Early Book Review: Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree

Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree is a fantasy for young adults and adults current scheduled for paperback release on November 8 2022. After a lifetime of bounties and bloodshed, Viv is hanging up her sword for the last time. The battle-weary orc aims to start fresh, opening the first ever coffee shop in the city of Thune. But old and new rivals stand in the way of success, not to mention the fact that no one has the faintest idea what coffee actually is. If Viv wants to put the blade behind her and make her plans a reality, she won't be able to go it alone. But the true rewards of the uncharted path are the travelers you meet along the way. And whether drawn together by ancient magic, flaky pastry, or a freshly brewed cup, they may become partners, family, and something deeper than she ever could have dreamed.

Legends & Lattes was a engaging and entertaining read. I really enjoyed getting to know the characters and setting. I thought that Viv was a great character, and the fact that she was often unsure of things made her a better character in my opinion. I thought the story was fun on several levels, and while advertised as low stakes fantasy, I will say there are some moments that felt very high stakes emotionally for me- even though the fate of the world was not at risk. I greatly enjoyed the cast of characters, and my only complaint is that I want more of all of them. I want prequels and sequels so I can get to know this characters even better.  I would love some companion stories while we are at it, because I want more on several of the secondary characters, not just the main group. I really enjoyed settling in to read this, and it was just what I needed to get excited about reading again and break me out of a reading slump where I was having trouble getting excited about anything I was reading. 

Legends & Lattes was a delightful read, and I am so glad I found it. I am hoping for more!

Book Review: Dreams Factory by Jerome Hamon, Suheb Zako, and Lena Sayaphoum

Dreams Factory is a graphic novel by Jerome Hamon, Suheb Zako, and Lena Sayaphoum. It was translated from French by Jeremy Melloul. The story is set in London, 1892. Like most children in the working-class town where she lives, Indira works the coal mines every day without protest. But when her little brother Eliott disappears, nothing matters anymore. She embarks on a desperate quest to find him and discovers that he is not the only child to have mysteriously disappeared. All clues seem to point to the same person: Cathleen Sachs, the wealthy owner of the coal mines. But why would she kidnap these children? 

Dreams Factory is a highly engaging story. First off, the art is simply splendid, and well worth a look all on its own. I did like the story, and the sibling devotion and complications are many layered and very well done. I thought the more fantastic elements could have used a bit more explanation or fleshing out however. I know the mystery of exactly what is happening is part of the suspense of the story, and it did have me at the edge of my seat. But I do have to admit that the last few pages had me a little confused and I am not at all sure of the particulars of what happened there. Maybe I am just not understanding, but I looked at the ending several times and still have some questions. Perhaps I still missed something, or am not putting the pieces together correctly and it will come to me later. I think expanding on the world and character building in the story would have made it even better. That being said, I still enjoyed the read and will be on the look out for more from this creative team and think the book will be enjoyed by a wide range of readers. 

Dreams Factory is a well written and beautifully illustrated story. It captured my imagination and held my attention well past the time I finished reading it despite some flaws. 

Early Book Review: Frizzy by Claribel A. Ortega, Rose Bousamra

Frizzy is a middle grade graphic novel by Claribel A. Ortega and Rose Bousamra that is currently scheduled for release on October 18 2022.  Marlene loves three things: books, her cool Tía Ruby and hanging out with her best friend Camila. But according to her mother, Paola, the only thing she needs to focus on is school and "growing up." That means straightening her hair every weekend so she could have "presentable", "good hair". But Marlene hates being in the salon and doesn't understand why her curls are not considered pretty by those around her. With a few hiccups, a dash of embarrassment, and the much-needed help of Camila and Tia Ruby—she slowly starts a journey to learn to appreciate and proudly wear her curly hair.

Frizzy is a wonderful graphic novel that had me fighting back tears more than once. While I have never been in Marlene's position regarding something so much a part of me as my hair, I have felt othered and looked down on by those that should have been my safe place. I could understand how she felt when her family made comments about being more lady like and trying harder to fit in. I think just about everyone can think of a time, particularly in our childhood and teen years, when we felt like the world was against us and everything is unfair, and every reader is likely to be able to relate to the story a bit.  I was glad to learn a bit more about how hard it is to take proper care of curly hair, and how it feels to have something that is a part of you have so many connotations and perceptions by just about everyone. I knew about fights about school and work dress codes in regards to hair styles, and I understood on some level about some of the thoughts and feelings surrounding hair, but I was glad to get such a better understanding of it.  I think that the story and art are paired perfectly and tell a highly engaging story. I hope some readers see themselves in this story and have the bravery and support to do what they feel best about in regards to their own self, the willingness to try new things, and the ability to find and have the courage talk to a trusted adult and friend about all the things going on in their heads and hearts. 

Frizzy is a great graphic novel about loving yourself, and being brave enough to make the changes you want. 

Book Review: Wait Till Helen Comes by Mary Downing Hahn

Wait Till Helen Comes by Mary Downing Hahn is a graphic novel adaptation by Scott Peterson, Meredith Laxton, and Russ Bedgett of what is often considered Mary Downing Hahn's spookiest and most popular tale. Two siblings must save their stepsister from the clutches of a vengeful ghost. When their mom remarries, Molly and her brother, Michael, try to make friends with their new stepsister, Heather. But Heather only wants to make trouble for them. She lies and tattles and misbehaves, and somehow they always get the blame. They know she’s trying to drive a wedge between her father and their mother so she can have her father all to herself—and it seems to be working. Then, Heather starts playing in the graveyard behind their new house. She claims she can talk to a ghost named Helen, and her behavior gets even stranger. Michael doesn't believe in ghosts and thinks their new little sister is just looking for more attention. But Molly isn't so certain, especially when Heather threatens that Helen is going to come for them and make them sorry. It seems as though things can’t get any worse—but they do. When Helen comes.

Wait Till Helen Comes is a graphic novel with some great art, and a faithful retelling of a classic children's horror story. I have never been a big horror fan, but Hahn was one exception even when I was in the target audience, because of the amount of real feelings ands character development that she packed into each story. I could easily put myself in Molly's shoes the first time I read this story, and even now as a parent I could still see pieces of myself in the story. The scary moments are well done, with a nice build up and culmination of action. I also love the way the conclusion includes a wrap up for family dynamics and some look at how things played out in the aftermath. The story is compelling and complete with a satisfying conclusion. 

Wait Till Helen Comes is a great adaptation of the novel, with a great balance of creepy and character development.

Early Book Review: Buzzkill: A Wild Wander Through the Weird and Threatened World of Bugs by Brenna Maloney

Buzzkill: A Wild Wander Through the Weird and Threatened World of Bugs, written by Brenna Maloney and illustrated by Dave Mottram, is currently scheduled for release on October 11 2022.  The praying mantis is the only animal on Earth with one ear, and it’s in the middle of its chest. Aphids are born pregnant. Moths can’t fly during an earthquake. If you didn’t know these things, you soon will. Packed full of jaw-dropping facts, Buzzkill presents the big picture on bugs. You might think ew, gross. Insects are icky. Or scary. Or dangerous. They can be. But there’s so much more you need to know. Insects play a critical role on our planet, from sustenance to pollination to medicines and more. Brenna Maloney tackles both the wacky and weird, as well as threats to insects and their habitats, their possible extinction, and ways that everyday people, like you, can prevent their decline.

Buzzkill is very well written. The author has a conversational tone, with some sardonic humor through out the book, to keep readers engaged and interested. I do think that this book would be best suited for the middle school and older crowd, but younger readers that are interested in the topic will likely enjoy the read as well. I have read up a bit on creepy crawlies, and I have to admit that even though some of the facts in the book were things I knew, I still learned a great deal of information, and more importantly was able to put what I already knew and what I just learned into a larger context for a bigger picture. I loved the occasional illustrations in the book, and I thought they were charming and fun. I only wish that some of the more unusual insects had illustrations as well rather than suggestions to go Google them on my own. Some readers will not have a phone or computer handy to do that while they are reading for a variety of reasons. That being said, I greatly enjoyed the read and think a number of children, teens, and yes adults will find an education and entertainment from this read.  

Buzzkill is an entertaining and informative read that will teach every reader a little something about insects.

Early Book Review: Cryptid Club by Sarah Andersen

Cryptid Club by Sarah Andersen is currently scheduled for release on September 20 2022. Do you hate social gatherings? Dodge cameras? Enjoy staying up just a little too late at night? You might have more in common with your local cryptid than you think! Enter the world of Cryptid Club, a look inside the adventures of elusive creatures ranging from Mothman to the Loch Ness Monster. This humorous new series celebrates the unique qualities that make cryptids so desperately sought after by mankind (to no avail). After all, it's what makes us different that also makes us beautiful.

Cryptid Club is a fun and entertaining read. I have enjoyed collections from Andersen before, and I thought the art style and sense of humor held true to what I have seen in the past, and always connected with. I thought the cartoons touched on a full gambit of emotions. Some were cute, others funny, and some were a little sad. However, they all entertained and had a bit of truth or understanding in them. I was entertained and felt like Andersen shared more than a few thoughts and experiences with me, making me feel a little bit more seen and less alone. I think that is a huge achievement for something so fun and enjoyable to read. 

Early Book Review: Everything Is OK by Debbie Tung

Everything Is OK by Debbie Tung is currently scheduled for release on September 6 2022. It is the story of Debbie Tung’s struggle with anxiety and her experience with depression. She shares what it’s like navigating life, overthinking every possible worst-case scenario, and constantly feeling like all hope is lost. In this graphic memoir, Debbie aims to provide positive and comforting messages to anyone who is facing similar difficulties or is just trying to get through a tough time in life. She hopes to encourage readers to be kinder to themselves, to know that they are not alone, and that it’s okay to be vulnerable because they are not defined by their mental health struggles. The dark clouds won’t be there forever. Everything will turn out all right.

Everything Is OK is a great read for anyone that has struggled with any kind of depression or anxiety, or loves someone who has. Sometimes just knowing you are not alone, that there are others that have been through similar struggles and come out the other side gives hope and a bit of peace. I think this graphic memoir does a great job of illustrating one person's struggle- both in accepting that their problems are enough to deserve help. I also like that it seems clear that eveyone's experience and journey dealing with mental health can be different. I agree with the idea that none of us really know what we are doing, and feel inadequate, awkward, or simply bad about ourselves sometimes. It is learning how to treat ourselves with the same care and respect we give others, and giving ourselves the grace that we would give our loved ones, that allows us to keep moving forward and be happier, better people all around. We are enough, each and every one of us. It is sometimes had to believe about myself, but it is soothing to know I am not alone in that doubt, and that I can make steps to do better in caring for myself.

Everything Is OK is a powerful, engaging, and relatable read. Those suffering from depression and/or anxiety can see some of themselves in the story and those that want to better understand how those of us dealing with it feel so they can better empathize and support the people in their lives that do. 

Book Review: Bright Eyes (A Kunoichi Tale) by David Kudler

Bright Eyes is a Kunoichi Tale by David Kudler. The future of Japan hangs in the balance, and it's up to a girl who likes to climb to save the day. Two armies have descended on the Full Moon, and the war that has torn Japan apart for over a century threatens to destroy Lady Chiyome's school for young shrine maidens (and assassins). In this thrilling sequel to Risuko: A Kunoichi Tale, Risuko must face warlords, samurai, angry cooks, a monster in the hills, the truth about her father, a spy among the kunoichi, and a murderer. Someone kills a Takeda lieutenant, staging it to look like suicide. Can Risuko figure out who would do such thing? And can she keep it from happening again?

Bright Eyes is a book that I desperately wanted to read as soon as I saw it existed, and dreaded reading since it had been so long since I had read Risuko. which I remember loving but worried that I would not remember enough to follow this sequel or that it would not live up to my expectations. I should not have worried, or put of starting the book because of those worries for so long. I enjoyed this read just as much as Risuko, and honestly look forward to more. I thought the continued character development for the major characters was well done, and the mystery was handled very well. There were clues, red herrings, and interesting information about all the major players through out the book leaving readers wondering which were the really important bits for the mystery and which were there to help us understand the characters and situation even better. Even though I felt like it had been too long since I read the first book there were little hints about what had happened. Just enough to remind me, but not enough that would bore or bother readers reading the books back to back. In fact, I know there are a few novellas or short stories tied into this series , which I now need to go find and read as soon as possible. I really enjoyed the read and think it will be a hit with a wide range of readers. 

Bright Eyes is an engaging and entertaining read that delivers a rollercoaster of emotion. 

Book Review: Eventually, They All Fall by Jenna Marcus

Eventually, They All Fall by Jenna Marcus is a young adult urban fantasy. Domino Garrison knows that he is the king of all that is weird, but he would rather abdicate that throne. He would rather be a normal teenager who just goes to school and works at a bookstore—and for all intents and purposes—that's exactly how he appears to his peers; however, aside from his best friend, Griswold, no one knows Domino's secret, or his secrets. His father abandoned him and his only family—his mom—when he was 5 years old, and his mom is a drug addict who has a parade of men coming in and out of their home. Oh, and Domino has the ability to see into other people's fantasies. He thinks this ability is pretty useless; however, little does he know that his ability is more powerful and expansive than he thinks. When extraordinary circumstances begin to occur, like massive earthquakes hitting the East coast, exotic animals wandering around zoos that they had not escaped from, and black sludge eviscerating everything in its path, Domino soon discovers that not only can he see fantasies, but he can also pull these fantasies into reality; however, doing so causes horrendous pain and mental anguish as Domino is concerned that the power he has could corrupt his mind. However, he knows that it is up to him—with the support of his friends Griswold and Lucy, and his boss Miles—to put a stop to the unnatural occurrences plaguing the earth before it is too late.

Eventually, They All Fall is a read with a great premise and some intriguing possibilities. I thought the character introduction and building was very well done, and the world building for Domino's gifts was well done. I was glad to see character and relationship growth across the board, and even though there is a hint of romance, it did not take over the other aspects of the story and stayed in the background for the most part. I thought the problems the group faced were well constructed and handled, even if a few details seemed a little too easy for me - but when the magic involved is wish fulfillment it does make sense. There were some twists that went in a completely different direction than I was expecting, and some that follow my expectations. It was nice to be surprised a couple times. I will say that I liked everything about the book, but I did not get that 'I need to get back to reading" urge that some books give me. I do not think it had anything to do with the book or writing, but rather it was not the right book for me at the time. I still will be recommending it to those in my circle that I feel will enjoy it. I think there is a large audience for this book and I am interested to see where the story goes from here. 

Eventually, They All Fall is an engaging read the young adults and adults alike can enjoy.

Early Book Review: The Wolves and Moose of Isle Royale: Restoring an Island Ecosystem by Nancy Castaldo

The Wolves and Moose of Isle Royale: Restoring an Island Ecosystem by Nancy Castaldo is currently scheduled for release on August 6 2022. Journey to the isolated islands of Isle Royale National Park where the longest predator/prey study in the world is being conducted along with a controversial genetic rescue to save not only the wolves and moose, but the entire island ecosystem. For over sixty years, in what has been known as the longest study of predator and prey in the world, scientists have studied the wolves and moose of Isle Royale and the island’s ecology to observe and investigate wildlife populations. But due to illness and underlying factors, the population of wolves on the island has dropped while the number of moose has increased, putting the Isle Royale ecosystem in jeopardy. Now, for the first time ever, scientists are intervening. If they can successfully relocate twenty to thirty wolves from the mainland to Isle Royale, scientists can potentially restore the balance among wolves, moose, and trees of the island's ecosystem. Now the living laboratory experiment begins.

The Wolves and Moose of Isle Royale is a nonfiction book that can be understood and enjoyed by middle grade readers and older., including those of us that have been out of school for longer than we might want to disclose. I thought the text was well written and accessible, and the combination of photographs, sketches, and info boxes help keep the readers focused and interested without overwhelming them. I thought the research was fascinating and I thought the information on the researchers and the next steps were interesting. This isn't a project that is over, it is a work in progress, and effort in motion, and something interested readers can follow in the years to come to see what worked, what did not, and how the ecosystem in fairing, This makes me more excited and invested in the read,  more so that when I read about completed research studies in far off places with vague commentary about what might come next. I love that the endpages include not only the expected glossary and index, but also a bibliography and sources for further information. This always makes me a happy reader, more so when it comes to nonfiction for children. 

Book Review: Sorceline by Sylvia Douyé, Paola Antista

Sorceline, written by Sylvia Douyé and illustrated by Paola Antista, is a middle grade graphic novel that is the first in a series. Welcome to the Island of Vorn, where mythical creatures roam free and only the brightest students are invited to study them. For as long as she can remember, Sorceline has had a knack for the study of mythical creatures. Now a student at Professor Archibald Balzar’s prestigious school of cryptozoology, she’s eager to test her skills and earn a spot as one of Balzar’s apprentices. But for all her knowledge of gorgons, vampires, and griffins, Sorceline is mystified by her fellow humans. While she excels in her studies, she quickly clashes with her classmates, revealing her fiery temper. When one of her rivals suddenly disappears, Sorceline must set aside her anger and join the quest to find her. But the mystery only deepens, leading Sorceline on a journey far darker and more personal than she expected. 

Sorceline is a beautifully drawn graphic novel with some fun twists and turns, layers of mystery, and characters with potential for great growth and challenges. I enjoyed the story on several levels. First off the art work is wonderful, and I thought the use of cursive writing for Soceline's thoughts was very well done, but might throw some readers that have had less exposure to it. I thought the school themes of friendship and rivalry, and relationships in general was well done, but left many loose threads that will need to be looked at again in upcoming volumes. I liked Sorceline's personal journey of trying to figure out the mysteries surrounding her, and her own story and skills. II did think there could have been a bit more character development and world building, just a bit more set up, but I think it all still came together well and I trust there will be some questions answered along the way.  thought everything was well balanced and highly engaging. I was left wanting more, and will be on the look out for future volumes. 

Sorceline is a stunning read, both in artwork and story. I think many readers middle grade and older will greatly enjoy it. 

Early Book Review: Slip by Marika McCoola , Aatmaja Pandya

Slip by Marika McCoola is a graphic novel from Eisner-Award nominated writer Marika McCoola and debut artist Aatmaja Pandya.  It is currently scheduled for release on June 7 2022. 

Right before Jade is about to leave for a summer art intensive, her best friend, Phoebe, attempts suicide. How is Jade supposed to focus on herself right now? But at the Art Farm, Jade has artistic opportunities she’s been waiting for her whole life. And as she gets to know her classmates, she begins to fall for whimsical, upbeat, comfortable-in-her-own-skin Mary. Jade pours herself into making ceramic monsters that vent her stress and insecurities, but when she puts her creatures in the kiln, something unreal happens: they come to life. And they’re taking a stand: if Jade won’t confront her problems, her problems are going to confront her, including the scariest of them all, if Jade grows, prospers, and even falls in love this summer, is she leaving Phoebe behind?

Slip is a beautifully written and drawn story. Jade is struggling on multiple fronts. She is worried about her friend, and if she could have, should have, been able to see what was coming and stop it. Many of us have had these kind of crisis, weather it is about a friend or family member struggling with mental heath, or an accident, or really any traumatic event. Even when we could have had no impact on an event or outcome, the what ifs often eat at us. Jade has to shoulder these thoughts while worrying about leaving her friend behind, guilt over forgetting for even a moment, and doubts about her own art and talent. All of these layers of worry, doubt, and fear would be a lot for anyone to handle, but in your formative years when you are just starting new friendships and maybe more it is even harder. I thing the story and fabulous artwork do a great job of capturing the turmoil and helping readers feel and understand it in a safe way. I think this read is something many readers will relate to on different levels, and can help some come to terms with and face their own issues that might relate to or mirror some of what Jade is sifting through. It is engaging, sweet and funny at times, while also being very deep and sometimes heartrending. I think it might be a hard read for some that are still struggling with related issues, but I think it could be a helpful read when they are ready for it. 

Slip is an emotional story that can speak to readers on a multitude of levels. I recommend it for middle school through adult readers. 

Early Audio Book Review: Book of Knowing and The Book of Overthinking: Dr. Know's Guide to Untangling Your Brain by Gwendoline Smith, Narrated by Liza Seneca

Book of Knowing and The Book of Overthinking: Dr. Know's Guide to Untangling Your Brain was written by Gwendoline Smith, and the audiobook version is narrated by Liza Seneca. It is currently scheduled for release on May 10 2022. 

This is a collection of the works of Dr. Know that provides a little guide to your big feelings. Clinical psychologist Dr. Gwendoline Smith (AKA Dr. Know) provides an informative and accessible guide to understand and manage your feelings. The Book of Knowing contextualizes the basics of cognitive behavioral therapy for anyone new to these concepts. In The Book of Overthinking, Dr. Know expands on the topics of overthinking, ruminating, and worrying — common symptoms of anxiety. By using her clear advice and tangible examples, you'll find powerful strategies for addressing these issues in your life.

I thought both The Book of Knowing and The Book of Overthinking were easy to follow, understand, and connect with. Anyone that has struggled with getting caught in a thought loop of depression or anxiety will recognize that spiral as what she using cognitive behavioral therapy to help readers recognize and overcome. I really like how upfront she is about how sometime life is going to throw bad things our way, because it happens, but helps us recognized what we do and do not have control over and taking the time to process the facts over the initial emotional response can make all the difference. I do wish I had read something like The Book of Knowing when I was in high school or college, it would have been very helpful to me at that point in my life. This book is honestly geared more toward young and new adults, although the advice and information is universal. The Book of Overthinking is aimed more at those of us that are no longer claim membership in those age groups, but again the information is universal. There is a good deal of overlap in the two books, but as a big overthinker myself perhaps hearing it twice will help me implement the tools and strategies offered in the book.  

Book of Knowing and The Book of Overthinking: Dr. Know's Guide to Untangling Your Brain was a great listen and I found it helpful and never condescending. There is humor, honesty, and understanding throughout. The narrator, Liza Seneca, did a wonderful job of capturing those emotions and the intent of the book in her performance. 

Book Review: The Abandoned Reincarnation Sage, Volume 1, by Miraijin A and Kurikaramaru

The Abandoned Reincarnation Sage, Volume 1, written by Miraijin A and drawn by Kurikaramaru is a manga style graphic novel. Belamus was once a great sage with the power of reincarnation...but as all lives must pass, so did his. He reincarnated with his memories, but was suddenly abandoned as a newborn child! Luckily for him, he was adopted by the nearby goblin tribe, but this moment of kindness may mean more for both the Goblins and Belamus than either of them know!

The Abandoned Reincarnation Sage is a charming and well drawn story. I enjoyed the world and character building and thought everything moved at a good pace. I have read a few other reincarnation manga, and I thought that this did a good job with the trope. I liked the village and the collection of characters in it. The growing understanding in Belamus of the similarities of all intelligent creatures is pretty subtle, but the point bis likely to be more obvious as the story continues in future volumes. It was a fun and interesting read, which I enjoyed. I feel like there are many options as to where the story can go next and am interested to see which paths the plot takes us.

Early Book Review: The Doors to Nowhere (Secrets of Camp Whatever) by Chris

The Doors to Nowhere is the second volume of the Secrets of Camp Whatever graphic novel series by Chris Grine. It is currently scheduled for release on May 3 2022. I do recommend reading the series in order to have the full backstory and understand who and what the characters are.

When twelve-year-old Willow went to her weird new town's even weirder summer camp, she didn't expect to get caught up in an ancient mystery involving forest-dwelling vampires, living garden gnomes, and other completely bonkers creatures most people would never believe exist. Now she's not only involved, she's marked—too close to the heart of an ages-old quest for power and control than she should be, and too concerned about her new friends and the dangers they face to let them go it alone. With the help of a spell book and her scrappy crew of camp friends, Willow is about to step through a doorway to magic and discovery that will change her world forever.

The Doors to Nowhere is another well written and skillfully drawn graphic novel for the middle grade and older set. I liked the continuation of the story and how the characters continue to grow as individuals and as part of a friend group. I liked the art style and found the expressiveness of character faces to be on point throughout the book. I thought the reminders of past adventures was well done, reminding readers of important moments without covering too much of the same ground. My only complaint is that I wanted more. The story had a satisfying resolution, with plenty of foreshadowing for further adventures, but it just felt like it was over far to quickly so I went back and enjoyed some of my favorite moments again. I am eager to see where the story goes from here.

The Doors to Nowhere is a great follow up to the first installment, and I look forward to reading what happens next. 

Book Review: Skin of the Sea by Natasha Bowen

Skin of the Sea by Natasha Bowen is a fantasy debut, inspired by West African mythology, in which a mermaid takes on the gods themselves. Simi prayed to the gods, once. Now she serves them as Mami Wata—a mermaid—collecting the souls of those who die at sea and blessing their journeys back home. But when a living boy is thrown overboard, Simi does the unthinkable—she saves his life, going against an ancient decree. And punishment awaits those who dare to defy it. To protect the other Mami Wata, Simi must journey to the Supreme Creator to make amends. But all is not as it seems. There's the boy she rescued, who knows more than he should. And something is shadowing Simi, something that would rather see her fail. Danger lurks at every turn, and as Simi draws closer, she must brave vengeful gods, treacherous lands, and legendary creatures. Because if she doesn't, then she risks not only the fate of all Mami Wata, but also the world as she knows it.

Skin of the Sea is a wonderful book that has adventure, mythology, character growth, and some serious feels. I have read some of the mythology that is referenced in the book, and this read made me want to explore it even further. I was fully engaged in Simi's character right from the start, eager to see where the story would take her and how she came to be on the path that lead to this journey. There are a good number of twists and turns, as there are many powerful players with a stake in the long game. Some of the twists honestly surprised me, as I was waiting on a disaster or betrayal at every moment, and other times I saw it coming a mile away. In all cases going along with Simi as she tries to protect those important to her, and the larger world, to make a positive difference. I thought the heavy moments and subjects were handled extremely well, as were the settings and character building. I look forward to reading more from the author, especially since my only complaint was the ending- since I seriously want some more. 

Skin of the Sea is an amazing read with great regard to history and mythology. Characters and story are well balanced and developed- and all I was left wanting was more.  For those interested, there is an audiobook version available and it is wonderfully done. 

Early Book Review: This May End Badly by Samantha Markum

This May End Badly by Samantha Markum is currently scheduled for release on April 12 2022. Pranking mastermind Doe and her motley band of Weston girls are determined to win the century-long war against Winfield Academy before the clock ticks down on their senior year. But when their headmistress announces that The Weston School will merge with its rival the following year, their longtime feud spirals into chaos. To protect the school that has been her safe haven since her parents’ divorce, Doe puts together a plan to prove once and for all that Winfield boys and Weston girls just don’t mix, starting with a direct hit at Three, Winfield’s boy king and her nemesis. In a desperate move to win, Doe strikes a bargain with Three’s cousin, Wells: If he fake dates her to get under Three’s skin, she’ll help him get back his rightful family heirloom from Three. As the pranks escalate, so do her feelings for her fake boyfriend, and Doe spins lie after lie to keep up her end of the deal. But when a teacher long suspected of inappropriate behavior messes with a younger Weston girl, Doe has to decide what’s more important: winning a rivalry, or joining forces to protect something far more critical than a prank war legacy. This May End Badly is a story about friendship, falling in love, and crossing pretty much every line presented to you—and how to atone when you do.

This May End Badly is an emotional read that covers much more than I expected. I was expecting a lighter read, but quickly found myself engaged in the story and worried about how everything would play out. Doe is not always an easy character to like, but at the same time her struggles to deal with her anger and figure out exactly who she is and what she wants is very understandable. I liked that all characters have their own things going on, even when Doe doesn't notice, because that is how life goes so it made everything more realistic. The amount of things happening and the layers to the story felt like it was almost too much in the moment, but when it all come together it was exactly like what could really happen. I had almost forgotten how vivid and intense everything is when you are a teen, and this was a good reminder as I now have two in my house. I really enjoyed the focus on friendship and how important honesty (especially with yourself) is is the book. The book very much makes the point about sticking to convictions but considering other points of view or options as situations and ideas when you become aware of them. This is not an easy read, while there are definitely some very fun moments. It is emotional and took me on the roller-coaster ride with all the  feels and failures Doe suffered and the epiphanies and successes she fought for. I think this is a great read for young adults and older.  

This May End Badly is an emotional and engaging read. 

Early Audio Book Review: Sense and Second-Degree Murder by Tirzah Price

Sense and Second-Degree Murder by Tirzah Price is currently scheduled for release on April 5 2022. It is the second book in the Jane Austen Murder Mysteries, but can be read as a stand alone since there are only a few references to the first book in this volume.  Usually when reviewing an audio book I credit the narrator(s) and include my thoughts on their performance. However, in this case I listened to a synthetic preview, which is not the final version, so I cannot comment on that at this time. 

In Sense and Second-Degree Murder, aspiring scientist Elinor Dashwood and her sister Marianne, a budding detective, work together to solve the mystery of their father’s murder. When eighteen-year-old aspiring scientist Elinor Dashwood discovers her beloved father slumped over the desk of his office study, she knows his death means dire straits for the Dashwood women. To make matters worse, an outdated will entails his estate—including Norland & Company, the private investigation firm where her younger sister Marianne worked as her father’s partner and protégé—to their half-brother and his haughty wife, who waste no time in forcing the Dashwoods out of their home and into a cramped apartment on London’s Barton Street. But before they go, the Dashwood sisters make a startling discovery that points to foul play, and the killer might be family. Obviously, the girls must investigate. It could be dangerous; it could ruin their reputations; and most importantly, it won’t bring back their father. But if the Dashwood sisters can combine their talents and bring their father’s murderer to justice, it may bring them all some comfort—and it might even lead to love.

Sense and Second-Degree Murder starts readers right as the action begins. I liked the way character development and society interactions were handled, with the twists of very unconventional interests. It held up well to my expectations after having greatly enjoyed  Pride and Premeditation. I loved that Price took aspects of the original, and the characters of course, and twisted it to give the sisters more agency and make the mystery engaging and enjoyable. I thought it was a fun and entertaining read even as some tougher subjects, such as drug abuse, were explored. I liked the dynamic among the Dashwood family, and thought it was realistic and well written. The slow reveal of clues, personalities, and connections was paced well- even though I admit to suspecting certain reveals early on. The journey to the conclusion was greatly enjoyable even as I worried for the characters. I look forward to the third book in this series.

Sense and Second-Degree Murder is a fun and entertaining read that will please fans of Jane Austin, mysteries, and historical fiction. I eagerly await the third installment in the series.