping tale of survival and resilience. Gemma, a teenage girl, is abducted from the Bangkok international airport and held captive in the unforgiving Australian outback. The novel explores themes of isolation, fear, and the human spirit.
I seriously struggled with the developing romantic dynamic between Gemma and her captor, Ty. The author's choice to romanticize their relationship rather than addressing it as a complex and harmful psychological response to trauma was very unsettling. This portrayal can be misleading, particularly for younger readers leading to the glamorization of "trauma bonding."
That said, I was relieved that Christopher did not have Gemma become entirely submissive. Her unwavering determination to escape kept me engaged and hopeful.
While the subject matter is undoubtedly heavy and a bit contentious, it's refreshing to see authors of young adult fiction exploring complex issues with depth.
This is a provocative and thought-provoking read. While the romanticization of the captor-victim relationship is a significant flaw in my opinion, the novel's exploration of survival, resilience, and the human psyche is commendable.
dark
emotional
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
3.75
"It's hard to hate someone once you understand them.”
This is a gripping tale of survival and resilience. Gemma, a teenage girl, is abducted from the Bangkok international airport and held captive in the unforgiving Australian outback. The novel explores themes of isolation, fear, and the human spirit.
I seriously struggled with the developing romantic dynamic between Gemma and her captor, Ty. The author's choice to romanticize their relationship rather than addressing it as a complex and harmful psychological response to trauma was very unsettling. This portrayal can be misleading, particularly for younger readers leading to the glamorization of "trauma bonding."
That said, I was relieved that Christopher did not have Gemma become entirely submissive. Her unwavering determination to escape kept me engaged and hopeful.
While the subject matter is undoubtedly heavy and a bit contentious, it's refreshing to see authors of young adult fiction exploring complex issues with depth.
This is a provocative and thought-provoking read. While the romanticization of the captor-victim relationship is a significant flaw in my opinion, the novel's exploration of survival, resilience, and the human psyche is commendable.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Adult/minor relationship, Mental illness, Toxic relationship, and Kidnapping
The Veins of the Ocean by Patricia Engel
This is a quiet story about big emotions. It follows Reina, a young Colombian woman, as she navigates life in Miami, balancing the demands of family and her own aspirations. The novel delves into the immigrant experience, exploring themes of love, loss, and the enduring bonds of family.
Engel does a fantastic job of crafting Reina as a complex and relatable character. Her struggles felt authentic and raw, and I found myself invested in her journey. Nesto, her Cuban boyfriend, could have benefited from further exploration. The supporting characters remained in the shadows.
I was initially frustrated by Reina's decision to prioritize her brother's life over her own. But, a surprising plot twist completely flipped my perspective. While the reveal wasn’t exactly jaw-dropping, it added a layer of depth to the story that I appreciated.
As someone who has spent the last three years living in Panama, I connected deeply with the immigrant experience portrayed in the novel. My experiences enabled me to connect to Reina and Nesto’s struggles on a more personal level. I was rooting for their happiness, whether they chose to be together or apart.
This is a slow-paced novel that is a poignant story about family trauma and the immigrant experience. If you're into action, it's not going to be for you. But, if you appreciate a literary exploration of the complexities of human relationships, give it a read.
challenging
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
“...the internet is the world's biggest backyard freezer, keeping everything fresh...”
This is a quiet story about big emotions. It follows Reina, a young Colombian woman, as she navigates life in Miami, balancing the demands of family and her own aspirations. The novel delves into the immigrant experience, exploring themes of love, loss, and the enduring bonds of family.
Engel does a fantastic job of crafting Reina as a complex and relatable character. Her struggles felt authentic and raw, and I found myself invested in her journey. Nesto, her Cuban boyfriend, could have benefited from further exploration. The supporting characters remained in the shadows.
I was initially frustrated by Reina's decision to prioritize her brother's life over her own. But, a surprising plot twist completely flipped my perspective. While the reveal wasn’t exactly jaw-dropping, it added a layer of depth to the story that I appreciated.
As someone who has spent the last three years living in Panama, I connected deeply with the immigrant experience portrayed in the novel. My experiences enabled me to connect to Reina and Nesto’s struggles on a more personal level. I was rooting for their happiness, whether they chose to be together or apart.
This is a slow-paced novel that is a poignant story about family trauma and the immigrant experience. If you're into action, it's not going to be for you. But, if you appreciate a literary exploration of the complexities of human relationships, give it a read.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child death, Confinement, Death, Misogyny, Grief, and Murder
Moderate: Suicide and Toxic relationship
Minor: Animal cruelty