cyrille6k's reviews
704 reviews

The Mirror of Beasts by Alexandra Bracken

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4.0

The Mirror of Beasts is a thrilling conclusion to Alexandra Bracken's Silver in the Bone duology. Tamsin and her friends face their greatest challenge yet as they battle against the forces of darkness.   

Bracken's masterful storytelling weaves together elements of Arthurian legend and modern fantasy, creating a captivating world filled with magic, betrayal, and sacrifice. The characters are complex and relatable, and their emotional journeys are both heartbreaking and inspiring.   

The novel's pacing is excellent, with plenty of action, suspense, and heartfelt moments. The ending is both satisfying and bittersweet, leaving readers with a sense of closure and anticipation for future stories set in this rich and imaginative world.   


The Hero Is Overpowered But Overly Cautious, Vol. 1 (Light Novel) by Light Tuchihi

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3.0

The title, typical of light novels, is quite straightforward. Our overly cautious protagonist overprepares for every encounter, leading to humorous situations and unintentionally overwhelming everyone around him. While it provides some comedic relief, the action sequences often fall flat.
A highlight of the series is the perspective shift from the hero to the goddess tasked with saving the world. She expects a brilliant hero but instead gets a socially awkward and overpowered individual. Her reactions to his antics are often hilarious and help elevate the overall enjoyment of the story.
While not my favorite light novel, it's still an entertaining read. It's a lighthearted story with a likable cast of characters, and the humorous moments make it a pleasant experience.
Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon?, Vol. 1 (Light Novel) by Fujino Omori

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1.0

Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon? is a disappointing adaptation of a popular anime. The light novel version lacks the charm and energy of the anime, with stilted writing and a poorly paced narrative. The translation often feels awkward, and the characters, while familiar, lack depth and nuance.
Overall, this light novel is a missed opportunity. It fails to capture the spirit of the anime and offers little to no value for fans of the series.
High School DXD, Vol. 1 (Light Novel): Diablos of the Old School Building by Ichiei Ishibumi

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5.0

High School DxD is a fun and entertaining light novel that blends fantasy and ecchi elements. The plot is engaging, and the characters are likable and well-developed.

I particularly enjoyed the pacing of the story and the exciting action sequences. Issei's growth as a character is satisfying to watch, as he progresses from a weakling to a powerful demon.


The Shadows Between Us by Tricia Levenseller

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5.0

The Shadows Between is a captivating and morally ambiguous tale of love, power, and the darkness that lurks within. The novel follows Alessandra, a cunning and manipulative princess, as she navigates the treacherous court of the Shadow King.
One of the novel's strengths lies in its complex and morally gray characters. Alessandra and the Shadow King are both fascinating and flawed, making for a compelling and often disturbing dynamic. Their dark and twisted romance is both thrilling and unsettling.
While the world-building is somewhat limited, the author's vivid descriptions and engaging storytelling make up for it. The novel's focus is primarily on the characters and their relationships, rather than on the intricacies of the world itself.
Overall, The Shadows Between is a well-written and entertaining novel that will appeal to fans of dark fantasy and morally ambiguous characters.
Goblin Slayer, Vol. 1 (Manga) by Kumo Kagyu

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5.0

Goblin Slayer offers a refreshingly gritty and realistic take on the fantasy genre. The series delves into the harsh realities of dungeon-crawling, highlighting the dangers, sacrifices, and the toll it takes on both the body and mind.
The protagonist, the Goblin Slayer, is a compelling and complex character. His unwavering dedication to his task and his strategic approach to combat make him a fascinating figure. The supporting cast, while limited, is well-developed and adds depth to the story.
The author's attention to detail and focus on tactical combat is impressive. The world-building, while not overly complex, is sufficient to support the story. The series effectively balances moments of levity with darker, more disturbing themes.
Overall, Goblin Slayer is a must-read for fans of dark fantasy and dungeon-crawling. Its unique blend of realism and fantasy makes it stand out from other series in the genre.
+Anima 1 by Natsumi Mukai

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4.0

Cooro, Husky, Senri, and Nana are a lovable group of characters who bring warmth and humor to the story. The author's attention to detail and beautiful art style enhance the overall experience.
While there may not be a clear-cut end goal in this volume, the focus on character interactions and the exploration of the magical world make it a satisfying read. Fans of slice-of-life fantasy will appreciate the gentle pace and heartwarming moments.
Call of the Night, Vol. 1 by Kotoyama

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4.0

Call of the Night is a refreshing take on the vampire genre, offering a unique and introspective exploration of loneliness, depression, and the search for connection.
Ko, the protagonist, is a relatable character struggling with social anxiety and insomnia. His encounters with Nazuna, a mysterious vampire, lead to a complex and intriguing relationship. While the initial focus seems to be on Nazuna's desire for Ko's blood, there is a deeper emotional connection developing between the two characters.
The story subverts expectations by avoiding the typical vampire tropes of love, transformation, and eternal life. Instead, it delves into the psychological aspects of isolation and the search for belonging.

The Bad Ones by Melissa Albert

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5.0

The Bad Ones is a captivating and suspenseful horror novel that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The story follows Nora as she searches for her missing best friend in a small suburban town.
The novel expertly blends elements of horror, mystery, and true crime. The supernatural elements, including the mysterious goddess game, add a chilling dimension to the story. Nora's unwavering determination to find her friend is both inspiring and heartbreaking.
With its twists, turns, and chilling atmosphere, The Bad Ones is a must-read for fans of horror and suspense.