The Girl Who Lied by Shannon Hollinger
Wish You Well by David Baldacci
Madame Bovary by Gustave Flaubert
I recently finished reading:
Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo AND The Hidden Island by Charity Rau
My Reviews:
I loved this book from the start! Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo is a captivating introduction to what most fantasy readers recognize as the Grishaverse. This first book blends rich world-building with a protagonist who instantly wins your heart. Alina Starkov’s voice feels genuine and grounded, making her journey from obscurity to significance more compelling. Her personality—marked by quiet strength, loyalty, and moments of self-doubt—adds depth to a story that might otherwise rely solely on rules of magic and flesh-eating monsters. One of the novel’s greatest strengths is the enduring friendship between Alina and Mal. Their connection, rooted in a shared history and shared struggles, is tested by the extraordinary circumstances they face while apart from one another. Bardugo allows their bond to grow when they reunite, creating an emotional anchor that keeps the story engaging, even as the stakes rise. Equally compelling is the narrative’s unexpected twist surrounding the uncertainty of a powerful hero… or is he a villain? The shift is a shock, and it kept me anxiously engaged. Shadow and Bone is engrossing clear to the end. It balances character development, innate magic, relationship mistrust, and the right amount of suspense. This first story leaves just enough unresolved to spark an interest in the second book. For readers who enjoy character-driven fantasy with a few surprising turns, this first book sets a strong and promising tone for the series.
The Hidden Island by Charity Rau is an engaging adventure that seems especially appropriate for middle grade readers who enjoy imaginative twists on familiar fairy tales. It is the second book in a series, but the story easily stands on its own. Drawing inspiration from Peter Pan and Wendy, Rau weaves recognizable characters and surroundings into a story that feels both nostalgic and new. One of the most intriguing aspects of the book is its darker take on Peter Pan. This reinterpretation adds a bit of tension, giving the story a more complex emotional edge than you might expect. It is a bold choice that keeps the pages turning. The two main characters, Marianna and Will, truly shine throughout the story. Their courage in the face of danger and their compassionate hearts make them easy to admire. They bring warmth and humanity to the narrative, balancing Peter’s darker acts with moments of connection and love. While the story builds suspense effectively, the ending felt somewhat rushed in comparison to its long and anxious buildup. The resolution comes together so fast, almost like a quick flip of a switch after so much tension. I found myself wishing for a more elaborate and satisfying finale. But, overall, The Hidden Island delivers a creative adventure with memorable characters and a unique twist on a classic tale. Despite a slightly underwhelming conclusion, it is an enjoyable read that young audiences will likely deem a fun ride.