I would be rich if I had a dollar for every time I saw a video on TikTok about 'The Sword of Kaigen'. Everyone had only praise for this book, so I decI would be rich if I had a dollar for every time I saw a video on TikTok about 'The Sword of Kaigen'. Everyone had only praise for this book, so I decided to read it too.
LIKES: + Asian-inspired fantasy (I think it's Japan, but I am not an expert) + The whole cast of characters was very likable + Midlife heroine (Misaki) + Misaki's thoughts/problems with marriage and motherhood were some of my favorite parts of the book. I loved that she was not perfect. + Impressive fighting scenes
DISLIKES: - The big fight happens at (I think) 2/3 of the novel, and then we have the rest describing the aftermath. After the rush of the battle, it felt like the ending dragged on... - In the end, there are many hints and loose ends thrown out. I guess M.L. Wang wanted to be able to write a sequel, but I think it should have done subtler.
Overall, 'The Sword of Kaigen' is an enjoyable Asian-inspired fantasy that had some problems with the pacing of the plot, but made up for it with complex characters and awesome magic. ...more
This a quick read that could have gotten a higher rating but... (view spoiler)[ I am not sure what the point of this book should be. Do not adopt a chilThis a quick read that could have gotten a higher rating but... (view spoiler)[ I am not sure what the point of this book should be. Do not adopt a child? How abuse can influence children? About the troubles of postpartum depression? How Social services are understaffed to help everyone? All of these topics are mentioned but since the ending is very open and without any resolution, I feel like the final message of the book is missing.
Also, Hannah's POV felt perfectly normal until the bathtub scene. And then later Christopher discovers her journal where her thoughts deteriorate... I would expect that some of it was more reflected in her POV (since it's first person). I felt like I was deliberately blindsided by the author, and I do not like that. (hide spoiler)] Lucinda Berry's novels were recommended to me multiple times. I think I will read one or two more to see if the things I didn't like in this book were exceptions or her usual way of writing....more
It felt a little repetitive and too similar to the previous book. Things happen but all feels the same. I will read the third book since it's about my It felt a little repetitive and too similar to the previous book. Things happen but all feels the same. I will read the third book since it's about my favorite character in this series, but it will be a deal-breaker....more
When I saw this was a thriller about "cryptocurrency shenanigans" I had to read it because I am interested in the whole crypto scene and this theme isWhen I saw this was a thriller about "cryptocurrency shenanigans" I had to read it because I am interested in the whole crypto scene and this theme is not featured much in books. Sadly, I was disappointed. This reads like any mafia conspiracy thriller out there. I wanted more hackers etc....more
Holly Gibney is one of the more likable characters written by Stephen King. I was happy to hear that she got her full novel.
There are no paranormal elHolly Gibney is one of the more likable characters written by Stephen King. I was happy to hear that she got her full novel.
There are no paranormal elements. It was a refreshing change. :) Of course, the plot and characters can get a bit dark. (It's King after all.)
I would not call this a murder mystery, since it's one of those novels where we get the villains' POV chapters from the start. But we follow them & Holly and cheer for Holly to catch them as soon as she can.
Overall, I enjoyed it. I hope maybe in the future there will be more books featuring Holly as main (or side) character. ...more
To quote the book about Bree (the heroine): "You are not young; you do not fit most people's idea of the heroine of a story. You're clumsy, you make miTo quote the book about Bree (the heroine): "You are not young; you do not fit most people's idea of the heroine of a story. You're clumsy, you make mistakes, and you aren't particularly fast or strong if I compare you to other supernaturals. You are just... you. And I'll admit that is somewhat fascinating and... refreshing."
Usual mess and abundance of mythical creatures. Plus now it also happens in France for a bit. :D...more
When I read a series this long, I am heavily invested in all characters. Good sequels. Some surprises in the story...
(This series still has a problem When I read a series this long, I am heavily invested in all characters. Good sequels. Some surprises in the story...
(This series still has a problem with: - Constant complaining about body aches and back pains. Like she is 80 and not forty. And with all that exercise, you would think it would get easier...) - Sometimes crude humor about farts and other body excretions...)...more
- Love triangle is back. I thought it was finally resolved but noooo... Does every bookNice urban fantasy.
The rating would have been even higher but:
- Love triangle is back. I thought it was finally resolved but noooo... Does every book have to start with the heroine having to choose and lust for 2 men? It is getting kinda boring. At least change them xD
- Tries to be funny and down-to-earth but it's too crude for me sometimes. Example: "Sweat rolled down the sides of my face, between my boobs, and, lucky me, into my ass crack."
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