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Review: The Girl and the Goddess

 

Title- The Girl and the Goddess

Pages- 176

Author- Nikita Gill

Publisher- Random House UK, Ebury Publishing

Genre- Poetry, Mythology, Feminism, Fiction

Rating- 5/5

ISBN- 9781529104653

Source -NetGalley

Review no. -64

Synopsis-

Bestselling poet, writer, and instagram sensation Nikita Gill returns with an innovative novel in verse, exploring Hindu mythology and legend.

Let her be a little less human, a little more divine 

Give her heart armor so it doesn't break as easily as mine

Meet Paro. A girl with a strong will, a full heart, and much to learn. Born in a family reeling from the ruptures of Partition in India, we follow her as she crosses the precarious lines between childhood, teenage discovery, and realizing her adult self. In the process, Paro must confront fear, desire and the darkest parts of herself in the search for meaning and, ultimately, empowerment.

Nikita Gill's vivid poetry and beautiful illustrations have captured hearts and imaginations--but in The Girl and the Goddess, she offers us her most personal and deeply felt writing to an intimate coming-of-age story told in linked poems that offers a look into the Hindu mythology and rich cultural influences that helped her become the woman she is today.

Review -

The Girl and the Goddess by Nikitha Gill is a beautiful and poignant collection of poetry that explores the journey of healing, self-discovery, and empowerment. The book is divided into three - childhood, teenage and womanhood, each representing a different stage in the narrator's life.

Gill's writing is stunningly lyrical and evocative, with vivid imagery that brings the reader deep into the narrator's world. The themes of femininity, identity, and resilience are woven throughout the collection, with each poem adding to the larger narrative of the narrator's growth and transformation. 

One of the standout features of The Girl and the Goddess is the way that Gill seamlessly blends elements of mythology and folklore into the contemporary setting. This lends a sense of timelessness and universality to the poems, making them feel both ancient and modern at the same time. I personally feel very connected to the poems and it was very relatable- be it the way Indian households are described or the way the society or culture is brought to the pages. I am usually skeptical about free verse poems but I ended up loving this book because the verses were packed with power and meaning.

Overall, The Girl and the Goddess is a powerful and moving collection that will resonate with readers on a deep emotional level. Gill's writing is both understandable and profound, making this book a must-read for anyone who lovess poetry or is looking for a transformative and inspiring read.

I thank NetGalley and Random House UK, Ebury Publishing for giving me this wonderful opportunity. All opnions are my own.

Review: What Stars Are Made Of

 

Title- What Stars Are Made Of

Pages- 256

Author- Sarah Allen

Publisher- Penguin Random House UK, Puffin

Genre- Middle-Grade, Contemporary, Young Adult

Rating- 4.5/5

ISBN- 9780241427965

Source -NetGalley

Review no. -63

Synopsis-

Twelve-year-old Libby Monroe is great at science, being optimistic, and talking to her famous, accomplished friends (okay, maybe that last one is only in her head). She’s not great at playing piano, sitting still, or figuring out how to say the right thing at the right time in real life. Libby was born with Turner Syndrome, and that makes some things hard. But she has lots of people who love her, and that makes her pretty lucky.

When her big sister Nonny tells her she’s pregnant, Libby is thrilled—but worried. Nonny and her husband are in a financial black hole, and Libby knows that babies aren’t always born healthy. So she strikes a deal with the universe: She’ll enter a contest with a project about Cecelia Payne, the first person to discover what stars are made of. If she wins the grand prize and gives all that money to Nonny’s family, then the baby will be perfect. Does she have what it takes to care for the sister that has always cared for her? And what will it take for the universe to notice?

Review -

What Stars Are Made Of by Sarah Allen is a heartwarming and poignant middle-grade novel that tackles themes of family, identity, and the beauty of being different. Through the eyes of the endearing main character, twelve-year-old Libby Monroe, Allen crafts a story that is both relatable and empowering.

Libby, a young girl with Turner syndrome, faces numerous challenges, including health issues and the struggle to fit in with her peers. She finds solace in science, particularly astronomy, where she feels a sense of wonder and possibility. Allen skillfully portrays Libby's unique perspective, allowing readers to empathize with her struggles and triumphs.

The novel is beautifully written, with Allen's prose capturing the essence of a young girl's curiosity and resilience. Libby's voice is authentic and charming, making it easy for readers to connect with her on an emotional level. As Libby embarks on a journey of self-discovery, her passion for science and her determination to reach for the stars inspire readers to embrace their own dreams and embrace their differences.

The exploration of family dynamics is another strong aspect of the book. Libby's relationships with her quirky and supportive family members are heartwarming and filled with moments of humor and love. Allen delicately weaves together themes of acceptance, forgiveness, and the importance of being true to oneself.

Furthermore, the author's incorporation of scientific knowledge and astronomy adds an educational element to the story, making it not only an engaging read but also an opportunity for young readers to learn and appreciate the wonders of the universe.

In conclusion, What Stars Are Made Of is a touching and empowering novel that celebrates the beauty of individuality and the power of pursuing one's passions. Sarah Allen's tender storytelling, combined with a relatable and strong-willed protagonist, makes this book a must-read for young readers and adults alike. It teaches valuable lessons about embracing differences, fostering understanding, and finding the courage to shine brightly, just like the stars in the night sky.

I thank NetGalley and Random House UK, Puffin Publishing for giving me this wonderful opportunity. All opnions are my own.

Review: The Castle School (for troubled girls)

Title- The Castle School (for troubled girls)

Pages- 400

Author- Alyssa Sheinmel

Publisher- Sourcebooks Fire

Genre- Young Adult, Contemporary, Mental Health

Rating- 4/5

ISBN- 9781728220987

Source -NetGalley

Review no. -62

Synopsis-

When Moira Dreyfuss's parents announce that they're sending her to boarding school, Moira isn't fooled. She knows her parents are punishing her; she's been too much trouble since her best friend Nathan died—and for a while before that. At the Castle School, isolated from the rest of the world, Moira will be expected to pour her heart out to the strange headmaster, Dr. Prince. But she isn't interested in getting over Nathan's death, or befriending her fellow students.

On her first night there, Moira hears distant music. On her second, she discovers the lock on her window is broken. On her third, she and her roommate venture outside...and learn that they're not so isolated after all. There's another, very different, Castle School nearby—this one filled with boys whose parents sent them away, too.

Moira knows something isn't right about the Castle School—about either of them. But uncovering the truth behind the schools' secrets may force Moira to confront why she was sent away in the first place.

Review -

"The Castle School (For Troubled Girls)" by Alyssa Sheinmel is a heart-wrenching novel that beautifully captures the pain and struggles of teenage girls dealing with various emotional and psychological issues. Set in a therapeutic boarding school, the story follows the journey of sixteen-year-old Moira, who struggles with depression and self-harm after the death of her best friend.

The author's writing style is gripping and evocative, and she expertly captures the complex emotions of the characters, making the story feel incredibly real and relatable. The story addresses themes of mental health, grief, trauma, and the importance of support and friendship, highlighting the healing power of empathy and kindness.

The characters are well-developed and authentic, and their individual struggles and experiences are sensitively portrayed. The friendships and relationships that develop between the characters are heartwarming, and the reader can't help but root for their success and happiness. Personally, felt very relatable to me since I had lost my best friend in eighth grade and went through something similar.

However, the only criticism about this novel is that there is not much of a mystery element to the story. It is labelled as a mystery thriller but I don't think that is appropriate since I was able to guess what was coming up for a really long time.

Overall, "The Castle School (For Troubled Girls)" is a poignant and thought-provoking read that sheds light on the challenges faced by young girls dealing with mental health issues. Alyssa Sheinmel has delivered a powerful and moving story that will resonate with readers of all ages. It's a must-read for anyone looking to gain a better understanding of the struggles that teenagers face, and the importance of providing them with the support they need to heal and thrive.

I thank NetGalley and Sourcebooks Fire for giving me this wonderful opportunity. All opnions are my own.

Review: A Spindle Splintered (Fractured Fables #1)

Title- A Spindle Splintered

Author- Alix E Harrow

Series- Fractured Fables

Pages- 128

Genre- Young Adult, Fantasy, Retelling, LGBT

Rating- 3.5/5

Publisher- Tor Teen 

ISBN 13- 9781250765352

Review No.- 61

Synopsis-

It's Zinnia Gray's twenty-first birthday, which is extra-special because it's the last birthday she'll ever have. When she was young, an industrial accident left Zinnia with a rare condition. Not much is known about her illness, just that no one has lived past twenty-one.

Her best friend Charm is intent on making Zinnia's last birthday special with a full sleeping beauty experience, complete with a tower and a spinning wheel. But when Zinnia pricks her finger, something strange and unexpected happens, and she finds herself falling through worlds, with another sleeping beauty, just as desperate to escape her fate.

Review-

A Spindle Splintered by Alix E. Harrow is a retelling of the classic fairy tale of Sleeping Beauty with a feminist twist. The novel follows Zinnia, a young woman who is cursed to prick her finger on a spindle and fall into a deep sleep. However, instead of waiting for a prince to come and rescue her, Zinnia decides to take matters into her own hands and sets out to break the curse herself.

One of the strengths of the book is its portrayal of strong and complex female characters. Zinnia is a determined and resourceful protagonist who defies gender norms and refuses to be a passive victim. The other female characters in the book are equally well-developed and add depth to the story.

The writing style is also a highlight of the book. Harrow's prose is lyrical and vivid, creating a rich and immersive world that is both magical and gritty. The book is also peppered with subtle nods to the original fairy tale, which will delight fans of the genre.

However, the book does have some weaknesses. The plot can be slow-moving at times, and some of the twists and turns feel predictable. The romance subplot also feels somewhat underdeveloped and rushed.

Overall, A Spindle Splintered is a well-written and engaging retelling of a classic fairy tale that puts female agency and empowerment at the forefront. While it may not be perfect, it is definitely worth a read for fans of the genre.

Review: The King Will Kill You (The Kingdoms of Sand & Sky #3)

Title- The King Will Kill You

Author- Sarah Henning

Series- The Kingdoms of Sand & Sky

Preceded by- The Queen Will Betray You , The Princess Will Save You

Pages- 368

Genre- Young Adult, High Fantasy, Romance

Rating- 4.5/5

Publisher- Tor Teen 

ISBN 13- 9781250841032 

Review No.- 60

Synopsis-

The Princess Bride meets Game of Thrones in this commercial YA trilogy from acclaimed fantasy author Sarah Henning.

Princess Amarande is finally on the verge of having everything she wants. To be with her true love Luca, no one nor law standing in the way. To rule Ardenia as queen outright, no marriage necessary, as Luca does the same with the reformed Torrence. To rebuild the continent of The Sand and Sky into a place not defined by archaic, patriarchal laws, but by the will of its people.

However, threats await in the shadows of Amarande’s hoped-for happily ever after. One expected and deadly to both her love and every one of her objectives. The other, unexpected, and arising with a vicious aim: revenge at any cost. Against the princess who killed him, the boy whose love made her do it, and the continent cruel enough to deserve his rage.

The King Will Kill You is the epic, pulse-pounding conclusion to Sarah Henning’s Kingdoms of Sand and Sky trilogy.

Review-

"The King Will Kill You" by Sarah Henning, the third book of the Kingdom of Sand and Sky series, is a thrilling conclusion to the epic fantasy saga. The story picks up where the previous book left off, with Amarande and Luca facing off against the ruthless King Sendoa and his armies.

The writing style is engaging and immersive, with vivid descriptions of the action and well-crafted dialogue that brings the characters to life. The plot is fast-paced and full of surprises, with numerous twists and turns that keep the reader on the edge of their seat.

The character development is another strong point of the book, with Amarande and Luca continuing to evolve and grow as they face ever-increasing challenges. The supporting cast of characters is also well-developed, with each playing a significant role in the story.

One criticism of the book is that the conclusion feels rushed and somewhat unsatisfying. The climactic battle is over too quickly, and some loose ends are left untied. Additionally, some readers may find the ending bittersweet or even disappointing.

Overall, "The King Will Kill You" is a satisfying conclusion to the Kingdom of Sand and Sky series. With its engaging characters, fast-paced plot, and immersive world-building, it is a must-read for fans of epic fantasy. While it may not be perfect, it is still a highly enjoyable and entertaining read.

I thank Netgalley and Tor Teen for providing me with an advanced reader's copy. 

Review: Ace of Spades

Title- Ace of Spades

Author- Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé

Pages- 470

Genre- Young Adult, Mystery, Thriller, LGBT, Contemporary

Rating- 5/5

ISBN 13- 9781474967532

Review No.- 59

Synopsis- 

An incendiary and utterly compelling thriller with a shocking twist that delves deep into the heart of institutionalized racism, from an exceptional new YA voice.


Welcome to Niveus Private Academy, where money paves the hallways, and the students are never less than perfect. Until now. Because anonymous texter, Aces, is bringing two students' dark secrets to light.

Talented musician Devon buries himself in rehearsals, but he can't escape the spotlight when his private photos go public. Head girl Chiamaka isn't afraid to get what she wants, but soon everyone will know the price she has paid for power.

Someone is out to get them both. Someone who holds all the aces. And they're planning much more than a high-school game...

Review-

Ace of Spades by Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé is a gripping and thought-provoking young adult thriller that explores issues of race, class, and power in a prestigious private school. The story follows two main characters, Devon and Chiamaka, as they navigate their way through a series of unsettling events that threaten to upend their lives and expose the dark secrets of the school they attend.

The writing style is engaging and fast-paced, with short chapters and shifting perspectives that keep the reader on their toes. The characters are well-developed and complex, with Devon and Chiamaka both struggling to balance their personal lives with the pressures and expectations of their school environment.

One of the strengths of this book is the way it explores the nuances of racism and privilege. The story highlights how systemic inequalities can be perpetuated even in seemingly liberal and progressive spaces, and how people can be complicit in their own oppression. The plot also touches on issues of mental health and LGBTQ+ identity, adding further depth and complexity to the story.

The suspenseful plot and unexpected twists make for a thrilling reading experience, with the tension building steadily as the mystery deepens. The ending is both satisfying and thought-provoking, leaving the reader with much to reflect on long after finishing the book.

Overall, Ace of Spades is an important and timely novel that will resonate with readers of all ages. With its strong characters, gripping plot, and powerful social commentary, it is a must-read for fans of young adult fiction and anyone interested in exploring the complexities of race and privilege in modern society.

Review: Once Upon A Broken Heart

Title- Once Upon A Broken Heart

Author- Stephanie Garber

Pages- 384

Genre- High Fantasy, Romance, Young Adult, Magic

Rating- 5/5

ISBN 13- 9781529380903

Review No.- 58

Synopsis-

From Stephanie Garber, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Caraval, Once Upon a Broken Heart is the first book in a new series about love, curses, and the lengths that people will go to for happily ever after.

Evangeline Fox was raised in her beloved father’s curiosity shop, where she grew up on legends about immortals, like the tragic Prince of Hearts. She knows his powers are mythic, his kiss is worth dying for, and that bargains with him rarely end well.

But when Evangeline learns that the love of her life is about to marry another, she becomes desperate enough to offer the Prince of Hearts whatever he wants in exchange for his help to stop the wedding. The prince only asks for three kisses. But after Evangeline’s first promised kiss, she learns that the Prince of Hearts wants far more from her than she’s pledged. And he has plans for Evangeline that will either end in the greatest happily ever after, or the most exquisite tragedy…

Review- 

"Once Upon a Broken Heart" by Stephanie Garber is a magical and enchanting YA fantasy novel that explores the power of love, heartbreak, and the importance of self-discovery. The story follows Evangeline Fox, a girl who has had her heart broken and turned to a mysterious, otherworldly figure named the Prince of Hearts to mend it. However, as she navigates through the magical and dangerous world of the Prince, she realizes that not everything is as it seems.

Garber's writing is beautiful and lyrical, with vivid descriptions that transport the reader to a world full of magic and wonder. The pacing of the story is well-balanced, with enough action, romance, and character development to keep the reader engaged throughout the novel.

One of the strongest aspects of the book is the characters. Evangeline is a relatable and sympathetic protagonist, whose journey of self-discovery and growth is both empowering and inspiring. The Prince of Hearts, although initially mysterious and alluring, is a complex character whose motivations and intentions are slowly revealed as the story unfolds. The supporting characters, including the charming and enigmatic Julian and the fierce and loyal Belle, add depth and nuance to the story.

The romance in the novel is also well-handled. Garber avoids the usual tropes and cliches of YA romance and instead focuses on the development of a deep and meaningful connection between Evangeline and the Prince of Hearts. The exploration of the different types of love, including platonic and familial love, adds an extra layer of depth to the story.

The world-building in the novel is also impressive. Garber creates a rich and intricate world full of magic, monsters, and mystery, that is both fascinating and immersive. The use of fairy tale elements, such as the Prince of Hearts and the magical creatures that inhabit the world, adds an extra layer of whimsy and enchantment to the story.

Overall, "Once Upon a Broken Heart" is a beautifully written and captivating novel that will appeal to fans of YA fantasy, romance, and fairy tales. Garber's unique and imaginative storytelling, combined with her well-developed characters and world-building, makes for a truly magical reading experience

I thank Netgalley and Hodder & Stoughton for providing me with an advanced reader's copy. All opinions are my own.

Review: Daughters of Sparta

Title- Daughters of Sparta

Author- Claire Heywood

Pages- 370

Genre- Mythology, Historical Fiction

Rating- 4/5

ISBN 13- 9781529349931

Review No.- 57

Synopsis-

For millennia, two women have been blamed for the fall of a mighty civilisation - but now it's time to hear their side of the story...

As princesses of Sparta, Helen and Klytemnestra have known nothing but luxury and plenty. With their high birth and unrivalled beauty, they are the envy of all of Greece.

Such privilege comes at a high price, though, and their destinies are not theirs to command. While still only girls they are separated and married off to legendary foreign kings Agamemnon and Menelaos, never to meet again. Their duty is now to give birth to the heirs society demands and be the meek, submissive queens their men expect.

But when the weight of their husbands' neglect, cruelty and ambition becomes too heavy to bear, they must push against the constraints of their sex to carve new lives for themselves - and in doing so make waves that will ripple throughout the next three thousand years.

Perfect for readers of Circe and Ariadne, Daughters of Sparta is a vivid and illuminating retelling of the Siege of Troy that tells the story of mythology's most vilified women from their own mouths at long last.

Review- 

"Daughters of Sparta" by Claire Heywood is a captivating and richly detailed historical fiction novel that explores the lives of two legendary women of ancient Greece: Helen of Troy and her sister, Klytemnestra. Heywood's writing style is evocative and immersive, transporting the reader to the world of Ancient Greece, with all its grandeur, beauty, and brutality. 

The story follows the sisters from childhood to adulthood, as they navigate their complex relationships with each other, their families, and the men who shape their lives. Heywood does an excellent job of bringing the two sisters to life, imbuing them with unique personalities, desires, and struggles. Helen is portrayed fiercely independent and intelligent woman, who longs for adventure and freedom. Klytemnestra, on the other hand, is more pragmatic and stoic, but equally determined to chart her own path in life. 

The novel's exploration of the sisters' relationship is one of its strongest aspects. Heywood delved into the complexities of their bond, highlighting the love, jealousy, rivalry, and betrayal that exists between them. The depiction of their sisterhood is realistic and nuanced, with both sisters portrayed as flawed and multidimensional characters.

Heywood's attention to historical detail is also impressive. The novel is steeped in ancient Greek mythology, culture, and politics, with the events and characters of the Trojan War serving as a backdrop to the sisters' story. The depictions of the settings, clothing, and customs of ancient Greece are vivid and well-researched, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the story.

The pacing of the novel is well-balanced, with enough action, drama, and character development to keep the reader engaged throughout the story. The alternating perspectives between Helen and Klytemnestra also add an extra layer of depth to the narrative, allowing the reader to see events from both sisters' perspectives.

Overall, "Daughters of Sparta" is a beautifully written and compelling historical fiction novel that will appeal to fans of Greek mythology and ancient history. Heywood's immersive writing style, well-developed characters, and attention to historical detail make for a captivating reading experience.

I thank Netgalley and Hodder & Stoughton for providing me with an advanced reader's copy. All opinions are my own.

Review: The City We Became

 

Title- The City We Became

Author- N. K. Jemisin

Pages- 437

Genre- Urban Fantasy, Science Fiction, Contemporary

Rating- 3/5

ISBN 13- 9780356512679 

Review No.- 56

Synopsis- 

Five New Yorkers must come together in order to defend their city.

Every city has a soul. Some are as ancient as myths, and others are as new and destructive as children. New York City? She's got five.

But every city also has a dark side. A roiling, ancient evil stirs beneath the earth, threatening to destroy the city and her five protectors unless they can come together and stop it once and for all.

Review-

'The City We Became' is one of the most hyped and talked about sci-fi/fantasy book of 2020. It is the first installment of Great Cities series. The synopsis seemed pretty interesting, the cover design is cool too and I immediately clicked the request button on NetGalley. I really wanted to loved this book. It seriously hurts when I am not able to love some hyped book (there may be some legit reason for being hyped, right?). Did I enjoy reading it?? Why did I rate it 3/5??? Well...

The City We Became is set it New York. Sorry! It's a story about New York. Not just New York as a city, but New York as a person. And five other people who are the five boroughs of New York. New York is under attack by an evil, other-worldly force/spirit/creature/monster (still not sure what it was) referred to as 'the enemy'. Will the new born city and its five boroughs be able to hold the line against it?

The concept of people who truly represent the city and its borough being born as an avatar of the city itself on reaching maturity is a wonderful, highly potential concept. The writing is quite humorous at some point. The diverse characters from different kinds of backgrounds, BIPOC and LGBTQA (hell yes!!!). I was surprised and immensely happy to see an Indian girl, that too a Tamil girl represented in this book (high-five). Her family was totally relatable (seriously, her aunt said a proverb that MY grandma used the other day). In short, great research by the author! The other characters were pretty likeable too. The map helped a lot since I had no idea about New York's topography.

Now comes the bitter parts. The world building was very complex and I did not understand anything more than the basic concept. My brain was just too tiny to absorb all that info dump, I guess. The writing was confusing and I just didn't know wth-is-going-on at some places. It was really tedious and I just wanted to get over with the book (a week). The language had slangs that I had no idea of (my bad). And the only white mc is shown in bad light too (is it racist to portray every white person to be racist? I guess so).  

In short, I am not a big fan of The City We Became. But I do recommend you to give it a try and decide for yourself. I have met lots of people who have loved it and as I previously said, I feel that hyped books are hyped for a reason. 

I thank Netgalley and Little Brown Book Group UK for providing me with an advanced reader's copy. All opinions are my own.

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