Lessons In Chemistry is a historical fiction set in the early 60’s, following a hard-working Chemist, Elizabeth Zott. Working in a male-dominated field Zott must navigate her way through the complexities of the patriarchy.
One day, she meets Calvin Evans, renowned Chemist, known for his reserved and curt manner. The two fall in-love, bonding over their serious love for Chemistry and the shared conception that they are abrasive and obsessive.
Though, life does not always go to plan. Zott, left in a precarious situation must make ends meet, by hosting her very own television show – Supper at Six. However, her methods are unorthodox and views untraditional – which despite her growing fanbase – not everyone likes.
Lessons In Chemistry is a book I wouldn’t have normally chosen myself, which is becoming a running theme in my reading curriculum. And, yet again, I am proven wrong with the age-old expression ‘never judge a book by its cover’.
At first, I was sceptical. The idea of a woman in the 60’s working in a male-dominated field is interesting, but the addition of romance feels reductive. I know relationships are a fact of life, but it is rarely a focal point when it is a male main character, especially in books of this nature. Though I still argue that the romance is unnecessary, it is written in a nuanced fashion that does not remove from the plot.
I adore Zott, she is an admirable character with a dry sense of humour. The way she handles confrontations is inspiring. I love her reactions – or lack thereof -, how she causes men to abandon reason for emotion, whilst she remains composed, providing pragmatic responses.
The plot throughout is captivating and entertaining. Garmus is able to find an appropriate balance of humorous, light moments and emotional, reflective moments.
After reading the book, I was excited to watch the television adaption. Unfortunately, the adaption took a lot of creative liberties which takes away from the original story. Events/agendas are added, which, whilst important, feel awkward and misplaced. They change the nature of various characters in order to – I assume – make the show more palatable (which defeats the purpose, in my opinion). Therefore, if you choose to watch the show, take this to mind.
I would recommend this book, especially if you like historical fiction. But, like always, anyone should give it a read.
Click link below for Storygraph overview, which includes general rating, summary (same as above) and other reviews.
In the early 1900s, teenaged Sunja, the adored daughter of a crippled fisherman, falls for a wealthy stranger at the seashore near her home in Korea. He promises her the world, but when she discovers she is pregnant—and that her lover is married—she refuses to be bought. Instead, she accepts an offer of marriage from a gentle, sickly minister passing through on his way to Japan. But her decision to abandon her home, and to reject her son’s powerful father, sets off a dramatic saga that will echo down through the generations.
REVIEW
THEMES: HISTORICAL, ASIAN FICTION, EMOTIONAL, MEDIUM-PACED.
Pachinko by Min Jin Lee is a touching story that follows over a hundred years in the life of one Korean family. At the beginning of the story, Sunja is introduced as the daughter of a crippled fisherman. Readers follow Sunja into adulthood, where she meets a wealthy stranger who takes a special interest in her. What transpires between them forces Sunja to leave for Japan to start a new life—otherwise, her family will face ruin.
Pachinko was introduced to me by a friend who claimed it was their favourite book of all time. This was a big statement, so of course, I gave it a go. They were correct—this is one of the most beautiful books I have ever read.
Min Jin Lee’s writing style is amazing, although it is an acquired taste, as she has a habit of time jumps and leaving certain conclusions open. I absolutely love the way she tells a story; she does not dwell, and she often lets readers draw their own conclusions—or she will casually reveal prior resolutions later in the story. I have never read a book written quite like hers, before or since.
The plot is well planned and brilliantly executed. Whilst it tells a simple story of hardship and struggle, it is also deeply complex and real. This makes sense, considering it draws from historical events. The descriptions, character depth, and dialogue feel as though they were plucked from real life. I still vividly remember everything that takes place in this book and know it will stay with me for the rest of my life.
The closest book I could compare it to is Memoirs of a Geisha—not just because it is set in Japan (though contextually that helps), but because of the gruff nature of certain characters and the realistic portrayal of life during times of struggle.
Please, please, please read this book. If you love historical fiction, it’s a must. However, everyone should give it a try.
Click link below for Storygraph overview, which includes general rating, summary (same as above) and other reviews.
Two women awaken from a drugged sleep to find themselves imprisoned in an abandoned property in the middle of a desert in a story of two friends, sisterly love and courage – a gripping, starkly imaginative exploration of contemporary misogyny and corporate control, and of what it means to hunt and be hunted.
Strangers to each other, they have no idea where they are or how they came to be there with eight other girls, forced to wear strange uniforms, their heads shaved, guarded by two inept yet vicious armed jailers and a ‘nurse’. The girls all have something in common, but what is it? What crime has brought them here from the city? Who is the mysterious security company responsible for this desolate place with its brutal rules, its total isolation from the contemporary world? Doing hard labour under a sweltering sun, the prisoners soon learn what links them: in each girl’s past is a sexual scandal with a powerful man. They pray for rescue – but when the food starts running out it becomes clear that the jailers have also become the jailed. The girls can only rescue themselves.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4.5 out of 5.
REVIEW
THEMES: DYSTOPIAN, DARK, TENSE, AUSTRALIAN FICTION, MEDIUM-PACED.
The Natural Way of Things is a powerful story set in the Australian bush. A group of women wake up in the middle of nowhere, each as confused as the other. They are forced to endure hard labour and humiliating rituals. As the story progresses, their pasts come to light—hinting at the real reason they are trapped in this desolate prison. Author Charlotte Wood touches on the prevalent issues surrounding the patriarchy, focusing on the all-too-real experiences women face every day.
What I adore about this book is Wood’s beautiful writing style. It is transportive, with precise and vivid descriptions. Even in the more negative reviews I have read, almost all mention Wood’s picturesque writing.
Each of the characters is described at face value; their attributes and flaws make them relatable, insufferable, and loveable. The inner and outer dialogue seem plucked from real conversations and thoughts, allowing readers to truly resonate with the story.
What I admire about Wood is that she treats the characters as people—not victims or even survivors. In stories such as these, it can be easy for authors to skate around the subject, cushioning each sentence to avoid potential offence. Whilst this is sometimes necessary, depending on the story, it can be more effective to acknowledge and move on than fixate and (sometimes) sensationalise.
I was able to get to know the characters beyond their trauma and pain. This allowed me to like and dislike them without my perception being affected by their past. Wood’s nuanced approach to trauma is impressive, as it can be hard to achieve in a respectful and appropriate manner.
What I also enjoyed was the theme of self-discovery under less-than-desirable circumstances. Even though it is a horrific situation, there is a silver lining (albeit a very small one).
The plot of the story is interesting but somewhat confusing. I do not mind this entirely, but I think she could have clarified some parts—I am still unsure exactly where they were and whether their situation was meant to be legal or illegal.
I think this is an important book to read. Like The Handmaid’s Tale, it explores relevant social issues and highlights how real the patriarchy is.
I would implore that everyone read this book. I absolutely love it. However, it is rather bleak, and the descriptions can get gory—so it is not for the weak-stomached. Funnily enough, I did not find it overly bleak, but I did listen to it as an audiobook, so that may be why.
Click link below for Storygraph overview, which includes general rating, summary (same as above) and other reviews.
A nineteenth-century boy from a Mississippi River town recounts his adventures as he travels down the river with a runaway slave, encountering a family involved in a feud, two scoundrels pretending to be royalty, and Tom Sawyer’s aunt who mistakes him for Tom.
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn tells the story of a young boy who flees his hometown to escape his abusive father. Along the way, he meets both old and new friends and embarks on an adventure — but it doesn’t come without risks. To stay out of trouble, Huck must get creative and think on his feet.
If you love The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, I strongly advise you click off this review.
I try to give all books the benefit of the doubt and look at them from different perspectives, but this was truly one of the dullest books I have ever read.
Each character felt like a mildly altered version of the last — there was no individualism; they all just blended into one. Finn was so mediocre, I felt like I was reading from the perspective of a wet piece of bread. He added nothing to the book. And why did he say “wigwam” so much?
Whilst there is a vague plot, all the “adventures” (a huge stretch, if you ask me) amount to nothing. The best way to describe it is listening to someone else’s dream — which is often an excruciating experience.
I don’t doubt there are elements of the book that are appealing, but I stubbornly refuse to analyse — or waste — any more time on it than I already have.
This was a very negative review, and I apologise if you liked the book — but I really struggled with it, and believe me, I tried so hard to find the silver lining.
If you couldn’t tell, I would not recommend this book. But again, you may love what I hate. At the very least, do not start with it if you’re trying to get into classics.
Click link below for Storygraph overview, which includes general rating, summary (same as above) and other reviews.
It is about time I create a list of Book Slump books, considering the name of my blog.
So, I have compiled a list of books that will (hopefully) get you out of your Book Slump. In other words, I found these book easy to read.
I have done one for almost each genre. Any genre that I have missed is either because I have not read from it or I have not ready anything ‘easy’ from it.
Enjoy!
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FANTASY
Kingdom Of The Wicked
Kerri Maniscalco
Emilia and Vittoria are twin sisters who have grown up being warned to avoid the Wicked. As witches, they must protect themselves from both supernatural creatures and humans alike.
Though they are twins, Emilia and Vittoria couldn’t be more different. Vittoria is cynical and fiercely independent, while Emilia is gentle and content to spend her days experimenting with new recipes and cooking for her family’s Sicilian restaurant.
All of a sudden, a string of murders begins to unfold around town — each victim a witch, each killing marked by the same eerie signs.
To Emilia’s dismay, Vittoria goes missing. Her disappearance ignites something in Emilia, driving her to search for answers at any cost. But will she continue down this path when the truth leads her to her most feared enemy — Wrath, one of the Seven Wicked Princes of Hell?
Before I begin, I implore you to read book one without context – I feel like the blurb spoils too much. What I have written above excludes the spoilers.
PRINCES OF SIN READING GUIDE
Kingdom Of The Wicked trilogy
Throne Of The Fallen
Throne Of Secrets
Throne Of Nightmares [expected February 2026]
To preface, I recommend all of the Princes Of Sin book. However, you must read them chronologically to avoid spoilers – despite there being standalones. I made this mistake – by accidentally reading Throne Of The Fallen first -and it spoilt the ending of Kingdom Of The Wicked for me.
I love this trilogy; it actually got me out of my most recent Book Slump. If you enjoyed; Crescent City or The Gods and Monsters series, then you will definitely love this. Having my most recent reads be classics, I desperately needed this palate cleanser.
In some of the fantasies I have read, the main characters become insufferable because they never learn from their ignorance. They keep making the same mistakes repeatedly, and act like victims when it doesn’t pan out – it makes me want to scream, I hate it so much. Thankfully, the characters in this trilogy were appropriately ignorant and rarely made the same mistake twice (don’t quote me on that). It honestly caught me off guard, when a situation arose where there was an opportunity for idiocy, the characters did the opposite of what I assumed, which is refreshing.
Maniscalco manages to find the perfect balance of predictability. At times, I was able to foresee outcomes but was equally in the dark at others. I absolutely adore the Princes of Sin concept and am so glad she has stuck with it.
I find Emilia’s point of view amusing. She has flaws but never became overbearing or unrealistic – she actually reacted satisfyingly when she was treated unfairly. Though, it would have been great to read from other characters point of views – which she has since changed in her Prince of Sin standalone ‘series’.
All in all, it is so perfect for the Halloween season and will keep you engrossed. I stayed up till four am, at least three times when reading this trilogy. I have since, begrudgingly, put measures in place to avoid this.
ROMANCE
The Seven Year Slip
Ashley Poston
Released 2023, 328 pages.
As a publicist, Clementine works overtime to get the job done. Though, it is not solely for career progression, but to protect her heart. Using work as a shield, Clementine has cut herself off from love and refuses to embrace it fully.
One day, she comes home – formally her late aunt’s apartment – to find a stranger standing in her kitchen. He is sweet, charming and charismatic, someone she could fall for under the right circumstances – which, unfortunately these are not – because he lives in the past… seven years to be exact.
Her aunt always spoke of this phenomenon, but Clementine brushed it off, assuming her aunt was making up stories – which was in keeping with her wild, adventurous personality.
It becomes difficult for Clementine to separate the past and present, whilst also being haunted by the memory of her aunt, whom she loved dearly.
Can this mysterious man break down her carefully constructed walls and show her true love or will she shield herself, like she always does?
Full disclosure, I have not read much normal romance, as I typically stick to romance within fantasy. Other than Alone With You in the Ether (which is not light), my frame of reference is a bit off. Though, this could work in my favour, since I found this an ‘easy’ read, I can speak from an inexperienced point of view – whereas a romance buff may have higher standards and find this book too light.
Anyway, I enjoyed the concept of this book – especially as someone who loves fantasy, having some magical realism helped ease the transition. I found it really easy to get into – actually, I believe I finished it in one day, now that I think about it.
Fair warning, the dialogue is diabolically cringe, like the worst of the worst – though, you probably gathered that if you have read the blurb. I audibly gagged at a couple of the conversations. It got to a point where I was praying Poston was being satirical – but devastatingly, I doubt it.
I cannot confidently compare it to any books, due to my inexperience. However, there is overwhelmingly positive reviews for the book, hence why I read it – so to put it in Fantasy terms, it may be the Serpent and the Wings of Night of romance (please, do not quote me on that).
The story is super light, the romance is prevalent, the intimate scenes are tame, and the plot is fun. I think it is perfect for a book slump or a palate cleanser in-between books. If you are someone who likes romance that is heavier, with realistic dialogue and substantial characters, then I would keep looking.
HORROR
Perfume
Patrick Süskind
Released 1985, 263 pages.
Since infancy Grenouille has had one notable quality, he has no personal odour – but ironically, has the best nose in Paris and can distinguish a smell off a few inhales.
Grenouille goes through life as an unremarkable man, that nobody notices. Though, this works to his advantage because one day, he smells something so incredible that he becomes obsessed.
I have been trying to get into more classics this year, and Perfume has decisively good reviews – and I concur, as it is in my top three.
The story centres around Grenouille and is set-in eighteenth-century Paris, which is described as a crowded, foul-smelling city. It starts off on bleak circumstances, setting the story up on a miserable note, which makes sense, but is misleading. Despite the grim topic, I was able to look past it because of the writing style.
Süskind has a way of making his readers question their own morality – because whilst the subject matter is perverse, having it written from the antagonists’ perspective changes the whole perception of the story. I found myself excusing Grenouilles sinister hobby, because of his frank, almost innocent outlook.
For me, the first part is a little slow. As it is predominantly setting up the story and was relatively tame (for a horror). What made me like the book was the second halve, especially the ending. So, if you find yourself bored at the beginning, just push through – to me the ending makes it worth it.
If you enjoyed The Vegetarian by Han Kang, then I think you’ll enjoy this, and vice versa. As The Vegetarian also explores the themes of morality, and how perspective makes a significant difference to how a story can be perceived.
I would recommend this to any horror readers, especially if you are looking to get into the classics.
CLASSIC
The Alchemist
Paulo Coelho
Released 1988, 182 pages.
Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd boy, is content on travelling from town to town in his homeland, making money off of his sheep.
One day, he is approached by a mysterious man claiming to be a King. He says that Santiago is destined to find great treasure, and that he must descend on his own personal journey to locate it.
After some convincing, Santiago decides to follow the king’s urgings and embark on this adventure. Along the way, he meets some unusual characters and visits some interesting places – though it will not all be easy. By having to overcome great hardships, Santiago has to decide whether he can continue on this journey or if he will resort back to his comfortable life.
Paulo Coelho’s The Alchemist is more of a self-discovery journey than anything else. With life lessons woven throughout the story, Coelho explores spirituality and the importance of signs. Each character plays an important role in the story and in Santiago’s life, serving their purpose — whether it’s to create an obstruction or provide helpful guidance.
The story is easy to get through, with a consistent plot and practical characters. The Alchemist explores the unpredictability of life and how everything serves a purpose — even if it’s not clear at the time.
Whilst I am recommending it, it is not my favourite classic. However, it is easy to read, unlike some of my preferred classics, which are too intense for a book slump.
The main deterrent is how religious the book is throughout. I’m not a religious person, so I found it difficult to relate to — and I had high expectations due to the rave reviews, which I don’t feel it fully lived up to.
I haven’t read many classics like The Alchemist, but if you enjoy Japanese fiction like Before the Coffee Gets Cold or Days at the Morisaki Bookshop, you may like this — as they too explore the theme of self-discovery and the idea that everyone has their own personal journey.
As mentioned above, I would recommend The Alchemist to anyone seeking a book about self-discovery or personal inspiration. Those with a religious background may also find deeper meaning in the story. Additionally, I believe it would make a great novel to read to children.
HISTORICAL
Lessons in Chemistry
Bonnie Garmus
Released 2022, 400 pages.
Elizabeth Zott, Chemist at Hasting’s research, must endure the scrutiny of being the only woman in a male-dominated field. Left to do all the grunt work, Zott must fight for her job, as the alternative is being fired.
One day, Zott meets Calvin Evans — a Nobel Prize–nominated chemist known for his reserved and brusque nature. Being hard-headed and combative herself, Zott has finally met her match. After some time, they – unsurprisingly – begin to the date – to the dismay of their fellow colleagues.
Unfortunately, life does not go to plan, and Zott must upheave her life due to unexpected circumstances. This leads to her (begrudgingly) hosting a TV show called Supper at Six.
Zott’s unorthodox approach to cooking captures the attention — and hearts — of women around the state. Despite the success of the show, Zott faces the hardships of being a woman in the spotlight. Her radical disposition challenges the social standards of what it means to be a woman — and not everyone likes it.
I have excluded the spoilers in my description above; however I advise ignoring any other overview of the book as, I think, it spoils too much.
Lessons in Chemistry is one of those books I assumed would be boring, because it is part (normal) romance and part historical fiction, based in America. Those are two things that do not particularly interest me — though this year, this book (among many others) has taught me that it’s not the content of a book, but the way it is written.
If there was one word to describe Elizabeth Zott, it would be resilient. Garmus has created a beautiful character who is relatable with a dry and witty demeanour. I felt inspired by her; whenever she would receive unfair treatment, her response would be skilfully void of emotion. She aggravates other characters by being factual and rarely allows emotion to lead her in arguments.
Initially, I was frustrated by the romance. To have a book be about societal and patriarchal struggles and then include romance, feels a bit reductive. However, Garmus executes it beautifully. Whilst there is romance, it does not overpower the plot.
This may be contrary to popular opinion, but I hate the TV adaptation. It is so different to the book. I think Brie Larson was a perfect choice for the role of Zott, but the plot fell flat. They removed key parts of the book and added other elements which — whilst important — felt forced. I think they could have found a way to stay closer to the original script and still include the additional events without changing the trajectory of the story.
I haven’t read anything quite like Lessons in Chemistry in terms of plot, but if you like established female characters like the ones in Big Swiss or The Rook, then I think you’d enjoy this.
I would recommend this book to anyone, really. Naturally, if you’re interested in feminist literature or historical fiction, then definitely give it a go. But I think this is a book that anyone could enjoy.
NONFICTION: MEMOIR
Red Sky
Minzhi Xing
Released 2023, 218 pages,
Embark on a powerful journey of courage and resilience with Red Sky. This story is set in Mao’s Red China and explores the effects of the Cultural Revolution on a family. Follow Minzhi Xing as she navigates her way through the tumultuous times of Mao’s Red China, from being separated from her family for 10 years, to ultimately reconnecting with the strangers that were once her parents. Feel the power of perseverance through Minzhi’s story and be inspired to overcome whatever obstacles may come your way!
The overview above is from StoryGraph. Since I read this a while ago, I didn’t want to risk misrepresenting the book. Red Sky isn’t a widely read book, and because I borrowed it from the library, I can’t do an extensive recall — but I’ll try my best.
What I remember most about this book is Xing’s writing style. She writes as if she’s speaking to you, not down to you. She explains events in a simple yet informative way. Historical non-fiction can often be dense, filled with complex terminology — so being able to understand everything, without having to whip out a dictionary was refreshing.
It’s impressive how much of her life she can recall- I struggle to remember anything prior to the age of ten (if that).
Even though Xing wasn’t directly affected by Mao’s regime in the same way her parents were, she beautifully describes the devastating effects of his rule and the persecution of those who opposed him. She also shows how Mao’s leadership impacted China economically and socially the years after, as she grew up.
Red Sky is a beautiful and compelling story that I highly recommend to anyone interested in Chinese history, general history, or memoirs and biographies. It is also perfect if you are looking to get into non-fiction, as it is not full-on.
“The body you are wearing used to be mine.” So begins the letter Myfanwy Thomas is holding when she awakes in a London park surrounded by bodies all wearing latex gloves. With no recollection of who she is, Myfanwy must follow the instructions her former self left behind to discover her identity and track down the agents who want to destroy her.
She soon learns that she is a Rook, a high-ranking member of a secret organization called the Chequy that battles the many supernatural forces at work in Britain. She also discovers that she possesses a rare, potentially deadly supernatural ability of her own.
In her quest to uncover which member of the Chequy betrayed her and why, Myfanwy encounters a person with four bodies, an aristocratic woman who can enter her dreams, a secret training facility where children are transformed into deadly fighters, and a conspiracy more vast than she ever could have imagined.
Funnily enough, I wouldn’t have picked this book for myself, it was a gift, which I (initially) begrudgingly read. Immediately I was engrossed. Ironically, I had judged a book by its cover and have never been so happy to be wrong.
When I adore a book, it can be difficult to identify all the reasons why. Partly because my reasons are backed by emotion and partly because I sometimes struggle to pin them down – but I’ll try my best.
O’Malley’s writing is sensational. The premise of the story is genius, following along as the protagonist figures out who she is and what happened to her was a captivating experience.
Whilst the story is complex, where readers have to learn new terms, supernatural abilities and characters – O’Malley explains everything in a simple yet concise manner, dropping clues and justifications along the way.
The characters are clearly well thought out, each of them has a unique ability/personality that unfolds as you read. A lot of creativity and planning must go into making these characters and I am really glad it shines through in the writing.
Not that the bare minimum deserves praise, but Myfawny is written in a respectful way. She has realistic complexities, and I thoroughly enjoyed her dry persona and humorous observations.
I do not just recommend but beg you give this a go, I look forward to completing the series… especially since the Royal Gambit (Book four) was released this year.
Click link below for Storygraph overview, which includes general rating, summary (same as above) and other reviews.
‘I am jealous of everything whose beauty does not die. I am jealous of the portrait you have painted of me … Why did you paint it? It will mock me some day – mock me horribly!’
A story of evil, debauchery and scandal, Oscar Wilde’s only novel tells of Dorian Gray, a beautiful yet corrupt man. When he wishes that a perfect portrait of himself would bear the signs of ageing in his place, the picture becomes his hideous secret, as it follows Dorian’s own downward spiral into cruelty and depravity. The Picture of Dorian Gray is a masterpiece of the evil in men’s hearts, and is as controversial and alluring as Wilde himself.
A plot description was surprisingly hard to come by, but as in the overview, The Picture Of Dorian Gray is about a man who becomes obsessed with his appearance and will do anything to stop himself from aging.
What I enjoy about this book is the plot, the characters and Wilde’s expression.
The plot is captivating and well thought out. The best way to describe it is that you are experiencing someone else’s mania – but not in a jarring way that confuses you. Personally, I have yet to read anything like it, which is surprising considering the number of unavoidable repeats on the market nowadays, where the same idea gets re written in ten different ways.
The characters feel appropriate to the time. Now, this is coming from someone who has no idea what they’re talking about, but if asked to show an accurate depiction of nineteenth-century Victorian elites, I would show an excerpt from this book. The characters are eccentric yet predictable — Gray being the exception. He has a raw, unapologetic nature, which leads me to believe he may have been Wilde’s alter ego.
‘Wilde’s expression’ means that I could feel him through his writing. Whilst I do not think this book is ‘LGBTQIA+’ – as there is no explicit homosexuality – Wilde’s writing conveys his preference for men, as there is an intensity within the male friendships that exceeds anything platonic. Then again, knowing Wilde’s sexual orientation may have swayed my judgement.
Wilde’s writing style is generally consistent, though at times it becomes erratic. There is a part of the book that goes on a deranged tangent which I still cannot understand. If you have read the book, you may know what I mean. I also do not care for one of the characters. He is written in a rather pretentious manner, which I found off-putting.
All in all, it’s a decent classic. I banged it out in one day — though I’d avoid that. It’s bleak and gave me a headache.
I would recommend this to lovers of classics (though it has probably already been ticked off the list), those looking to get into classic literature, and horror readers.
Click link below for Storygraph overview, which includes general rating, summary (same as above) and other reviews.
Sinner. Villain. Ruthless. These are wicked names the Prince of Envy welcomes. They remind him what he isn’t: a saint. And when a cryptic note arrives, signaling the beginning of a deadly game, he knows he’ll be called much worse before it ends. Riddles, hexed objects, anonymous players, nothing will stand in his way. With a powerful artifact and his own future at stake, Envy is determined to win, though none of his meticulous plans prepare him for her, the frustrating artist who ignites his sin—and passion—like no other…
Talented. Darling. Liar. The trouble with scoundrels and blackguards is that they haven’t a modicum of honor, a fact Miss Camilla Antonius learns after one desperate mistake allows notorious rake—and satire sheet legend—Lord Phillip Vexley to blackmail her. And now it seems Vexley isn’t the only scoundrel interested in securing her unique talents as a painter. To avoid Vexley’s clutches and a ruinous scandal, Camilla is forced to enter a devil’s bargain with Waverly Green’s newest arrival, enigmatic Lord Ashford ‘Syn’ Synton, little expecting his game will awaken her true nature . . .
Together, Envy and Camilla must embark on a perilous journey through the Shifting Isles—from glittering demon courts to the sultry vampire realm, and encounters with exiled Fae—while trying to avoid the most dangerous trap of all: falling in love.
I read this book earlier in the year but am now reading Kingdom Of The Wicked, so reviewing it makes sense. If you are planning on reading any Maniscalco books, start with Kingdom Of The Wicked, as it is the (first) linked trilogy to Throne Of The Fallen. In other words, this book spoils the trilogy.
Now to the book itself, I loved it. The perfect book to read when you are in a Book Slump. The tension between Envy and Camilla was palpable and exactly what I needed at the time. I also love the Seven Princes of Hell idea, to my knowledge she will be creating a story for each of the Princes of Sin (So far Wrath and Envy have been done). I cannot wait.
The story was heavily character/relationship based, however, unlike other romance-fantasy I have read, it also has a captivating quest that puts the characters in precarious situations – which ensures a page turning read.
The dialogue was a hurdle to overcome as it was corny and uses regency-era language which I am not a fan of. I pushed past this and embraced it – however, if I was in a different reading mindset, it could have seriously stunted the experience.
This definitely has most of the ‘romantasy’ cliches, but who cares. If you are seriously reading a book like this for insight, then you were looking to be disappointed. Not that you cannot learn from romance books, I surely have.
I would recommend this for any ‘romantasy’ lovers or anyone looking to get out of a Book Slump.
Click link below for Storygraph overview, which includes general rating, summary (same as above) and other reviews.
In “Memoirs of a Geisha,” we enter a world where appearances are paramount; where a girl’s virginity is auctioned to the highest bidder; where women are trained to beguile the most powerful men; and where love is scorned as illusion.
This book definitely deserves the reputation it has earned. I always see it in the second-hand shops, so I – unfairly – assumed it was ‘good’ but nothing special. This was one of those books where I knew within the first few pages that I would love it.
The relationship dynamics that Sayuri has with each character feels realistic. Golden is able to subtly display the impact each character left on Sayuri, no matter how small – in regard to the roles they played in her life. His writing style is immersive, and his storytelling allows the mind to wander into the pages of the book.
I love how female-centred this story is. Regardless of any transgressions the women committed, they have strength in their own right and are respected in their role.
It is a common misconception that a Geisha is likened to a prostitute – whilst this is addressed in the book – it is not pushed or stigmatized like it could have been. Although, I do not want to praise an author for doing the bare minimum – as it should be expected that a male, white author would respect a traditional, Japanese (female dominated), profession.
I really did not like the ending of this book. Throughout the story, the readers ‘watch’ as Sayuri becomes wise and independent as a result of years of adversity. Whilst she did pine for the Chairman, it did not feel intense or reciprocated enough to derail her self-made image. Which is why the whole book lost some integrity when Golden gave into the ‘happily-ever-after’ ploy. By doing this, it continues the narrative that, whilst a woman can have an elaborate list of achievements and hardships, a man loving her back makes it all worth it. Sickening.
The worst part of it (to me) is that the Chairman is made out to be some sort of protagonist. He groomed Sayuri until adulthood, watched as she suffered through life and then confesses his ‘strong’ feelings for her, whilst married. He is just as bad as the rest of the men, save for the Baron.
I would recommend anyone give this book a go, especially if you are interested in Japanese history or the Japanese culture.
Click link below for Storygraph overview, which includes general rating, summary (same as above) and other reviews.
In “Memoirs of a Geisha,” we enter a world where appearances are paramount; where a girl’s virginity is auctioned to the highest bidder; where women are trained to beguile the most powerful men; and where love is scorned as illusion.
This book definitely deserves the reputation it has earned. I always see it in the second-hand shops, so I – unfairly – assumed it was ‘good’ but nothing special. This was one of those books where I knew within the first few pages that I would love it.
The relationship dynamics that Sayuri has with each character feels realistic. Golden is able to subtly display the impact that each character left on Sayuri, no matter how small – respective to the roles they played in her life. His writing style is immersive, and his storytelling allows the mind to wander into the pages of the book.
I love how female-centred this story is. Regardless of any transgressions the women commit, they have strength in their own right and are respected in their role.
It is a common misconception that a Geisha is akin to a prostitute – whilst this is addressed in the book – it is not pushed or stigmatized like it could have been. Although, I do not want to praise an author for doing the bare minimum – as it should be expected that a male, white author would respect a traditional, Japanese (female dominated), profession.
I know that some of the behaviours exhibited in the story were accurate to the time, however there are some grey areas I am sceptical of. I am also not a big fan of a certain aspect of the book, but I digress, as I do not want to spoil anything.
I would recommend anyone give this book a go, especially if you are interested in Japanese history or Japanese culture.
Click link below for Storygraph overview, which includes general rating, summary (same as above) and other reviews.
The Book Slump 