The Girl from the Sea
Ostertag, Molly Knox
3 stars = Pretty Good
Review:

Pretty good, but the ending is not what I would have liked. Morgan is an introvert. And she’s a lesbian. Ever since her dad left the family, things have been getting tense between her and her mother and her brother. So one night, after a big fight, she goes down to the rocks. She slips and falls into the ocean, almost drowning. A silky rescues her, and Morgan is convinced that it is a near death experience when she kisses her. But when Kelpie shows up the next day with human legs, things get awkward.

Reviewer's Name: Tegan
The Graveyard Book
Gaiman, Neil
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review:

Really, really good! Neil Gaiman is an awesome storyteller, and the tale flows great. Really good pace, and some mysteries still left unsolved for the reader to figure out. Nobody Owens’ family was killed when he was a baby. He was adopted by ghosts, and Silas chose to be his guardian. This book is a tale of how Bod (with a D), grew up, his adventures and his friends, all along weaving a story of betrayal and murder into the background. Amazing Book.

Reviewer's Name: Tegan
Genres:
Briarheart Book Jacket
Lackey, Mercedes
3 stars = Pretty Good
Review:

I chose this book because the cover page is beautiful and the premise sounded interesting; I was not disappointed. A slight twist on the beloved fairy tale of sleeping beauty. After the evil fairy arrives to curse Miriam's younger sister Aurora, Miriam becomes Aurora's protector, and Miriam, along with some of her friends, begin training to both protect Aurora on the battle field and against magical forces as Aurora grows. The plot is unique, fast paced, and very interesting! I also enjoyed exploring the magic system Miriam is learning to work with, and I felt a connection to the main characters that Miriam works with.

However the main drawback for me was the writing style. Instead of allowing me to become part of the story, it almost pulled me out of it with how choppy I felt the writing was. The only reason I wanted to read the story was because of the plot. I do understand that the writing style could be geared towards a more younger audience, and if you don't mind writing that isn't super poetic or smooth, but rather has an interesting plot, I would recommend this book to you!

Reviewer's Name: Reagan, Grade 10
Grasshopper Jungle Book Jacket
Smith, Andrew
3 stars = Pretty Good
Review:

This book was weird.
It felt like a windstorm of ideas blowing in my face; a mad prophet's ravings before catastrophe, and a tangled mess of actions and consequences - but somehow they all connected together? It was a bit of an experience.
Grasshopper Jungle is a story about the end of the world, but like many teen novels, it is simply a backdrop to Austin's personal dramas. One of its tags on Libby is "humor" but I think it's more of a tragedy if anything. The main character and his best friend inadvertently bring about an apocalypse by way of 6-foot tall, ravenous grasshoppers after accidentally breaking a jar they really shouldn't have broken.
The book weaves together the stories of Austin, his childhood experiences, as well as those of his brother, Polish ancestor, the mutant grasshoppers, and random strangers around town (such as his principal, his friend's mom's boyfriend, and a vulgar policeman being memorable ones). It's a lot.
I found this story's distinctive style very difficult to tear myself away from. It was authentic to the protagonist's personality, and it reminded me of the narration of classic epics. It stands out in its themes of memory, religious trauma, sexuality, and identity (and somehow being an apocalyptic story as well). The symbolism was uncanny, and the way the outside world and past timelines mirrored Austin's mental state was very artistic and unique.
Onto my criticisms and confusions: #1 has to be the male characters. I think that every single male character in this story thinks constantly about every other character in a grossly objectifying way. Honestly though, this applies to most of the female characters as well, who are just as lustfully self-interested. Very interesting, but it was a... strange experience to read the nuanced and morally grey portrayal of Austin's ancestor, a gay man who had not-consensual relations with a woman to see if he could "love" anyone other than his dead Communist lover.
Austin himself relates to this ancestor because he, too, is "confused". His gay best friend Robby continually makes advances on Austin, and Austin reciprocates because he is completely in love with Robby. He is also in love with his girlfriend, who doesn't take too kindly to the fact that Austin has kissed Robby during their relationship. Austin even documents the POV of the murderous, bi-curious, mutant grasshoppers.
The ending was extremely abrupt. I'll admit, I was glued to this book for the last quarter, and the ending made me stand up and think "what in the world did I just read". However, in all honesty, it very much suited the style of the book. It never deviates from being a chronicle of the end of the world, and the world around Austin certainly comes crashing down.
Grasshopper Jungle is a weird book that made me think, and I don't regret reading it. It is quite graphic, but if you're interested in this swarm of a book, I highly recommend reading it and forming your own opinion. I might read the sequel, but I'm a bit afraid of what it might hold.

Reviewer's Name: Isabel
A Court of Thorns and Roses Book Jacket
Maas, Sarah J.
4 stars = Really Good
Review:

When I had initially read this book I had given it five stars, but now that I look back, it definitely got knocked down to a four.
Feyre, a human, ends up killing a wolf and is taken away by a fae for retribution. This book was supposedly a Beauty and the Beast retelling, but it did not seem like it, at all. I did like the concept of the book, but some of the characters are so unlikeable I was confused with the motives behind their actions. That kind of made it hard to enjoy some of the plotlines. This book was a lot of world building, which I enjoyed, but it does not pick up until closer to the end. I did overall like this book and I think it is worth picking up.

Reviewer's Name: Rowan Grade 11
The Naturals Book Jacket
Barnes, Jennifer Lynn
4 stars = Really Good
Review:

I really liked the concept behind this book—it felt unique and pulled me into a genre I don’t usually read. The story follows 17-year-old Cassie Hobbes, who gets recruited into a special FBI program made up of gifted teens, each with their own talents that help solve crimes.
I thought this was a good strong introduction to the series and the characters. I really liked the team dynamic and how each character brought something different to the table. Their interactions were interesting to read and made reading more enjoyable.
That said, there were moments when the writing felt a little dramatic and some plot points came together too neatly, like everything just worked out a little too perfectly. It made certain scenes feel less believable, even though the overall story was still really engaging.
I did however enjoy the twists. Even when I had some suspicions, I was still surprised, and those moments definitely added to the excitement. I'm curious to see how the story and characters develop in the next books.

Reviewer's Name: Rowan, Grade 11
Sunrise on the Reaping book jacket
Collins, Suzanne
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review:

I am in shock from reading this book. So many questions from both the original trilogy and The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes were answered. I saw an analogy, where the original trilogy are the middle pieces of a puzzle, The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes is the corners and Sunrise on the Reaping is the edges. I could not agree more, the way they are all perfectly balanced on each other and with Sunrise on the Reaping, Collins paints a whole new picture that really makes you question the whole series.

This book follows Haymitch Abernathy and his story with the 50th Hunger Games. The writing style changes and reflects with each character in the different books, being able to see Haymitch's thoughts and the things that happen which gives a better insight into why he acted in the original trilogy. I loved this book and it is five stars without a doubt.

Reviewer Grade: 11

Reviewer's Name: Rowan
Kingdom of Ash Book Jacket
Maas, Sarah J.
4 stars = Really Good
Review:

As the final book in the series, Throne of Glass, I am in shock of how far the series has progressed. Kingdom of Ash is a spectacular ending to a series that is very well written. At almost 1000 pages long, Kingdom of Ash is truly an ending worthy of the story. Everything has come back in a full circle movement that leaves the reader guessing what will happen next. Aelin Galathynius, her cadre, and her allies at last face off against the enemy as the last way to protect her home kingdom of Terrasen. There are so many different plotlines that connect back to eachother and show how Maas was a mastermind with every single moment in all 8 books. While I loved all the moments in the book, it was a very long book and I believe it did draw out to a point where I just wanted to finish the book.

Reviewer's Name: Rowan Grade 11
Sunrise on the Reaping Book Jacket
Collins, Suzann
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review:

I am in shock from reading this book. So many questions from both the original triology and The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes were answered. I saw an analogy, where the original trilogy are the middle pieces of a puzzle, The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes is the corners and Sunrise on the Reaping is the edges. I could not agree more, the way they are all perfectly balanced on eachother and with Sunrise on the Reaping, Collins paints a whole new picture that really makes you question the whole series.
This book follows Haymitch Abernathy and his story with the 50th Hunger Games. The writing style changes and reflects with each character in the different books, being able to see Haymitch's thoughts and the things that happen which gives a better insight into why he acted in the original trilogy. I loved this book and is five starts without a doubt.

Reviewer's Name: Rowan Grade 11
Cover of the book Frankenstein, or, the Modern Prometheus
Shelly, Mary
4 stars = Really Good
Review:

I really enjoyed reading this book! Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein' is a classic novel that everyone knows. It's a tale about Victor Frankenstein, a scientist, and how he creates life. Except it's made from body parts. What I liked about reading this is that this is the original. Young readers don't really know about all the other complex parts of the story. It was so interesting to read and learn about a narrative I never knew before. More on the plot, it's about how Victor creates a creature and then the seemingly endless and terrifying consequences.
However, this book is incredibly hard to read. The old way it's written makes it easier to get lost or not completely understand what happened. There's a lot of words I had to look up, but the context also helps decipher it. One of my favorite parts of the book is the building suspense. Ultimately, I think this book has so much beauty, because of all the emotions I had while reading it and the message it carries about human nature.

Reviewer's Name: Max
Defy the Night
Kemmerer, Brigid
4 stars = Really Good
Review:

The kingdom of Kandala is suffering from a rapidly spreading illness that has only one known cure: an elixer made from Moonflower Petals that only grow in very specific conditions. The cure is hoarded by the rich, and too expensive for the poor. Defy the Night follows both the undercover thief Tessa Cade, who steals the elixir from the elite and redistributes to the poor, and the feared Prince Corrick, who works to keep his sickly older brother in power.
When Tessa and Corrick's lives unexpectedly cross, their hatred turns into a tolerated partnership, which begins to spark into something more. Tessa and Corrick struggle to keep their feelings in check as they work to keep their kingdom from falling to constant rebellions and the plague.

Defy the Night was a very fast paced read, with political intrigue and betrayals, romance, forming friendships and plenty of action to satisfy almost all aspects of a fantasy novel. I thought all the characters were very well thought out, even the side characters who work with/against Tessa and Corrick. I also felt that the romance was very well balanced with the plot. It didn't overshadow the plot but rather made the plot more dense, and also helped contribute to the character development. I would recommend!

Reviewer's Name: Reagan
Tower of Dawn
Maas, Sarah J.
4 stars = Really Good
Review:

Tower of Dawn is the sixth book in the Throne of Glass series and focuses on Chaol Westfall and his journey to heal his legs and spine. This book takes a very different perspective from the previous books and introduces us into more of the political landscape from across the sea, which offers a fresh perspective on the series.

At the start, Chaol was one of my least favorite characters, but this book shows him in a more vulnerable and complex light that is makes him seem more relatable to the reader. His personal struggles add depth to his characters and makes me appreciate why Maas decided to have a book focused on him.

I chose to tandem read this book with Empire of Storms and I would highly recommend to put in the effort to tandem read. Since both books happen simultaneously, the way how timelines intertwine creates for a really complicated and beautifully written piece. The only reason it is rated 4 stars is because I do believe it drags on for a little bit, but it leads up to Kingdom of Ash perfectly.

Reviewer's Name: Rowan
Genres:
Empire of Storms
Maas, Sarah J.
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review:

The fifth book in Throne of Glass, Empire of Storms, is a masterfully written book that builds up for an amazing edning to the series. The buildup is intense, and Sarah J. Maas has been creating complicated and interwoven plotlines since the beginning.

I chose to tandem read Empire of Storms alongside Tower of Dawn, the sixth book, which required dedication but was absolutely worth it. Experiencing both stories added depth to the overall narrative and enhanced my appreciation for the two books and how aligned they were.

In this book, Aelin Galathynius must rally allies for the looming war, and the stakes have never been higher. Maas has an incredible ability to immerse readers into her books. Her world-building is impeccable, and this book highlights how carefully she has been plotting this journey from the very start and when everything finally clicks into place, it leaves me in awe of her ability to craft such an intricate and amazing story.

Without a doubt, Empire of Storms is a strong contender for my favorite book in the series.

Reviewer's Name: Rowan
Genres:
Mistborn: The Final Empire
Sanderson, Brandon
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review:

Rebellion in this world is impossible, the king is immortal, and the people are weak, but Kelsier is determined to make a change. Kelsier has a wild plan, Vin a street urchin, gets wound up in this plan. She realizes that this goes deeper than she thought, and that there is always another secret.

This is one of the first books by Brandon Sanderson I've read and it's magnificent. This fantasy book is one of the best I've read, with twists and turns in every chapter. The characters feel real because of their bonds with each other. This is definitely a book that explores relationships, magic, and rebellion.

Reviewer's Name: Olivia
Genres:
The Wingfeather Saga: On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness
Peterson, Andrew
3 stars = Pretty Good
Review:

On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness follows three siblings, Janner, Tink, and Leeli Igiby, as well as their trusty dog Nugget, as they live under the rule of Fangs of Dang, who oppress their peaceful village. The kids have always tried to stay on the Fangs' good side, but a series of events leads to the three kids' actions directly working against the Fangs of Dang, and now they must work with some new friends to keep their family together and safe.

If you enjoy world building, this book is for you. The author includes many in depth details about the new world, even if some details feel unnecessary. The author explains the significance of various animals, cultures, songs, and recipes that are completely unique to this world.

I felt some parts of this book, particularly the beginning, were slow as the author built the Igiby's world. The adventure doesn't really begin until a little before half way through the book. However, after finishing the rest of the series, the world building is necessary as this book leads into a 5 star series!

Reviewer's Name: Reagan
Genres:
The Poppy War
Kuang, R. F.
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review:

What initially drew me into The Poppy War was all the great things I had heard about the book and it's author R.F. Kuang. Fang Runin, the female main character, was both enjoyable and relatable at many times as she fought for a spot in Sinegard, the country's most elite military academy, in hopes of getting away from an arranged marriage. The book spans over a few years and eventually deals with some very intense and dark themes throughout the book. Kuang does not shy away from any details and makes the book feel incredibly real and allows a deeper connection with the character's emotions.
The pace of the book really picks up towards the second half, and I was constantly surprised where the story went next. The Poppy War is also very heavily inspired by Chinese folklore, but Kuang adds her own touch to the story, making the book seem very unique. I really enjoyed this book and is a definite five star for me.

Reviewer's Name: Rowan
Genres:
Six of Crows
Bardugo, Leigh
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review:

Six of Crows is the adventure of six characters, each with different backgrounds and different goals, sharing the same mission: accomplish a high risk heist from one of the most fortified cities in the world. Each of the members of the group have significant enemies, each trying to stop the heist from happening. There is constant action, and the book is impossible to put down. The author incorporates the character's background to form bonds within the group; highlighting their strengths and weaknesses together. There is never a dull moment, and the story is filled with twists and turns that aren't expected, but enhance the novel's plot. I would recommend if anyone is trying to get out of a reading slump, or find a book that will have you invested from start to finish.

Reviewer's Name: Reagan
Genres:
Fablehaven Book Jacket
Brandon Mull
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review:

While the cover of Fablehaven, by Brandon Mull, may not be the most appealing, once the book is opened the reader is welcomed into a new, magical world, filled with sneaky satyrs, vain fairies, dangerous witches, and many more. Similarly, when Kendra and Seth are sent to their Grandfather's house for the summer, they don't expect to find an adventure waiting for them. A series of well-placed clues reveals a new, mysterious world to the two children, who must work to save it. Kendra and Seth make both friends and enemies in this preserve and learn the importance of following the rules, as well as risking them. Fablehaven was constantly surprising me, making it impossible to put down. The characters learn new things about what they are capable of accomplishing, which helps to inspire readers to reach outside of their comfort zone and discover what they can accomplish as well.

Reviewer's Name: Reagan Grade 10
Monstrous Devices Book Jacket
Damien Love
3 stars = Pretty Good
Review:

Before receiving what might have been the strangest gift ever, 12-year-old robot enthusiast Alex's life was already plagued enough with bullies and homework. But when he receives a toy robot from his enigmatic grandfather, along with a note that reads "This one is special," a sequence of supernatural events sets off around Alex, and right before things take a deadly turn, Alex's grandfather appears just in time to save his life...and pack him away in an impromptu snowy trip across Europe. As the two begin to unravel the mysteries behind the robot's magic, Alex finds himself becoming the main target of a group of mysterious assassins who follow his every move in the hopes of possessing his robot, and he is forced to battle villains of both human and robot form as he grapples with the immense, monstrous powers of his seemingly innocent toy.

Monstrous Devices is whimsical and unique, and although it is for middle-school aged children, the author is not afraid to add in some chilling, horror-adjacent plot points throughout the story (this novel literally begins with a murder scene...no more on that). While reading this book, I felt as if I was tagging along with Alex and his grandpa as they outwit the assassins; I could hear the robots the assassins used as weapons whizzing and whirring in their deadly attacks, and I could practically see the landscape this book is set in. The bits of history about robots and magic the author added in was also very intriguing, adding a mythical element to the story.

On the other hand, the ending of the book felt somewhat abrupt for me, and there were a lot of questions I had about the characters and the plot that were left unanswered. The lore behind the robot, and even Alex and his grandpa's own backstories, were a little hard to follow, and I ended up somewhat dissatisfied with the lack of conclusions the author gave. The characterizations of the assassins only left more questions, their motives were very unclear, and their eventual fate did not sit quite right with me. I do, however, know that there is a sequel to this book, and I hope that it will tie together some of the unresolved tensions.

In the end, even though it has its flaws, Monstrous Devices remains a magical and entertaining read that young readers will surely enjoy.

Reviewer's Name: Joyce
Gearbreakers book jacket
Mikuta, Zoe Hana
4 stars = Really Good
Review:

Two queer Asian girls, on different sides of the war. When their paths collide, at first, they are each other's enemy until they both realize they're fighting for the same purpose, and with a tyrannical rule spreading they have to work together to rebel.

This book was amazing, definitely worth reading. This book was full of action, sci fi and romance. This is one of the most underrated books and deserves more recognition.

Reviewer's Name: Olivia
Scythe book jacket
Shusterman, Neal
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review:

The Thunderhead, an all-knowing artificial intelligence was able to solve all of the world's problems, it could even bring back the newly deceased from the dead. Religion, creativity, hard work, and passion are obsolete, and jobs only exist to give people something to do. Everything is perfect, every accommodation is met, anyone can speak to the Thunderhead, and the Thunderhead can solve anyone's problems. However, because the Thunderhead’s purpose is to help humanity it vowed to have nothing to do with the problem of overpopulation and the humans would have to create that system.
The Scythedom is an organization of people whose job is to glean (or cause the permanent death of an individual). Scythes are treated with the highest honor and have to pay for nothing and wait for no lines, but they carry the tough burden of ending other people’s lives. Every scythe must meet a quota and must follow a list of rules. However, even with great respect no man-made thing is perfect and the drive for power may corrupt the Scythedom.
Citra and Rowan end up as apprentices for a scythe and they will soon learn the guilt and hardship of the job. Only one of them will become a scythe, they must learn and train constantly leaving their old lives behind. Through many plot twists the pair must do what they can to navigate their new environment. How will the other scythes react to a scythe having two apprentices? How will Citra and Rowan change?
Neal Shusterman’s Scythe is an amazing book. It portrays the mental toll and thoughts of the protagonists perfectly and demonstrates their character development amazingly. The world-building is immaculate, and the vocabulary and characters get you immersed in the book quickly. Every detail is looked over and every character is thought out thoroughly, all having unique backstories and different approaches and thoughts to the world around them.
Scythe is also a philosophical masterpiece and touches on subjects like the drive for power and corruption in society. Throughout the book I was thinking constantly and wondering about how the society works. I recommend this book to everybody for its thorough story and how it brings up many deep questions in a unique, subtle, and phenomenal way.

Reviewer's Name: Drake
The Blackthorn Key
Sands, Kevin
4 stars = Really Good
Review:

Although I usually do not like historical fiction novels, this book managed to surpass my expectations and become one of my favorites. The Blackthorn Key follows the story of Christopher Rowe, the apprentice of the renowned apothecary Benedict Blackthorn, and takes place in 17th century England. In the beginning, Christopher lives content, creating medical remedies and cracking codes with his kind master, although he sets off a couple of explosions along the way. But a string of apothecary murders begins to work its way through England and hits closer and closer to Christopher's home, with rumors of the killings being tied to the mysterious Cult of the Archangel. When the murderers eventually kill Benedict, Christopher discovers a cryptic note left by his master right before his death and finds himself hunted by the killers, and as he deciphers Benedict's last message, he uncovers the secrets to a powerful weapon that has the potential to destroy the world.

This novel is thrilling and fast paced, and although its plot is dark in nature, Sands brilliantly incorporates some laugh-out-loud humor into the book. I loved Christopher's personality; he is easygoing and playful, but also incredibly clever and serious when he needs to be. The little nods to the historical aspect of the novel were very enjoyable, especially if you do know what was happening in England during the time period this novel is set in. The plot is filled with twists and turns that keep you guessing what happens next, and the ultimate reveal of the mastermind behind the killings serves as a stunning climax to the novel. As this book is the first in a series, I will surely read the rest of the novels and keep an eye out for Sands' other works. I recommend this book to anyone interested in historical fiction, fantasy, mystery novels, and puzzles.

Reviewer's Name: Joyce
Divine Rivals
Ross, Rebecca
4 stars = Really Good
Review:

Divine Rivals is an enchanting novel that surpassed my expectations. The writing is magical and quickly captured my attention. It’s about Roman and Iris who work together as journalists in the fantasy town of Oath competing with each other for a promotion. A war between gods rages on in the distance—a war that Iris’s brother left to fight in. Because of a magical connection, the letters which Iris writes to her brother have made their way to Roman who one day decides to write her back, but she doesn’t know that the boy she connects with over those letters is actually her rival.

In Divine Rivals, you’ll hear the clicking of a typewriter. You’ll feel the slight bumps of the train you’re on. You’ll see the perilous front lines of a dangerous war. You’ll taste the warm tea the characters are sipping. You’ll smell the ink still fresh on the paper of a newly delivered love letter. The book is a special mix of happy, cozy moments as well as terrifying, heart-racing ones.

I absolutely loved the relationships between Iris and Roman. Their banter is so fun to watch, and every moment between them was electric. I never wanted them to be apart because the book was so much better when they were together. The other characters were interesting enough, but none of them really caught my attention.

The beginning of the book didn’t feel much like a fantasy, it was more like a made up town in the past. While I loved that setting in Oath, it did make some of the fantasy aspects kind of strange because I would forget that I was reading a fantasy. As well as that, the myths and lore of the war tended to bore me because I didn’t care about that as much as I did the two main characters. However, as the book progressed, it dove into the fantasy much more, and I really enjoyed it. I thought the pacing was pretty good and even in the moments where not as much was happening, I was still very invested.

Overall, the book is not without its flaws, but it’s still an excellent read. I loved the settings, the writing, and the main characters a lot!

Reviewer Grade: 10

Reviewer's Name: Bella B.
Genres:
Cover of Powerless by Lauren Roberts
Roberts, Lauren
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review:

"Powerless" by Lauren Roberts is perfect for those who are huge fans of the Hunger Games series or the Red Queen series. This book involves magic, finding yourself, romance, and always, betrayals. This book will always have you on the edge of your seat and hook you from the beginning.
Paedyn Gray is an ordinary, lowlife, powerless (pun intended) thief discreetly blending in with the rest of her cruel kingdom who hates anyone just like her. Kai Azer is an elite, powerful, charming prince who has trained his entire life to hunt down people just like her. Then Paedyn gets thrown into the Purging Trials with him. The trials is a showoff to the kingdom of Ilya what powerful Elites that they have, a game practically. But Paedyn doesn't have any powers, so now she has to pretend to be psychic in front of the whole kingdom and fight her way to the top, avoiding getting killed.
This book is so good! The banter between Kai and Paedyn is to die for. It also has 2 POV so you get the ins and out of each side of the story. From the Loot, to the castles, to the arenas in the game, you will feel like your there yourself. This is also perfect those who want an easy flowing read, where there are no "boring" parts.

Reviewer Grade: 9

Reviewer's Name: Marley
Genres:
Caraval book jacket
Garber, Stephanie
4 stars = Really Good
Review:

I have heard mixed reviews about this book so I kept a neutral expectation for it. This book completely broke my standards. The magic, lore, and world in the this book is so unique, creative and perfectly easy to understand and be captivated by. There were some points where I was slightly bored but I’m ever so glad I stuck through because when it did get dramatic, oh did it get dramatic. This book is perfect for those who like an equal mix of fantasy and romance and a small portion of action, of course.
The female main character is totally relatable especially for those who can relate to the role of the cautious yet extremely caring older sibling. Scarlett risks everything for her sister and she has such a big heart. Scarlett’s decisions will have you on the edge of your seat, because in this book it’s hard to forget that everything is just an act.
Speaking out for the hopeless romantics, the two main male characters, Dante and Julian, are everything! I swear I blushed a couple times because of them. The story wouldn’t be nearly the same without them.
This book will forever be engraved in my memory. You will never forget the feeling of the magical world inside Caraval and Isla de los Suenos. Even though it wasn’t 5 stars, this will definitely be in my top books of the year.
I didn’t quite understand the intensity of this repeated quote but always keep in mind, “remember it’s only a game”.

Reviewer Grade: 9

Reviewer's Name: Marley
Unwind book jacket
Shusterman, Neal
4 stars = Really Good
Review:

What if your parents could choose to just ... get rid of you? If their child is 13-18 years old, the parents in this book can. The children are put to good use, essentially used as organ donors for those who need it. This young-adult novel details the adventures of Connor, Risa, and Lev, three children who were chosen to be unwound. This was for different reasons in different situations, but it results in their lives being thrown together on the same path.

Shusterman is very good at creating realistic, living characters that interact in a detailed web of situations and settings. I would recommend this book to anyone, but warn that some of the scenes can be scary for those who don't do well with too much suspense. Every part of it was engaging, and it manages to perfectly add philosophy and moral dilemma to an excellent story without compromising the believability or soul of the book. This is definitely worth a read, and it is the first installation of a series, so if you enjoy it as much as I do, check out the rest.

Reviewer's Name: Kelsey
Reveal Me book jacket
Mafi, Tahereh
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review:

"Reveal Me" is an absolute masterpiece, a literary gem that shines with brilliance from beginning to end. The author's deft touch weaves a tapestry of mystery and intrigue, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with each twist and turn. Characters leap off the page, fully realized and deeply compelling, drawing readers into their world. The pacing is flawless, propelling the narrative forward at a relentless pace that leaves no room for boredom or distraction. With its spellbinding plot and unforgettable characters, "Reveal Me" is a triumph of storytelling that deserves every praise it receives.

Reviewer's Name: Caroline
Defy Me book jacket
Mafi, Tahereh
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review:

"Defy Me" by Tahereh Mafi intrigues readers with its intricate world-building and rich character development. Mafi masterfully weaves together multiple storylines, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with each twist and turn. The novel's pacing is relentless, propelling the narrative forward with a perfect balance of action, romance, and intrigue. Juliette's journey of self-discovery and growth is both compelling and emotionally resonant, drawing readers deeper into the heart of the story. Overall, "Defy Me" is a thrilling addition to the series that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment.

Reviewer's Name: Caroline
Shadow Me book jacket
Mafi, Tahereh
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review:

The Shatter Me series is one of my favorite book series ever. "Shadow Me" is a novella published after the 4th novel, "Restore Me".
"Shadow Me" by Tahereh Mafi provides readers with a glimpse into the mind of Kenji Kishimoto, a beloved character from the series. Through Kenji's perspective, readers gain insight into his thoughts, fears, and motivations, deepening their understanding of his character. Mafi's writing style shines as she navigates Kenji's emotional landscape with honesty and vulnerability, immersing readers in his world of friendship, loyalty, and inner turmoil. With its fast-paced plot and compelling character development, "Shadow Me" is a must-read for fans of the series eager for more insight into Kenji's journey.

Reviewer's Name: Caroline
Queen of Shadows book jacket
Maas, Sarah J.
4 stars = Really Good
Review:

"Queen of Shadows" by Sarah J. Maas is a continuation of the Throne of Glass series, delivering non-stop action, intricate political intrigue, and romance. As Celaena embraces her true identity as Aelin Galathynius, she returns to Adarlan with vengeance, determined to free her kingdom from tyranny. Maas skillfully orchestrates alliances and betrayals, keeping readers guessing with every twist. From thrilling battles to heart-wrenching reunions, the stakes are higher than ever as Aelin confronts her enemies head-on. With its dynamic characters, gripping plot, and powerful themes of sacrifice and redemption, "Queen of Shadows" is an epic fantasy that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next chapter in Aelin's journey.

Reviewer's Name: Addison