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A few years ago, I read The Nightengale, and I thought it would forever be my favourite historical fiction. And then I read SONGS FROM THIS AND THAT COUNTRY.

Sobat is an incredible writer, winding poetry and harsh truths together to make an unforgettable tale. The story is at times horrifying and heart wrenching, tossing me between tears and laughter. It was so real and genuine and incredibly touching. I can't even begin to imagine the endeavour that writing this book must have been. All of the characters are impeccable. It was such a heartfelt exploration of life and the struggles of humanity and generational trauma.

And to cap off all that mastery is the interwoven story of Baba Roga which was told perfectly 🖤

I am obsessed.

Rating: 5/5

(Sidenote: please beware that this book deals heavily with the subject of multiple forms of abuse and PTSD).

@gailsidoniesobat

#fiction #literaryfiction #historicalfiction #generationaltrauma #trauma #ptsd #opera #war #family #romance #abuse #read #reading #readersofinstagram #readersofig #bookstagram #bookrecommendations #bookreviewer #bookworm #babayaga #babaroga

A few years ago, I read The Nightengale, and I thought it would forever be my favourite historical fiction. And then I read SONGS FROM THIS AND THAT COUNTRY.

Sobat is an incredible writer, winding poetry and harsh truths together to make an unforgettable tale. The story is at times horrifying and heart wrenching, tossing me between tears and laughter. It was so real and genuine and incredibly touching. I can't even begin to imagine the endeavour that writing this book must have been. All of the characters are impeccable. It was such a heartfelt exploration of life and the struggles of humanity and generational trauma.

And to cap off all that mastery is the interwoven story of Baba Roga which was told perfectly 🖤

I am obsessed.

Rating: 5/5

(Sidenote: please beware that this book deals heavily with the subject of multiple forms of abuse and PTSD).

@gailsidoniesobat

#fiction #literaryfiction #historicalfiction #generationaltrauma #trauma #ptsd #opera #war #family #romance #abuse #read #reading #readersofinstagram #readersofig #bookstagram #bookrecommendations #bookreviewer #bookworm #babayaga #babaroga

Let me start by saying that C. J. Lavigne has a beautiful way with words. Her descriptions are gorgeous and the idea behind this book is really cool. That being said, I found it just didn't hit the mark. I didn't really understand why they were stranded on the island or why they couldn't leave, and a lot of the characters fell flat. After halfway through the book, the chapters started feeling repetitive. There also wasn't enough of a conflict/tension beyond them having to stay, which wasn't explained enough to convince me they HAD to stay. Amazing idea, I just wish it had been executed a bit differently.

Rating: 1/5

#fiction #speculativefiction #read #reading #readersofig #readersofinstagram #bookrecommendations #bookreviewer #bookstagram #booksofig

Let me start by saying that C. J. Lavigne has a beautiful way with words. Her descriptions are gorgeous and the idea behind this book is really cool. That being said, I found it just didn't hit the mark. I didn't really understand why they were stranded on the island or why they couldn't leave, and a lot of the characters fell flat. After halfway through the book, the chapters started feeling repetitive. There also wasn't enough of a conflict/tension beyond them having to stay, which wasn't explained enough to convince me they HAD to stay. Amazing idea, I just wish it had been executed a bit differently.

Rating: 1/5

#fiction #speculativefiction #read #reading #readersofig #readersofinstagram #bookrecommendations #bookreviewer #bookstagram #booksofig

Unpopular opinion, but...

THE SWORD OF KAIGEN is way overhyped. Sure, I enjoyed parts of it, and certain characters, but I honestly skimmed the last 1/3 and didn't find I was missing anything. I know it connected for a lot of people, but something about it was really lacking for me (although not the number of times she wrote "He was so fast!")

Rating: 1.5/5

#swordofkaigen #swordofkaigenreview #fantasy #war #read #reading #mamaru #matsuda #misaki #takashi #reading #readersofinstagram #readersofig #book #bookrecommendations #bookreviewer #booksofig #bookstagram

Unpopular opinion, but...

THE SWORD OF KAIGEN is way overhyped. Sure, I enjoyed parts of it, and certain characters, but I honestly skimmed the last 1/3 and didn't find I was missing anything. I know it connected for a lot of people, but something about it was really lacking for me (although not the number of times she wrote "He was so fast!")

Rating: 1.5/5

#swordofkaigen #swordofkaigenreview #fantasy #war #read #reading #mamaru #matsuda #misaki #takashi #reading #readersofinstagram #readersofig #book #bookrecommendations #bookreviewer #booksofig #bookstagram

ALL WRONG HORSES ON FIRE THAT GO AWAY IN THE RAIN is an absolutely heart wrenching collection of poems on intergenerational trauma in Indigenous communities. There were so many poems in here that made me pause and reflect, that broke my heart. It's a stunning and important collection that everyone should read, and reread. Let the words sink in. Please.

Rating: 4/5

#poetry #poets #poem #poetrycommunity #Indigenousvoices #canadian #canadianhistory #canada🇨🇦 #bookstagram #booksofig #booksofinstagram #everychildmatters🧡 #read #readersofig #readersofinstagram #reading #bookrecommendations #bookreviewer @newest.press

ALL WRONG HORSES ON FIRE THAT GO AWAY IN THE RAIN is an absolutely heart wrenching collection of poems on intergenerational trauma in Indigenous communities. There were so many poems in here that made me pause and reflect, that broke my heart. It's a stunning and important collection that everyone should read, and reread. Let the words sink in. Please.

Rating: 4/5

#poetry #poets #poem #poetrycommunity #Indigenousvoices #canadian #canadianhistory #canada🇨🇦 #bookstagram #booksofig #booksofinstagram #everychildmatters🧡 #read #readersofig #readersofinstagram #reading #bookrecommendations #bookreviewer @newest.press

ATTIC RAIN is such an exceptional poetry collection. I am a little concerned with how relatable I found it... 😅. The number of times I have looked at my straightener, which is OFF, and repeated in my head OFF OFF OFF, or locked my door and said LOCKED LOCKED LOCKED so that I wouldn't have to go back and check...

These poems are very real. The drawings are a perfect demonstration of how long a simple task like leaving the house can take. And the poetry is such a genuine dive into the brain of someone with OCD.

It's smart, and funny, and eye-opening. I absolutely recommend.

Rating: 5/5

@samanthajonespoet @newest.press #poetry #poets #ocd #poetrycommunity #poetrylovers #book #bookworm #thestruggle #bookstagram #booksofig #read #readersofig #readersofinstagram #bookrecommendations #bookreviews

ATTIC RAIN is such an exceptional poetry collection. I am a little concerned with how relatable I found it... 😅. The number of times I have looked at my straightener, which is OFF, and repeated in my head OFF OFF OFF, or locked my door and said LOCKED LOCKED LOCKED so that I wouldn't have to go back and check...

These poems are very real. The drawings are a perfect demonstration of how long a simple task like leaving the house can take. And the poetry is such a genuine dive into the brain of someone with OCD.

It's smart, and funny, and eye-opening. I absolutely recommend.

Rating: 5/5

@samanthajonespoet @newest.press #poetry #poets #ocd #poetrycommunity #poetrylovers #book #bookworm #thestruggle #bookstagram #booksofig #read #readersofig #readersofinstagram #bookrecommendations #bookreviews

THE BEAUTY OF VULTURES is a beautiful compilation of bird photography and poems. This is the first time I've read a book where the poems were inspired by the photos, and not the other way around. It was really neat reading the poem, comparing it to the photo, and looking for the elements that inspired the content. I particularly loved those that were a little more gothic in nature (as is typical for me 😅). My little heart was very happy with the tarot card inspiration for one of the parts 🙊

If you love nature, birds, photography, and poetry, this should definitely be your next pick!

(Sidenote: my ratings are always based on my personal preference. While I have no complaints about the work itself, the poetry isn't the style I typically gravitate towards, which impacts my rating. Please note that in this case, the rating is NOT a reflection of the talent of the author, just the likelihood that I would pick up this particular book again.)

Rating: 3.5/5

#poetry #poems #poetrycommunity #localauthors #albertaauthors #alberta #yeg #readthenorth #canadian #canada #canada🇨🇦 #canadianauthor #bird #birds #birdwatching #birdphotography #naturephotography #poetrylovers #book #bookstagram #bookstagrammar #booksofig #read #reading #readersofinstagram #readersofig @newest.press

THE BEAUTY OF VULTURES is a beautiful compilation of bird photography and poems. This is the first time I've read a book where the poems were inspired by the photos, and not the other way around. It was really neat reading the poem, comparing it to the photo, and looking for the elements that inspired the content. I particularly loved those that were a little more gothic in nature (as is typical for me 😅). My little heart was very happy with the tarot card inspiration for one of the parts 🙊

If you love nature, birds, photography, and poetry, this should definitely be your next pick!

(Sidenote: my ratings are always based on my personal preference. While I have no complaints about the work itself, the poetry isn't the style I typically gravitate towards, which impacts my rating. Please note that in this case, the rating is NOT a reflection of the talent of the author, just the likelihood that I would pick up this particular book again.)

Rating: 3.5/5

#poetry #poems #poetrycommunity #localauthors #albertaauthors #alberta #yeg #readthenorth #canadian #canada #canada🇨🇦 #canadianauthor #bird #birds #birdwatching #birdphotography #naturephotography #poetrylovers #book #bookstagram #bookstagrammar #booksofig #read #reading #readersofinstagram #readersofig @newest.press

Holy sh*t. This is it. This is the best book I've read all year. My top three of all time.

This book started and ended with a ferocity that is unparalleled. It is unforgiving and ruthless and so full of heart. It deals with incredibly real and current issues in such a fresh and eye-opening way that I genuinely think it could build new empathy in some readers.

It's HUNGER GAMES meets LESSONS IN CHEMISTRY meets BABEL.

I'm stunned by the intensity and horror and beauty. The number of times I gasped out loud or cried -- I cried on PAGE 8. PAGE 8.

@mlwangbooksnews this is a MASTERPIECE.

Rating: 10000000000000/5

#magic #babel #hungergames #lessonsinchemistry #darkfantasy #darkacademia#fallreads #spookyseason

#bloodoverbrighthaven #fantasy #bookrecommendations
#bookreviewer #bookreviews #bookstagram #booksofig #read #reading #readersofig

Holy sh*t. This is it. This is the best book I've read all year. My top three of all time.

This book started and ended with a ferocity that is unparalleled. It is unforgiving and ruthless and so full of heart. It deals with incredibly real and current issues in such a fresh and eye-opening way that I genuinely think it could build new empathy in some readers.

It's HUNGER GAMES meets LESSONS IN CHEMISTRY meets BABEL.

I'm stunned by the intensity and horror and beauty. The number of times I gasped out loud or cried -- I cried on PAGE 8. PAGE 8.

@mlwangbooksnews this is a MASTERPIECE.

Rating: 10000000000000/5

#magic #babel #hungergames #lessonsinchemistry #darkfantasy #darkacademia#fallreads #spookyseason

#bloodoverbrighthaven #fantasy #bookrecommendations
#bookreviewer #bookreviews #bookstagram #booksofig #read #reading #readersofig

This was SO BAD. AWFUL. Pure Harry Potter torture porn. I made it 100 pages, and then skipped to 200 because everyone's like "that's where it gets good!". It did not, in fact, get good. It got worse. I don't know what this author was thinking. I totally understand (and enjoy) dark fantasy but this?! Bruh. Please.

Rating: -1000/5

#alchemised #manacled #fiction #fantasy #darkfantasy #torture #triggerwarning #sa #trauma #book #bookworm #tiktok #booktok #bookrecommendations #bookreviewer #bookstagram #read #reading #readersofinstagram #readersofig

This was SO BAD. AWFUL. Pure Harry Potter torture porn. I made it 100 pages, and then skipped to 200 because everyone's like "that's where it gets good!". It did not, in fact, get good. It got worse. I don't know what this author was thinking. I totally understand (and enjoy) dark fantasy but this?! Bruh. Please.

Rating: -1000/5

#alchemised #manacled #fiction #fantasy #darkfantasy #torture #triggerwarning #sa #trauma #book #bookworm #tiktok #booktok #bookrecommendations #bookreviewer #bookstagram #read #reading #readersofinstagram #readersofig

Erin A. Craig...I am so sorry for what the cover designers did to you.

This book was SO GOOD. It was spooky and creepy and full of terrifying monsters and mass hysteria....and this was the cover.

Why. Just why.

I am so glad @danielle.j.charbonneau recommended I read this, because I would never have picked it up on cover or title alone. And this book deserves to be read. It deserves more clout.

Rating: 4.5/5

#horror #fiction #spooky #fallreads #spookyseason #spookyseasonreads #monsters #religion #read #readmorebooks #readersofig #readersofinstagram #book #bookstagram #booksofig #bookrecommendations #bookreviewer

Erin A. Craig...I am so sorry for what the cover designers did to you.

This book was SO GOOD. It was spooky and creepy and full of terrifying monsters and mass hysteria....and this was the cover.

Why. Just why.

I am so glad @danielle.j.charbonneau recommended I read this, because I would never have picked it up on cover or title alone. And this book deserves to be read. It deserves more clout.

Rating: 4.5/5

#horror #fiction #spooky #fallreads #spookyseason #spookyseasonreads #monsters #religion #read #readmorebooks #readersofig #readersofinstagram #book #bookstagram #booksofig #bookrecommendations #bookreviewer

If you are looking to get into The Roots of Chaos series, do not start with this one.

It was fine but it read like a POV that wasn't long enough to include in the original series, so Shannon removed it and said it was a "prequel." It's best read after the other two books, as it's more of a backstory filler than a standalone in my opinion.

Rating: 2/5

#fantasy #amongtheburningflowers #dragons #fiction #book #bookreview #bookrecommendations #bookstagram #booksofig #read #reading #readersofig #readersofinstagram

If you are looking to get into The Roots of Chaos series, do not start with this one.

It was fine but it read like a POV that wasn't long enough to include in the original series, so Shannon removed it and said it was a "prequel." It's best read after the other two books, as it's more of a backstory filler than a standalone in my opinion.

Rating: 2/5

#fantasy #amongtheburningflowers #dragons #fiction #book #bookreview #bookrecommendations #bookstagram #booksofig #read #reading #readersofig #readersofinstagram

I definitely preferred the first book in this duology, but this one was really good, too! It's a bit more focused on the relationship and life without magic. There were a few amazing twists that ended up not being as grand as I had hoped. There was potential for the book to go epic fantasy, and instead it just...dissolved? But I still really enjoyed it. Ava Reid has a beautiful, poetic style that's absolutely stunning.

TW: suicidal ideation, suicide attempt(s)

Rating: 4/5

#fantasy #darkacademia #mentalillness #magic #book #bookworm #bookstagram #booksofig #bookrecommendations #bookreviewer #read #reading #readersofinstagram #readersofig

I definitely preferred the first book in this duology, but this one was really good, too! It's a bit more focused on the relationship and life without magic. There were a few amazing twists that ended up not being as grand as I had hoped. There was potential for the book to go epic fantasy, and instead it just...dissolved? But I still really enjoyed it. Ava Reid has a beautiful, poetic style that's absolutely stunning.

TW: suicidal ideation, suicide attempt(s)

Rating: 4/5

#fantasy #darkacademia #mentalillness #magic #book #bookworm #bookstagram #booksofig #bookrecommendations #bookreviewer #read #reading #readersofinstagram #readersofig

A STUDY IN DROWNING is sooooo gooooood 😭 Absolutely stunning. It is the most magical, heart-warming, empowering story that reads like a folktale. It's a love letter to stories and to silenced women. I absolutely devoured it and now I need to read everything Ava Reid has ever written. Her style is incredible. It's poetic and gentle and full of visceral imagery and beautiful metaphors. I am obsessed.

TW: the main character has PTSD from an SA so that plays a lot throughout the book.

Rating: 5/5 forever in my heart

#fantasy #fiction #YA #darkacademia #romance #magic #gothic #read #reading #readersofinstagram
#bookreviewer
#bookrecommendations #bookstagram #booksofig #booksofınstagram #bookstagrammar

A STUDY IN DROWNING is sooooo gooooood 😭 Absolutely stunning. It is the most magical, heart-warming, empowering story that reads like a folktale. It's a love letter to stories and to silenced women. I absolutely devoured it and now I need to read everything Ava Reid has ever written. Her style is incredible. It's poetic and gentle and full of visceral imagery and beautiful metaphors. I am obsessed.

TW: the main character has PTSD from an SA so that plays a lot throughout the book.

Rating: 5/5 forever in my heart

#fantasy #fiction #YA #darkacademia #romance #magic #gothic #read #reading #readersofinstagram
#bookreviewer
#bookrecommendations #bookstagram #booksofig #booksofınstagram #bookstagrammar

I am so sad about this book. The first half was SO GOOD. I was telling everyone to read it. But then the second half hit and.....🕳️

The main character is insufferable and she doesn't have a character arc until the last few chapters. The book takes a complete left turn in plot when someone is murdered, and then the original inciting incident is just...subplot? I honestly skimmed the last half of the book because I just couldn't do it. The only redeeming quality was the love interest who was so sweet and endearing.

Rating: 1/5

#fantasy #sapphic #romantasy #fiction #book #bookworm #bookstagram #booksofig #bookreviewer #bookrecommendation #read #reading #readersofig #readersofinstagram #lgbt

I am so sad about this book. The first half was SO GOOD. I was telling everyone to read it. But then the second half hit and.....🕳️

The main character is insufferable and she doesn't have a character arc until the last few chapters. The book takes a complete left turn in plot when someone is murdered, and then the original inciting incident is just...subplot? I honestly skimmed the last half of the book because I just couldn't do it. The only redeeming quality was the love interest who was so sweet and endearing.

Rating: 1/5

#fantasy #sapphic #romantasy #fiction #book #bookworm #bookstagram #booksofig #bookreviewer #bookrecommendation #read #reading #readersofig #readersofinstagram #lgbt

Oh, KATABASIS. Where to begin.

This book is not for people looking for a light read. Much like her earlier work, BABEL, this story is "chalk" full of scholarly concepts (I have to thank my rhetoric teacher for teaching me about syllogisms prior to this book). BUT, the story is so so good. It's dark, and funny, and gruesome, and real, and all the things I love Kuang for. She delivers major twists super casually (as she loves to do, and we love her for it). She builds characters that you both love and hate, and creates the most breathtaking villains. I mean, Lord Yama?! And I love how she blends real concepts with her magic system. *chef's kiss*

I do wish there was a bit more vivid description throughout. I did struggle to picture a lot of the scenes, which isn't something I usually struggle with. But I suppose, how descriptive can you be of a desert landscape?

Rating: 4/5

@kuangrf #katabasis #fantasy #fiction #hell #underworld #hades #darkacademiaaesthetic #darkacademiabooks #book #booktok #bookstagram #booksofig #bookreviewer #bookrecommendation #read #reading #readersofinstagram #readersofig

Oh, KATABASIS. Where to begin.

This book is not for people looking for a light read. Much like her earlier work, BABEL, this story is "chalk" full of scholarly concepts (I have to thank my rhetoric teacher for teaching me about syllogisms prior to this book). BUT, the story is so so good. It's dark, and funny, and gruesome, and real, and all the things I love Kuang for. She delivers major twists super casually (as she loves to do, and we love her for it). She builds characters that you both love and hate, and creates the most breathtaking villains. I mean, Lord Yama?! And I love how she blends real concepts with her magic system. *chef's kiss*

I do wish there was a bit more vivid description throughout. I did struggle to picture a lot of the scenes, which isn't something I usually struggle with. But I suppose, how descriptive can you be of a desert landscape?

Rating: 4/5

@kuangrf #katabasis #fantasy #fiction #hell #underworld #hades #darkacademiaaesthetic #darkacademiabooks #book #booktok #bookstagram #booksofig #bookreviewer #bookrecommendation #read #reading #readersofinstagram #readersofig

It was really interesting reading this after @wwc_festival_yyc this weekend! One of the sessions was on the monstrous feminine, where three female horror authors talked about women in horror. One of the things that stuck with me the most was that in male written horror, the men are afraid of monsters. In female written horror, the women are often of men, and the women BECOME the monsters.

Enter THE WOODS ALL BLACK. This queer horror novella is very unsettling. Set in the 1920s in the Appalachian mountains, two transgender women have to fight against a town and priest that is staunchly determined to change their "ways." It is a story of redemption and revenge and it's oh so good.

(Also explicit love scenes if you're into that kind of thing 👀)

Rating: 3.5/5

#horror #fiction #lgbt #transgender #revenge #monsters #appalachianmountains #appalachia #folklore #read #reading #readersofig #readersofinstagram #bookstagram #booksofig #booksofınstagram

It was really interesting reading this after @wwc_festival_yyc this weekend! One of the sessions was on the monstrous feminine, where three female horror authors talked about women in horror. One of the things that stuck with me the most was that in male written horror, the men are afraid of monsters. In female written horror, the women are often of men, and the women BECOME the monsters.

Enter THE WOODS ALL BLACK. This queer horror novella is very unsettling. Set in the 1920s in the Appalachian mountains, two transgender women have to fight against a town and priest that is staunchly determined to change their "ways." It is a story of redemption and revenge and it's oh so good.

(Also explicit love scenes if you're into that kind of thing 👀)

Rating: 3.5/5

#horror #fiction #lgbt #transgender #revenge #monsters #appalachianmountains #appalachia #folklore #read #reading #readersofig #readersofinstagram #bookstagram #booksofig #booksofınstagram

STRANGE HOUSES was okay. I feel like the most chilling twist was revealing too soon? And then the rest of the book actually somehow made it less messed up? I don't know. I didn't love it as much as I had hoped. I had also hoped that we as readers would need to do more detective work with the floor plans, but they literally showed us all the answers, so that made me kind of sad.

Rating: 1.75/5

#horror #thriller #fiction #mystery #read #reading #readersofig #bookstagram #bookrecommendation #bookreviewer #book #booksofınstagram #booksofig #japanesefiction

STRANGE HOUSES was okay. I feel like the most chilling twist was revealing too soon? And then the rest of the book actually somehow made it less messed up? I don't know. I didn't love it as much as I had hoped. I had also hoped that we as readers would need to do more detective work with the floor plans, but they literally showed us all the answers, so that made me kind of sad.

Rating: 1.75/5

#horror #thriller #fiction #mystery #read #reading #readersofig #bookstagram #bookrecommendation #bookreviewer #book #booksofınstagram #booksofig #japanesefiction

This book was very strange. I skimmed a huge portion of it and really didn't enjoy the one point of view. I wish that he had just written a book from Navidson's point of view and left out the rest. But, alas. Honestly, the true hero here is the book designer.

Rating: 2/5 (and only because of the design and the one point of view).

#houseofleaves #horror #hauntedhouse #monsters #cultbooks #booktok #bookstagram #booksofınstagram #bookrecommendation #bookreview #read #reading #readersofinstagram #readersofig #thriller #family

This book was very strange. I skimmed a huge portion of it and really didn't enjoy the one point of view. I wish that he had just written a book from Navidson's point of view and left out the rest. But, alas. Honestly, the true hero here is the book designer.

Rating: 2/5 (and only because of the design and the one point of view).

#houseofleaves #horror #hauntedhouse #monsters #cultbooks #booktok #bookstagram #booksofınstagram #bookrecommendation #bookreview #read #reading #readersofinstagram #readersofig #thriller #family

Okay, this book was INSANE.

SOUR CHERRY is a modern retelling of Bluebeard that reads like a folktale in its own right. It is dark, and macabre, and full of heart. I am absolutely stunned by this piece of art. Every sentence is poetry but it doesn't get old or take away from the story. SOUR CHERRY was absolute perfection. I am obsessed with it.

@natalia.theodoridou you are an INCREDIBLE writer with such a unique voice. Please never ever stop writing.

Rating: 5/5

#fiction #horror #folktale #bluebeard #toxicmasculinity
#feminism #folklore #read #readmorebooks #lgbt #polyamorous #reading #ghost #ghoststories #book #bookstagram #booksofig #bookreviewer #bookrecommendation

Okay, this book was INSANE.

SOUR CHERRY is a modern retelling of Bluebeard that reads like a folktale in its own right. It is dark, and macabre, and full of heart. I am absolutely stunned by this piece of art. Every sentence is poetry but it doesn't get old or take away from the story. SOUR CHERRY was absolute perfection. I am obsessed with it.

@natalia.theodoridou you are an INCREDIBLE writer with such a unique voice. Please never ever stop writing.

Rating: 5/5

#fiction #horror #folktale #bluebeard #toxicmasculinity
#feminism #folklore #read #readmorebooks #lgbt #polyamorous #reading #ghost #ghoststories #book #bookstagram #booksofig #bookreviewer #bookrecommendation

I love Amanda Lovelace's poetry. It's always so empowering. Her poetry is short, but every time I pick up one of her poetry books, it seems to have exactly what I need to hear at that time.

Plus the illustrations inside are so beautiful 😍

Love love love.

Rating: 4/5

#poetry #poems #poetrycommunity #poetrylovers #read #reading #readersofinstagram #readersofig #poet #amandalovelace #moth #motherhood #book #books #bookstagram #booksofig #bookreviewer

I love Amanda Lovelace's poetry. It's always so empowering. Her poetry is short, but every time I pick up one of her poetry books, it seems to have exactly what I need to hear at that time.

Plus the illustrations inside are so beautiful 😍

Love love love.

Rating: 4/5

#poetry #poems #poetrycommunity #poetrylovers #read #reading #readersofinstagram #readersofig #poet #amandalovelace #moth #motherhood #book #books #bookstagram #booksofig #bookreviewer

Fun title, did not enjoy.

I loved the first half of the book. Liz Worth has such a poetic writing style that made this spooky book absolutely beautiful. Untilllll things started getting gruesome and super creepy. And then her poetic style was in such juxtaposition to the content that neither really worked.

Curious to hear your thoughts if you read this?

#horror #fiction #creepy #spooky #read #reading #readersofig #readersofinstagram #book #bookstagram #booksofig #bookrecommendation #bookreview

Fun title, did not enjoy.

I loved the first half of the book. Liz Worth has such a poetic writing style that made this spooky book absolutely beautiful. Untilllll things started getting gruesome and super creepy. And then her poetic style was in such juxtaposition to the content that neither really worked.

Curious to hear your thoughts if you read this?

#horror #fiction #creepy #spooky #read #reading #readersofig #readersofinstagram #book #bookstagram #booksofig #bookrecommendation #bookreview

Island Witch was really enjoyable! I got this one at @littleghostsbooks when I was searching for something that could compare to Vampires of El Norte and Lone Women. While it wasn't quite as good as those two, it did have a very similar feel. The main character's dreams were brutal and terrifying, as was the creature haunting her. And in a similar refrain to the other two books I referenced, Island Witch was overflowing with themes of colonialism and feminism. I do love a book where the villain is manifested as a result of a sick society.

TW: sexual assault, gore, domestic violence

Rating: 4/5

#horror #fiction #scary #feminism #feminist #anticolonialism
#haunted #haunting #book #bookworm #bookstagram
#booksofınstagram #booksofig #read #reading #readersofig #readersofinstagram #bookreviewer #bookrecommendation

Island Witch was really enjoyable! I got this one at @littleghostsbooks when I was searching for something that could compare to Vampires of El Norte and Lone Women. While it wasn't quite as good as those two, it did have a very similar feel. The main character's dreams were brutal and terrifying, as was the creature haunting her. And in a similar refrain to the other two books I referenced, Island Witch was overflowing with themes of colonialism and feminism. I do love a book where the villain is manifested as a result of a sick society.

TW: sexual assault, gore, domestic violence

Rating: 4/5

#horror #fiction #scary #feminism #feminist #anticolonialism
#haunted #haunting #book #bookworm #bookstagram
#booksofınstagram #booksofig #read #reading #readersofig #readersofinstagram #bookreviewer #bookrecommendation

Remember how I said I didn't like vampire books? Well...that was before I read this one 😅

VAMPIRES OF EL NORTE is so freaking good. Instead of your typical human vampires, Canas uses monsters of pure nightmares. It reminded me a lot of Lone Women by Victor LaVelle, except that there was a romance plot added to this story. Even with the romantic aspect, Canas managed to write a strong, feminist, anti-colonialist horror novel that was absolute perfection. I loved this one.

Rating: 5/5

#fiction #horror #vampire #vampires #buryourbonesinthemidnightsoil #bobitms #anticolonialism #feminist #feminism #book #bookreview #bookrecommendation #bookworm #read #reading #readersofig #readersofinstagram

Remember how I said I didn't like vampire books? Well...that was before I read this one 😅

VAMPIRES OF EL NORTE is so freaking good. Instead of your typical human vampires, Canas uses monsters of pure nightmares. It reminded me a lot of Lone Women by Victor LaVelle, except that there was a romance plot added to this story. Even with the romantic aspect, Canas managed to write a strong, feminist, anti-colonialist horror novel that was absolute perfection. I loved this one.

Rating: 5/5

#fiction #horror #vampire #vampires #buryourbonesinthemidnightsoil #bobitms #anticolonialism #feminist #feminism #book #bookreview #bookrecommendation #bookworm #read #reading #readersofig #readersofinstagram

I am SO SAD that this is a DNF. I was super excited for an Appalachian mountain story, but my god, that was the only good thing about this. Literally everything else was a trope.

Woman leaves "weird" family behind for normal life, meets rich man, falls in love and gets married, has two kids, gets divorced and has no money so has to move kids back to magical grandmother's house. Kids have the magic! OH NO! Second day--enter high school best friend who she kissed once and then never talked to again. He's EVEN HOTTER. And he's single and has a sick father.

I just can't. I'm so sad. I was hoping for so much more.

Alas.

If anyone knows of any good books that take place in or are about the Appalachian mountains, please let me know! I am desperate!

Rating: DNF

#fiction #magic #appalachianmountains #spooky #tropes #book #bookstagram #booksofig #bookreview #bookreviewer #bookstagrammar #bookworm #read #readersofinstagram #bookrecommendation #reading #readersofig

I am SO SAD that this is a DNF. I was super excited for an Appalachian mountain story, but my god, that was the only good thing about this. Literally everything else was a trope.

Woman leaves "weird" family behind for normal life, meets rich man, falls in love and gets married, has two kids, gets divorced and has no money so has to move kids back to magical grandmother's house. Kids have the magic! OH NO! Second day--enter high school best friend who she kissed once and then never talked to again. He's EVEN HOTTER. And he's single and has a sick father.

I just can't. I'm so sad. I was hoping for so much more.

Alas.

If anyone knows of any good books that take place in or are about the Appalachian mountains, please let me know! I am desperate!

Rating: DNF

#fiction #magic #appalachianmountains #spooky #tropes #book #bookstagram #booksofig #bookreview #bookreviewer #bookstagrammar #bookworm #read #readersofinstagram #bookrecommendation #reading #readersofig

THE FAMILIAR was SO GOOD. The story felt original, I loved so many of the characters, and the ending had such a perfect twist. I also really loved how she explored religion. Ugh, SO GOOD.

I absolutely loved it. It broke me out of my reading slump (finally).

Rating: 5/5

#fiction #fantasy #magic #thefamiliar #read #reading #readersofinstagram #book #bookworm #booksofig #booksofınstagram #bookreview #bookrecommendation

THE FAMILIAR was SO GOOD. The story felt original, I loved so many of the characters, and the ending had such a perfect twist. I also really loved how she explored religion. Ugh, SO GOOD.

I absolutely loved it. It broke me out of my reading slump (finally).

Rating: 5/5

#fiction #fantasy #magic #thefamiliar #read #reading #readersofinstagram #book #bookworm #booksofig #booksofınstagram #bookreview #bookrecommendation

If you're looking for a heart story, look no further. I picked this up after reading her first novel, We All Want Impossible Things and falling in love with it. This one wasn't quite as good, but I still really enjoyed it. Catherine Newman has such a unique way of telling a story. Her style really brings the characters to life, almost like watching a TV show, and her wit is amazing. I love how funny and imperfect her characters are.

Rating: 3.5/5

#fiction #sandwich #read #reading #readersofinstagram #book #bookworm #bookstagram #booksofig #bookreview #bookrecommendation

If you're looking for a heart story, look no further. I picked this up after reading her first novel, We All Want Impossible Things and falling in love with it. This one wasn't quite as good, but I still really enjoyed it. Catherine Newman has such a unique way of telling a story. Her style really brings the characters to life, almost like watching a TV show, and her wit is amazing. I love how funny and imperfect her characters are.

Rating: 3.5/5

#fiction #sandwich #read #reading #readersofinstagram #book #bookworm #bookstagram #booksofig #bookreview #bookrecommendation

Sigh.

I have very mixed feelings about this book.

First of all, let me say that I don't like vampire stories. "Then why'd you read this book?" Because I will read literally anything that V. E. Schwab publishes. And her writing and voice shine in this book as always. BUT...

I did not like Vengeful or Vicious and the one character read too much like the ones in that duology.

There are only so many times you can describe someone drinking blood from someone's neck.

The characters that I absolutely loved...well, you'll see when you read it.

It was beautiful and for a good portion, boring. The majority of the twists and big moments were in the last 200 pages. There were some scenes that were hella dark and uncomfortable, and some that were so creepy and macabre that they made my skin crawl but that I loved regardless. And then there were some that were so boring I skimmed them.

As for the ending, I hated it. It felt forced, and short, and unrealistic and was in every way unsatisfying.

But read it for yourself. Perhaps you'll like it more than I did.

Rating: 3/5? Again...her voice is amazing as always. But I'm just...disappointed.

(Also, WHO APPROVED THIS COVER ART?! What in the amateur romantasy tiled art is this?! Ugh.)

Let me know if you've read it and what your thoughts are! (No spoilers for my followers, though!)

#buryourbonesinthemidnightsoil
#vampire #sapphic #wlw #lgbt #fiction #fantasy #horror #romantasy #veschwab #read #reading #book #books #bookreviewer #bookreccomendations #bookstagram #booksofig #readersofinstagram

Sigh.

I have very mixed feelings about this book.

First of all, let me say that I don't like vampire stories. "Then why'd you read this book?" Because I will read literally anything that V. E. Schwab publishes. And her writing and voice shine in this book as always. BUT...

I did not like Vengeful or Vicious and the one character read too much like the ones in that duology.

There are only so many times you can describe someone drinking blood from someone's neck.

The characters that I absolutely loved...well, you'll see when you read it.

It was beautiful and for a good portion, boring. The majority of the twists and big moments were in the last 200 pages. There were some scenes that were hella dark and uncomfortable, and some that were so creepy and macabre that they made my skin crawl but that I loved regardless. And then there were some that were so boring I skimmed them.

As for the ending, I hated it. It felt forced, and short, and unrealistic and was in every way unsatisfying.

But read it for yourself. Perhaps you'll like it more than I did.

Rating: 3/5? Again...her voice is amazing as always. But I'm just...disappointed.

(Also, WHO APPROVED THIS COVER ART?! What in the amateur romantasy tiled art is this?! Ugh.)

Let me know if you've read it and what your thoughts are! (No spoilers for my followers, though!)

#buryourbonesinthemidnightsoil
#vampire #sapphic #wlw #lgbt #fiction #fantasy #horror #romantasy #veschwab #read #reading #book #books #bookreviewer #bookreccomendations #bookstagram #booksofig #readersofinstagram

Ya'll...I knew this was going to be a messed up book...but it got too messed up with not enough reasoning behind it. It felt like shock for shocks sake, aka trauma porn. If you think otherwise, I'd love to hear your thoughts. But this one's going back to the bookstore.

#dnf #flowersintheattic #read #readersofig #readersofinstagram #reading #book #bookworm #books #booksofig #booksofinstagram #bookreview #bookrecommendations

Ya'll...I knew this was going to be a messed up book...but it got too messed up with not enough reasoning behind it. It felt like shock for shocks sake, aka trauma porn. If you think otherwise, I'd love to hear your thoughts. But this one's going back to the bookstore.

#dnf #flowersintheattic #read #readersofig #readersofinstagram #reading #book #bookworm #books #booksofig #booksofinstagram #bookreview #bookrecommendations

I wrote this poem at a writing conference last year and then promptly lost it. As I was flipping through my reading journal, lo and behold, there she was!

I hope you enjoy it as much as I enjoyed writing it. 🖤🥳🎂

Visit caityaga.com for more of my work!

#poetsofinstagram #poetsofig #poetry #poems #poetrylovers #birthday #birthdaygirl #birthdayparty #birthdaycake #chocolate #birthdaygift #happybirthday #thriller #mukduk #twist #read #resding #readersofig #readersofinstagram #poetrycommunity #poetryisnotdead #poet

I wrote this poem at a writing conference last year and then promptly lost it. As I was flipping through my reading journal, lo and behold, there she was!

I hope you enjoy it as much as I enjoyed writing it. 🖤🥳🎂

Visit caityaga.com for more of my work!

#poetsofinstagram #poetsofig #poetry #poems #poetrylovers #birthday #birthdaygirl #birthdayparty #birthdaycake #chocolate #birthdaygift #happybirthday #thriller #mukduk #twist #read #resding #readersofig #readersofinstagram #poetrycommunity #poetryisnotdead #poet

Do not go into this expecting an easy read, but that's the point. Omar El Akkad is an Egyptian-Canadian journalist (calling all my journalist major friends) who has reported on some of the most horrific political and racially-driven crimes committed to human beings. In this deep-dive, he is completely unapologetic about our society and how badly it needs to change. I don't remember the last time I tagged this many pages.

"Under this ordering, it is not some corporation's increasing capacity for better that drives the extraction world, but everyone else's increasing tolerance for worse."

"...a fear that any society whose functioning demands one ignore carnage of this scale for the sake of artificial normalcy is by definition sociopathic."

Using the metaphor of Star Wars: "...so much of the American self-image demands a narrative in which his country plays the role of the rebel, the resistance, when at the same time every shred of contemporary evidence around him leads to the conclusion that, by scope and scale and purpose of violence, this country is clearly the empire."

"Either hundreds of millions of people have always been predisposed to the lure of the fascist, or something of corporate liberalism has brought us here."

Unreal. El Akkad has my brain reeling and my heart aching.

Rating: 5/5

#nonfiction #onedayeveryonewillhavealwaysbeenagainstthis #omarelakkad #journalist #journalism #reporting #read #reading #readersofig #readersofinstagram #book #books #bookworm #bookhoarder #bookstagram #booksofig #bookstagrammer #bookreviews #bookrecommendations

Do not go into this expecting an easy read, but that's the point. Omar El Akkad is an Egyptian-Canadian journalist (calling all my journalist major friends) who has reported on some of the most horrific political and racially-driven crimes committed to human beings. In this deep-dive, he is completely unapologetic about our society and how badly it needs to change. I don't remember the last time I tagged this many pages.

"Under this ordering, it is not some corporation's increasing capacity for better that drives the extraction world, but everyone else's increasing tolerance for worse."

"...a fear that any society whose functioning demands one ignore carnage of this scale for the sake of artificial normalcy is by definition sociopathic."

Using the metaphor of Star Wars: "...so much of the American self-image demands a narrative in which his country plays the role of the rebel, the resistance, when at the same time every shred of contemporary evidence around him leads to the conclusion that, by scope and scale and purpose of violence, this country is clearly the empire."

"Either hundreds of millions of people have always been predisposed to the lure of the fascist, or something of corporate liberalism has brought us here."

Unreal. El Akkad has my brain reeling and my heart aching.

Rating: 5/5

#nonfiction #onedayeveryonewillhavealwaysbeenagainstthis #omarelakkad #journalist #journalism #reporting #read #reading #readersofig #readersofinstagram #book #books #bookworm #bookhoarder #bookstagram #booksofig #bookstagrammer #bookreviews #bookrecommendations

I'm so sorry, but I just don't get the hype. I do enjoy her longer poems, but there wasn't anything unique or special about most of the rest of them. It would have been neat if she'd combined the shorter ones. Anyways...

Rating: 2/5

#rupikaur #poetry #poems #milkandhoney #read #reading #readersofinstagram #readersofig #book #bookworm #bookstagram #booksofig

I'm so sorry, but I just don't get the hype. I do enjoy her longer poems, but there wasn't anything unique or special about most of the rest of them. It would have been neat if she'd combined the shorter ones. Anyways...

Rating: 2/5

#rupikaur #poetry #poems #milkandhoney #read #reading #readersofinstagram #readersofig #book #bookworm #bookstagram #booksofig

This is hands down the best poetry book I've ever read. @kyoleewrites is an incredible poet, and if you haven't read this yet, you're doing yourself a disservice. Kyo Lee explores "the Asian American diaspora, queerness, girlhood, and the relationships between them" with some of the most beautiful and heart-wrenching imagery. As a bisexual woman who grew up in the church and has struggled with my own identity, Kyo Lee made me feel incredibly seen.

Some of my favourite lines:

"You come home to your mother at the cutting board slicing money into green cards."

"I wait for monsoon season, the sky's swinging underbelly thumping with the heartbeats of an unborn child."

"It's raining. Bamboo skeletons rattling the night."

"I sucked the metal edges of empty pop cans to scythe my lips on sweetness."

"I've learned women & desire as synonyms."

Rating: 5/5 I will reread this all the time.

#poem #poetry #poetsofinstagram #poetsofig #book #bookstagram #booksofig #lgbt #2slgbtqia #bisexual #bi #diaspora #girlhood #relationships #womanhood #bookreviews #read #reading #readersofinstagram #readersofig

This is hands down the best poetry book I've ever read. @kyoleewrites is an incredible poet, and if you haven't read this yet, you're doing yourself a disservice. Kyo Lee explores "the Asian American diaspora, queerness, girlhood, and the relationships between them" with some of the most beautiful and heart-wrenching imagery. As a bisexual woman who grew up in the church and has struggled with my own identity, Kyo Lee made me feel incredibly seen.

Some of my favourite lines:

"You come home to your mother at the cutting board slicing money into green cards."

"I wait for monsoon season, the sky's swinging underbelly thumping with the heartbeats of an unborn child."

"It's raining. Bamboo skeletons rattling the night."

"I sucked the metal edges of empty pop cans to scythe my lips on sweetness."

"I've learned women & desire as synonyms."

Rating: 5/5 I will reread this all the time.

#poem #poetry #poetsofinstagram #poetsofig #book #bookstagram #booksofig #lgbt #2slgbtqia #bisexual #bi #diaspora #girlhood #relationships #womanhood #bookreviews #read #reading #readersofinstagram #readersofig

I had such high hopes for this one. It started off reminding me of the Priory portion of The Priory of The Orange Tree, but it completely lost me somewhere in the first half. I struggled through, skimmed a bunch, thanking the gods that it's a novella, only to find the ending lacking and the twist unsurprising.

I am sad.

Rating: 1/5

#fiction #fantasy #novella #read #reading #readersofig #readersofinstagram #book #bookworm #bookreview #bookrecommendations #bookstagram #booksofig #intheshadowofthefall

I had such high hopes for this one. It started off reminding me of the Priory portion of The Priory of The Orange Tree, but it completely lost me somewhere in the first half. I struggled through, skimmed a bunch, thanking the gods that it's a novella, only to find the ending lacking and the twist unsurprising.

I am sad.

Rating: 1/5

#fiction #fantasy #novella #read #reading #readersofig #readersofinstagram #book #bookworm #bookreview #bookrecommendations #bookstagram #booksofig #intheshadowofthefall

This book is so hyped but I just...don't get why? There are aspects of it that I did enjoy, but overall it felt dragged out and flat, so what should have been an incredible twist was just...meh. I did appreciate the aspect of people from the past trying to fit into our modern society, but the book used that to carry the plot for a really long time. There were a few tragic moments that I should have thrown the book but instead was unsurprised.

Rating: 2.5/5

#aministryoftime #fiction #sciencefiction #timetravel #read #reading #readersofinstagram
#readstagram
#book #bookstagram #booksofig #booksofinstagram

This book is so hyped but I just...don't get why? There are aspects of it that I did enjoy, but overall it felt dragged out and flat, so what should have been an incredible twist was just...meh. I did appreciate the aspect of people from the past trying to fit into our modern society, but the book used that to carry the plot for a really long time. There were a few tragic moments that I should have thrown the book but instead was unsurprised.

Rating: 2.5/5

#aministryoftime #fiction #sciencefiction #timetravel #read #reading #readersofinstagram
#readstagram
#book #bookstagram #booksofig #booksofinstagram

I read this one through NetGalley, and I have to say, I'm disappointed. A lot of the poems were repetitive and there were several instances of spelling, grammar, and tense errors. I struggled to finish this. There was only one poem near the beginning that I enjoyed.

Rating: 1/5

#poem #poetry #poems #read #reading #readersofig #readersofinstagram #book #books #bookrecommendations #bookreviews #bookstagram #booksofig #netgalley @netgalley

I read this one through NetGalley, and I have to say, I'm disappointed. A lot of the poems were repetitive and there were several instances of spelling, grammar, and tense errors. I struggled to finish this. There was only one poem near the beginning that I enjoyed.

Rating: 1/5

#poem #poetry #poems #read #reading #readersofig #readersofinstagram #book #books #bookrecommendations #bookreviews #bookstagram #booksofig #netgalley @netgalley

I know I'm a bit late to the party on this one, so thank you @bekahissupercool for gifting this to me.

ANXIOUS PEOPLE was exactly the kind of book I needed to read right now, having been in a reading slump. While Backman does ramble on a bit, this is a (mostly) light-hearted and extremely human story of hope, friendship and redemption. It was funny, entertaining, and comforting. It was a warm blanket.

TW: suicide

Rating: 4/5

#anxiouspeople #anxiety #mentalhealth #friendship #community #2slgbtqia #lgbt #read #reading #readersofig #readersofinstagram #book #bookworm #booksofig #bookrecommendations #bookreviews #bookstagram

I know I'm a bit late to the party on this one, so thank you @bekahissupercool for gifting this to me.

ANXIOUS PEOPLE was exactly the kind of book I needed to read right now, having been in a reading slump. While Backman does ramble on a bit, this is a (mostly) light-hearted and extremely human story of hope, friendship and redemption. It was funny, entertaining, and comforting. It was a warm blanket.

TW: suicide

Rating: 4/5

#anxiouspeople #anxiety #mentalhealth #friendship #community #2slgbtqia #lgbt #read #reading #readersofig #readersofinstagram #book #bookworm #booksofig #bookrecommendations #bookreviews #bookstagram

I couldn't get into this one. The dialogue was extremely unrealistic and the plot was moving so quickly I was getting whiplash and was continuously pulled out of the story. It felt like I was reading a story someone had written instead of experiencing one, if that makes sense.

Rating: DNF

#fiction #dnf #read #reading #readersofig #readersofinstagram #book #books #bookreview #bookrecommendations #bookstagram #booksofig #booksofinstagram #theleftoverwoman

I couldn't get into this one. The dialogue was extremely unrealistic and the plot was moving so quickly I was getting whiplash and was continuously pulled out of the story. It felt like I was reading a story someone had written instead of experiencing one, if that makes sense.

Rating: DNF

#fiction #dnf #read #reading #readersofig #readersofinstagram #book #books #bookreview #bookrecommendations #bookstagram #booksofig #booksofinstagram #theleftoverwoman

I wrote this poem last year but it couldn't be more relevant. It's finally uploaded to my website as well.

Feel free to share, but please tag me if you do 🖤

All the love. Stay strong out there.

#writing #writersofinstagram #writemore #poetry #poems #womenempowerment #womenauthors #womensrights #womensrightsarehumanrights #righttochoose #motherhood #childless #childlessbychoice #birth #mybodymychoice #author #authorsofinstagram #authorsofig

I wrote this poem last year but it couldn't be more relevant. It's finally uploaded to my website as well.

Feel free to share, but please tag me if you do 🖤

All the love. Stay strong out there.

#writing #writersofinstagram #writemore #poetry #poems #womenempowerment #womenauthors #womensrights #womensrightsarehumanrights #righttochoose #motherhood #childless #childlessbychoice #birth #mybodymychoice #author #authorsofinstagram #authorsofig

New website landing page 🖤

www.caityaga.com

#writing #writersofinstagram #writingcommunity #writinglife #author #authorlife #authorsofinstagram #read #reading #readmorebooks #readersofinstagram #bookstagram

New website landing page 🖤

www.caityaga.com

#writing #writersofinstagram #writingcommunity #writinglife #author #authorlife #authorsofinstagram #read #reading #readmorebooks #readersofinstagram #bookstagram

Another amazing book from @profseaquill

I didn't enjoy it as much as the first one, but I still really liked it. It follows similar themes of deceit, corruption, and power, but this one was extra interesting because it shows how subversive truth can be.

I can't wait for the last installment in this series 🙊

Rating: 4/5

#fantasy #novella #power #corruption #read #reading #readersofig #readersofinstagram #book #bookrecommendations #bookreviews #bookstagram #booksofinstagram

Another amazing book from @profseaquill

I didn't enjoy it as much as the first one, but I still really liked it. It follows similar themes of deceit, corruption, and power, but this one was extra interesting because it shows how subversive truth can be.

I can't wait for the last installment in this series 🙊

Rating: 4/5

#fantasy #novella #power #corruption #read #reading #readersofig #readersofinstagram #book #bookrecommendations #bookreviews #bookstagram #booksofinstagram

Another wonderful anthology by LABERINTO, this time focusing on taste. These types of stories always make me a little sad. I wish I'd had more opportunity to cook traditional meals with my grandmothers. But I do appreciate the memories that I do have. I don't remember the names, but I could never forget my grandmother's amazing vegetable soup that was always loaded with dill and cream, her farmer sausage and potato soup, and the fresh buns loaded with butter. She also had the best garden. I can still taste the fresh carrots, raspberries, and peas even decades later. But anyways...

I particularly enjoyed Disposable Double Double Lives, partially because it hits close to home--I am very familiar with the old Edmonton City Centre food court, as well as the new one. But, also because it was incredibly eye opening regarding the Temporary Foreign Workers Programme and how it's taken advantage of so many people.

Favourite quote:

"When food is politicised, what we consume is our resistance." - Asma Sayed

Rating: 3.5/5

#food #foodie #foodiesofinstagram #fiction #nonfiction #anthology #read #reading #readmorebooks #readersofinstagram #readersofig #bookstagram #booksofig #booksofinstagram #culture #yeg

Another wonderful anthology by LABERINTO, this time focusing on taste. These types of stories always make me a little sad. I wish I'd had more opportunity to cook traditional meals with my grandmothers. But I do appreciate the memories that I do have. I don't remember the names, but I could never forget my grandmother's amazing vegetable soup that was always loaded with dill and cream, her farmer sausage and potato soup, and the fresh buns loaded with butter. She also had the best garden. I can still taste the fresh carrots, raspberries, and peas even decades later. But anyways...

I particularly enjoyed Disposable Double Double Lives, partially because it hits close to home--I am very familiar with the old Edmonton City Centre food court, as well as the new one. But, also because it was incredibly eye opening regarding the Temporary Foreign Workers Programme and how it's taken advantage of so many people.

Favourite quote:

"When food is politicised, what we consume is our resistance." - Asma Sayed

Rating: 3.5/5

#food #foodie #foodiesofinstagram #fiction #nonfiction #anthology #read #reading #readmorebooks #readersofinstagram #readersofig #bookstagram #booksofig #booksofinstagram #culture #yeg

This is such a lovely workbook. It's meant to be read over 52 days, but I read it in one go because let's face it, I would absolutely forget about it. Each "week" has a quote from a female writer and an exercise to put their advice into practice. I saved a lot of the exercises and am excited to give some of them a go. I definitely recommend this book for anyone looking for some inspiration or some exercises to push you as a writer (no matter how experienced).

Rating: 3.5/5

#women #womenwriters #womenauthors #femaleempowerment
#nonfiction #selfhelp #writinginspiration
#writingcommunity #writinginspo #book #booksofinstagram #bookstagram #booksofig #bookreviews #bookreviewer #bookrecommendations #read #reading #readersofig #readersofinstagram #readmorebooks

This is such a lovely workbook. It's meant to be read over 52 days, but I read it in one go because let's face it, I would absolutely forget about it. Each "week" has a quote from a female writer and an exercise to put their advice into practice. I saved a lot of the exercises and am excited to give some of them a go. I definitely recommend this book for anyone looking for some inspiration or some exercises to push you as a writer (no matter how experienced).

Rating: 3.5/5

#women #womenwriters #womenauthors #femaleempowerment
#nonfiction #selfhelp #writinginspiration
#writingcommunity #writinginspo #book #booksofinstagram #bookstagram #booksofig #bookreviews #bookreviewer #bookrecommendations #read #reading #readersofig #readersofinstagram #readmorebooks

I absolutely love this anthology series. What a unique idea to focus each book on a different sense. This one focuses on our olfactory sense and it doesn't disappoint. I only wish I could speak more than one language so I could read all the pieces! But I love that it's a bilingual book. Amazing.

Rating: 4/5

#anthology @wearelaberintopress #poetry #shortstories #read #readersofinstagram #readersofig #reading #book #bookstagram #booksofig #booksofinstagram #bookworm #bookaddict

I absolutely love this anthology series. What a unique idea to focus each book on a different sense. This one focuses on our olfactory sense and it doesn't disappoint. I only wish I could speak more than one language so I could read all the pieces! But I love that it's a bilingual book. Amazing.

Rating: 4/5

#anthology @wearelaberintopress #poetry #shortstories #read #readersofinstagram #readersofig #reading #book #bookstagram #booksofig #booksofinstagram #bookworm #bookaddict

I get the hype.

THE RIVER HAS ROOTS was absolutely stunning. Vivid imagery, lovable characters, a magical land, and a heartbreaking betrayal? Yes please! I love love loved this book. The relationships felt very The Priory of The Orange Tree, but the writing itself was very similar to This Is How You Lose The Time War (which she co-authored).

This edition has a second short story at the end, a preview of her upcoming short story collection, and it is just as marvellous. Both stories are new fairytales, and I love them.

Also, the artwork inside is gorgeous. I'm so excited to have found two amazing novellas this past week.

Rating: 5/5

#fantasy #fiction #novella #theriverhasroots #amalelmohtar #fairytales #fairytale #sisters #book #books #bookrecommendations #bookreviews #bookreviewer #bookstagram #booksofig #read #reading #readersofig #readersofinstagram

I get the hype.

THE RIVER HAS ROOTS was absolutely stunning. Vivid imagery, lovable characters, a magical land, and a heartbreaking betrayal? Yes please! I love love loved this book. The relationships felt very The Priory of The Orange Tree, but the writing itself was very similar to This Is How You Lose The Time War (which she co-authored).

This edition has a second short story at the end, a preview of her upcoming short story collection, and it is just as marvellous. Both stories are new fairytales, and I love them.

Also, the artwork inside is gorgeous. I'm so excited to have found two amazing novellas this past week.

Rating: 5/5

#fantasy #fiction #novella #theriverhasroots #amalelmohtar #fairytales #fairytale #sisters #book #books #bookrecommendations #bookreviews #bookreviewer #bookstagram #booksofig #read #reading #readersofig #readersofinstagram

This was such a beautiful and heart wrenching chapbook. I truly wish this was more available, because everyone should read it at least once. Ellen Kartz describes in a relatable way how it feels to be different. If you've ever struggled with your sexuality or been afraid to come out, OR have been on the other side and have known a friend or family member who is too scared to come out, please read this.

@e_kartz is such a talented writer. Please keep writing.

Rating: 5/5

#chapbook #2slgbtqia #lgbt #comingout #read #readersofig
#readersofinstagram #readstagram #book #books #booksofig #booksofinstagram #bookrecommendations #bookreviews

This was such a beautiful and heart wrenching chapbook. I truly wish this was more available, because everyone should read it at least once. Ellen Kartz describes in a relatable way how it feels to be different. If you've ever struggled with your sexuality or been afraid to come out, OR have been on the other side and have known a friend or family member who is too scared to come out, please read this.

@e_kartz is such a talented writer. Please keep writing.

Rating: 5/5

#chapbook #2slgbtqia #lgbt #comingout #read #readersofig
#readersofinstagram #readstagram #book #books #booksofig #booksofinstagram #bookrecommendations #bookreviews

I really enjoyed this chapbook! It was a beautiful dive into remembering, with a perfectly looping ending. Ellen Kartz does a wonderful job of pulling at your heartstrings and bringing you along for the ride. I also loved the simple square graphic depicting the pull of two people and the gravity of life.

Rating: 4/5

#chapbook #poetry #flashfiction #loss #grief #remembering #nostalgia #read #reading #readersofinstagram #readersofig #book #bookworm #booksofinstagram #bookstagram

I really enjoyed this chapbook! It was a beautiful dive into remembering, with a perfectly looping ending. Ellen Kartz does a wonderful job of pulling at your heartstrings and bringing you along for the ride. I also loved the simple square graphic depicting the pull of two people and the gravity of life.

Rating: 4/5

#chapbook #poetry #flashfiction #loss #grief #remembering #nostalgia #read #reading #readersofinstagram #readersofig #book #bookworm #booksofinstagram #bookstagram

WOWOWOW. This book was absolutely incredible. Utomi created stunning imagery, a unique plot, and exceptional characters. For an 85 page novella, it packs one heck of a punch. Moses Ose Utomi has delivered a masterclass in storytelling. Absolute perfection.

If you enjoyed The Priory of The Orange Tree, The Adventures of Amina Al-Sirafi, or The Poppy Wars, this one is for you!

@profseaquill please never ever stop writing.

Rating: 5/5 perfection wow

#fantasy #novella #fiction #read #reading #readersofig
#readersofinstagram #book #bookworm #bookstagram
#booksofinstagram #bookrecommendations
#bookreviews #tordotcom

@tordotcompub thank you for publishing the good stuff 😍

WOWOWOW. This book was absolutely incredible. Utomi created stunning imagery, a unique plot, and exceptional characters. For an 85 page novella, it packs one heck of a punch. Moses Ose Utomi has delivered a masterclass in storytelling. Absolute perfection.

If you enjoyed The Priory of The Orange Tree, The Adventures of Amina Al-Sirafi, or The Poppy Wars, this one is for you!

@profseaquill please never ever stop writing.

Rating: 5/5 perfection wow

#fantasy #novella #fiction #read #reading #readersofig
#readersofinstagram #book #bookworm #bookstagram
#booksofinstagram #bookrecommendations
#bookreviews #tordotcom

@tordotcompub thank you for publishing the good stuff 😍

I love Amanda Montell. Her book CULTISH: THE LANGUAGE OF FANATICISM is one of the reasons I went into Communications. Needless to say, I was really excited to read WORDSLUT and it didn't disappoint. It's such a fun, witty, informative and at times slightly enraging guide on the English language. If you're into linguistics or learning why we communicate the way we do, or are just plain upset at the lack of positive feminine English words, definitely check out Amanda Montell's books!

Rating: 4/5

#nonfiction #english #language #linguistics #sociolinguistics #wordslut #feminist #feminism #read #reading #readmorebooks
#readersofig #readersofinstagram #book #bookworm #bookrecommendations #bookreviews #booksofinstagram #bookstagram #patriarchy #dei #equality #genderequality #womensrights

I love Amanda Montell. Her book CULTISH: THE LANGUAGE OF FANATICISM is one of the reasons I went into Communications. Needless to say, I was really excited to read WORDSLUT and it didn't disappoint. It's such a fun, witty, informative and at times slightly enraging guide on the English language. If you're into linguistics or learning why we communicate the way we do, or are just plain upset at the lack of positive feminine English words, definitely check out Amanda Montell's books!

Rating: 4/5

#nonfiction #english #language #linguistics #sociolinguistics #wordslut #feminist #feminism #read #reading #readmorebooks
#readersofig #readersofinstagram #book #bookworm #bookrecommendations #bookreviews #booksofinstagram #bookstagram #patriarchy #dei #equality #genderequality #womensrights

I just couldn't get into this one. The imagery is beautiful but I made it 74 pages before it felt too repetitive.

#fiction #underthetuscansun #cozy #dnf #read #reading #readersofinstagram #bookrecommendations #bookreviews #bookstagram #booksofinstagram

I just couldn't get into this one. The imagery is beautiful but I made it 74 pages before it felt too repetitive.

#fiction #underthetuscansun #cozy #dnf #read #reading #readersofinstagram #bookrecommendations #bookreviews #bookstagram #booksofinstagram

BEYOND TOUCH SITES is such a beautiful, inspiring, and heartfelt anthology. I really enjoyed every piece and the creativity behind them, but there were three that really stuck with me. It's said that every writer has a story they must tell, and the fact that these are all related to touch and yet so wonderfully unique is so beautiful. The magic of stories and those who are brave enough to tell them will never cease to amaze me.

My three favourites:
Smoke - Sana Mohsin
Hunger is Inherited - Kathryn Lennon
So We Shall Return - Rona Altrows

If you want to get your hands on a copy (and you SHOULD), then swipe right for more details on the upcoming Edmonton and Calgary book launches, as well as a few excerpts from the books. Please note that the branded images were borrowed from @wearelaberintopress Instagram.

ALSO - can I just say that for a book about touch, the cover and paper materials are HEAVENLY.

Rating: 5/5

#fiction #anthology #nonfiction #memoir #anthologies #read #readmorebooks #readersofinstagram #yeg #supportlocal #supportsmallbusiness #supportsmallbiz #readcanadian #reading #book #bookworm #bookrecommendations #bookreviewer #bookstagram #booksofinstagram #canadianbookstagram #shopcanadian

BEYOND TOUCH SITES is such a beautiful, inspiring, and heartfelt anthology. I really enjoyed every piece and the creativity behind them, but there were three that really stuck with me. It's said that every writer has a story they must tell, and the fact that these are all related to touch and yet so wonderfully unique is so beautiful. The magic of stories and those who are brave enough to tell them will never cease to amaze me.

My three favourites:
Smoke - Sana Mohsin
Hunger is Inherited - Kathryn Lennon
So We Shall Return - Rona Altrows

If you want to get your hands on a copy (and you SHOULD), then swipe right for more details on the upcoming Edmonton and Calgary book launches, as well as a few excerpts from the books. Please note that the branded images were borrowed from @wearelaberintopress Instagram.

ALSO - can I just say that for a book about touch, the cover and paper materials are HEAVENLY.

Rating: 5/5

#fiction #anthology #nonfiction #memoir #anthologies #read #readmorebooks #readersofinstagram #yeg #supportlocal #supportsmallbusiness #supportsmallbiz #readcanadian #reading #book #bookworm #bookrecommendations #bookreviewer #bookstagram #booksofinstagram #canadianbookstagram #shopcanadian

This book was SO HELPFUL! It's helped me finally figure out the "vomit draft" among so many other things. It is absolutely filled with post-its and tabs that I will definitely come back to. If you're a writer, I absolutely recommend this. Villains, plot, worldbuilding, character development, dialogue, it has EVERYTHING.

Rating: 5/5

#nonfiction #writing #writinginspiration #writemore #writersblock #writersofinstagram #read #readmorebooks #readersofig #readersofinstagram #reading #book #books #bookstagram #booksofinstagram #bookrecommendations #bookreviewer

This book was SO HELPFUL! It's helped me finally figure out the "vomit draft" among so many other things. It is absolutely filled with post-its and tabs that I will definitely come back to. If you're a writer, I absolutely recommend this. Villains, plot, worldbuilding, character development, dialogue, it has EVERYTHING.

Rating: 5/5

#nonfiction #writing #writinginspiration #writemore #writersblock #writersofinstagram #read #readmorebooks #readersofig #readersofinstagram #reading #book #books #bookstagram #booksofinstagram #bookrecommendations #bookreviewer

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