Brambles by Intisar Khanani is a YA novella in the Dauntless Path series that fans of the first story, Thorn, will want to read. This short story gives an in-depth look into the events that take place before the first story begins. If you are impatiently waiting to read the next instalment in the series, this book will definitely whisk you back to Adania. Continue reading
The Sea Gate by Jane Johnson is an epic historical fiction that is full of intrigue, secrets and family drama. Its dual timeline and dual narration make for an incredible saga that will whisk you away to the beautiful shores of Cornwall. It is a well-written love story that will surprise and engage fans of the genre. Continue reading
Heiress Apparently by Diana Ma is a story of family secrets that also touches upon the film industry’s perpetuation of harmful stereotypes. I enjoyed the Beijing setting, and the main character’s excitement for acting and desire to challenge offensive Asian representation was a pleasant surprise. The pacing is slow, but there are still many elements of the book that I found enjoyable that outweigh this. Continue reading
Mochi Magic by Kaori Becker is a recipe book that any mochi fan out there will want to try. It is a delightful and entertaining process that is well explained in the book. The easy to follow instructions and whimsical images will have any beginner creating mochi in no time. Continue reading
It Only Happens in the Movies by Holly Bourne is a book that has a lot of potential but failed to deliver, in my opinion. I loved the feminist messages as well as the indie cinema setting, but I had trouble connecting with the main characters. As well, I am not the biggest fan of books in which the message is made explicitly clear and is constantly pushed on the reader, and that is what happened in this case. While this one wasn’t my favourite, there are still some aspects I found enjoyable, and those interested in books about cinema, feminism, and mental health might enjoy it. Continue reading