This felt like a return to the level of quality I experienced before 'Oathbringer'. The novel is incredibly vast, clocking in at over 1200 pages, so iThis felt like a return to the level of quality I experienced before 'Oathbringer'. The novel is incredibly vast, clocking in at over 1200 pages, so it's understandable that there are slower moments. However, I really enjoyed the overall storyline. It was also fascinating to gain a better understanding of spren, fabrials, and the different sources of light. I unexpectedly liked the sections dedicated to Navani a lot, and I also enjoyed Shallan and Adolin's adventures in Shadesmar. Many new plot threads were developed for the next installment, and I hope the final book of the first arc of the 'Stormlight Archive' will deliver....more
Honestly, I found this a bit disappointing. The third installment of the Stormlight Archive felt bloated to me. I don't believe the plot warranted 125Honestly, I found this a bit disappointing. The third installment of the Stormlight Archive felt bloated to me. I don't believe the plot warranted 1250 pages, and tighter editing and trimming would significantly improve the final product. I'm also starting to feel overwhelmed by the sheer scope of the world-building in this series � the multitude of names, details, and unanswered questions makes me worry I've missed something crucial. However, alongside those downsides, there were definitely highlights and surprises. I hope the next installment captures the same magic for me as 'The Words of Radiance' did....more
Starting my Sanderson marathon with this book was an absolute delight. Although it’s one of his earlier novels, the strengths I first noticed while reStarting my Sanderson marathon with this book was an absolute delight. Although it’s one of his earlier novels, the strengths I first noticed while reading Elantris are immediately evident here: well-crafted, likeable, and meticulously developed characters, combined with captivating political intrigue.
This novel unfolds during one of the most intense periods in the history of two nations, the Idrians and the Hallandrens, as the looming threat of war becomes inevitable. I was fascinated by the magic system, which draws heavily on the concept of souls passing through living organisms, enriched by the unique twist of colors reflecting states like emotions and power.
I’ve heard that some characters from Warbreaker reappear in The Stormlight Archive, and I’m incredibly excited to meet them again in that context....more
Oh, Storms! This is high fantasy at its best. With intriguing storylines, a multitude of secrets woven into the plot, and satisfying resolutions to soOh, Storms! This is high fantasy at its best. With intriguing storylines, a multitude of secrets woven into the plot, and satisfying resolutions to some mysteries from the previous volume, "Words of Radiance" delivers. The Avengers-like group of super-powered individuals and the immersive, complex lore further elevate the story. While I enjoyed "The Way of Kings" as a strong opening to the Stormlight Archive, I found it a bit slow and overwritten at times. "Words of Radiance," though still a massive tome, is far more gripping and dynamic. I can't wait to see what happens next to Shallan and Renarin, my two favorite characters so far....more
The Five Wounds is the debut novel by American author Kirstin Valdez Quade. It's an expansion of her short story of the same name, originally publisheThe Five Wounds is the debut novel by American author Kirstin Valdez Quade. It's an expansion of her short story of the same name, originally published in The New Yorker and later collected in her debut short story collection, Night at the Fiestas. This gripping and beautifully written novel was undoubtedly one of my highlights of 2024.
A poignant exploration of life's struggles, both small and profound, the novel delves into the core values and enduring bonds that truly matter. It confronts weighty themes like terminal illness, unemployment, teenage pregnancy, and sexual identity, yet does so with sensitivity and restraint, avoiding overwhelming the reader.
A true literary gem, The Five Wounds is a powerful and thought-provoking read....more
After the slightly less impactful 'Beautiful World, Where Are You?' , Sally Rooney returns in top form, and it’s an absolute pleasure to experience. IAfter the slightly less impactful 'Beautiful World, Where Are You?' , Sally Rooney returns in top form, and it’s an absolute pleasure to experience. I devoured this novel, which tells the story of two brothers, Ivan and Peter, grappling with their father’s recent death. The narrative explores not only their individual struggles but also their difficulties in communicating with each other.
The stream-of-consciousness writing style and Rooney's meticulous, almost pedantic attention to detail effectively immerse the reader in the characters' perspectives as they wrestle with their emotions, ambitions, and life choices. I thoroughly enjoyed the dynamic, precise language and the multiple perspectives offered on the same events.
I’ve always admired Sally Rooney’s openness in addressing unconventional relationships, and her new novel is no exception. I’m certain this remarkable book will linger in my thoughts for a long time to come....more
The prose in Small Things Like These, shortlisted for the Booker Prize, is precise and impactful despite its brevity. It’s a story of conflicting inteThe prose in Small Things Like These, shortlisted for the Booker Prize, is precise and impactful despite its brevity. It’s a story of conflicting interests, poverty, family life, personal values, and difficult choices that many would shy away from. The novel centers on the abuse faced by girls working in Ireland's Magdalene laundries, focusing on Bill Furlong, a coal merchant in the 1980s. This is literature that makes you pause and reflect. I’m now very curious to see how it will be adapted for the screen....more
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