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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.