stitchsaddiction's reviews
1142 reviews

Zari and the Citadel by J.B. Kovacs

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  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? N/A
  • Loveable characters? N/A
  • Diverse cast of characters? N/A
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

4.0

Young adult fantasy novels have always captivated me with their ability to immerse readers into an enchanting world, and "Zari and the Citadel" is no exception. This novel has left an indelible mark on me, and I am excited to share my thoughts about it.

The protagonist, Zari, is a character whose journey was a joy to follow. Her introduction, character development, and the intricacies of her relationships were portrayed with such detail that she felt relatable and authentic. As a reader, I felt a deep connection with Zari, which served to further immerse me in the story.

As an avid fan of fantasy, world-building is a crucial element for me, and Zari and the Citadel delivered beyond my expectations. The author's vivid descriptions of the world within the novel were so well-crafted that it was easy to lose myself in the narrative. Each event that Zari experiences is portrayed in a way that resonates deeply and is easy to visualise.

Although I am careful to avoid spoilers in my reviews, I must mention the exciting concept of realmwalkers in this novel. This unique idea is unlike anything I've encountered in other series, adding a refreshing and novel aspect to the plot. I am eager to see how this concept is expanded upon in future books in the series, and I am particularly interested in learning more about the realmwalkers and the realms they traverse.

Zari and the Citadel is a book that drew me in from the start, held my attention throughout, and swept me into a beautifully written world filled with intriguing characters. I eagerly anticipate picking up another book by this author in the near future!

Where Two Worlds Touch by River Faire

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4.0

Where Two Worlds Touch: An Outsider's Memoir in England is one of the most beautiful love stories come memoirs I've ever read and is one that swept me away as I turned the page.

River Faire has allowed the reader to glimpse moments in his life in Wimbledon from the moment he arrives back into England from the US, that effected him greatly and no doubt altered him in such a manner that it made him the man he is now.

The writing style is exquisite and gently lulls you in to appreciating his weekly shopping trips and talks of delicious and wholesome meals that will have you salivating, to his moments of tranquility as he appreciates the beauty of SW19 as River walks around the area he'd once called home.

There is a rawness about Where Two Worlds Touch: An Outsider's Memoir in England that has me held almost captive. The love between River and Robert is tangible and I ached for them both as it's so apparent from witnessing them both together for the first time and all I desperately wanted was for them to be together and happy.

Life of course, is never easy and I appreciated so much how eloquently River told their story from being torn apart to their reacquaintance and further still to their tranquil life in the countryside healing wounds they both shared and experienced. There is a vulnerability to each and every recollection and memory that often feels forced in other memoirs but not here. River Faire shared parts of his heart with us, and I for one? Feel honoured I got to read each and every page as these two wonderful men regained the assurity and love they deserve.

Papa Panov's Special Day: A Classic Folk Tale for Christmas by Mig Holder

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inspiring relaxing medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? N/A
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? N/A
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.0

 
 This is a stunningly illustrated tale of hope, faith, and caring for others.

Whilst I'm not religious, I can appreciate the beauty in the story and how Papa Panov wonders how he would have welcomed Mary as she brought the Christ child into the world. There's an innocence to his wondering, and the magic of the season meant that he is offered a moment to not be alone thanks to his beliefs and desire to help the vulnerable and the lonely.

Each illustration brings these emotions to life, and I thought Mig Holder's retelling of this classic story refreshing. It's a sweet tale that has lasted so long and I strongly believe that this new edition will give a new generation a glimpse both into the past, teach them the idea even when young, to help others... and to believe in magic of all types.

Overall, Papa Panov has a little bit of magic and wonder alongside faith in both yourself and others. 
The Semi Detached Women by Alex Quaid

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challenging emotional hopeful inspiring medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

This book is an absolute standout, one of the most compelling reads of the year.

It paints a raw and unsettling picture of single parenthood and sexuality in a time when both were stigmatized. The story follows two women, Laura, a divorcee in her thirties, and Janine, a young single mother. Their journey isn't sugar-coated - it's raw, real, and reflective of the time.

The author, Alex Quaid, perfectly captures the oppressive laws and religious views of the era, which were particularly harsh for those with little protection. Quaid's portrayal of Janine's struggle as an unwed mother is both cautious and heart-wrenchingly realistic.

Laura's life takes an unexpected turn when she discovers her husband's infidelity, leading her from a comfortable middle-class life on London's outskirts to a rustic home in rural Cheshire, adjacent to Janine.

The author paints their stories with a mix of elegance and raw emotion, demonstrating their resilience amidst adversity. Quaid breathes life into the Northern England setting with vivid descriptions of the rustic cottages and serene wilderness.

Their relationship evolves from strangers to tentative friends, and blossoms into a beautiful love story that's the heart of Semi-Detached Women. Their bond is far from perfect, but that's what makes it real. It's a raw, complex love, filled with hurdles and the harsh realities of their time.

Quaid brilliantly showcases the harsh judgement of the Catholic Church that leads to heartbreaking consequences for both women. It's a stark reminder of the Church's past mistakes, stirring a sense of protective rage for Janine and her child.

Semi-Detached Women is a book that lingers long after the last page, stirring thoughts and influencing perspectives. It's a testament to Quaid's storytelling prowess and a story that demands to be read.