russellreitsema's reviews
62 reviews

Authority by Jeff VanderMeer

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3.0

Definitely different from the first novel in this series but not an unwelcome change. I enjoyed the office drama and the strange, atmospheric, almost claustrophobic way this story unravels. the sterility from the first is still prevalent. Enjoyed the read, looking forward to finishing up the trilogy. 
Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros

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3.0

I definitely get why the kids are reading this series 😄 the lore and world building are solid and I love the dragons! A bit too much spice for me, felt like it was a distraction at times, but the characters are well-written and I will most likely be finishing this series eventually. 
The Dead Romantics by Ashley Poston

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4.0

Irrreverantly wholesome, spectacularly lovely. Instantly my new favorite Poston novel. engaging characters, well-placed supernatural shenanigans, and a narrative I could die for. Everything I want from a light-hearted, ghost-filled rom-com.
Womb City by Tlotlo Tsamaase

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3.0

I'm not quite sure how to describe my journey through this novel. There were moments where I felt uncomfortable, moments where I wasn't sure what was happening, and moments that will stick with me for weeks. Not for the faint of heart, this one will make you surrender to the narrative and the deeper messages beneath. 
The House by Raelyn Drake

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3.0

Definitely felt strange indulging in a YA book after some heavier stories lately. This was a fun little lighthearted romp with some scooby-doo-esque antics and a family friendly mystery to solve. 
Stuck with You by Ali Hazelwood

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3.0

short, succinct, charming, formulaic. Hazelwood does a good job of showing us that women can do everything, even fall in love.
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

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3.5

A humorous jaunt into the life of a woman intent on not letting the world put her in a box. This was an incredibly satisfying journey that touches on sexism, celebrity, parenting, romance, science, and so much more. Absolutely recomend!
A Prayer for the Crown-Shy by Becky Chambers

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4.0

Finished the first and second back to back and I definitely don't regret it! I felt an instant connection to the immersive world that Chambers has created, and the 2nd installation in this series continues on without any hesitation. the meandering journey of Dex and Mosscap soothes my soul, sparks my imagination, and let's me breathe a little lighter. I can't recomend this series enough. 
A Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky Chambers

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4.0

New favorite author alert! Chambers has knocked it out of the park with this deliciously satisfying and thought provoking story of clashing ideology, our place in the natural world, acceptance and belonging, and the thought that we might be able to coexist after all. Had heard rumblings of this story but never thought I would connect with it so sincerely. as I'm writing this I've already finished the sequel as well, it's just that good. I'll be keeping a close eye on Chambers from now on. 
The Yellow Wall-Paper by Charlotte Perkins Gilman

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3.0

A haunting psychological descent into madness that felt a lot longer than it was. the eerie descriptions of the wallpaper and the paranoia sit with you in uncomfortable silence. A great short read for spooky season.