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Oakwood Island (Book Review)

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 Stars)

Information

Author: Angella Cormier & Pierre C. Arsenault

Genre: Horror

Length: 217 pages

Format: Paperback

Series: Oakwood Island #1

Summary

On Oakwood Island, sinister forces are using the Cordyceps fungus—a mind-controlling parasite found in Peruvian zombie ants—to manipulate people and animals in unimaginable ways. Strange and dark happenings have the coastal community on edge, fearing their island may never be the same. When Maggie, a local waitress, appears at the police station weak and sickly after escaping a kidnapper she describes as monstrous, her unexplained symptoms baffle doctors. Some locals hold pieces of the puzzle, but they aren’t sure if they can—or want to—save their neighbours. As secrets from the island’s past emerge, the residents find themselves caught in a battle of good versus evil, unsure which side will ultimately triumph or at what cost.

Thoughts

This book created a wonderfully eerie atmosphere and delivered some truly engaging plot twists that kept me hooked. The introduction of a mysterious, seemingly supernatural entity that takes control of a man's body was a particularly fascinating choice. This man, now a pawn to a darker force, kidnaps Maggie and injects her with an unknown yellow substance, setting off a terrifying chain of events. The source of the yellow substance, mushroom spores native to the island, was a clever detail that connected the natural landscape with the novel’s supernatural themes, giving the story a unique and unsettling feel. Additionally, Jack’s decision not to kill Norah was a refreshing surprise, adding depth to his character and creating a morally complex moment that enriched the story. I also enjoyed the subplot surrounding the deceased, malevolent doctor who still wreaks havoc from beyond the grave. Learning about his disturbing life, even posthumously, cast an ominous shadow over the island and its residents, amplifying the novel’s tension and dread.

However, a few elements did detract from my experience. The doctor, while portrayed as an intelligent and calculating villain, makes a baffling misstep by disposing of his victims’ remains in the same spot—an oversight that doesn’t align with his supposed cunning. This detail undermined his character and seemed like a plot hole, given how methodical he is in other aspects. I also found myself slightly overwhelmed by the dual mysteries running simultaneously throughout the book. While both were intriguing, they competed for attention and made the narrative feel crowded at times; I would have preferred the story to focus on one central mystery, allowing the suspense to build more gradually and thoroughly. Additionally, the sudden mention of rape was jarring and unsettling, and it felt out of place in a story already filled with sinister elements. I wish this topic had been introduced with more sensitivity, as its abruptness was difficult to process and left me feeling uncomfortable.

Despite these drawbacks, the book still captivated me with its eerie atmosphere and rich details, especially in its supernatural and psychological horror elements. The island setting was used greatly, making the characters feel isolated and vulnerable to the dark forces at play. The novel’s best moments stemmed from its exploration of sinister influences and the way fear can spread through a small community. Overall, while the book could have benefited from a more focused approach, it still provided a spine-chilling journey that lingered with me long after I’d turned the last page.

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A Room Swept White (Book Review)

Rating: ⭐⭐ (2.5 Stars)

Information

Author: Sophie Hannah

Genre: Thriller

Length: 454 pages

Format: Paperback

Series: CID#5

Summary

TV producer Fliss Benson receives a mysterious card with sixteen numbers just as she’s assigned to a documentary on mothers wrongfully accused of killing their infants. The project centers on three exonerated women and the disgraced doctor who pursued their convictions. When one of the mothers is found dead with an identical card in her pocket, Fliss realizes there’s more to this story than she could have imagined.

Thoughts

This book was a gripping, twist-filled experience that kept me on edge right until the last page. From the beginning, I found myself immersed in a maze of shifting clues and clever misdirection, constantly questioning which of my theories might be right. Just when I thought I had uncovered the truth, the plot would veer in a new direction, introducing fresh layers of mystery that kept me guessing. The revelation that Angus Hines and Laurie Natarass were behind it all was both satisfying and surprising—an ideal payoff for the suspense that built so effectively through each chapter. I particularly appreciated that the pacing remained tight, with each scene driving the story forward; there was hardly a moment that felt unnecessary or overly drawn out. Every chapter nudged me closer to the truth, allowing for a satisfying sense of discovery that kept me eager to turn the page.

Despite the strengths of the plot and pacing, some character dynamics left me frustrated. The relationship between Fliss and Laurie, in particular, seemed baffling. Laurie is portrayed as a self-centred character who feels entitled to anything he wants, yet Fliss remains inexplicably enamoured with him. This romantic subplot didn’t feel authentic, and it was hard to understand Fliss’s attraction to someone so blatantly unworthy of it. Furthermore, the characterization throughout the book felt uneven. Many of the characters came across as contradictory in their behaviour, with motivations that seemed unclear or inconsistent. This lack of depth made it difficult to connect with or root for them, which ultimately detracted from the emotional engagement of the story. Instead of being drawn into their lives, I found myself distanced by their unlikable and inconsistent traits.

While the novel’s intricate plot and skillful misdirection were a delight, the disappointing character development somewhat dulled its impact. It’s a story that excels in mystery and suspense, but it could have benefited from characters who felt more realistic and nuanced.

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“At seventeen, Lenora Hope Hung her sister with a rope Stabbed her father with a knife Took her mother’s happy life ‘It wasn’t me,’ Lenora said But she’s the only one not dead.”

The Only One Left, Riley Sager

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le temps d’un livre

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@perksoftales

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The Hollow Places (Book Review)

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 Stars)

Information

Author: T. Kingfisher

Genre: Horror

Length: 337 pages

Format: Paperback

Series: N/A

Summary

Kara stumbles upon these cryptic words inside a hidden bunker she uncovers behind a hole in the wall of her uncle's house. Recently divorced and back living at home, Kara becomes fixated on the strange message and begins to explore the eerie bunker. Soon, she discovers that it contains portals to numerous alternate realities, each haunted by creatures that can hear thoughts—and the more she fears them, the more powerful they grow.

Thoughts

In this gripping novel, the eerie atmosphere of the other dimension is one of its standout features, pulling readers into a world filled with chilling suspense. The character Simon provides much-needed comedic relief, balancing the unsettling tone of the story. The introduction of Sturdivant adds to the tension—he is discovered by the duo, chained up, but with the lower half of his body gruesomely torn open by the creatures known as "Them." This moment intensifies the readers' investment, as they root for Kara and Simon to find their way back to their world.

A pivotal moment occurs when Kara finds a Bible in one of the bunkers, containing diary entries from a previous inhabitant, adding a layer of mystery and deepening the lore of the story. The anxiety readers experience peaks when Kara starts sleepwalking, keeping them on edge, hoping she doesn’t hurt herself or, worse, return to the alternate dimension. The willow light, a strange and enchanting element, is another highlight, bringing objects and possibly the narrative itself to life in fascinating ways.

However, the book isn't without its drawbacks. The frequent references to The Chronicles of Narnia, while understandable in context, begin to feel repetitive after a while. For those unfamiliar with the Narnia books or movies, the metaphor might not land at all. The nickname "Carrot," which was charming at first, quickly loses its appeal due to overuse. Additionally, the descriptions of the monsters were often unclear, leaving readers struggling to visualize them until the end of the book. Including a visual representation of these alien creatures would have greatly enhanced the experience.

Lastly, while the main character's divorce catalyzes her relocation, it feels somewhat unnecessary to the plot. Simply having Kara move to the Wonder Museum to help her uncle would have been a sufficient premise to kick off the story.

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The House Across The Lake (Book Review)

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 Stars)

Information

Author: Riley Sager

Genre: Thriller

Length: 349 pages

Series: N/A

Summary

Casey Fletcher, a widowed actress seeking refuge at her family’s lake house in Vermont, spends her days watching her wealthy neighbours, Tom and Katherine Royce, across the lake. After saving Katherine from drowning, the two women form a friendship, but Casey soon realizes their seemingly perfect marriage is hiding dark secrets. When Katherine suddenly disappears, Casey becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth, leading to a chilling story of voyeurism, guilt, and deception.

Thoughts

There were several elements I absolutely loved. One of the standout revelations was that Len was the one behind the disappearances of the local missing girls—a dark and gripping twist that kept me on the edge of my seat. I also appreciated Boone, the handyman next door, who immediately dove into investigating what happened to Katherine with an admirable sense of urgency. 

The twist of Katherine being possessed by Len was a surprise that I thoroughly enjoyed, adding an eerie layer to the story. The reveal of the truth behind Len’s accidental drowning tied the plot together in a chilling way. However, there was one element I didn’t quite connect with. While I understand that the main character’s excessive drinking was a coping mechanism to forget her trauma, it seemed like a lot for one person to block out—though I’m no expert in psychology, so I could be wrong there. 

These highs and lows made for an intense and memorable reading experience.

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A House With Good Bones (Book Review)

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.25 Stars)

Information

Author: T. Kingfisher

Genre: Horror

Length: 243 pages

Format: Hardcover

Series: N/A

Summary

Sam Montgomery arrives at her mother’s house, excited for a quiet visit. But the house feels cold, her mom is paranoid, and Sam discovers a jar of teeth hidden in the garden with vultures circling above. Determined to uncover what’s scaring her mom, she digs for answers that are better left undiscovered.

Thoughts

This fast-paced horror novel is perfect for Fall, offering readers a thrilling ride with plenty of surprises. One of the standout elements is the mystery surrounding Gran Mae haunting the property. While it seems like the most likely explanation, the author masterfully delivers an unexpected twist, keeping readers on their toes. Sam's discovery of what happened to her great-grandfather, Gran Mae's father, adds another layer to the eerie family history.

However, I was frustrated by Sam's mom's behaviour. Despite knowing something is wrong, she fails to protect her kids, especially Sam. I expected her to push Sam away to keep her safe, as she had done with her son’s wife, but instead, she let her daughter walk into danger. Another issue was the explanation of the underground railroad children, which felt rushed and left me unclear about exactly what they were and why they were targeting the family. On a lighter note, the witty banter between characters provided much-needed relief from the growing tension, balancing the horror with moments of humour.

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🚨 Vetted Fundraiser 🚨

My name is Amira, I am 23 years old, and this is my story, filled with challenges and pain💔.

Four years ago, I lost my father and became responsible for my family. I took on the responsibility of caring for my sick mother and siblings, working hard as a university assistant and a programmer in a company. I was building my future step by step, enduring all the hardships 💙.

But the war turned my life upside down. I lost my home, my job, my university, and everything I worked for. We were displaced seven times in search of safety, and each time we hoped to find a better place. We are currently in Al-Zawayda, living in a school for displaced people, and we face harsh conditions every day😥.

This is a glimpse of our daily suffering, as we lack the most basic necessities of life. Every day, we face challenges that turn survival into a constant struggle in unforgiving conditions😓.

The accumulated waste around our area poses a serious health hazard, polluting the air and spreading diseases that have affected us all. Both our children and the elderly suffer from illnesses due to this ongoing pollution, in a situation that threatens our lives and health every day💔.

My heart longs for family gatherings, and I feel nostalgic for the moments we used to spend together. Now, we are separated between the north and the south, and we haven't seen each other for ten months😥.

I miss every corner of my room, which was my safe haven. Those corners hold my memories and reflect my peace, and I yearn to return to them🧡.

I also miss my working life, which, despite being exhausting, gave my life meaning and purpose. I miss the days of work and the effort I used to put in 💚.

And I long for the feeling of success and pride that filled me after achieving my goals in my studies and work. These memories of my accomplishments remind me of the joy of success💜.

I live every day amidst challenges, trying to stay strong despite all the difficulties. I try to be the support for my family, providing them with basic needs despite the scarcity of resources. And despite everything, I still believe that tomorrow will be better🤲🏽.

I need your help. You can support us by donating and sharing the campaign link. Your support could save an entire family from death and give us hope in these difficult times. Thank you for your support and care🙏💜.

Vetted by several bloggers 💙 👉

@nabulsi link here

@fairuzfan link here

@sar-soor link here

@90-ghost link here

@commissions4aid-international link here

My Other Account 👉 @ameera-anq

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Life is short. Live it. Fear is natural. Face it. Memory is powerful. Use it.

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my toxic trait is requesting library books faster than I can read them

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ℑ𝔱’𝔰 𝔫𝔬𝔱 𝔤𝔬𝔦𝔫𝔤 𝔱𝔬 𝔟𝔢 𝔢𝔞𝔰𝔶,

𝔅𝔲𝔱 𝔦𝔱’𝔰 𝔫𝔬𝔱 𝔤𝔬𝔦𝔫𝔤 𝔱𝔬 𝔟𝔢 𝔞𝔰 𝔥𝔞𝔯𝔡 𝔞𝔰 𝔶𝔬𝔲 𝔢𝔵𝔭𝔢𝔠𝔱, 𝔢𝔦𝔱𝔥𝔢𝔯

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JOMP Book Photo Challenge hosted by  Just One More Page

September 22nd: Hello, Autumn

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