⋆⋆⋆½

Content Warning: death, violence, murder, racism, misogyny, rape, sexual assault, suicide, gore.

When Detective Monique Blue Hawk arrives on the scene at the Children's Museum of Science and History in Norman, Oklahoma, she quickly realizes that this is unlike any crime she's investigated before. One security guard has been brutally murdered, the other wounded but fortunately alive, and at the center of it all are the unrepatriated indigenous remains that the museum holds in its so-called "Room of Secrets." Parts of an old skeleton have been taken, but its strange deformities lead Monique to contacting her uncle, a powerful spiritual leader who informs her that she might be dealing with something beyond the ordinary...

November is Native Heritage Month, and it seemed the perfect time to pick up a book by an Indigenous author. I was planning to read more this month, but due to life circumstances, it sadly didn't work out that way for me. However, I think it's important to remember that we should be reading novels written by Indigenous authors all the time, not just during November! Many of the books I read are an exploration of cultures not my own, and so I'm going to make a conscious effort going forward to make sure and include more Native-authored books in my repertoire, as I actually haven't read many before!

At the foundation of this story is Choctaw tribal beliefs, interwoven into the fabric of a mystery-slash-horror story. It was fascinating to learn about so much Choctaw history, as well as their creation myths and their afterlife, and I think that anyone who reads this book will come away with a new understanding of the depth and complexity of their culture. It also enlightened me to issues that I had only tangentially been aware of before: museum displays of Native skeletal remains and sacred burial pieces, the pressing need to repatriate these back to their true homes with their tribes, as well as the bloody, painful history of the Removal Trails and how white people then and now continue to desecrate Native graves.

Monique was someone I immediately liked: tough and authoritative, but also kind and vulnerable when she needs to be. The rest of the cast was pleasant enough as well, though I found a lot of them falling into stereotypes and clichés. Although she is not the only character we follow throughout the story, she was by far the most interesting. Mihesuah's writing didn't quite click with me, which is one of the reasons that I ended up giving this three and a half stars rather than a full four. There were some lovely descriptions, but then slightly amateurish ways of introducing characters and scenes, and as a whole the writing felt somewhat flat and dry for me.

In all honesty, I think tighter editing would have helped this book to really shine. The horror aspects of the book were well-done, leaving one feeling deeply unsettled (in the best way), and the sections that take place in the hollow are disturbingly atmospheric. I must say that the primary reason I actually ended up lowering my rating for this book was due to the ending. It's funny -- even Monique says "that felt too easy." It was a lot of build-up for a scene that lasted only a chapter or so, and after all the horrible things we learn about those responsible for what's been going on, it was disappointing. 

In the end, though, I think that this is a novel worth your time and attention. The historical aspects are particularly engaging, and learning about Choctaw culture was definitely enough to keep me interested until the very end. If you like horror mixed in with mystery and cultural exploration, you should give this one a shot! 

Book Review: Hello, Transcriber by Hannah Morrissey

 

⋆⋆⋆½

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for allowing me to read this ARC!

Content Warning: death (including that of a child), violence, suicide, murder, sexual assault, domestic abuse, parental neglect/abandonment, drugs, overdose, rape, animal death, brief mentions of homophobia and transphobia.

Living in the crime-ridden Black Harbor, Hazel Greenlee makes her living by transcribing police reports. Though her dream is to be a novelist, she hasn't had much lived experience, and she secretly hopes that perhaps this job will provide some much-needed inspiration. What she doesn't expect, however, is to be smack in the middle of a murder investigation -- living beside one of the men involved in hiding a corpse. As she becomes more deeply involved in the case, as well as with the lead investigator, Nikolai Kole, she begins to wonder if the future she imagines living outside of Black Harbor will be cut short by violence. 

My main motivator for reading this book was Hazel's job: a police transcriber. Not only did that seem like it would have plenty of potential for an intriguing storyline, but as someone who also enjoys writing (and has since childhood), I felt that I could relate to Hazel's desire to try and find a job that not only somewhat incorporates that passion, but also which might provide her with some material for her own work (though I'm not sure that's strictly a good idea, considering her job is supposed to be confidential!). 

The first few pages didn't quite captivate me. I found Morrissey's writing to be slightly overwrought; there were very detailed descriptions of the daily-goings on in Hazel's life, almost to the point of taking away from the narrative. It's one of my biggest pet peeves, so while some may not find it a problem, it took me a while to find myself fully immersed in the story. Once I hit around the 25% mark, however, I found myself becoming more invested in the story playing out. Eventually, the writing didn't bother me quite so much, and I did find myself admiring Morrissey's ability to weave rather evocative scenes.

I went into this expecting the mystery to be the main plotline, but I think that it actually ended up being more focused on Hazel's inner turmoil -- her marital problems, her aspirations, her self-loathing and occasional penchant for cruelty -- as well as her relationship with the charismatic Nikolai Kole. I didn't mind this, as their relationship fascinated me with its layers of deceit and its intertwining with the mystery, but I think that some might be disappointed by the mystery taking the backburner.

By the halfway point I was eager to see how Hazel's life would continue on its (rather disastrous) journey, but I'm sad to say that the ending left me cold. There wasn't much buildup, and it felt almost an afterthought, and slightly inconsequential. Mentally, I said to myself simply, "Oh." So...that was it. I enjoyed the story as I read it, but for me, it was an interesting concept where the execution unfortunately fell flat. 

That being said -- I will be looking into Morrissey's future novels, as I think there's great potential here, and I could see myself reading something else by her! 

Book Review: Wings of Silk by Li-Ying Lundquist

 

⋆⋆⋆½

Thank you to NetGalley and Acorn for allowing me to read this ARC!

Content Warning: death, miscarriage, spousal abuse, rape, sexual assault, misogyny, racism, suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, depression, harassment.

Growing up in Mao's Communist China, Ying-Ying jumps at the chance to go to college in America. Arriving in New York City, she finds that not all is as it seems concerning the great American Dream, and that her relatives living in the States -- meant to care for her and help her onto the path of success -- are not as kind or considerate as she'd hoped. In spite of facing obstacle after obstacle, including homelessness, not being able to speak English, as well as the pain of being so far from her family and overcoming cultural differences, Ying-Ying is determined to make the best of her life, and show everyone that she can be the independent, powerful woman she's always wanted to be.

Initially, I requested this book thinking it was a memoir. As it turns out, it's not, but it is heavily inspired by the author's life, and there's no doubt when reading it that many of these experiences are hers. I saw a lot of rather negative reviews concerning this book, and to be honest, my expectations were quite low. In the end, perhaps because I was already expecting to be a bit disappointed, I actually rather enjoyed this novel and I found myself admiring Ying-Ying, as well as the author who crafted this story about a life of both hardship and love.

I wasn't sure if I would be as interested in this book since the majority of it actually takes place in America, but reading a firsthand account of an immigrant's attempts to make the most of her newfound freedom away from Mao's regime, and her innocent wonder for the new things she discovers in New York (like deli cheeses and bagels), was both captivating and touching. 

For me, the writing was a bit dry; I was surprised when I learned that this wasn't a memoir, because the style it's written in makes you feel as if these are all true life accounts. It didn't quite have a poetic or lyrical flow (which I rarely expect to find in memoirs, but as this is a fictional story, I would have preferred a bit more of those qualities), but it was concise and straightforward, and therefore very easy to read.

Although there were some other issues, such as the pacing, I never stopped rooting for Ying-Ying, and while this book was not quite a four or five star read for me, I really admire the voice that Lundquist has given to women, immigrants, outsiders, and all combinations of those things! Many people disliked the Christian aspect present in this novel; though there is a spiritual thread throughout, I never felt like it was being pushed on me. 

God doesn't even really factor into Ying-Ying's story until perhaps the last 10 to 20%, and she never strikes you as being hypocritical or judgmental of those who don't share her faith. In fact, she makes a point of baring Ying-Ying's mistakes, errors and sins, and relishes in her imperfections, which left me with a positive, hopeful feeling amongst all of the struggles throughout her life.

This wasn't a book I could really say I loved, but I liked it a lot and I think if you are interested in stories about immigrants and capable women who forge their own paths, it's worth giving this one a shot! All in all, a sweet, moving, and rather tender exploration of life and what it means to understand yourself not as others see you, but as you see yourself. 

Book Review: The Midnight Girls by Alicia Jasinska

⋆⋆⋆⋆½

Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Fire for allowing me to read this ARC!

Content Warning: death, child abuse, violence, murder.

Marynka and Zosia have grown up in the snowy kingdom of Lechija, polar opposites who spend their time tearing out the hearts of men in order to serve the witches who took them in as little girls. It's Karnawał, and now they're competing for the best and purest heart of all, beating in the chest of Lechija's prince. Marynka is Midday, a monster who can control fire and heat at her will; Zosia is Midnight, who flourishes in the cold and darkness, able to wield them like weapons. But on their journey to the capital, Warszów, Midnight and Midday find that they have more in common than they think -- and that their rivalry might go beyond simple dislike. Forced to decide if they want to live the rest of their lives under the thumb of the cruel witches who call themselves their grandmothers, or if there might be freedom in being a monster, Zosia and Marynka fight (and slowly fall in love) on this dangerous journey that will leave them wondering what the future holds. 

Coming out in December, The Midnight Girls is set to be a perfect Christmas read, full of snowy forests, ice-skating, and two monstrous girls that will capture your heart (both figuratively and literally)! Since the two main characters are, in fact, villains, I had a feeling I would love reading about these two girls who struggle with their complicated attraction as well as what it means to be a monster. Set in a fictional, fantasy country inspired by Poland, there's a lot of Eastern European folklore woven into this story, as well as politics that were at the forefront of the Polish people's minds during the 18th century. Those two things would've probably been enough alone to make me love this (as I'm a huge history lover, and political fantasy is always a winner in my book), but the relationship between Zosia and Marynka was the truly the icing on top of the cake! 

It took a while for me to really sink my teeth into this book; the first 20% or so percent was a bit rough, as I found myself a bit lost in Marynka and Zosia's world. The writing, too, sometimes felt a bit stiff -- but I'm so happy to report that the rest of the book completely took me by storm! I'm so glad that I didn't let a bit of a bumpy start make me put this one down! As the story goes on, it becomes more layered, more complex, and also helps us to really begin to understand and sympathize with our main characters. The girls are both hungry for love and affection -- starved of it due to their rough, frightening upbringings -- and also afraid of that very thing. Once they begin to speak to one another, to allow their feelings into the mix, their chemistry is immediate and palpable. 

I enjoyed the magic system; it was fun to read about the divine magic juxtaposed with the dark powers that Zosia and Marynka use. The descriptions of them growing their fangs, using fire and darkness, and transforming delighted me down to my bones. The writing also grew in its loveliness the further I got in; Jaskinska has real talent, particularly when it comes to building the culture of Lechija. The growth of both Zosia and Marynka felt genuine, hard fought for, realistic in its difficulty and sometimes painful revelations. Their relationship is a slow-burn, and let me tell you, as someone who loves a simmering romance, it definitely struck just the right tone for me!

There's really no better way to put it than telling you all how much I love Zosia and Marynka. Not only are they wonderfully deep and easy to root for, but the best part of it all is how this book allows its female characters to be bad. They're villainous, unafraid of their own power, but never punished for it. They go beyond your typical one-dimensional villain, and it feels so good to read about them being so bad.

Highly recommended. How I adore these monster girls, and I can't wait for the rest of the world to get a chance to know them! 

Book Review: Vespertine by Margaret Rogerson

 

⋆⋆⋆⋆⋆

Content Warning: death (including that of a child), violence, self-harm, parental neglect, parental abuse, disordered eating, PTSD, anxiety/depression, suicide mention.

In Loraille, the spirits of the dead rise again. Artemisia has lived in a convent since her childhood, gifted with the Sight, and destined therefore to a life in the clergy. She wants to be a Gray Sister, a nun who works with the bodies of the deceased in order to prevent their spirits from becoming corrupted, a lifestyle that suits her just fine. But when disaster strikes first Artemisia's little convent on the edge of the world -- and then, later, the entirety of Loraille -- she is forced to awaken a dark spirit that has been trapped in a saint's relic for centuries. The revenant possesses an extraordinary power, but Artemisia is untrained to wield such a creature -- and now, when it seems that the end of their world may be nigh, it's up to Artemisia and her unlikely friends (including the revenant itself) to stop evil from destroying everything.

I knew from the very first page of this book that I would love it. Narrated by a dark, wry young woman named Artemisia, who has escaped a painful childhood to live in a convent, the world that Rogerson has created blooms with fascinating lore and a depth that makes you truly believe in Loraille and its spirits. There's also a wonderfully rich history of saints, relics and a powerful religion similar in many ways to Catholicism, leaving it feeling as if there's truly life even beyond the times we're witnessing Artemisia struggle through. Much of this is obviously achieved through Rogerson's writing, which is easy to read but also flourishing with lovely descriptions and similes, but it would be nothing without Rogerson's enviable creativity!

It's Artemisia, though, that really makes this book shine -- as well as the revenant, who is full of quips and witticisms that were annoyingly clever and amusing. Although Artemisia could fall easily into the trap of being 'not like the other girls', especially when you consider that she's only seventeen and this book is in the YA category, she never does: she's weird, different, and sometimes has a dislike for those that are more bubbly than she is, but it's never presented as something that makes her superior to anyone else. Her touching friendship with a few characters that become unexpected allies was heartwarming, and also shows us a softer, more tender side of Artemisia (who is usually so delightfully abrasive). 

The relationship she develops with the revenant is gorgeously crafted. It teems with tension and strife, but on the other hand, there is this understanding between them -- and Artemisia struggles with the feeling that they might not be so different after all, regardless of the fact that the revenant is a timeless, dark being. There's another relationship I would love to delve into, but can't without spoiling so many exciting things, so I'll just say this: the entire cast of characters captured my heart, but this dynamic was hands-down my favorite. So, so good, and the kind of thing I could read forever and never grow sick of.

Look, this novel is simply something you should experience on your own. It's magnificently done, with just enough subtlety and just enough grimness to leave you wanting more. I'm thrilled that this will have a second book, and I can't wait to see where Artemisia's journey takes her next.

Highly recommended! 

Book Review: Payback's a Witch by Lana Harper

⋆⋆⋆½

Thistle Grove is full of magic. Emmy Harlow is a born and raised Thistle Grove witch, but she hasn't lived there for years, mostly because of a catastrophic breakup with Gareth Blackmoore, a member of the most powerful family in town. But when the time for a traditional magical Gauntlet arrives, Emmy can put it off no longer: as the only heir of the Harlow family, she must return to fulfill her duty. Once Emmy's back in town, she unexpectedly meets up with the beautiful, dark Talia Avramov, who wants to strike a deal -- help her to win against Gareth, who has damaged Talia's pride. What Emmy doesn't expect is to begin falling for the charming, wicked Talia...

Having an avowed interest in witches and stories featuring main couples in which both happen to be women, I knew that I had to read Payback's a Witch. There's something really delightful about this book, with its quirky set of characters and atmospheric town in which it always feels as if it's Halloween. I was pleasantly surprised by my enjoyment of this story (as I'm usually not the biggest fan of romcoms), and I think that Harper has created both a very interesting world and a very comforting one!

Her writing is absolutely beautiful; having never read any of her other works, I wasn't certain what to expect. It's a first person point-of-view, which I sometimes find to be lacking in lyricism and beautiful prose, but I was thrilled to find that the descriptions were not only vivid, but also simply gorgeous. She has a way with words that you don't necessarily find often, even amongst the most highly-regarded authors, that leaves you wanting to read more in the hopes that some of her talent might rub off on you, too!

There are a few reasons, however, why this wasn't quite a five-star read for me, mostly having to do with character depth and too-convenient loopholes. I never quite connected fully with Emmy, who struck me as being rather selfish and childish, and although there's great development towards the end, it wasn't always easy to like her. To be perfectly honest, she was almost bland, especially in contrast with the rather mischievous and charming Talia. I could read an entire book just about Talia and her family; they are so interesting, and so wonderfully eccentric, that Emmy paled in comparison. There isn't much I can say about this without spoiling the ending, but I will say that it was disappointing that Emmy couldn't realize her own self-worth and merit without there being some outside factors which conveniently made all her insecurities suddenly unfounded. 

Also: the whole thing with Gareth felt slightly pathetic. I kept expecting a big reveal to show what exactly Gareth had done to earn Emmy's ire and vengeance, but he struck me as nothing more than a slightly clueless dudebro who I couldn't even bring myself to really rail against.

That being said, there's so many great things here that it feels unfair to focus only on the more negative aspects. Linden was especially intriguing to me, with her sweetness that felt gentle without being totally passive, and I'm so hoping that she'll get her own book, too! I also loved Emmy's cousin, Delilah, and the interactions between our main group of characters was tender, funny and sweet. The Gauntlet section of the plot was interesting, and I sometimes wished there was more focus and emphasis put on it, as it occasionally fell in the background. The solution and conclusion to the Gauntlet was one of my main issues with this book. Putting it succinctly: it was just too perfect and too convenient. 

However, I greatly enjoyed the feeling of lightheartedness that this book perfectly cultivates, even amongst its darker moments. Cute, fun, and worth the ride if you love witches, wlw relationships, and witty dialogue! 

Book Review: Survive the Night by Riley Sager

 

⋆⋆⋆

Content Warning: death, murder, violence, misogyny, cancer, gaslighting, disassociation.

It's 1991, and Charlie Jordan is trying to get back home to Ohio. She meets her driver, Josh Baxter, at the campus ride board; she's so desperate to leave that she decides it's worth the risk of driving with a complete stranger. It might have something to do with the guilt Charlie's suffering through, too: her best friend and roommate, Maddy, is the most recent victim of the so-called Campus Killer, and Charlie blames herself for Maddy's murder. Trapped in a car with a man she doesn't know, she begins to find holes in Josh's too-convenient story, and starts to wonder if he might, in fact, be the serial killer who has been hunting down helpless women. But is the Josh that Charlie is experiencing the real one, or simply a product of her paranoia and grief?

I'm a big Riley Sager fan (I've read every novel he's put out), and I was very excited by the premise and setting of Survive the Night. I love anything set in the '90s, and I thought that would be a wonderful way to create some tension, with no cell phones and being caught in a car with no way to escape. Aside from that gimmick, though, this unfortunately ended up falling a bit short for me.

It's a bit hard to explain: I read this book in basically a day, and in spite of its rather wacky and over-the-top plot, I couldn't bring myself to put it down. That's why I ended up giving it three stars; it seems a bit unfair to rate something any lower than that when you couldn't help but devour it within a few sittings. The writing is classic Sager, concise and easy to read, which probably helps to balance out the absolutely insane ride (literally and figuratively) that unfolds here.

The characters felt too flat for me to truly care about them, but I did like Charlie, particularly in the first half. My main problem with this book, though, is something that I have noticed in Sager's other novels, but not quite so blatantly -- the fact that his protagonists, inevitably all women, come across as being careless, and sometimes downright stupid. The choices that Charlie make throughout the course of her journey are beyond unbelievable. She is a woman, inherently aware of the dangers and violence that this brings to her through no fault of her own. 

It isn't simply that she decides to get in a car with a weird man she doesn't know (which already forces you to suspend your disbelief), but the way he portrays Charlie and her decisions feel very, very close to being misogynistic. Women are not this dumb. Maybe a man might be, unused to the fear being a woman entails, but I couldn't buy a woman making these choices. I suppose the excuse is because it's her way of punishing herself, which does happen, but in this case, it simply felt insulting.

I think I could've enjoyed the rest of the plot, even with the extremely predictable ending, but the characterization was lacking. My feelings on this book are so complicated, though, because on the other hand, I think it was fun in a really out-there kind of way. If you're looking for a slightly cheesy thriller that's easy to read, I'd recommend it, but if you've read the rest of Sager's books, this one is certainly not the best out there.