hermusings's reviews
279 reviews

Comedic Timing: A Modern Romance by Upasna Barath

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3.25

I found this endearing, and at times frustrating. I think there were loads of really interesting and complex topics brought up to add depth to the characters & plot, yet we couldn’t truly dive into them due to the length and speed of the book. 
However, I knew this was a novella and overall, enjoyed it.
Between Friends & Lovers by Shirlene Obuobi

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  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

3.75

Engaging from the start! 
I found these characters to be slightly insufferable and annoying but I truly was locked in for the journey this story took me through. It had moments where I couldn’t suspend my disbelief but it delivered on what it sought out to do. 
37 Questions by June Kaye

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Did not finish book. Stopped at 40%.
This book has a wonderful premise (two strangers forced to shelter from a storm together) that lends itself to rely heavily on dialogue. This may have increased my expectations and picture something along the lines of the Before movie series. Unfortunately, the dialogue rarely felt natural or engaging. There were many references to Disney, Star Wars, & Beatles that took me out of the experience. Also, the attempt at creating depth felt like trauma dumping rather. 
However, I can see this being enjoyed by other readers and I look forward to seeing what this author duo bring out in the future.

Thank you to NetGalley and 8th Note Press, for an eArc in exchange for an honest review.
Good Material by Dolly Alderton

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  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

A honest, comical, cathartic and thoughtful exploration of a breakup. I wasn’t sure I would enjoy it as much being from a men’s pov but honestly Dolly Alderton is a tremendously good writer.
However, that last chapter in Jen’s pov was a standout & what I’ll probably be thinking about for a long time!
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

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4.0

The Most Dangerous Game by Richard Connell

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fast-paced

3.75

Read this for my Bookclub.
A bit predictable but quick & accessible for a classic. 
I can see this being an influence for loads of media — did Zoey Kravitz read this before blink twice?
In a Epstein/Diddy world it honestly is not a shocking premise but I will always love a premise where the
lead has the evil within themselves the entire time/are you really as civilized and ethical as you believe to be.

Anyways, this is why we choose the bear.
Mr. Nice Spy by Tiana Smith

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2.5

Fun premise with a cringe execution
Foster by Claire Keegan

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4.5

Keegan is truly the master of short and seemingly simple stories that are actually packed with so much humanity & care.
This is such a lovely book about love, neglect, belonging, loss and more. 
They were so so kind to her ♥️😩😭
Meet Me at the Lake by Carley Fortune

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  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

Genuinely love the way Fortune describes Canada (as a non-Canadian who is loosely acquainted with these locations). Writing style aside, this felt short for me on the plot front.
 
I was hoping for something reminiscent to the Before film series but the connect and chemistry between the main characters was lacking believability to me. 
The parts of the story centered around grief, loss and regret were what held my attention the most in this.

The “behind the book” section 🫶
Master of Me by Keke Palmer

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4.0

I went into this blind and thought it was a memoir. There are elements but it’s mostly a self-help book (with quizzes and all) filled with advice that we’re optimistic and insightful.
This also convinced me that Keke and Jojo (Joanne Levesque) should do a song together!!!!