Book Review | NEWS OF OUR LOVED ONES by Abigail DeWitt

October 2, 2018
HarperCollins

Set in France and America, News of Our Loved Ones is a haunting and intimate examination of love and loss, beauty and the cost of survival, witnessed through two generations of one French family, whose lives are all touched by the tragic events surrounding the D-Day bombings in Normandy.

What if your family’s fate could be traced back to one indelible summer?

The book club agreed to read historical fiction for the month of September. I decided to read just a couple of books, but, then, this copy came to me fortuitously. I received an email from the publisher, advising me to follow a link. I asked myself, “Do I really need to read another war story, after getting off from the American Civil War?”

I’m glad I did. I don’t regret following that link.

This is a World War II story, revealing the lives of the Delasalle family and those who have crossed their paths before and after the D-Day Landing at the port city of Caen, in France’s Normandy region. It showed many ways war takes its toll and how death can leave irreversible effects, tearing families apart. Remaining family members revisit memories; retell events, desperately trying to chase the ripples of their tragedy down the next generations. The guilt of being alive, while many have perished, followed them. They acutely cling to every life tangible to keep them afloat.

NEWS OF OUR LOVED ONES is handsomely imagined, with engaging characters and stirring events. Ms. DeWitt managed to bring together a generational family story from individual narratives, creating a mosaic of love, death, estrangement, resilience, and remembrance.

This striking book is perfect for historical fiction lovers.

Book Details:

Title: News Of Our Loved Ones

Author: Abigail DeWitt

Publication: October 2, 2018, HarperCollins

Genre: Historical Fiction

Rating:★★★★

*Thank you HarperCollins for this Flash Giveaway.

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Book Review | THE CONFESSIONS OF FRANNIE LANGTON by Sara Collins

April 4, 2019
HarperCollins

They say I must be put to death for what happened to Madame,
and they want me to confess. 
But how can I confess what I don’t believe I’ve done?

Sara Collins presented a very strong narrative. Her approach to scientific racism is intriguing. And her command for intricate language is captivating. Every other paragraph is amazingly quotable.

It’s 1826, and Frannie Langton stands in a trial for the murder of her master and his wife. The enigma lies in the fact that Frannie cannot remember if she did murder them or not. As her lawyer prepares for her defense, she was asked to write her story. But Frannie’s story did not begin in London; it began in Jamaica, where horror is next to existing.

THE CONFESSIONS OF FRANNIE LANGTON is dark and disconcerting. Frannie wants so much out of life, but she is always tethered against her will. The oddity struck me, though, that for a self-proclaimed learned woman, Frannie was not level-headed. Maybe, that is not actually sine qua non, especially for someone overwhelmed by both love and detriment. It felt like her efforts for recognition was justifiable but goalless. These certainly stirred emotions and opinions.

This book is a unique take and exploration of black slavery and homosexuality. It’s a well-researched book and I like the unraveling details that were spread out. Unfortunately, the narrative dragged itself towards the ending. There are too many layers in the story vying for attention. It was that beautiful language and the mystery behind the crime that mostly kept me reading. I look forward to Ms. Collins's future works.

Book details:
Title: The Confessions of Frannie Langton
Author: Sara Collins
Publication: April 4, 2019, HarperCollins
Genre: Historical Fiction
Rating: ★★★1/2


*Thank you HarperCollins and Edelweiss for the DRC in exchange for this unbiased review.

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Book Review | THE THEORY OF (NOT QUITE) EVERYTHING by Kara Gnodde

The Theory of (Not Quite) Everything
by Kara Gnodde
Publication: March 7, 2023
Publisher: HARPER
Genre: General Fiction
Rating: ★★★★

With the offbeat charm of The Rosie Project and generous warmth of The One Hundred Years of Lenni and Margot, a wry, moving debut novel about a pair of unforgettable siblings and a love triangle of sorts—one with math as its beating heart. One of Cosmopolitan's Best Books of 2023 Meet Art and Mimi Brotherton. Devoted siblings and housemates, they’re bound together by the tragic death of their parents. Mathematical genius Art relies on logic, while Mimi prefers to follow her heart. When Mimi decides she needs more from life than dutifully tending to her brilliant brother, she asks for his help to find love. Art agrees, but on one that she find her soulmate using a strict mathematical principle. Things seem promising, until Mimi meets a romantic, spontaneous stargazer who’s also a mathematician. Despite Mimi’s obvious affection for the quirky Frank, Art is wary of him from their very first encounter. As Art's mistrust of Frank grows, so do Mimi's feelings, and the siblings' relationship is brought to a breaking point. Something about Frank doesn't quite add up, and only Art can see it . . . The Theory of (Not Quite) Everything is a tender, intelligent and uplifting novel about brothers and sisters, true love in all its forms, and how the answers to life’s biggest questions follow a logic of their own.

...

I would like to apologize to Ms. Gnodde and HarperCollins for the delay in writing this review. I had a hard time getting into this book, but once I did, I was moved by its emotional depth. I didn't expect it.

The book tells the story of Mimi and Art Brotherton, adult siblings who live together. Art is a neurodivergent mathematical genius who is working on solving the greatest mathematical enigma and saving the world. Mimi is his devoted sister who has sacrificed her own life to take care of him after their parents' death. Art's eccentricities make every day a challenge for Mimi, especially when it comes to finding love. And although Art has a mathematical solution for that too, Mimi manages to meet Frank on her own. Mimi falls head over heels for Frank, but, Frank doesn't quite fit Art's equation. Facts and Truth are always big variables for Art and Mimi.

THE THEORY OF (NOT QUITE) EVERYTHING is a novel that explores the complex relationship between siblings, the nature of love and grief in many forms, but what struck me the most was the trauma of abandonment and the monopoly of truth and how people cope with them. Having lost both of my parents, especially my mom whom I lost just recently, I felt for Mimi and Art, and their struggles.

Despite the heavy themes, it’s a story that will make you laugh, cry and think. The words are exquisite and beautiful. The characters are realistic and relatable, and the plot is full of twists and surprises. This book made me want to send warm hugs to both my parents in heaven and to my siblings far away.

Readers need not be big fans of math to enjoy this read. If you're looking for a book that is quirky, heartwarming and intelligent, you should give this one a try.

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About the Author:

Photo credit to the source.

Kara Gnodde was born in Johannesburg and raised on a diet of Dr. Seuss and no TV. After graduating from the University of Cape Town, she joined Saatchi & Saatchi in London as a strategic planner -- work that required head and heart, her favorite kind. She lived in Japan, Hong Kong and Singapore before settling back in the UK with her husband and three children. A discussion on the radio about a math problem that could change the world, or perhaps just help keep her desk tidy, gave her a place to start The Theory of (Not Quite) Everything, her debut novel. - HarperCollins.ca

*Printed ARC provided by HarperCollins Canada in exchange for this unbiased review.

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Book Review | LET THEM STARE by Jonathan Van Ness, Julie Murphy

LET THEM STARE

BY JONATHAN VAN NESS, JULIE MURPHY
PUBLICATION: MAY 20, 2025 | STORYTIDE
GENRE: YA FICTION | RATING: ★★★★★

"Vibrant, powerful, and unapologetically fabulous."

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From Emmy Award winner Jonathan Van Ness of Queer Eye and #1 New York Times bestselling author Julie Murphy comes a bighearted story about friendship, love—and discovering the secrets and beauty of your own hometown.

Sully is ready to get out of Hearst, Pennsylvania. With a fashion internship secured, the gender-nonconforming eighteen-year-old is trading in their stifling small town for the big city. Sully even sells their beloved car, to Bread—er, Brad—the most boring (and maybe only other) gay kid in town.

When Sully's internship goes up in smoke, they're trapped in Hearst with no cash—and no car. Desperate, they go to the thrift store, their personal sanctuary. There, they discover a vintage bag—like "put this baby in an airtight case at the MET" vintage. If Sully can authenticate it, the resale value would be enough for a new life in the city.

But when they begin to investigate, Sully finds themself haunted. Literally. With the ghost of Rufus, a drag performer from the fifties with no memory of how he died standing—no, floating—in their bedroom, Sully's summer has a new purpose: 1) help this ghostly honey unlock his past and move on and 2) make bank—after all, the Real Real doesn't take poltergeist purses.

With Rufus in tow, and Brad—who's looking pretty scrumptious these days—playing chauffeur, Sully delves into the history of the town they're so desperate to escape. Only to discover that there might be more to Hearst than they ever knew. -HarperCollins

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"MARY"

I absolutely loved LET THEM STARE! The collaboration between Jonathan Van Ness and Julie Murphy was such an unexpected delight, and I dove in without hesitation—best decision ever.

From the moment I met Sully, I was hooked. Their journey of self-discovery was inspiring, and Rufus added so much heart and wisdom to the story. Let Them Stare is light, fun, and brimming with the kind of YA romance that brings joy when the world needs it most.

Beyond its captivating story and lovable characters, the book delivers a crucial lesson for the world. Sully’s journey reminds us of the importance of self-acceptance, of boldly taking up space, and of refusing to conform to society’s limiting expectations. In an era where authenticity is often challenged, this book is a vibrant declaration that every person deserves to embrace their true self, unapologetically.

The most beautiful aspect of LET THEM STARE: Sully’s parents and friends didn’t try to shape them into someone else—they provided space, support, and encouragement for Sully to grow into who they truly are. That kind of love—the kind that doesn’t demand conformity but instead nurtures individuality—is so powerful.

This book is empowering in countless ways, and its message resonates deeply with the LGBTQ+ community. A salute to Rufus and everyone who paved the way for freedom and validation. I wholeheartedly support everything it stands for. If a book can make me sacrifice sleep and lunch breaks just to keep turning pages, you know it’s a winner!

Highly recommend—this one’s an absolute hit!

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About the Author:

Jonathan Van Ness is an Emmy-winning television personality, 3x New York Times bestselling author, podcaster, comedian, celebrity hairstylist, and founder of JVN Hair. He stars on Netflix’s Emmy Award–winning reboot series Queer Eye, where he shines as the hair guru and self-care advocate; and he hosts the popular podcast Getting Curious with Jonathan Van Ness.

Julie Murphy splits her time between North Texas and Kansas with her husband, who loves her, and her cats, who tolerate her. When Julie isn’t writing, she can be found watching movies so bad they're good, hunting for the perfect slice of cheese pizza, or planning her next great travel adventure. She is the author of the middle grade novels Dear Sweet Pea and Camp Sylvania as well as the young adult novels Ramona Blue, Side Effects May Vary, the Faith series, Pumpkin, Puddin’, and Dumplin’ (now a Netflix original film).
Photos from HarperCollins. No infringement intended.

*HarperCollins CA provided the ARC
in exchange for this unbiased review.
This is a free #ad.

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Book Review | IT'S NOT ME, IT'S YOU by Alex Light

IT'S NOT ME, IT'S YOU

BY ALEX LIGHT | PUBLICATION: NOVEMBER 5, 2024
HARPERCOLLINS | GENRE: YA ROMANCE
RATING: ★★★✬

"Great banter, funny, profound scenes."

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Jackie Myers is a fraud. Or she might be a genius—the jury’s still out.

The thing is, she secretly runs pleasebreakmyheart, a gone-viral account aimed at breaking hearts and ending relationships…. And she just used it to break up her insufferable eternal nemesis's picture-perfect relationship.

Wilson is the buttoned-up, type A assistant manager of her nightmares—but it turns out he’s also, apparently, a really great boyfriend.

So with her conscience (and paycheck) on the line, Jackie decides there’s only one thing to do: She’s going to help Wilson win his ex-girlfriend back. Which should be easy, considering Jackie hates him…right?

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IT'S NOT ME, IT'S YOU by Alex Light is a charming read, and to be honest, I didn’t expect to enjoy it as much as I did. Jackie Myers, the main character, is a fascinating and lovable personality. This lady has two jobs, one that hides behind a mask and the other hides behind "pleasebreakmyheart," a viral social media account that specializes in ending relationships. I must admit, this double life adds a layer of charm and amusement, making Jackie distinct, yet relevant. Alex Light does an outstanding job navigating through the moral convolutions of Jackie's actions, giving the story an absorbing narrative.

Wilson, the assistant manager, perfectly embodies the nemesis-to-lovers trope, with his organized and meticulous nature contrasting sharply with everything Jackie despises. When Jackie's actions carelessly cause the breakup between Wilson and his ideal girlfriend, she makes it her mission to help him win her back. This decision sets off a cascade of challenges and enlightening moments, adding depth and complexity to the story.

Light's talent for writing banter is evident throughout the book, making it both light and fun. She has a remarkable ability to tackle the adolescent experience from a relatable and realistic angle. Her characters are vivid, and the dialogue is lively, which makes the book a real page-turner. The pacing is spot-on, ensuring that there's never a dull moment. Each character has a unique voice, and the story is filled with funny moments and profound scenes.

Overall, IT'S NOT ME, IT'S YOU is a recommended read for anyone who enjoys a clever, modern romance. Alex Light has a way of picking you up with her engaging writing style and leaving you with a smile on your face.

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About the Author:

Grew up reading too many books and listening to too many Taylor Swift songs. Now she writes books that make people laugh (and sometimes cry).

Alex began writing as a teen. She shared dozens of love stories online, which have now been read over 150 million times. Shockingly, she graduated with a BA in English literature, giving her the perfect excuse to read even more books when she wasn’t busy writing her own.

Alex lives in Toronto, Canada, with her three furry friends. She’s an avid donut eater, sometimes baker, and lover of the frozen winter months.

*Thanks to HarperCollins for the eARC
in exchange for this unbiased review.

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Book Review | WITCHES STEEPED IN GOLD by Ciannon Smart

WITCHES STEEPED IN GOLD
Ciannon Smart
Publication: April 20, 2021
Publisher: HarperCollins CA,
Genre: Fantasy
Rating: ★★★★★

Divided by their order. United by their vengeance.

Iraya has spent her life in a cell, but every day brings her closer to freedom - and vengeance.

Jazmyne is the Queen’s daughter, but unlike her sister before her, she has no intention of dying to strengthen her mother’s power.

Sworn enemies, these two witches enter a precarious alliance to take down a mutual threat. But power is intoxicating, revenge is a bloody pursuit, and nothing is certain - except the lengths they will go to win this game.

Drenched in politics, social injustices, and ancestral magic, WITCHES STEEPED IN GOLD is a broad and complex narrative. This Jamaican-inspired fantasy is told in turns between two main characters. Jazmyne Cariot is an Alumbrar witch and successor to Doyenne Judair Cariot of the island Aiyca. Driven by her desire to bring back justice to her people, Jazmyne is one of the key minds leading a rebellion to overthrow her mother. Iraya Adair is an Obeah witch, rightful heir to the Aiycan throne, fueled by her newly awakened naevus and desire to avenge her family. Reluctantly, these two witches dared the Shook Bargain to eradicate their shared enemy.

Ciannon Smart created a world where magical power is a birthright, while deception and betrayal are must-learn skills. The large volume of details slowed the pace down, allowing the reader to absorb the intents and atmosphere of the storytelling. The distortion of good and evil towards the end of the narrative stretches the notion that good intentions can very well be poison. And while the plot is focused on the characters’ development and magical system, both fully realized and vivid, Smart’s intention to enlighten readers on Jamaican culture and feminism is not lost.

WITCHES STEEPED IN GOLD is a promising opening for an intense fantasy series. This is recommended for readers who enjoy rich world-building and unpredictable characters.

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About the Author:

Of Jamaican heritage, Ciannon Smart grew up in a small town in the south-east of England. As the only daughter in a house full of boisterous sons, she developed a voracious appetite for reading from an early age, preferring anarchy in stories rather than real life. In YA she loves her heroines exactly as she loves her villains: wilful, wily, and unpredictable. When not writing, Ciannon can be found reading, painting, or taking the long way home to listen to a good song more than once.

*Thanks to HarperCollins for the galley in exchange for this unbiased review.
*This post is a part of the monthly linkups organized by Lovely Audiobooks! You can click here to check it out and be a part of it.

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Book Review | THE TEMPTATION OF MAGIC by Megan Scott

THE TEMPTATION OF MAGIC
BY MEGAN SCOTT | PUBLICATION: AUG 27, 2024
HARPERCOLLINS | GENRE: SCI FI & FANTASY  
RATING: ★★★★         

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Nicole Palmer has needed to study the supernatural art in a local Cornish manor for years. Encoded in it is the last message from her mother on how to stay safe from The Wake—the organization that governs all supernaturals. As an Empyreal, Nicole has the ability to hunt and kill dangerous creatures, making her invaluable. But if her power was ever triggered, they would find her, use her, and then kill her.

Like they did her mother.

Securing an undergraduate research role to study the collection, Nicole discovers her greatest enemy—one of The Wake’s Empyreals. Kyan McCarter is their best hunter, stationed at the manor to track and kill a deadly creature, but when they realise a painting’s been stolen by his prey, Nicole and Kyan are forced to work together to find it.

As the creature threatens to expose Nicole’s power, her tenuous alliance with Kyan threatens her heart. If Kyan finds out what she is, he’ll hunt her next—or risk execution. No one disobeys The Wake and survives. Especially not when the art they’re seeking holds the key to a conspiracy that could get them both killed, and change the lives of creatures, and humans, forever.

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Empyreal Book I

THE TEMPTATION OF MAGIC marks a captivating debut for the Empyreal Series, weaving a picture of fantasy, intrigue, and romance that promises to enthrall readers. The novel introduces us to Nicole Palmer, an Empyreal with the rarest shapeshifting ability, who finds herself pursued by the Wake, a clandestine organization that reigns over the supernatural realm.

Scott's dedication to research is evident, with each mythological element feeling authentic and well-founded. Her narrative prowess shines as she blends classic and innovative fantasy elements to create a world that offers a fresh perspective specifically both innovative and respectful of the traditions it draws from. I concur with the critics and fans alike, the book has an exceptional world-building, with a lore that is both meticulously detailed and seamlessly integrated into the story. Scott crafts a universe where magical beings are a norm, yet she elevates the narrative by introducing the Empyreals, adding a layer of depth and mystery to the lore. The ingenious use of art as a conduit for hidden secrets and messages is a stroke of genius, providing a unique angle to the fantasy genre.

Character development is one of the novel's strongest suits, with each persona meticulously fleshed out, ensuring readers remain invested in their fates. Nicole's determination and resourcefulness complementing Kyan McCarter's perceptiveness and reluctance. Their chemistry is tangible, evolving naturally amidst the perils they face together. The romance within the pages is both steamy and filled with longing, satisfying those who yearn for a love story that is both intense and believable.

The plot is a labyrinth of twists and turns, each chapter drawing the reader deeper into the enigmatic world Scott has created. The book concludes on a note that is both satisfying and tantalizing, perfectly setting up the anticipation for the subsequent instalment. The intelligent storytelling, combined with the vivid descriptions and masterful plot construction, solidifies this debut as a must-read.

This novel is a spellbinding blend of mythology, art history, and romance. It invites readers to step into a realm where the secrets are as profound as they are perilous, hidden beneath the surface of a reality painted with a magical brush. For those who seek an escape into a world of fantasy, THE TEMPTATION OF MAGIC is your portal to the extraordinary.

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About the Author:

   

Megan Scott is twenty-six-years-old, from the North West of England and a lover of art and the ancient world. She received her BA and MA in Art History and Classical Civilization, and both subjects inspired her debut novel, The Temptation of Magic. When she’s not writing or on Pinterest, she’s trying to read as much as her nana, or paint something she doesn’t want to ceremoniously burn in the garden.

*Thanks to HarperCollins for the eARC
in exchange for this unbiased review.

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Book Review | THIEF OF THE HEIGHTS by Son M., Robin Yao

THIEF OF THE HEIGHTS

WRITTEN BY SON M. | ILLUSTRATOR: ROBIN YAO
OCTOBER 22, 2024 | HARPERALLEY
YA GRAPHIC FANTASY | RATING: ★★★

"Stong themes with compelling artwork."

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Enter the world of Muqadas, where the climb to the top of this vertically stacked city—away from disease-ridden waters of the lower levels—is paved with betrayal, secrets, and rebellion in this debut graphic novel from author Son M. and artist Robin Yao.

n Lifelong friends Basem, Mustafa, and Aarfah have carved out a place for themselves in their corner of Muqadas, where they dream of climbing from their place in the city’s lowest level, above the limb-snatching, disease-infested waters, to the very top of their vertical city. Young inventors who’ve seen firsthand the havoc the Habar infection causes set out to dazzle the masses with their innovative prosthetics and escape the dangers of Lake Saha.

When their inventions catch the eye of a scout who is on the hunt for new talent to bring to the higher tiers, their dreams are suddenly within reach. But as the wonders of the upper tiers enchant, Basem, Mustafa, and Aarfah begin to question why the bounty of Muqadas falls short of reaching Lake Saha's inhabitants.

Behind the beauty of the city's upper tiers lie dark and dangerous secrets—ones that threaten not only everything they’ve worked for but everyone they love. And when Mustafa and Aarfah are cast away for their allegiance to Lake Saha, Basem is faced with the difficult choice: Fight to bring justice to all of Muqadas? Or abandon his friends and fall in line to achieve everything he’s ever dreamed of?

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I recently read THIEF OF THE HEIGHTS by Son M., with illustrations by Robin Yao. This graphic novel caught my attention because of its intriguing concept and the promise of an immersive world.

It is a story with a lot of potential. The concept is intriguing, and the world-building is interesting, though it suffers from a lack of exploration. While the plot was easy to follow, it felt a bit rushed and failed to be immersive. There were several plot points that I failed to grasp. The theme of classism is poignant and carries the story, but it needed more time to fully develop. The rebellion aspect felt like it came in too late. On a positive note, the art is fantastic. I loved the character designs and the color schemes.

Personally, I found it difficult to connect with certain elements of the book. The rushed pacing and underdeveloped plot points made it hard for me to stay engaged. While I appreciated the themes and the fantastic artwork, I felt the story needed more time to breathe and develop fully.

Overall, while THIEF OF THE HEIGHTS wasn't entirely to my taste, I can see how it might appeal to readers who enjoy stories with rich themes and striking artwork. It's a graphic novel that could be appreciated by those who love exploring the dynamics of classism and rebellion in a visually compelling format.

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About the Author:

SON M. is an Algerian-Amazigh, Muslim writer who enjoys creating narratives in both prose and visual mediums. She specializes in horror, science-fiction, action, thriller and mystery.

She is very passionate about comics, games and animation, leading them to create stories in all three mediums. She is afraid of heights and non-productivity. She draws their power from the Sun.

SON is the Studio Director and Creative Director of the indie game studio Perfect Garbage. She is also the writer half of SCSM COMIC. She has written for Z2 Comics, DC Comics, Vault and more.
Image from THE BOGLANDS. No infringement intended.

Robin Yao is a queer Chinese American illustrator who loves to tell stories through environments and world-building—the rich narrative that fills the negative space around the characters in impactful and subtle ways—be it in games, animation, comics, or just about any visual medium that exists out there. Oh, and they have a penchant for horror. See their work at robinyao.com.
Image from Harpercollins. No infringement intended.

*Thanks to HarperCollins for the egalley access
in exchange for this unbiased review.

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Book Review | THE EMPEROR AND THE ENDLESS PALACE by Justinian Huang

THE EMPEROR AND THE ENDLESS PALACE
BY JUSTINIAN HUANG | PUBLICATION: MARCH 26, 2024
HARPERCOLLINS / MIRA | GENRE: ROMANTASY
RATING: ★★★★★

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“What if I told you that the feeling we call love is actually the feeling of metaphysical recognition, when your soul remembers someone from a previous life?”

In the year 4 BCE, an ambitious courtier is called upon to seduce the young emperor—but quickly discovers they are both ruled by blood, sex and intrigue.

In 1740, a lonely innkeeper agrees to help a mysterious visitor procure a rare medicine, only to unleash an otherworldly terror instead.

And in present-day Los Angeles, a college student meets a beautiful stranger and cannot shake the feeling they’ve met before.

Across these seemingly unrelated timelines woven together only by the twists and turns of fate, two men are reborn, lifetime after lifetime. Within the treacherous walls of an ancient palace and the boundless forests of the Asian wilderness to the heart-pounding cement floors of underground rave scenes, our lovers are inexplicably drawn to each other, constantly tested by the worlds around them.

As their many lives intertwine, they begin to realize the power of their undying love—a power that transcends time itself…but one that might consume them both.

An unpredictable roller coaster of a debut novel, The Emperor and the Endless Palace is a genre-bending romantasy that challenges everything we think we know about true love.

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EXPLORING THE DEPTHS OF LOVE ACROSS TIME

Justinian Huang's debut novel is a masterful tapestry of love's endurance through the ages. The narrative takes us on a journey across different timelines, from ancient China to modern-day Los Angeles, weaving a complex story of romance, betrayal, and destiny.

In 4 BCE China, we meet a low-ranking clerk whose life takes a dramatic turn when he is chosen to capture the young emperor's attention. This marks the beginning of an epic saga that traverses centuries, highlighting the immutable force of love. Huang's portrayal of this era is rich with historical detail, immersing readers in a world where duty and desire collide. A favorite trope, I must admit.

The story then shifts to 1740 China, where an innkeeper's mundane existence is disrupted by the arrival of a mysterious young man and his grandmother. The ensuing events draw the innkeeper into a web of intrigue, requiring the aid of a past lover. A tribute to Pu Songling, of course. Huang skillfully uses this narrative strand to explore themes of isolation and the human yearning for connection.

In present-day Los Angeles, a college student's life is forever changed when he encounters a mysterious artist who seems to have captured his likeness across time. This strand of the story delves into the complexities of identity and the search for belonging in a world that often feels alienating.

Huang's ability to toggle between these periods with ease is a testament to his storytelling prowess. The characters' struggles and triumphs resonate deeply, as they are reborn and rediscovered in each other's arms, lifetime after lifetime. Every interaction is like a mirage, at once familiar, and yet, unique. The novel is a celebration of queer love, transcending the boundaries of time and space.

Drawing from Chinese history and mythology, Huang creates a central couple that embodies the power and beauty of love. The novel's scope is ambitious, yet Huang manages to deliver a narrative that is lyrical, intimate, and grand. I was enthralled.

THE EMPEROR AND THE ENDLESS PALACE has been praised for its genre-bending elements, combining fantasy, romance, and historical fiction to create a romantasy that challenges conventional notions of love. It is a novel that promises to leave readers both enchanted and contemplative, pondering the enduring nature of love and the ways in which it can define our lives.

With this stunning debut, Justinian Huang has established himself as a formidable voice in contemporary literature. His novel is not just a story; it is an experience that celebrates the timeless and transformative power of love. For those who are drawn to tales that span lifetimes and challenge fate, THE EMPEROR AND THE ENDLESS PALACE is a must-read.

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About the Author:

   

Born to immigrants in Monterey Park, California, Justinian Huang studied English at Pomona College and screenwriting at the University of Oxford. He is now based in Los Angeles with Swagger, a Shanghainese rescue dog he adopted during his five years living in China. THE EMPEROR AND THE ENDLESS PALACE is his debut novel.
 Photo curtesy of HarperCollins.

*Thanks to HarperCollinsCA for the ARC, via Netgalley, in exchange for this unbiased review.

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SOUP REVIEWS | 1

Children's Books

The Wolves in the Wall by Neil Gaiman

The artwork spent on this book will surely get the reader’s attention.  I spent more time inspecting each picture than reading the whole story.  There’s a certain oddness to them that most people would think them disturbing; but if parents would want to wean their kids into good art, this is something to start them with.  Dave McKean did a great job with this one.

This was a Finalist in the 2003 Bram Stoker Award, Work for Young Readers.  The story deals with how kids can sometimes be carried away by their imagination, and how those imaginations led them to fear.  The lesson lies in how kids should learn how to be the hero in conquering their own fear.  Sometimes accomplishing that just needs further imagination, motivation, and a lungful of bravery.

Book Details:
Title: The Wolves in the Wall
Author: Neil Gaiman
Publisher: HarperCollins
Rating: ★★★

From the Mixed-up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg

This is one of those stories I wished the movies got exactly right.  The book received the Newbery Medal in 1968; and the William Allen White Children's Book Award in 1970.  So, it seems a waste of film not to give it justice.

Claudia dragged her brother Jaime into running away from their home because she believed that her family does not appreciate her.  And then, she decided to be the hero to prove that the statue of the Angel was an authentic Michelangelo.  In short, she no longer wants to be that same reliable Claudia who does the laundry, the dishes, and takes out the trash when she comes back home. She wants to be the important Claudia, appreciated by everyone.  Besides, she thought, running away is the greatest adventure there is.

The first lesson, I believe, goes to the parents.  We parents are not given kids as an extension of ourselves, to be an additional adult to take care of things in the house, while we are busy making a life for ourselves.  It is never wrong to teach our kids chores, but we have to remember that our kids are entrusted to us, so we should take care of them, not the other way around.

The second lesson is best described by this passage:

“I think you should learn, of course, and some days you must learn a great deal.  But you should also have days when you allow what is already in you to swell up inside of you until it touches everything.  And you can feel it inside you.  If you never take time out to let that happen, then you just accumulate facts, and they begin to rattle around inside of you.  You can make noise with them, but never really feel anything with them.  It’s hollow.”

Book Details:
Title: From the Mixed-up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler
Author: E.L. Konigsburg
Publisher: Atheneum Books for Young Readers
Rating: ★★★★★

Hope Was Here by Joan Bauer

The story begins with a teenage girl, named Tulip, but she had the good sense to dub herself Hope and made it legal eventually.  The thing is, you have to live-up with that sort of big name, and Hope sure did.

There is so much juice in this book. The story of love, hope and strength all neatly tied up within 186 pages.  Joan Bauer did a nifty job developing the characters and the events throughout the book.  I felt them between each setting and dialogue.

The sense of never-giving-up-no-matter-what is written all over.  Every character had their own issue to take care of, and unwavering hope was their key to each and everything.  The story also speaks of accepting the end –everything ends.  It was not about mourning what we lost, but appreciating what we had, and drawing strength from memories made.

This is a very inspiring read, no wonder it was made into a Newbery Honor Book in 2001.

Book Details:
Title:  Hope Was Here
Author: Joan Bauer
Publisher: Puffin

Rating: ★★★★★

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STARDUST by Neil Gaiman

Faerie, a vast land beyond the small village of Wall, where all manner of beings and creatures exist. Tristan Thorn, an enthusiastic young man, set out on a journey through this enchanted land to find the fallen star that will bring him his heart’s desire. Little did he know that his fated journey was exactly just that and perhaps more.

Gaiman did a fantastic job of creating a very charming adult fairy tale. A delicious plot that will draw you into a mystic fairyland and expand your imagination - of witches, and far-off kingdoms, and magic. His words are pure and simple, and yet they are timeless and unbounded. He made his characters significant in a way that you can vividly picture them in your head. I was amazed by how he mingled the sub-plots and fused them all together in the end. The story is a good illustration of how the hands of Fate works. A wonderful story!

I just wish he did tell what happened to the little hairy man.

Book detail:

Title:  Stardust

Author:  Neil Gaiman

Published: HarperCollins, December 23, 2008

Genre: Fantasy

Rating: ★★★★

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Book Review | WARREN THE 13TH AND THE 13-YEAR CURSE by Tania del Rio, Will Staehle

   

   Warren the 13th and the 13-Year Curse by Tania del Rio
Illustrator: Will Staehle
Series: Warren the 13th, Book #3
Publication Date: October 1, 2019
Publisher: Quirk Books
Genre: Middle-Grade Adventure
Rating: ★★★★★

An illustrated middle-grade fiction series with Gothic and Victorian overtones featuring the misadventures of a cursed 12-year-old bellhop trying to save his family's hotel from the clutches of evil.

At the conclusion of the second book in the Warren the 13th series, The Warren Hotel had transformed into a giant ship and set sail for the open seas! When Warren 3 opens, Warren is adjusting to the demands of running a floating hotel and is planning his 13th birthday party when disaster strikes--the hotel is shipwrecked on a strange island. To make things worse, his octopus-like friend Sketchy is kidnapped by a traveling circus! Warren and his friends must solve a series of riddles to find the next location of the circus and rescue their friend before it's too late. Along the way, they meet a new cast of characters, including some elderly pirates, a sea witch, a talking clam, and a giant sea monster. As Warren pursues Sketchy's kidnappers, he will learn the truth of his friend's mysterious origins--as well as one final secret of the Warren Hotel.-Goodreads

...

This is the 3rd book in the series, but it works perfectly as a standalone story. After reading the first two books, I’ve been very curious about what happens next for Warren. The story launched from where book #2 left off and the Warren Hotel was having a grand time sailing away. But now at 13, there’s a curse hovering above Warren’s head.

These books are placed as Middle-Grade Fiction. Nevertheless, Tania del Rio made these books relatively easy and perfect for a read-aloud that even younger Middle-Graders can enjoy them. Or even if your kids aren’t proficient readers yet, Will Staehle’s two-toned illustrations can boost their imagination effortlessly. The gothic feel they imbue is rather perfect for the story.

WARREN THE 13TH AND THE 13-YEAR CURSE is a great adventure filled with diverse characters (even nasty pirates) that have rare surprises up their sleeves and an impressive rescue mission. Despite his probable curse, Warren remains resolute, optimistic, and completely kind. His character brings out the good in people and that’s what I love most about these books. People never thought twice helping Warren or doing kindness for him in return.

Warren the 13th series is filled with adventures and with people you very much want your kids to meet. If you haven’t started on them yet, please get your copies soon. I heartily recommend these books.

>*Thank you for sharing this amazing ride, Will and Tania. I'll miss Warren, but I also know that he's off to new adventures. Instead, I'll bid him and both of you farewell.

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About the Author and Illustrator:

Tania Del Rio is a professional comic book writer and artist who has spent the past 10 years writing and illustrating, primarily for a young audience. Her clients include Archie Comics, Dark Horse, and Marvel; she is best known for her work writing and drawing the 42-issue run of Sabrina the Teenage Witch. She is also the author of the WARREN THE 13TH series published by Quirk Books. She lives in Los Angeles.

Will Staehle grew up reading comics and working summers at his parent’s design firm in Wisconsin. He was Art Director for HarperCollins Publishers in NY, the VP of Design at JibJab in LA, and has been labeled by Print Magazine as one of the Top Twenty Under Thirty New Visual Artists, an Art Director’s Club Young Gun, and has also exhibited a solo show of work at the Type Director’s Club. Will’s work has appeared in various design annuals and he’s also contributed to the AIGA’s 50 books / 50 covers exhibit.

Currently, Will resides in Seattle, WA — where he runs Unusual Co. He uses his design and illustration background to create bold covers, stylized posters, quirky websites, and mini-comics to ensure that he gets as little sleep as possible.

*Thanks to Quirk Books and Netgalley for the digital copy
in exchange for this unbiased review.
*This post is a part of the monthly linkups organized by Lovely Audiobooks!
You can click here to check it out and be a part of it.

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Blog Tour | No Funeral for Nazia by Taha Kehar

About the Book:

NO FUNERAL FOR NAZIA
BY TAHA KEHAR | PUBLICATION: OCTOBER 2023
NEEM TREE PRESS | GENRE: CONTEMPORARY FICTION

Nazia Sami is a celebrated author, but perhaps her greatest plot twist is yet to be produced. In her final days, she wields a pen one last time as she fills her diary with instructions for her sister, Naureen, and writes six letters to be delivered after her death. There is to be no funeral for Nazia. Instead, only six invitees are asked to attend a party, one of whom is a mystery guest. Over the course of an extraordinary evening, secrets are revealed, pasts reconsidered, and lives are forever changed. Perfect for fans of MOHSIN HAMID and KAMILA SHAMSIE, No Funeral for Nazia is a striking and inventive exploration of what death can mean for both the deceased and those left behind.

AMAZON | GOODREADS

"...the perfect must buy, must read novel..."
-Bookread2day
"The thing I loved most about the book was the complexities of the characters and that the women in this book break many of the stereotypes we have of what a Muslim woman is and does."
-Melanie
"Kehar’s novel is a bold exploration of death’s impact on the living, told through a culturally rich lens that spans complex family dynamics and societal expectations in South Asia."
-Hina Loves to Read


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About the Author:

Taha Kehar is a novelist, journalist and literary critic. A law graduate from SOAS, London, Kehar is the author of three novels, No Funeral for Nazia (Neem Tree Press, 2023), Typically Tanya (HarperCollins India, 2018) and Of Rift and Rivalry (Palimpsest Publishers, 2014). He is the co-editor of The Stained-Glass Window: Stories of the Pandemic from Pakistan. Kehar has served as the head of The Express Tribune’s Peshawar city pages and bi-monthly books page, and worked as an assistant editor on the op-ed desk at The News. Kehar’s essays, reviews and commentaries have been published in The News on Sunday, The Hindu and South Asia magazine and his short fiction has appeared in the Delhi-based quarterly The Equator Line, the biannual journal Pakistani Literature and the OUP anthology I’ll Find My Way. Two of his short stories appeared in an anthology titled The Banyan and Her Roots, which has been edited by the British writer Jad Adams. In 2016, he guest-edited an issue of The Equator Line, titled ‘Pakistan: After The Stereotypes’, that focused on new writing from Pakistan. Kehar curates Tales from Karachi: City of Words, an Instagram e-anthology that publishes flash fiction from and about Karachi. He recently compiled and edited the first print anthology of the initiative titled Tales from Karachi (Moringa, 2021). Based in Karachi, he teaches undergraduate media courses.

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