A Touch of Chaos (Hades x Persephone Saga #4) by Scarlett St. Clair REVIEW

A Touch of Chaos by Scarlett St. Clair

3.76 out of 5 Stars

*May contain spoilers*

I forgot how long and hard I could go for these reviews... holy crap. 

Short version -- check it out here or just know that I really liked it! 

Three years after A Touch of Malice, the final book in the Hades x Persephone saga came out last spring and wrapped up this epic retelling of the classical Greek relationship where the characters are still alive and well in a modern day version of the world where New Athens is the seat of the gods and all the legends and creatures are real. I have been WAITING for this book for all three of those years (tragic, I know), but I honestly didn't pick it up until just now because it was so long ago that I read the previous one that I just wasn't itching to read this one. I also have only read one of the Hades books (Hades Saga), which apparently enriches the reading experience, but I thought I was fine without it and still really enjoyed myself. If someone has been reading the Hades Saga though, they would have only waited a year for this to come out because A Game of Gods came out only last year. 

As I'm outlining this review, I'm realizing there weren't as many *sparkling* moments between Hades and Sephy that are causing me to fangirl... not a great thing, but also not the worst. They were still amazing, and I don't think it really takes away from the book at all, but it wasn't like I was pining for more scenes with them. If anything, I felt that way about Ari and Dionysus (more on that later). 

While the majority of the series is romantasy with emphasis on the romance between Hades and Persephone, I would say this installment is actually more fantasy than romance. So for all those complaining about "the spark" between characters is different or there were fewer "spicy scenes," please take a second to remember that romantasy is derived from combining romance with fantasy. And we've clearly been building up to an epic plotline like this one over the course of the other books, so it shouldn't be a surprise that we get to see the characters in action more than in lovey situations in this book. Personally, I really appreciated that. It made the romance more grounded and provided a more realistic feel to the story because not everything can always be about a relationship. Life exists. Life is more than heart eyes. 

Plot

I thought this had a really great plot. It wasn't the most seamless in transitions between scenes, but it wrapped things up and kept moving. It brought satisfaction to the main cliffhangers and resolution to the important points of the story in a way that was excellent. Also, there were some great battle scenes in this book! There wasn't just one epic ending. There was a series of tasks and skirmishes and obstacles and I am so happy that there was so much going on and it was to a level of detail that every character had a critical role. There were also some really funny moments too which broke things up nicely. *Cough Dionysus delivering a baby Cough* 

I think one of the things this book struggled with on the whole though was balancing the multitude of things that were happening (and necessarily so) with keeping all those threads properly tangled or untangled as needed and then weaving them all together and tied up by the end of the book. There were so many subplots that I'm actually a little annoyed that a handful were left dangling because they were good and I wanted more. But at the same time, if I'm thinking critically, I can understand why more time wasn't afforded to those subplots because the book was already almost 600 pages long in paperback format. You're just going to get messy if you give breathing room to too many things when the book is already that large. I don't know what the editing decision would be in that situation -- what could have made that better. I wouldn't have wanted another book. I wouldn't have not wanted the subplots to exist. And there were elements to the subplots that were necessary to put characters into position for them to serve their purpose. So, because I can't think of a solution to this conundrum, I feel like I can't really hold it against the author. 

Maybe we can just get a bunch of bonus scenes or novellas for Christmas based on those subplots. :):):) 

Okay so, one of the bones I had to pick about the plot specifically was that I really wish there was some sort of resolution for Hera's soul. I get that she was an awful bitch and what Theseus did to her was a result of her own actions, but to have her broken like that and wandering forever? I can't. My heart hurts even just remembering that scene where Hades sees her and realizes her fate. Even though she was horrid, and its all fictional, it bothers me so much that she will never find rest. 

Lastly, I want to briefly touch on Theseus's death and atrocities toward Ari. Firstly, I'm okay with Theseus's death being somewhat pathetic because he is pathetic and deserves no epic way to die. There was also something I think very Greek about his downfall being a bit anti-climatic and directly tied to his flaw of hubris. Plus, it was a workaround to an oracle. Secondly, one of the things that I saw repeatedly be mentioned in other people's reviews is how the scenes between him and Ari played out. For me... I have mixed feelings about them. I'm glad they weren't brushed aside and dismissed like they meant nothing, but at the same time, I think maybe they were a tad overdone? I don't think we needed more than one because then you can just refer back to that one somehow... I don't know. I don't really want to dwell on it much further. I suppose I just wanted to touch on it because I don't think it was as poorly handled as I've seen some people describe it. 

Characters

Persephone -- I love this retelling of Persephone. I think her modernity contrasted against all the other gods and goddesses jadedness from years of divinity really makes her stand out. She's strategic and hardworking and in the final stages of discovering who she is as a person as well as a goddess, but there's something really unique about this Persephone being both modern and like a normal woman that I just really love. Plus, I love that she can be equally worried about getting Hades back and pissed that he's kept so much information from her.

Persephone by unsidhe (DeviantArt/creativecommons)

Hades -- From what I remember in the other books, Hades is a suave badass in this retelling. Grumpy and closed off, but he, like, makes deals with mortals at a nightclub. By no means would I think he could ever be described as dusty, but those attributes that are so attractive were a little flat in this book and could kind of hint at dustiness. Which is really unfortunate because I love a great Hades! And this is a great Hades! But it was like he didn't fully show up to the party. 

Hermes -- WE LOVE HERMES AND DIONYSUS!!! Hermes especially though is a favorite of mine. He's so goofy and so loyal and I love when there's a sincere character like that where they, just by being themselves, break up the heaviness of a scene or a story. Apollo served that role a little too, but sadly, we had to say goodbye. Although, thinking about Apollo, if he had had more page time, I think I would have been more upset about his death. As it is, if Hermes had died I would have been crying. But with Apollo, I was just plain said. 

Hecate -- I love Hecate so freaking much. She such a great motherly figure to both Hades and Persephone and I love that she will soundly scold anybody. I'm really glad that she had a good story in this book. It was nothing huge or dramatic, but she remained vital and loved, which makes me really happy. 

Dionysus x Ari -- I don't remember them existing before this book!! Did they exist before this book??? I don't think so?!?!! I really really fell hard for this little ship that is really just a subplot. But I fell for it SO bad that I'm slightly upset. Even if I wasn't obsessed though, I still would have wanted more of the Ari x Dionysus arc especially at the end when Ari emerges with the baby wrapped around her because there is so much there. She had suffered through so much and that I think needs some sort of resolution to that and I think Dionysus is a part of that resolution.

Theseus -- Vomit. Just absolute vomit-inducing filth. Literally one of the worst characters I've ever read. Developmentally, he was alright. I think there were a few times when his character was almost overblown and exaggerated as if St. Clair was really trying to make sure we all understood that this is  a character with no redeemable soul, and it didn't need to be. 

Not specific to any character development, but ummmm... Thanatos and Lexa?? More please???? We get a whole conversation between Lexa and Sephy where Lexa is upset because she kissed Thanatos and then he said it was a mistake and CLEARLY it's just Thanatos being stupid about his job and what he thinks is right versus wrong when it comes to caring for the souls but she doesn't know that and thinks she instead that she did something wrong! Not okay! I need to see Persephone kick Thanatos's ass in line and get him to wake up and realize that he's hurt Lexa and he doesn't need to! Ulghhhh, I need this.... not as badly as I need an Ari x Dionysus spin-off... but I still need this.... 

Writing

I wouldn't say there's anything uniquely spectacular about the writing of this, other than it flows so damn easily. It would feel like I'd blink and 30 minutes had gone by while reading. One of the best things about this book, and really all of Scarlett St. Clair's books, is that it's just so fun and distracting in the best way possible. It is true entertainment where you can turn your brain off, fall into the story, and just live somewhere else for awhile. It's ability to do that is not the most common thing, so whenever a book is able to do that, it gets huge props from me. The simple task of having a story effortlessly draw you in is not so simple of a task at all, and I think it is incredibly underappreciated. Huge, huge props to St. Clair for being one of the authors who can do this. 

It's weird to think that this series is over... I tore through this book within a couple of days and it is so strange that a series that has been on my mind for years is now finished. I think especially for this series it's weird because there was such a large break between this book and the others, but it's such a good retelling of Hades and Persephone. There are so many out there now, and this is one of the ones that I think I'll always recommend to people because it doesn't feel tired or overused to me. I'm going to be sad that there are no more. Also, I will forever believe that this series has some of the best book covers I've ever seen. 

Random note though before the end of this review in case the author ever somehow stumbles across it... I would LOVE a Dionysus spin-off. Anyone else??? I think there is so much there, and the way he is handled as a character? Fabulous. Absolutely stunning. Can we manifest this for 2025? Send happy creative vibes to the author? Lol, let's be real, I love Scarlett St. Clair so I'm sending those vibes anyway. 

Thanks for reading!
Xo

A Touch of Chaos by Scarlett St. Clair SPOILER FREE REVIEW

A Touch of Chaos by Scarlett St. Clair

3.76 out of 5 Stars

*Spoiler Free Review*

If you would like the full review, with spoilers, details, and fangirling, follow this link to the full review!

Three years after A Touch of Malice, the final book in the Hades x Persephone saga came out last spring and wrapped up this epic retelling of the classical Greek relationship where the characters are still alive and well in a modern day version of the world where New Athens is the seat of the gods and all the legends and creatures are real. I have been WAITING for this book for all three of those years (tragic, I know), but I honestly didn't pick it up until just now because it was so long ago that I read the previous one that I just wasn't itching to read this one. I also have only read one of the Hades books (Hades Saga), which apparently enriches the reading experience, but I thought I was fine without it and still really enjoyed myself. If someone has been reading the Hades Saga though, they would have only waited a year for this to come out because A Game of Gods came out only last year. 

While the majority of the series is romantasy with emphasis on the romance between Hades and Persephone, I would say this installment is actually more fantasy than romance. So for all those complaining about "the spark" between characters is different or there were fewer "spicy scenes," please take a second to remember that romantasy is derived from combining romance with fantasy. And we've clearly been building up to an epic plotline like this one over the course of the other books, so it shouldn't be a surprise that we get to see the characters in action more than in lovey situations in this book. Personally, I really appreciated that. It made the romance more grounded and provided a more realistic feel to the story because not everything can always be about a relationship. Life exists. Life is more than heart eyes. 

I think one of the things this book struggled with on the whole was balancing the multitude of things that were happening (and necessarily so) with keeping all those threads properly tangled or untangled as needed and then weaving them all together and tied up by the end of the book. There were so many subplots that I'm actually a little annoyed that a handful were left dangling because they were good and I wanted more. But at the same time, if I'm thinking critically, I can understand why more time wasn't afforded to those subplots because the book was already almost 600 pages long in paperback format. You're just going to get messy if you give breathing room to too many things when the book is already that large. I don't know what the editing decision would be in that situation -- what could have made that better. I wouldn't have wanted another book. I wouldn't have not wanted the subplots to exist. And there were elements to the subplots that were necessary to put characters into position for them to serve their purpose. So, because I can't think of a solution to this conundrum, I feel like I can't really hold it against the author. 

Maybe we can just get a bunch of bonus scenes or novellas for Christmas based on those subplots. :):):)

One of the best things about this book though, and really all of Scarlett St. Clair's books, is that it's just so fun and distracting in the best way possible. It is true entertainment where you can turn your brain off, fall into the story, and just live somewhere else for awhile. It's ability to do that is not the most common thing, so whenever a book is able to do that, it gets huge props from me. The simple task of having a story effortlessly draw you in is not so simple of a task at all, and I think it is incredibly underappreciated. Huge, huge props to St. Clair for being one of the authors who can do this. 

It's weird to think that this series is over... I tore through this book within a couple of days and it is so strange that a series that has been on my mind for years is now finished. I think especially for this series it's weird because there was such a large break between this book and the others, but it's such a good retelling of Hades and Persephone. There are so many out there now, and this is one of the ones that I think I'll always recommend to people because it doesn't feel tired or overused to me. I'm going to be sad that there are no more. Also, I will forever believe that this series has some of the best book covers I've ever seen. 

Random note though before the end of this review in case the author ever somehow stumbles across it... I would LOVE a Dionysus spin-off. Anyone else??? I think there is so much there, and the way he is handled as a character? Fabulous. Absolutely stunning. Can we manifest this for 2025? Send happy creative vibes to the author? Lol, let's be real, I love Scarlett St. Clair so I'm sending those vibes anyway. 

Thanks for reading!

Xo

The Summer Book by Tove Jansson REVIEW

The Summer Book by Tove Jansson

4.14 out of 5 Stars

** Originally posted on The Broke Wanderlusty Reader **

The Summer Book is a collection of vignettes that provide a look into the life of Sophia, a small child, and her Grandmother who live on a Finnish island. It was, undoubtedly, one of the most heartwarming things I have ever read. Sophia is a little bit of a bratty child, but not in an obnoxious way. More like in a child-that's-learning-the-world kind of way. Nothing bad, but a part of her age. And the Grandmother is a bit tired, but there are glimpses of a really strong spirit within her that are great when they come to the surface. 

The dynamic between these two was just so, so sweet. They really just purely love and care about each other that I didn't even care there wasn't a main plotline because it was all about them and their love and that was perfect. 

I think my favorite short story was Playing Venice, where Sophia receives a postcard from Venice in the mail and the next handful of days are filled with her and Grandmother recreating their own Venice out in the forest. When a storm comes through and drowns it all, Sophia freaks out and Grandmother goes out for her to find Venice and save it. Of course, she can't find any of it. But then to calm Sophia down, she recreates the main structure where the Venetian mother lived (Sophia's own is dead) before Sophia wakes up. Sophia can't tell the difference when she wakes up and is so happy that Grandmother had "saved" it. 

The stories do a fantastic job of describing the setting as well. Holy cow, I want to see the forests, the islands, the Gulf of Finland, the Three-Country Cairn and then just generally a lot more of any wilderness that Finland has. The stories really take place on an island somewhere near or in the Gulf of Finland, and that alone was so much to take in. Jansson did such an amazing job of describing the wilderness that Sophia and Grandmother explore and live in with lush greenery and strong winds and pockets of forests where they could build their own creatures and little worlds. It was insane and it is definitely something I would love to see in person one day. 

Also, this was just turned into a movie??!?!! With Glenn Close?!?!?! I was just googling a cover of the book and was asked if I wanted results for the book or for the movie and the shock there was a recent movie out was crazy. It came out like, a couple months ago. It looks like it's not available for streaming yet, which is sad, but hopefully it will be out like that by next spring. I think this would be a really good book to reread or movie to watch around that time of the year. 

This was such a great collection of short stories. I really really enjoyed them and it definitely helped take me to Finland. 

Thanks for reading!

My Cat Yugoslavia by Pajtim Statovci REVIEW

My Cat Yugoslavia by Pajtim Statovci

3.22 out of 5 Stars

**Reposted from The Broke Wanderlusty Reader** 

Mmmmm... I have NO idea where to start with this. For one thing, it's literary fiction, which is not my go-to genre. But then also, I didn't look up anything about this book before reading it. And it's a bit whack when you go into it without knowing there's magical realism involved. I straight up thought the dude was tripping and I was operating on that assumption for way too long before I realized the cat was a literary device.  

First things first though, I didn't realize half of the story took place in Yugoslavia. Like I said, I didn't read anything about the book before I dove into it. It came up in a lot of lists about Finnish literature, so I felt like an almost obligation to include it. I don't really have a list of places or foods or anything from Finland that I can add to a master list of things I would hope to experience in Finland in-person some day. Culture-wise, all I really got from this book was a general coldness and hostility toward immigrants and the LGBTQ? I really hope that the Finnish culture isn't actually so cold because I've actually read a ton of articles and such about how it's welcoming and inclusive. This book is hardly a ringing endorsement of those things though. 

On the whole, I enjoyed the book, but my enthusiasm for it is as flat and simple as that statement is. The magical realism was a bit too much at times and there were really important themes and ideas that were introduced, but then nothing was ever really fleshed out or brought into the limelight. 

Characters

There are two main characters, Bekim and his mother Emine (side note - I love her name), whose stories take turns with each other. While they are the only two main characters, I unfortunately need to mention the influence of Emine's husband Bajram, who is just a constant negative presence throughout the whole thing. For a quick second, I actually liked him because I thought he was going to be good for Emine. And then it's like a flip is switched and I wanted to gouge his eyes out. And you can see the trickle effect of his immaturity and anger and cruelty because there is an undeniable impression that he has on the development of Bekim and Emine. 

Bekim and Emine themselves were alright. I was frequently frustrated with both of them, but then the further along you go and the more you learn about Bajram, the more their frustrating qualities make sense. It's not excusable, but it isn't out of nowhere either - it makes sense. 

Plot

This is where literary fiction tends to lose me... there was almost no plot. Like, at all. The whole book was the development of these characters and the exploration of their environments and their subconscious. Which is a kind of plot. But to me, I prefer more active events in a plot. Here, there's Bekim meeting a cat and buying a snake and traveling back to Yugoslavia and then meeting a guy at the end of the book. And for Emine, there's a bit more of a plot because it follows her meeting Bajram and getting married and raising kids and eventually breaking away. But, as much as my heart bled for her, it's also a basic storyline that didn't captivate me too much. 

Writing

Simply put, the writing was beautiful. I really deeply appreciate the skill that Statovci has in creating a story with these long extensive metaphors that reveal so much about the characters and the setting. The damn cats and snakes... really great use of these animals and their specific meanings, but I wish it had been better executed from the beginning so that the effect began earlier and carried stronger throughout the rest of the book. By the end of the story, I could fully understand the importance of handling snakes and the profound meaning of what a cat represents to the country, to Bekim, and to Emine. But those things weren't drawn out until the damn near end of the book when suddenly it's being explained that Bekim used to have nightmares about snakes and cats are unwanted in Yugoslavia. Those are such small details that carry SO much weight, I wish that they had somehow been introduced earlier in the story. The emotional punch of their role would have been so much stronger. 

Finland Travels

Like I said above, I've got nothing to really add about Finland itself based on this book. There's mention Helsinki, but other than that there's really no locations or foods or events or anything that I can add to a description of "traveling" to Finland. 

SOMEONE please tell me though that Finland isn't so cold and judgemental? Please? 

*Shrugs*

Thanks for reading!

Xo

Highest Bidder Collection by Lauren Landish and Willow Winters REVIEW

Highest Bidder Collection by Lauren Landish and Willow Winders

3.59 out of 5 Stars

Okay, so it's been a minute since I wrote a review, so... give me a minute, lol. :) Plus, on top of that, this is a review of a collection. Chaos may ensue. The whole thing will be Spoiler Free however, so if you're curious about them, you're safe from anything being ruined. 

This four book collection contains stories that could be standalones, but they have common characters which, for me, means I tend to enjoy reading all of them in publication order as they reference prior things later on. 

They are ALL dark romances with BDSM and some other pretty heavy themes. They also all have typos (only one or two and nothing major), so if you're absolutely unable to get over those, don't engage and bring the vibes down because of that tiny detail. 

TW: SA

** Continue below if you are okay with that TW **

Bought (Dahlia x Lucian)

3.72 out of 5 Stars (Second favorite for me)

Dahlia is a young professional looking for some extra money to get her through a tight period and Lucian is struggling to get over his hang-ups with having a new sub after his relationship with his wife ended disastrously. She is introduced to Club X, where rich dudes and women members can safely indulge in their fantasies, and early in the book gets into a relationship with Lucian. I really liked them together! Dahlia's character development was shaky, which bothered me a bit, and overall I wish the story was longer, but on the whole it was very enjoyable. (Side note: All the books were short and could have used more plot development.) 

I need to strongly preference something at this point -- and this applies to all of the mini-reviews: I am not a psychologist or mental health professional or any other kind of medical professional, so I may be completely off the mark here. But, what I really appreciated in this book especially is how Dahlia's past of SA is not brushed off. Furthermore, it's something that becomes part of the relationship she has with Lucian and he wants to help her heal from her experience and achieve the goals that she has set for herself in the healing process. I just really appreciate that because it isn't treated like a drama-enhancer or is reductive. Their story explores some of the nuance of how a past experience affects a present experience and how the present can help heal the past, which not every story does. 

Sold (Katia x Isaac)

3.5 out of 5 Stars (Third favorite for me)

Katia is simply trying to build a normal life for herself after surviving a worst-nightmare history and she captures Isaac's attention when she goes to Club X. They really fit each other's needs and Isaac's goal also becomes to give Katia what she needs to process and heal. The best part about Isaac is that he's suuuuuper protective of Katia. But, I actually think I liked Isaac the least of all the MMCs though. I just didn't entirely like his attitude or his approach to the FMC. It's not like he's an asshole per say, but it just wasn't for me. Katia was a pretty good character, but also a bit plain? I'm not quite sure how else to describe it, other than it seemed like she was kind of just filling in the role of FMC.

Owned (Lilly x Joseph) 

3.26 out of 5 Stars (Least favorite for me) 

Lilly is completely new to the BDSM lifestyle, but from watching and taking her time to learn everything, she is ready to explore that side of herself and has a good idea of what she wants. Joseph on the other hand, knows exactly what he needs and, like a good one, gives Lilly room she needs to explore what she wants and is ready for her when she decides to make that leap. However, his past comes knocking and throws a deep wrench in their happiness that he needs to sort out. 

Lilly is the only FMC of these four books that doesn't have a history of some sort of SA. I'm not mentioning that because I think it adds or takes away from the story, but because in case someone is looking for one of these without the trigger warning, it's this one. 

The reason why this one is my least favorite is simply because I felt like it was the one with the most potential for development, and it actually had I think the least amount. When you're loving something so much, you want it to be done well! And then when it falls short, it is the most frustrating thing in the world. Compared to Katia and Isaac, I liked Lilly and Joseph's relationship way more, but I feel like they weren't done justice, so I can't rank this book above the others. Like, Lilly's subplot alone could have been woven in so much better and used to heighten their dynamic, but... *sigh*.

Given (Arianna x Zander) 

3.88 out of 5 Stars (Favorite for me)

Arianna has a shitty POS abusive partner at the beginning of the book. He's manipulative, and gaslights, and is a definition of bad BDSM etiquette. I can go on a full rant, but I won't because this review is small. Zander (not the POS) is one of those MMCs where he portrays himself to the world one way, but then really he's super intense and people who know him know not to mess with him. I LOVE characters like that. Zander actually from the get-go has issues with Arianna's POS partner due to business beef, and it becomes part of the reason why the two get together. From there, there is a sort of dance between these three characters as business gets dealt with, the relationship between Zander and Arianna grows, and tensions with the POS relationship explode. 

One of the things that I really loved about this book wasn't just the dynamic between Arianna and Zander, but was how there is a clear moment where Zander realizes what has been happening between Arianna and Danny and is like, "Hell no, this is not okay and will never happen again." Which, I would like to think that a man stepping up to protect someone is a low bar, but maybe it isn't anymore because I'm totally obsessed with this moment that Zander has. We love to see it. :) 

*** *** ***

I forgot how much I love doing these reviews! They're a bit of brain-work as well when I'm not absolutely fangirling over a title, but still worth it. 

Thanks for reading!

(And I guess welcome back??)

Outlander Review NO SPOILERS

Outlander by Diana Gabaldon

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow. Simply wow. It can be hard to find books like Outlander. Books that take the time to build up the story and the background that they need, but still in a way that leaves you wanting to continue to read and never put down the book. Books that when the main plot line is revealed, you have no power over the way the book has possessed your mind and consumes your waking thoughts. It is hard to find books like this. Outlander has all of it. Even more so, it has a detailed and creative setting with historical accuracy and the some of the best character development that is realistic and true. It is long. VERY long actually, but totally worth all of the time and effort.

[
CHARACTERS:
Claire Randall: She is.... amazing. She worked as a nurse in WWII, is still keeping up with her herbs and healing practices, and when she is thrown into a time loop back to the 1700s, she has only a small chance to learn what is happening and save her own neck. Which she does. Even when she is told to marry someone else, someone she barely knows, she holds her own before taking it in stride. And despite being surrounded by mostly men in a time period where men are seen as everything and women as dirt, she doesn't take shit from anyone. Bravo to her- if I ever get sent back in time, I'm going to follow her lead.
James Fraser: JAMIE!!!! I loved Jamie. A part of me wishes that the whole first section of the book that takes place in 1900s wasn't even there, even though I know that it was necessary for the book to have made sense the way that it did. It is hard to describe Jamie without seeming like I'm completely fangirling over him because his character is that good. He is loyal to a fault, handsome, brave, and has incredible morals. He supports Claire, is like a knight in shining armor, and even learns to believe the seemingly impossible. Plus, he's gorgeous.
Jack Randall: As much as I hate the guy, he is really interesting. I would never want to meet him. Ever. But his character is twisted and I'd imagine feeling trapped by his sexuality and desires in a time period that is completely backwards from today's ideals and almost archaic in its views.
There are so many more characters in the story, and all of them are really well put together, but I would be writing a novel myself just to review them all. But know that they are all really well written and original. It may help to take notes though to keep them all straight in your head.
SETTING:
I think it is safe to say that I am officially obsessed with Scotland now because of this book. The descriptions of the highlands and all of the different geographical attributes makes me want to visit there and capture all of the beauty that is there. In the story, the original setting is 1945, which is one of my favorite times in history. But then as Claire gets sent back in time, she goes to 1743, which I know almost nothing about. I know absolutely nothing of what was going on in England at that time, and when references were starting to be made to the historical events of the time, I had no clue what they were talking about. So I did some light research as to the event of the time period and the area and it was so interesting. I then went back to the book and all of the references were much clearer and even more interesting, knowing what was going to happen because of knowing the history. Weird explanation there, but what I'm trying to get across is that Diana Gabaldon did a fantastic job of tying in the history and making sure that was done so in a way that was captivating yet accurate.
WRITING:
Diana Gabaldon's writing isn't necessarily easy to read. It's not that it is grammatically inaccurate, but just harder to read because of Scottish jargon, accents, and a more complex vocabulary and sentence structure. I actually appreciated this because it was nice to read something a little more complicated. I already gushed about how she was able to weave a tale that kept you wondering and thinking about even when you weren't reading, so I won't go over that again.
(hide spoiler)]
This book was great in that it was fun, challenging, and historical. Her writing was near impeccable, and I cannot wait to read the other books in the series to see where Claire and Jamie will go next and what will happen in the plot.

Thanks for reading!


View all my reviews

Need by Carrie Jones WITH SPOILERS

Need by Carrie Jones

4 of 5 Stars

Book Review WITH SPOILERS

The actual rating I have for this book is 3.68 stars out of 5, but I rounded up because I do think that people will really like it, it just wasn't all the way there for me. Need is a nice break from the average stories that involve fey or fae or faeries or the Shining Ones or whatever else people have called them. It emphasizes the aggressive and primal nature of the creatures that is lost in some other stories due to romantic elements, which I really appreciated. Not that I don't like those romance faerie stories, but books like this help keep things interesting and me invested in the genre. 

PLOT: The plot was really good. I had a vague idea of where it was going, but then it didn't go that way, and I saw what was really going on. I thought that the king was going to choose her, that he wanted her to be his queen, but then it turned out that he was only using her as bait for her mother and that was something I haven't really read yet- at least not in a way that I couldn't see or predict. The main issue that I had with this plot line was that various characters would suddenly know things about the others, without talking to each other. It would be suddenly, bam! there's background information being brought up by a character that shouldn't know yet what they were talking about. It actually got a little confusing because of this.

CHARACTERS: I am not entirely sure why, but I just couldn't get a super strong attachment to the characters. Maybe it's her writing style....? I can't place my finger on it, and it's bugging me. There was also some insta-love between the characters which, I know that there is only so much space in a book, but it was slightly frustrating because, again, I couldn't really get a feel for the characters so the whole thing felt rushed and unfounded. The people themselves have interesting backgrounds and personality traits. They all have something that is unique to them that don't usually come up in other books.

WORLD and WRITING: I love Maine. I love stories that take place in Maine. I love watching characters adjust to ice and snow (it's hilarious). This world was no exception. I loved how Carrie Jones included elements of the town and forest and weather into her story and used it to round out the plot line and characters. Her writing though I still haven't figured out why I am not connecting with it yet. It's a strange feeling, not being able to pinpoint why exactly that is, so, not going to lie, it is throwing me off a bit.

Need by Carrie Jones is good for people who love fae, Maine, and an interesting plot line. My own misgivings may be only my own, so don't let them hold you back from picking up this beautifully covered book. :)

Thanks for reading!

Review: Need by Carrie Jones NO SPOILERS

Need by Carrie Jones

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Book Review 

The actual rating I have for this book is 3.68 stars out of 5, but I rounded up because I do think that people will really like it, it just wasn't all the way there for me. Need is a nice break from the average stories that involve fey or fae or faeries or the Shining Ones or whatever else people have called them. It emphasizes the aggressive and primal nature of the creatures that is lost in some other stories due to romantic elements, which I really appreciated. Not that I don't like those romance faerie stories, but books like this help keep things interesting and me invested in the genre.



[
PLOT: The plot was really good. I had a vague idea of where it was going, but then it didn't go that way, and I saw what was really going on. I thought that the king was going to choose her, that he wanted her to be his queen, but then it turned out that he was only using her as bait for her mother and that was something I haven't really read yet- at least not in a way that I couldn't see or predict. The main issue that I had with this plot line was that various characters would suddenly know things about the others, without talking to each other. It would be suddenly, bam! there's background information being brought up by a character that shouldn't know yet what they were talking about. It actually got a little confusing because of this.
CHARACTERS: I am not entirely sure why, but I just couldn't get a super strong attachment to the characters. Maybe it's her writing style....? I can't place my finger on it, and it's bugging me. There was also some insta-love between the characters which, I know that there is only so much space in a book, but it was slightly frustrating because, again, I couldn't really get a feel for the characters so the whole thing felt rushed and unfounded. The people themselves have interesting backgrounds and personality traits. They all have something that is unique to them that don't usually come up in other books.
WORLD and WRITING: I love Maine. I love stories that take place in Maine. I love watching characters adjust to ice and snow (it's hilarious). This world was no exception. I loved how Carrie Jones included elements of the town and forest and weather into her story and used it to round out the plot line and characters. Her writing though I still haven't figured out why I am not connecting with it yet. It's a strange feeling, not being able to pinpoint why exactly that is, so, not going to lie, it is throwing me off a bit.
(hide spoiler)]

Need by Carrie Jones is good for people who love fae, Maine, and an interesting plot line. My own misgivings may be only my own, so don't let them hold you back from picking up this book. :) Plus, do you see that cover???? It's gorgeous!!!!!

Thanks for reading!

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A Court of Mist and Fury Review WITH SPOILERS

A Court of Mist and Fury (A Court of Thorns and Roses #2) by Sarah J Maas

Book Review WITH SPOILERS

5.5 of 5 Stars

PLOT: Not going to lie, I was nervous about the plot line of this book, because everything was kind of wrapped up nice and neatly in ACOTAR with Amarantha's death and that whole setup of book 1. But then we found out about the King of Hybern and I was super excited. This was developed pretty well, but it wasn't the main thing on my mind while I was reading this. I was mostly concerned about my ship (Feysand) and I absolutely loved how Sarah made this happen and how it developed.

CHARACTERS: AAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I CALLED IT I KNEW THAT IT WAS GOING TO HAPPEN THEY ARE COMPLETELY AND UNDENIABLY PERFECT FOR EACH OTHER!!!!!!!!!! Instead of talking about characters, I'm going to talk about the ships.

TamxFeyre: No. I didn't ship them in book 1 and I certainly do not ship them now. Granted, Tamlin was put through a traumatic experience, but that doesn't excuse how he treated Feyre. She was put through a lot too, and she didn't want to sit by and do nothing. She's stronger than that. So they were not healthy together at all. Really Tamlin, you didn't notice that Feyre wasn't sleeping, eating, smiling, or doing anything remotely healthy? Really?

RhysxFeyre: LIAURGNIJROHGARHRLGVJFGIHFSODJGDSLL I love Rhys. He's the best. Easily my favorite character in the entire goddamn series. He honestly is so much better for Feyre and she for him than anybody else that may cross their paths. Rhys encourages Feyre to be strong and hold her own, and Feyre doesn't take Rhys' crap and knows how to help him cope with things and relax. And they're mates. Can't forget that ;). Seriously though, I may not totally approve of Rhys' decision not to Feyre about the mating bond, but I respect him for his motive as to why he didn't. I just.... THE FEELS AOGYHRE;OAIGHRDAKHDAGJROEAIJ.

LucianxElain: Hmmmmm..... I can see it. Lucian needs to get his head back on his head first, but then I can totally see him and Feyre tag teaming againts Tamlin and Hybern and it all going perfectly. Then I think he'll really get Elain.

CassxNesta: So this is a thing. I don't have the extra chapter, but I guess I could see this working. My only questions is- What if one of them gets a mate (Because they don't have that bond- right?)?

Side note- I also love the Night Court. Mor and Amren are some of my favorite characters. They're nothing like Ianthe (I wouldn't mind if she died). But Mor and Amren are like the opposite sisters that help balance the group.

WORLD: So many details are put into this world, I would probably get a headache trying to explain it in a way that made sense. So just know that it is incredible. It really is it's own world, and I don't think there are any holes in it, at least not that I can tell.



Review in a nutshell- GO READ THIS BOOK. You will love it. And then you will wonder what on earth you were doing before you read it.

Thanks for Reading!

Review: A Court of Mist and Fury Spoiler Free

A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I ABSOLUTELY LOVE LOVE LOVE THIS BOOK! Sequels are tough, but I think that Sarah mastered this one because I loved it even more than A Court of Thorns and Roses, which makes me even more excited for the next book. There isn't too much of a slow start, but there is an appropriate amount of catch-up to remind us of what happened in book 1.

There were so many amazing aspects to this book- the new plot, characters, themes, and the overall development of the world that she has created that this book was even more interesting, more thrilling, and I still cannot stop thinking about it. If you have started this series, pick this book up now. You do not want to wait any longer. If you haven't read ACOTAR yet, go get it now- this series is mind-blowing. Especially if you have read her other series Throne of Glass, you know that she is a great author and she has amazing stories and characters that everyone can enjoy.

[
PLOT: Not going to lie, I was nervous about the plot line of this book, because everything was kind of wrapped up nice and neatly in ACOTAR with Amarantha's death and that whole setup of book 1. But then we found out about the King of Hybern and I was super excited. This was developed pretty well, but it wasn't the main thing on my mind while I was reading this. I was mostly concerned about my ship (Feysand) and I absolutely loved how Sarah made this happen and how it developed.
CHARACTERS: AAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I CALLED IT I KNEW THAT IT WAS GOING TO HAPPEN THEY ARE COMPLETELY AND UNDENIABLY PERFECT FOR EACH OTHER!!!!!!!!!! Instead of talking about characters, I'm going to talk about the ships.
TamxFeyre: No. I didn't ship them in book 1 and I certainly do not ship them now. Granted, Tamlin was put through a traumatic experience, but that doesn't excuse how he treated Feyre. She was put through a lot too, and she didn't want to sit by and do nothing. She's stronger than that. So they were not healthy together at all. Really Tamlin, you didn't notice that Feyre wasn't sleeping, eating, smiling, or doing anything remotely healthy? Really?
RhysxFeyre: LIAURGNIJROHGARHRLGVJFGIHFSODJGDSLL I love Rhys. He's the best. Easily my favorite character in the entire goddamn series. He honestly is so much better for Feyre and she for him than anybody else that may cross their paths. Rhys encourages Feyre to be strong and hold her own, and Feyre doesn't take Rhys' crap and knows how to help him cope with things and relax. And they're mates. Can't forget that ;). Seriously though, I may not totally approve of Rhys' decision not to Feyre about the mating bond, but I respect him for his motive as to why he didn't. I just.... THE FEELS AOGYHRE;OAIGHRDAKHDAGJROEAIJ.
LucianxElain: Hmmmmm..... I can see it. Lucian needs to get his head back on his head first, but then I can totally see him and Feyre tag teaming againts Tamlin and Hybern and it all going perfectly. Then I think he'll really get Elain.
CassxNesta: So this is a thing. I don't have the extra chapter, but I guess I could see this working. My only questions is- What if one of them gets a mate (Because they don't have that bond- right?)?
Side note- I also love the Night Court. Mor and Amren are some of my favorite characters. They're nothing like Ianthe (I wouldn't mind if she died). But Mor and Amren are like the opposite sisters that help balance the group.
WORLD: So many details are put into this world, I would probably get a headache trying to explain it in a way that made sense. So just know that it is incredible. It really is it's own world, and I don't think there are any holes in it, at least not that I can tell.
(hide spoiler)] Review in a nutshell- GO READ THIS BOOK. You will love it. And then you will wonder what on earth you were doing before you read it.
Thanks for reading!
View all my reviews

Review: Wicked by Jennifer L Armentrout

Wicked by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Book Review

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I absolutely adore Jennifer Armentrout's books. They have a way of just making themselves home in your head and living there, completely consuming all of your thoughts. I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THE PARANORMAL ASPECT IN WICKED!!!! Not going to lie, it is probably partially just because I love these creatures in general, but still. I freaked the heck out when I realized what we were dealing with here. I'm going to go straight into a spoiler section because I can't stop spazz-ing about this one, but I would recommend this to everyone (of a mature age) who loves paranormal, New Orleans :), or Jennifer's books in general.


 SPOILERS AHEAD
THEY ARE DEALING WITH FAE!!!! DO YOU PEOPLE REALIZE HOW MUCH I LOVE THOSE CREATURES????!?!?!!!! I totally went crazy when I read that those were the things they were hunting. And I'm not going to lie, I was hoping that the love interest was going to be fae (the Orlando Bloom description...LOVE LOVE LOVE)..... but. Ren. He's pretty amazing too, even though he's not a supernatural being. He is however, quite special in his own little way, with the whole I'm-in-a-secret-society-within-a-secret-society thing. I actually really loved the dynamic that was between Ren and Ivy. It just seemed extremely real to me because of Ivy's past and how she reacted to being in another relationship for the first time after all of that happened. And Ren's reaction to Ivy's freaking out was also just incredibly real to me, with how he was kind of pissed and demanded an answer. 10 out of 10 for realism.

There was also, I felt, a lot of action in this one. They didn't necessarily interact with the fae as much as I wished they would have, but they were always doing something, or there was something else progressing or developing. And the fighting seemed pretty cool. In the beginning when the fae just pulled out a gun, I loved Ivy's "Oh ****" reaction. And it took me longer than usual to figure out the betrayal, which I appreciated. Jennifer just did a really good job keeping so many character's suspicious to me with their unknown actions and motives. Ultimately, I did figure out that it was going to be Val, and I was slightly annoyed how Ivy just doesn't grasp this concept, but I'm thinking (hoping) that it gets developed more later. With this, I really, REALLY hope that we get to interact with the fae more. Especially that fae prince. ;) He was going to spare her without knowing that she was a halfling. Motive=bit of humanity??

TINK. He gets his own paragraph. I absolutely adored this little brownie. He's sassy, funny, and he is like the best annoying roommate anybody could have. He is supportive of Ivy, was ready to kick serious butt for her, and is also (now) even more vital to everything than he originally was. I want him to have a little brownie friend.

Sadly, there were a few things that I was like "eeehhhhhh.......". The primary one being the character traits within this story. I've read quite a few of Jennifer Armentrout's book by this point, and I hate to say this, but I feel like a repetition is coming up for her characters. Their traits, lines, and personalities are starting to all look really similar. Don't get me wrong, they are usually really strong, sassy, and have hilarious statements. But after reading a few books with this, I think I would like to see some more diversity. The other thing is the ending. I was not surprised at all with her discovering that she's a halfling. Like- at all. I'm honestly not even that worried about it..... watch her die now, but still. I'm just kinda blase about that situation, I think, because I was expecting it.
SPOILERS OVER
 
[
THEY ARE DEALING WITH FAE!!!! DO YOU PEOPLE REALIZE HOW MUCH I LOVE THOSE CREATURES????!?!?!!!! I totally went crazy when I read that those were the things they were hunting. And I'm not going to lie, I was hoping that the love interest was going to be fae (the Orlando Bloom description...LOVE LOVE LOVE)..... but. Ren. He's pretty amazing too, even though he's not a supernatural being. He is however, quite special in his own little way, with the whole I'm-in-a-secret-society-within-a-secret-society thing. I actually really loved the dynamic that was between Ren and Ivy. It just seemed extremely real to me because of Ivy's past and how she reacted to being in another relationship for the first time after all of that happened. And Ren's reaction to Ivy's freaking out was also just incredibly real to me, with how he was kind of pissed and demanded an answer. 10 out of 10 for realism.
There was also, I felt, a lot of action in this one. They didn't necessarily interact with the fae as much as I wished they would have, but they were always doing something, or there was something else progressing or developing. And the fighting seemed pretty cool. In the beginning when the fae just pulled out a gun, I loved Ivy's "Oh ****" reaction. And it took me longer than usual to figure out the betrayal, which I appreciated. Jennifer just did a really good job keeping so many character's suspicious to me with their unknown actions and motives. Ultimately, I did figure out that it was going to be Val, and I was slightly annoyed how Ivy just doesn't grasp this concept, but I'm thinking (hoping) that it gets developed more later. With this, I really, REALLY hope that we get to interact with the fae more. Especially that fae prince. ;) He was going to spare her without knowing that she was a halfling. Motive=bit of humanity??
TINK. He gets his own paragraph. I absolutely adored this little brownie. He's sassy, funny, and he is like the best annoying roommate anybody could have. He is supportive of Ivy, was ready to kick serious butt for her, and is also (now) even more vital to everything than he originally was. I want him to have a little brownie friend.
Sadly, there were a few things that I was like "eeehhhhhh.......". The primary one being the character traits within this story. I've read quite a few of Jennifer Armentrout's book by this point, and I hate to say this, but I feel like a repetition is coming up for her characters. Their traits, lines, and personalities are starting to all look really similar. Don't get me wrong, they are usually really strong, sassy, and have hilarious statements. But after reading a few books with this, I think I would like to see some more diversity. The other thing is the ending. I was not surprised at all with her discovering that she's a halfling. Like- at all. I'm honestly not even that worried about it..... watch her die now, but still. I'm just kinda blase about that situation, I think, because I was expecting it.
(hide spoiler)] Jennifer Armentrout's books will make you laugh out loud and simultaneously make you worry about the fate of the story and the world that she has created.Thanks for reading!

View all my reviews

Review: A Shade of Blood

A Shade of Blood by Bella Forrest

Book Review 

4 of 5 stars

Finally got to finish reading this!!!! Long story short- A friend was letting me read her copy, then stopped letting me read her copy. But I found another one so I was able to start over and read it all!!! YEAH!!!!!!!!! The beginning was slightly slow, but then things picked right back up and all was good. Well, good reading at least. ;) I would definitely recommend this one and I'm hoping (fingers crossed) to finish the series. There's quite a few of them though, so it may take me awhile.....
Seriously though guys, there's a lot of them.
The world that Bella Forrest has created with this series, even with the first two books alone, has completely captivated and intrigued me. I am definitely looking forward to the other books.
Because also.... Derek Novak.......

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Me Before You Book Review WITH SPOILERS

Me Before You by Jojo Moyes

Book Review

5 our of 5 Stars

SPOILERS AHEAD

I can truly say that this book has impacted me in a way that very few books have. Not only does Jojo Moyes write in a style that keeps you awake and wanting more, the story she weaves in this book is simply enchanting and is somehow both a completely unique situation and yet totally relatable in other aspects of it. I don't want to say much more, because I was lucky enough to not have been spoiled by anything, for anything, and I really think the experience was amazing. So, everything else will be spoiler-y :) Warning- it's quite long. 

To be completely honest, I'm wasn't sure how to start this review, because in just over 350 pages, the author was able to create an incredibly full story with so many different layers and themes to it. However, I think this worked out well, going over the formatting of the book, the relationship between Will and Lou and the morality of euthanasia, my few complaints, the familial connections running through it, and then finally, the title and what I think may be one of the most important lessons that this book teaches its readers.

I'm not entirely sure how I feel about the layout of the book. I don't think anyone can argue that Jojo Moyes is a brilliant writer, but at first when the POV switched, I wasn't sure if it was the best. Based on the tone of the book, I had been thinking that it might have been better to keep it with one character so that we could feel more connected to them, but this actually worked out really well because we got to see a few other perspectives.

I am an absolute sucker for a good ship. ;) Of course I wanted Lou and Will to be together. They were able to connect on a level of true understanding and companionship that everything became so natural for them. I also really loved the impact that they had on each other, with Lou making Will's life so much better and him encouraging her to live hers. With this relationship though, we saw two different views on the notion of Will taking his own life. Previous to reading this, I was like Lou: I was absolutely against the idea of assisted suicide, for anybody. After reading it though, and seeing it through Will's perspective, it has made me look at those values again and think things over. I still don't have a solid opinion on the topic yet, and I don't know if I ever will again. But I do know that because of this, I was forced to think, "Who am I to determine the quality of somebody else's life?" Now, clearly, there are so many moral themes running through this, and I think that it is so hard to form an opinion on it, partially because everything is so circumstantial, especially today with all of the medical advances. I don't think the phrase "playing God" only refers to the taking of life anymore, but also the extending of it.

There were two things that I was not a huge fan of. The first being that there were a few moments that reminded me of TFIOS. That in itself isn't actually a complaint against the book, just against the connections I made between them. The other one was Treena's chapter. She is a really interesting character, but I think in that part of the book that she was narrating, I would have liked to know Lou's POV instead.

Lou's family is in and out of the story and a direct part of it the entire time. We see them interacting everyday and I really like how it showed the sacrifices that they were making for each other. Not every family is perfect, but they are still family, and the story did a really good job of portraying that, both in Lou's family and Will's. I especially loved the relationship between Lou and her sister because it is so realistic. Sisters are a pain, and they are constantly at each other's throats and vying for attention, but they also will always have each other's backs. They fight and argue with each other, but they also fight and argue for each other.

The title was a puzzle to me for the longest time. Halfway through the book, I though it meant that the two main characters put themselves at a disadvantage first before others so that they can do whatever they can for those other people. I suppose in a way that they do, but by the end of the book I realized what the title meant. "Me Before You" is a way to point out the evolution of the two characters and the profound impact that they had on each other in such a short amount of time. In the beginning, Will was horrible and depressed, but by the end of the book, Louisa has gotten him to travel again and laugh and see some of the good around him. He dies a happier person. Before she met Will, Louisa was perfectly content living in her small village with a boyfriend that was safe(?) and ordinary. She didn't seek out any thrills or life experiences and had no major plans or goals for her life. Within those six months though, she is completely changed. Will convinces her to take advantage of her life and to truly live it to the fullest. He tells her that it was her duty to life to fill it up. I love that. These two people only know each other for a short span of time, and yet they have completely changed the other for the better.

Of course, I probably missed something, or have stepped on somebody's toes, but all I can do is beg people to read the book for themselves because my head is still spinning, hence the crazy review.

Thanks for reading!

Review: Me Before You NO SPOILERS

Me Before You by Jojo Moyes

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Spoiler Free 

I can truly say that this book has impacted me in a way that very few books have. Not only does Jojo Moyes write in a style that keeps you awake and wanting more, the story she weaves in this book is simply enchanting and is somehow both a completely unique situation and yet totally relatable in other aspects of it. I don't want to say much more, because I was lucky enough to not have been spoiled by anything, for anything, and I really think the experience was amazing. I implore people to read this. The movie is coming out soon- close to the summer I believe- and I think you should pick up the book before the movie. :)

[
To be completely honest, I'm wasn't sure how to start this review, because in just over 350 pages, the author was able to create an incredibly full story with so many different layers and themes to it. However, I think this worked out well, going over the formatting of the book, the relationship between Will and Lou and the morality of euthanasia, my few complaints, the familial connections running through it, and then finally, the title and what I think may be one of the most important lessons that this book teaches its readers.
I'm not entirely sure how I feel about the layout of the book. I don't think anyone can argue that Jojo Moyes is a brilliant writer, but at first when the POV switched, I wasn't sure if it was the best. Based on the tone of the book, I had been thinking that it might have been better to keep it with one character so that we could feel more connected to them, but this actually worked out really well because we got to see a few other perspectives.
I am an absolute sucker for a good ship. ;) Of course I wanted Lou and Will to be together. They were able to connect on a level of true understanding and companionship that everything became so natural for them. I also really loved the impact that they had on each other, with Lou making Will's life so much better and him encouraging her to live hers. With this relationship though, we saw two different views on the notion of Will taking his own life. Previous to reading this, I was like Lou: I was absolutely against the idea of assisted suicide, for anybody. After reading it though, and seeing it through Will's perspective, it has made me look at those values again and think things over. I still don't have a solid opinion on the topic yet, and I don't know if I ever will again. But I do know that because of this, I was forced to think, "Who am I to determine the quality of somebody else's life?" Now, clearly, there are so many moral themes running through this, and I think that it is so hard to form an opinion on it, partially because everything is so circumstantial, especially today with all of the medical advances. I don't think the phrase "playing God" only refers to the taking of life anymore, but also the extending of it.
There were two things that I was not a huge fan of. The first being that there were a few moments that reminded me of TFIOS. That in itself isn't actually a complaint against the book, just against the connections I made between them. The other one was Treena's chapter. She is a really interesting character, but I think in that part of the book that she was narrating, I would have liked to know Lou's POV instead.
Lou's family is in and out of the story and a direct part of it the entire time. We see them interacting everyday and I really like how it showed the sacrifices that they were making for each other. Not every family is perfect, but they are still family, and the story did a really good job of portraying that, both in Lou's family and Will's. I especially loved the relationship between Lou and her sister because it is so realistic. Sisters are a pain, and they are constantly at each other's throats and vying for attention, but they also will always have each other's backs. They fight and argue with each other, but they also fight and argue for each other.
The title was a puzzle to me for the longest time. Halfway through the book, I though it meant that the two main characters put themselves at a disadvantage first before others so that they can do whatever they can for those other people. I suppose in a way that they do, but by the end of the book I realized what the title meant. "Me Before You" is a way to point out the evolution of the two characters and the profound impact that they had on each other in such a short amount of time. In the beginning, Will was horrible and depressed, but by the end of the book, Louisa has gotten him to travel again and laugh and see some of the good around him. He dies a happier person. Before she met Will, Louisa was perfectly content living in her small village with a boyfriend that was safe(?) and ordinary. She didn't seek out any thrills or life experiences and had no major plans or goals for her life. Within those six months though, she is completely changed. Will convinces her to take advantage of her life and to truly live it to the fullest. He tells her that it was her duty to life to fill it up. I love that. These two people only know each other for a short span of time, and yet they have completely changed the other for the better.

Of course, I probably missed something, or have stepped on somebody's toes, but all I can do is beg people to read the book for themselves because my head is still spinning, hence the crazy review.
(hide spoiler)]

Thanks for reading!

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