reggiesays

About reggiesays

https://www.reggiesays.com

Posts by :

You Deserve Each Other

You Deserve Each Other

, , 0

Reggie Reviews You Deserve Each Other by Sarah Hogle

Synopsis: Nicholas and Naomi are the perfect engaged couple…on social media. In reality, they’re at each other’s throats every other day, dreading their impending wedding day. Can they rediscover love before it’s too late?

Warning: SPOILERS AHEAD!

The Review

Negatives

  • This may be a negative and a positive but the buildup to Nicholas and Naomi’s reconciliation was hard to read. The lack of communication, appreciation, and abundance of miscommunication present in their relationship made me wish they would break up only two chapters in. Hogle perfectly captures the way love can sour without attention, so props to her for her wonderful writing, but it caused me quite a bit of grief sitting on my couch since I was looking to read a rom com not a couple on the verge of a breakup!
Me while reading the first couple chapters
Me while reading the first couple chapters

Positives

  • Naomi’s rediscovery of her love for Nicholas was so sweet to read, especially because it took a lot of work on both their parts to start finally talking about their feelings. Hogle really focuses on the essentials of a relationship like trust and appreciation and invites the reader to not only join Nicholas and Naomi’s journey of rebuilding their relationship but also serves as a wakeup call to not be complacent in our own relationships.
  • Nicholas’ family dynamic was so irritating to read, but that led to such a triumphant victory when Nicholas finally stood up for Naomi in front of his mother and put Naomi first, a move he struggled to make throughout their relationship but was so satisfying for the reader.
  • All the romantic scenes in the cabin in the woods were written so beautifully and I really appreciated how the author focuses on their slow rebuilding of trust and emotional vulnerability with each other and makes that the basis of their romance rather than focusing on physical chemistry for the majority of the novel as some novels do.
Me at the end of the novel
Me at the end of the novel

Bonus! Story Soundtrack

The Verdict

Reggie says: Sarah Hogle takes the enemies to lovers trope and goes one step further by writing a lovers to enemies to lovers trope! The perfect read to tug your heartstrings during the holidays, realistic but still riveting.  

Where the Crawdads Sing

Where the Crawdads Sing

, , , 0

Reggie Reviews Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens

Synopsis: Kya Clark grows up in a North Carolinian marsh on the outskirts of society. As she grows older, her life becomes complicated by romance, murder, and realizations.

Warning: SPOILERS AHEAD!

The Review

Negatives

  • I honestly had to think for a while to come up with a negative for this book just because I was so overwhelmed with emotion after I finished it, so definitely take it with a grain of salt because overall, Owens’ novel is fantastic. The one qualm I have is that we never find out what happens to Pa, especially because he had the potential to be a good father and responsible man as shown through his positive interactions with Kya when he was not drunk. However, he was pretty terrible overall and the only reason I was sad to see him go is because his departure left Kya completely on her own.
Me to Pa (and also to Chase because he was the worst too)
Me to Pa (and also to Chase because he was the worst too)

Positives

  • The two timelines weaving the book together helped create a sense of mystery and intrigue. As the timelines started to converge, the intensity heightened, which was very fun, but also nerve-wracking to read.
  • Kya’s characterization was done so expertly, you couldn’t help but rooting for her even when she is a murder trial suspect! Owens writes Kya with plenty of heart and empathy, while also emphasizing her flaws and quirks, making her feel extremely authentic. Kya is definitely one of my favorite protagonists I’ve read this year.
  • The romances were so frustrating but ultimately satisfying. Owens skillfully captures the feelings of first love between Kya and Tate and the trepidation that results from a relationship gone sour (like Kya and Chase’s). Obviously I was rooting for Tate the whole book, even when he sorely disappointed me (and Kya), but I do feel like Chase was a good foil for Tate and although his relationship with Kya left her jaded at first, it ultimately led her back to Tate, leaving me screaming victoriously on my couch.
  • The ending of this novel was absolutely heartbreaking, but in a good way. In my opinion, the true plot twist is not the identity of Chase’s murderer, but rather the identity of the local poet, Amanda Hamilton. I developed quite a few theories about Hamilton’s identity, but the answer was shocking and fitting all at once (and made me want to reread the novel for all the clues I missed!).
Me reading the end of the book
Me reading the end of the book

The Verdict

Reggie Says:

A heartfelt novel and unexpected page-turner all in one, Owens’ novel is a must-read.

The One

The One

, , 0

Reggie Reviews The One by Kiera Cass

Synopsis: As the Selection draws to a close, America Singer must go through additional trials, both royal and personal, while her relationship with Prince Maxon grows increasingly complicated.

Warning: SPOILERS AHEAD!

The Review

Negatives

  • The first two chapters recounting America’s seduction attempt were cringe-inducing, and frankly felt a little out of character for her. Throughout the books, America’s self-respect leads her to be horrified at the prospect of potentially performing sexual acts as a way to gain favor with the prince and to knee Maxon in the “crown jewels” when she misinterprets his intentions. Although the seduction idea was formulated by her maids, it seems odd that America would agree to it, since previously her character was vehemently opposed to using her body to win the Selection.
  • King Clarkson’s death felt like an easy way out for America and Maxon to be together. It would’ve been more impactful to see Maxon fighting Clarkson in order to marry America, since it would’ve shown character development on Maxon’s part because he would be willing to argue with his abusive father rather than obey his command. I was eagerly awaiting that moment where Maxon confronts his abuser but unfortunately, it never occurs.
  • The deaths of Celeste and Anne were heartbreaking, but they felt unimportant since each one was addressed in a single sentence and then the plot moved on. Since the story ends on a happy note, with everyone getting a happy ending, I would have liked to see some kind of memorial for Celeste and Anne, potentially giving them a bittersweet ending and the reader a sense of closure.
Me reading the first two chapters
Me reading the first two chapters

Positives

  • Celeste was the main antagonist in the first book, but the way Cass humanizes her in the last book was a welcome surprise. Seeing Celeste’s vulnerability and uncertainty was refreshing and added more depth to the story, since we are able to see her character development and previous motivations through her eyes when she converses with America in the library.
  • The friendship that develops between the four remaining girls in the Selection was a breath of fresh air, since the constant underlying rivalry seemed so isolating, not only for America but for the rest of the girls too. I like the solidarity, respect, and friendship they developed, even while they were competing against each other.
  • The political intrigue with rebels made the story more multi-dimensional and I liked how it was fleshed out in this book, particularly with the revelation that America’s father was a Northern rebel, which led her to start identifying rebels that were in the palace the entire time, like Gavril Fadaye!
  • The resolution of America and Aspen’s relationship near the end of the book was well-executed and felt very authentic. Also, I am glad Aspen got his happy ending with Lucy since overall, he is a good guy.
  • Who doesn’t love a picture-perfect ending?! This book makes sure the reader is content with its conclusion, and I definitely was!
Me while reading the epilogue
Me while reading the epilogue

The Verdict

Reggie Says:

A satisfying conclusion to a series that progressively improved!

The Beautiful Chaos of Growing Up

The Beautiful Chaos of Growing Up

, 0

Reggie Reviews The Beautiful Chaos of Growing Up by Ari Satok

Synopsis: A mix of inspired and original poems, Ari Satok’s book takes you through the trials, tribulations and triumphs of young adulthood. From college experiences to job hunt miseries, Satok navigates the uncertain waters of young adulthood through his poetry.

The Review

Negatives

  • When I first got the book, I was expecting Dr.Seuss-like illustrations on every page since the excerpts on Satok’s Instagram include them. However, the book does not include them which slightly changed the tone of the poems for me. The cute illustrations may distract readers from the text though, so I understand if that was the reason to forgo them.
Me realizing there are no pictures but still excited to read the book
Me realizing there are no pictures but still excited to read the book

Positives

  • Young adults will definitely find this book relatable! I especially enjoyed the college poems, particularly the one about stalking your roommates online before meeting them.
  • The length of the poems made the book easily digestible, which was helpful when I wanted to read something substantial but not too long in between zoom meetings.
  • The poems themselves are expertly crafted mixtures of poignancy and humor. I would laugh during the first stanza and be transported back to earlier memories when reading the following one. I also appreciated the poems inspired by Frost and Kipling, because it showed Satok’s dedication and love for poetry in my opinion.
Me while reading this book
Me while reading this book

The Verdict

Reggie Says:

This book would make a wonderful gift to a recent college grad, but I recommend buying it for yourself too. If you’ve passed this stage in life, Satok’s poems take you on a beautiful trip down memory lane, and if you haven’t yet, they urge you to look forward to the future.

The Elite

The Elite

, , 0

Reggie Reviews The Elite by Kiera Cass

Synopsis: America Singer advances in the Selection, becoming one of the Elite, a group of six girls left vying for the position of princess and wife to Prince Maxon Schreave.

Warning: SPOILERS AHEAD!

The Review

Negatives

  • One thing I could not overlook was America’s dishonesty. She never tells Maxon that Aspen is in the palace and part of the guard (and she has many opportunities to do so), even after Maxon bares his soul to her about his feelings regarding the rest of the girls (Kriss, Celeste, Elise, and Natalie) and his relationship with his father. I felt sorry for Maxon during this scene because here he is pouring his heart out to America and coming clean about everything, and she is still holding on to this massive secret. It felt hard to root for her at times, especially when she starts getting jealous when Maxon spends time with the other girls, because her jealousy came off as hypocrisy to me since she essentially does the same thing to Maxon by spending time with Aspen.
Me every time America has a chance to tell Maxon about Aspen but doesn't
Me every time America has a chance to tell Maxon about Aspen but doesn’t

Positives

  • While reading the first book, I wished it was a little more intense, but this second book ramped up the intensity so fast I forgot all about the lack of it in the first book! From the heartbreaking scene with Marlee and Carter to America’s discovery of Gregory Illea’s perfidiousness to the revelation of King Clarkson’s true nature, this book certainly kept me on my toes!
  • Shoutout to America’s father for always supporting her! His letters to her were so sweet and it was refreshing to read about a loving dad in a book full of terrible ones (I’m looking at you, Clarkson and Gregory).
  • Kriss extending a hand of friendship/alliance out to America in the garden was such a kind gesture. I liked how even though Kriss and America are stuck in a system where they are not allowed to make the final decision, Kriss attempts to create some sort of agency for herself by trying to form an alliance of sorts with America.
  • Maxon’s character arc is truly wonderful in this book. The first book did not offer much in terms of Maxon’s characterization, but this second book allows us to see the cracks in his perfect prince armor, the mounting pressure he faces as he readies himself to ascend the throne as king, and the abuse he suffers at the hands of his father. It was heartbreaking to read, but it helped develop his character which I appreciated.
Me when we find out Maxon's father whips him :(
Me when we find out Maxon’s father whips him 🙁

The Verdict

Reggie says:

A fun, thrilling sequel that adds complexity to the main characters!

If You're Reading This, It's Too Late

If You’re Reading This, It’s Too Late

, 0

Reggie Revisits If You're Reading This, It's Too Late by Pseudonymous Bosch

Synopsis: Cass and Max-Ernest attempt to save a fantastical creature from the clutches of the Midnight Sun, with the help of a new friend and an old secret society.

Warning: SPOILERS AHEAD!

Like with the first book, my 11-year-old cousin and I read this one together, although I first read it many, many years ago when I was around his age. Here are some of our thoughts!

The Revisit

Negatives

  • When Cass and Max-Ernest first visit the Magic Museum, they notice posters advertising different circus attractions, and one of them says “Coming to you from the exotic East…CHUNG CHOW THE CHINESE CONJURER” in stereotypical kung-fu type font. Obviously, this poster was meant to attract audiences to the circus and exoticization is a sure-fire method to pique the interest of circusgoers. However, I felt the need to explain this to my little cousin and we talked about how one man’s exotic is another man’s normal and the way people use the word exotic to other people unknown or unfamiliar to them and attract attention. The circus poster led to a fruitful conversation, but children reading the book alone might not pick up on those nuances and engage thoughtfully with such minute, but nevertheless important, details.
  • My cousin commented that it took a while to reach the main plot of the novel, which is definitely true. We find out about the homunculus and his entire backstory around 200 pages in. However, the exposition at the beginning of the book really helps tie in the ending, so I thought it was worth it, but I can understand how it could be annoying for younger readers to have to read 200 pages before reaching the central plot.
iamnotexotic

Positives

  • The introduction of Yo-Yoji as a main character was a breath of fresh air! Like I said in my revisit of the first book in this series, it’s really nice to have a main character of color in the books, especially one who is cool and proud of his heritage. Yo-Yoji breaks the model minority stereotype that is often prevalent among Asian characters, and my cousin and I enjoyed reading about him. I also like how Yo-Yoji’s arrival at school caused some much-needed tension in Cass and Max-Ernest’s friendship as it helped them understand each other better and allowed them to branch out from each other by accepting Yo-Yoji into their group.
  • Mr. Cabbage Face is hilarious and one of the best parts of the book! He has such distinct character traits which made him quite lovable, and also made his tragic end hit so much harder.
  • Finding out Cass’ adoption story and her relation to the Jester were welcome surprises. The positive depiction of adoption is important for young readers in my opinion, as it exposes them to different family types in a natural way.
Us when Mr. Cabbage Face sacrificed himself to save Cass
Us when Mr. Cabbage Face sacrificed himself to save Cass

The Verdict

Reggie says:

A creative sequel to a fantastic first book!

The Name of this Book is Secret

The Name of this Book is Secret

, 0

Reggie Revisits The Name of this Book is Secret by Pseudonymous Bosch

Synopsis: Middle schoolers Cass and Max-Ernest attempt to uncover the mystery behind a magician’s death, only to discover secrets that put them in greater danger than they expected.

Warning: SPOILERS AHEAD!

I read this series when I was in middle school and loved every second of it, so when I had the chance to revisit the first book by reading it with my 11-year-old cousin, I was excited! Rereading books I’ve read at a different stage in my life helps me appreciate new aspects of the book, and also allows me to see flaws I couldn’t see when I was younger. Anyway, on to the revisit!

The Revisit

Negatives

  • This first book is predominantly white, which is something I never really picked up on as a middle schooler. All the characters seem to be white/European, and reading the book with my cousin, a child of color, made me feel a little weird, as I realized he can’t see himself reflected in the book. I know that the following books introduce new characters, some of which are POC (people of color), but reading it as an adult made me wish we had a main character of color in the first book (Yo-Yoji is a wonderful main character of color in the following books though!)
  • My cousin commented that the beginning of the story is a little scary, especially for young readers. Undoubtedly, the death of a magician under mysterious circumstances is a grim way to start a children’s book. But, he said it got less scary as the book went on. I think the scariness at the beginning was a good way to add mystery and suspense that engages young readers, especially for kids who are less enthusiastic about reading.

 

My cousin after the second chapter
My cousin after the second chapter

Positives

  • The variation in chapter lengths added a bit of spontaneity to our reading experience! It was really funny to confirm with my cousin that we would be reading two chapters that day and have the last chapter be a single page! The variation helps kids feel like they’re still making progress while reading, especially after long chapters that can feel overwhelming to some young readers.
  • The author’s interjections also added a bit of zany fun to the story. My cousin liked how the author seemed scared at the same moments he was and that the author wrote as if he was having a conversation directly with the reader. A+ for engaging young readers!
  • I really like how Bosch created complex villains. Ms. Mauvais is definitely evil, no shades of moral gray there, but Dr. L and Pietro’s tragic backstory helps young readers sympathize with the supposedly evil Dr. L and understand Pietro’s feelings for Dr. L.
  • One of my absolute favorite parts of the books is our young heroes, Cass and Max-Ernest. They both are such unique, interesting, and well-written characters that you can’t help but root for them!
Us rooting for Cass and Max-Ernest
Us rooting for Cass and Max-Ernest

The Verdict

Reggie Says:

The Name of this Book is Secret is a suspenseful, but fun, read that kids and adults will enjoy alike!

The Selection Post 2

The Selection

, , 0

Reggie Reviews The Selection by Kiera Cass

Synopsis: America Singer is chosen to participate in the Selection, a Bachelor-like tradition that aims to find the ruling family’s prince a bride.

Warning: SPOILERS AHEAD!

I’ve seen The Selection many times at my local library and like many of us, fell prey to the supposed cardinal sin of reading. I judged a book by its cover! And let’s be real here, we all judge books by their covers. How else would we decide what to read in a hurry?! However, quarantine has left me with a lot of free time and e-books have become my new best friend since libraries are closed. When my friend recommended The Selection, I was hesitant, but she loves it so much and told me I had to give it a chance. So, I did. And here we are!

The Review

Negatives

  • Prince Maxon Schreave was described as just perfect. Throughout the book, I was aching for some flaws, any flaws to humanize him instead of making him this perfect golden boy, especially because we see Aspen’s flaws early on in the story. One instance where he yells at America helped him shed the perfect prince image a little, but I wanted more.
  • I thoroughly disliked the whole concept of America being beautiful, but not knowing it. I’d prefer a female protagonist who knows she is beautiful and talented, but still has humility and grace rather than a character whose ignorance of her own beauty is applauded. I wish she was aware of it but did not let it define her and change her interactions with others. America’s ignorance of her own beauty felt like it was conveying the message that a lack of self-awareness is a good thing to young readers.
  • America stringing along Aspen and Maxon throughout the book  made me dislike her a little. Come on, choose one!
decision

Me to America the whole book

Positives

  • The opulence in the book was a treat for the imagination! I loved picturing America’s (and the rest of the girls’!) dresses while they stay at the palace.
  • I also enjoyed the female friendships in this book, especially between America and Marlee, as well as the friendship America builds with her maids Anne, Mary, and Lucy.
  • Although America made me dislike her sometimes, I absolutely loved America’s boldness. She is unafraid to tell it like it is and express her opinion. I know YA as a genre has an abundance of assertive heroines, but it made me happy to read about another one.
yesgirl

Me when America stood up for her maids

The Verdict

Reggie says:

Worth a read if you like lighthearted royal romances with a dash of love triangle tension.