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emmaisnotavampire's reviews
169 reviews
Il Maestro e Margherita by Mikhail Bulgakov
funny
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
Unfortunately I am not the biggest fan of audiobooks: I personally feel like I cannot truly appreciate the beauty of a book, and especially the poetic qualities of its prose, when I’m just listening to it, as I get too lost in the sounds and not enough in the words. Furthermore, not having a visual link such as the written page to alienate me from the outside world I find I struggle to properly immerse myself into the imagination process. That being said, I think the magical realism atmosphere of this novel made it easier to grab the listener’s attraction and attract them into its quirky scenarios.
I can’t really say much about the plot, it didn’t really hit me that much, it felt mostly like a succession of weird things happening without any proper connection, but that was probably just me losing track of details because of my issues with this specific format. It was a fun and entertaining experience though, and I believe with time I can train myself to properly consume and appreciate this kind of media just like I did with writing when I learned to read many, many years ago.
I can’t really say much about the plot, it didn’t really hit me that much, it felt mostly like a succession of weird things happening without any proper connection, but that was probably just me losing track of details because of my issues with this specific format. It was a fun and entertaining experience though, and I believe with time I can train myself to properly consume and appreciate this kind of media just like I did with writing when I learned to read many, many years ago.
La repubblica del drago by R.F. Kuang
adventurous
dark
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
Very lovely book just like the rest of the saga, I already expressed my more than positive opinion about Kuang’s world-building. However, I feel like it didn’t excite me as much as the first chapter because of how predictable the plot twists were: the Nezha thing had already been heavily foreshadowed earlier on, and I think everybody knew about who the “real” villain had been all along. That’s probably what I felt like was lacking: truly morally grey characters, that keep switching sides in the reader’s heart, from hated to beloved and viceversa.
I liked the depiction of Esperians though, they really appeared like insane fanatics blinded by their irrational beliefs justified by claims of scientific research and progress towards perfection.
I liked the depiction of Esperians though, they really appeared like insane fanatics blinded by their irrational beliefs justified by claims of scientific research and progress towards perfection.
La dea in fiamme by R.F. Kuang
adventurous
dark
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Almost as if Kuang read my mind, this final chapter of the saga was FULL of morally grey characters continuously shifting in perception! How I loved the role of the Empress, how I loved this multifaceted Jiang! Characters were a strength here, much more than in the other books, and the plot twists were back to their original unpredictable nature. So many things I would not have expected, like of course the Triad or even more obviously the finale. Rin’s moral dilemma was also really interesting, finding herself time after time in positions she shouldn’t have been in and struggling to figure out what the right thing to do was. A soldier turned goddes, chief, ruler even, feeling so incredibly lost and unprepared: I feel like a theme like that always hits hard, after all we all feel the same thing at some point in life. Or during most of our life, I don’t know. Depends on how pragmatic you are.
It still didn’t shock me as much as the first book, I think the changes of scale and perspective there were so massive that they can hardly be topped. In the span of one single book, Rin goes from child to war survivor, and everything turns absolutely upside down, learning into killing, quiet into chaos, peace into massacre. Here, the starting point already has too much going on for a change to be as unsettling; but still, I really enjoyed this read.
It still didn’t shock me as much as the first book, I think the changes of scale and perspective there were so massive that they can hardly be topped. In the span of one single book, Rin goes from child to war survivor, and everything turns absolutely upside down, learning into killing, quiet into chaos, peace into massacre. Here, the starting point already has too much going on for a change to be as unsettling; but still, I really enjoyed this read.
The Atlas Paradox by Olivie Blake
adventurous
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
This book unfortunately puzzled me a bit, so even though I found it enjoyable I have my doubts. The concept is extremely fascinating, a scientific portrayal of magic as the power of manipulating physics and chemistry is something so unique yet so perfectly in tune with my interests; the second chapter of the saga, furthermore, also explores more complex dynamics occurring in a world with such natural laws, like time travel and multiple dimensions, as well as asking plenty of philosophical questions concerning the purpose, ethics and meaning of these powers, the concept of divinity and fate and all that may relate to them. And all this was great, I absolutely loved it. However...
Plot-wise my only complaint is that, being novel number two in a trilogy, The Altlas Paradox often reads like a necessary linking passage rather than a standalone book, which sadly made me like it a tiny bit less than its predecessor. My main issue with it, though, is that I do not seem to understand most of the writing choices: none of it is inherently wrong, but omitting the description of scenes that had the potential to be extremely powerful or implying substantial changes in character dynamics without ever really addressing what it is that caused them felt... a little weird, if I'm being honest.
All this being said, the story has me deeply engaged and, no matter how flawed, after all this time I have started to care about the characters too, so despite not liking the writing style to the max I am still 100% going to continue the saga and see what's next!
Plot-wise my only complaint is that, being novel number two in a trilogy, The Altlas Paradox often reads like a necessary linking passage rather than a standalone book, which sadly made me like it a tiny bit less than its predecessor. My main issue with it, though, is that I do not seem to understand most of the writing choices: none of it is inherently wrong, but omitting the description of scenes that had the potential to be extremely powerful or implying substantial changes in character dynamics without ever really addressing what it is that caused them felt... a little weird, if I'm being honest.
All this being said, the story has me deeply engaged and, no matter how flawed, after all this time I have started to care about the characters too, so despite not liking the writing style to the max I am still 100% going to continue the saga and see what's next!
Hell Bent. Portale per l'inferno by Leigh Bardugo
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Darlington was my favourite character in Ninth House, so of course I was super excited to read this book. Well, I must say, I was not disappointed! I was not expecting - stupidly though, because it is kind of literally in the name - such a big focus on Hell itself and on the rituals needed to enter it; however, I'm kind of a slut for anything even remotely demonic so I was absolutely delighted to find out. I feel like the characters were a really strong feature here compared to the previous book, the relationships between them have undoubtedly evolved and deepened after the events of the saga, and their personalities themselves acquired added depth also thanks to the inevitable vulnerability involved in the ritual - and especially thanks to the prerequisite of having committed murder, which usually tends to add a layer of moral complexity to a character - which showed a new side to the reader. Even Alex began to get less insufferable!
What's more, call me a demon too, but I adored that the ritual felt like a quest, a game, a puzzle... dark academia satanic dungeons and dragons? Yes please! Add a touch of vampirism and a sexy Lethe gentleman (yes I love Daniel Arlington in case it wasn't clear) and you've created the most perfect mix. I am only giving this book four stars because, style-wise, it is nothing more special than a slightly darker young adult, nothing so original that it deserves to near top marks, but I really really enjoyed it nonetheless! I guess what I'm saying is I only give five stars to pretentious books... my bad, I know.
Lastly, I'll finish this off by saying that I need a sequel, because the hell was that finale? Give me more!
What's more, call me a demon too, but I adored that the ritual felt like a quest, a game, a puzzle... dark academia satanic dungeons and dragons? Yes please! Add a touch of vampirism and a sexy Lethe gentleman (yes I love Daniel Arlington in case it wasn't clear) and you've created the most perfect mix. I am only giving this book four stars because, style-wise, it is nothing more special than a slightly darker young adult, nothing so original that it deserves to near top marks, but I really really enjoyed it nonetheless! I guess what I'm saying is I only give five stars to pretentious books... my bad, I know.
Lastly, I'll finish this off by saying that I need a sequel, because the hell was that finale? Give me more!
The Yellow Wallpaper by Charlotte Perkins Gilman
dark
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.25
A thrilling and engaging short story, eerily depicting the quick descent into madness of a woman suffering from "hysteria" and "nervousness", as men back then used to address any being of the female gender who expressed emotions in a way that did not please their fragile patriarchal ego. Through the scary tale of creepy creatures and progressing insanity, the author also very clearly condemns the attitude that her contemporaries assumed towards mental health, especially feminine mental health, which paradoxically often caused its worsening instead of its healing. Furthermore, the tone is evidently strongly feministic, and the author clearly states that treating women as good-looking objects or pets at best, and thinking that because of their inferior nature they can easily be controlled, and should be for their own wellbeing, is wrong, dangerous and silly. Kind of a pity it was so short though, as it could not really transmit a lot of emotion in such a limited amount of words, leaving the reader a lot more indifferent than it potentially could have.
La guerra dei papaveri by R.F. Kuang
adventurous
dark
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.75
One of the most creative fantasy worldbuildings ever, with a lot of uncommon historical inspiration for a genre that is most often based on European Middle Ages aesthetics and Celtic folklore. The reference to imperial China and its tensions with Japan is evident, but the two forces are skilfully reimagined in a complex intertwining of family, society, education, elitism, identity, war, power, death... and magic, of course. Well, sort of. Shamanism, more specifically, but really does it make any difference what the source of one's magic is? I'd say bursting into flames or telling the future is pretty magical nonetheless.
Although it is obvious to me, having read Babel way before I read this, that Kuang's writing was still nowhere near where it is today and it has greatly evolved over time, I still loved this novel's style. The prose might not be as imaginative and inventive as in the above mentioned work, but it still functions perfectly, the rhythm flows effortlessly, all the emotions deeply conveyed, and the numerous plot twists masterfully crafted to make absolute sense without ever feeling predictable. Kuang slowly builds up element after element in her depiction of magic and religion, shamanism and mythology, conflict and history, continuously adding layers that the reader could not foresee but that, looking back, one realises have actually always been there hiding in plain sight.
I genuinely cannot wait to read the rest of the saga - and frankly, all of Kuang's production in its entirety!
Although it is obvious to me, having read Babel way before I read this, that Kuang's writing was still nowhere near where it is today and it has greatly evolved over time, I still loved this novel's style. The prose might not be as imaginative and inventive as in the above mentioned work, but it still functions perfectly, the rhythm flows effortlessly, all the emotions deeply conveyed, and the numerous plot twists masterfully crafted to make absolute sense without ever feeling predictable. Kuang slowly builds up element after element in her depiction of magic and religion, shamanism and mythology, conflict and history, continuously adding layers that the reader could not foresee but that, looking back, one realises have actually always been there hiding in plain sight.
I genuinely cannot wait to read the rest of the saga - and frankly, all of Kuang's production in its entirety!
La vita invisibile di Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab
adventurous
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
Very interesting concept, left me appreciating the little things in life that often go unnoticed... like the ability to form interpersonal relationships, for example.
I especially enjoyed the perfect combination and balance of eclecticism and ordinariness across different eras, the everyday events of the modern day plot line as opposed to the great and highly relevant events selected for the flashback chapters.
I also loved the fact that the concept of "old gods" is never truly explained, maintaining a sense of mystery that perfectly matches those ethereal beings, or rather entities, concepts, ideas. A "god" is never properly defined, leaving the philosophical question of whether or not Addie is really one of them, as Luc says, for the reader to answer.
Between fascinating historical settings, elements of dark magic and heartwarming love stories, the novel in fact cares to deal with philosophy and existential doubt most of all. Is a life worth living if nobody knows of it? Or even, has it really been lived? What's the difference if no one can prove it? And again, what is love, what authenticity? How can you trust a feeling that you know has been, or at least could have been, manipulated? How can you know if it has or hasn't? Is it better to be loved by no one for who you are, or by everyone for someone you're not. So many dilemmas, and no clear solution: as a fantasy-loving thought daughter, definitely one of my favourite books I've read recently.
I especially enjoyed the perfect combination and balance of eclecticism and ordinariness across different eras, the everyday events of the modern day plot line as opposed to the great and highly relevant events selected for the flashback chapters.
I also loved the fact that the concept of "old gods" is never truly explained, maintaining a sense of mystery that perfectly matches those ethereal beings, or rather entities, concepts, ideas. A "god" is never properly defined, leaving the philosophical question of whether or not Addie is really one of them, as Luc says, for the reader to answer.
Between fascinating historical settings, elements of dark magic and heartwarming love stories, the novel in fact cares to deal with philosophy and existential doubt most of all. Is a life worth living if nobody knows of it? Or even, has it really been lived? What's the difference if no one can prove it? And again, what is love, what authenticity? How can you trust a feeling that you know has been, or at least could have been, manipulated? How can you know if it has or hasn't? Is it better to be loved by no one for who you are, or by everyone for someone you're not. So many dilemmas, and no clear solution: as a fantasy-loving thought daughter, definitely one of my favourite books I've read recently.
Se una notte d'inverno un viaggiatore by Italo Calvino
adventurous
funny
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
I always say I don't like virtuosos of any kind, but apparently I am clearly lying to myself, because this highly intellectual meta-narration was just so brilliant, so captivating, so cleverly ironic and ironically clever. Calvino's iconic, often irreverent, quirky tone of voice perfectly matches the magically absurd events of this book, or rather of this collection of - interrupted - books.
What is a plot when you have such a strong concept? Calvino seems to ask. Well, he surely proved that his literary genius surely doesn't need one to fully express his potential. Yet, despite stating that the only story, or rather stories, is contained within the discontinued incipits, he links all of the interrupting events together in a surreal and eccentric second-person narration that hides, behind the most unrealistic reader love story, the connections that we thought nonexistent between all of the books, mostly through Ludmilla's constant claim that "she likes the kind of book in which...", introducing the theme of research that, concretised in the search for the original manuscript that the Reader embarks on, also translates to a more metaphorical search for meaning, fulfilment, for a purpose, a sense to it all, via the different sensibilities that each incipit expresses.
Lastly, I'd like to dedicate a final thought to Calvino's mastery of writing, the skill with which he managed to not only make me passionate about one book, nor even a double book - the short story collection and the bigger story that contains them all -, but to ten, eleven different novels, thanks to the fact that, despite reading as a tale of its own, each one is rather presented as an incipit, a beginning, implying that the plot continues somewhere out there, in the ether. Oh how I'd love to be able to read all of those fictional novels too!
What is a plot when you have such a strong concept? Calvino seems to ask. Well, he surely proved that his literary genius surely doesn't need one to fully express his potential. Yet, despite stating that the only story, or rather stories, is contained within the discontinued incipits, he links all of the interrupting events together in a surreal and eccentric second-person narration that hides, behind the most unrealistic reader love story, the connections that we thought nonexistent between all of the books, mostly through Ludmilla's constant claim that "she likes the kind of book in which...", introducing the theme of research that, concretised in the search for the original manuscript that the Reader embarks on, also translates to a more metaphorical search for meaning, fulfilment, for a purpose, a sense to it all, via the different sensibilities that each incipit expresses.
Lastly, I'd like to dedicate a final thought to Calvino's mastery of writing, the skill with which he managed to not only make me passionate about one book, nor even a double book - the short story collection and the bigger story that contains them all -, but to ten, eleven different novels, thanks to the fact that, despite reading as a tale of its own, each one is rather presented as an incipit, a beginning, implying that the plot continues somewhere out there, in the ether. Oh how I'd love to be able to read all of those fictional novels too!
La Divina Commedia by Dante Alighieri
adventurous
challenging
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.25
It makes me so sad that most Italian youngsters grow to hate the Comedy solely because of the way it is taught in school, when it is genuinely such an interesting work, or at least it is considering the time of its creation. In the context of the 1300s, Dante was undoubtedly a visionary, and it surely took quite a bit of courage to treat God, Mary and all the Saints, as well as the Devil and the worst of sinners, as characters of his own fantasy poem. Sure, many passages could be viewed as heavily biased and petty, but if you ask me, that's nothing but an added bonus! It makes it so much more varied and fun!
Inferno is a little gem, a heterogeneous mix of irreverence, vice, laughter, disgust, violence, tragedy, rage, lots of complex characters mainly outlined by their flaws instead of their virtues, of entertaining backstories and moral dilemmas. Paolo and Francesca, Ulysses, Count Ugolino... these figures and related chapters alone are enough to make this poem great, even greater than it is in its entirety. Purgatorio is of course not as brilliant, but it's still pretty enjoyable, some chapters more than others; but Paradiso, that is the real disgrace which brings my rating down so much: it's soooooo boring! Not nearly as multifaceted as the other two books, and the characters are incredibly flat, suffering from what I call the Lucia syndrome (straight out of my nemesis of a book, Manzoni's The Betrothed), a total absence of negative attributes to balance out the positive ones and make them human and relatable, instead of utterly insufferable.
Were I to read this again for my mere entertainment, I would probably never go past Inferno again, but for my first autonomous read of the poem it felt right to power through it all.
Inferno is a little gem, a heterogeneous mix of irreverence, vice, laughter, disgust, violence, tragedy, rage, lots of complex characters mainly outlined by their flaws instead of their virtues, of entertaining backstories and moral dilemmas. Paolo and Francesca, Ulysses, Count Ugolino... these figures and related chapters alone are enough to make this poem great, even greater than it is in its entirety. Purgatorio is of course not as brilliant, but it's still pretty enjoyable, some chapters more than others; but Paradiso, that is the real disgrace which brings my rating down so much: it's soooooo boring! Not nearly as multifaceted as the other two books, and the characters are incredibly flat, suffering from what I call the Lucia syndrome (straight out of my nemesis of a book, Manzoni's The Betrothed), a total absence of negative attributes to balance out the positive ones and make them human and relatable, instead of utterly insufferable.
Were I to read this again for my mere entertainment, I would probably never go past Inferno again, but for my first autonomous read of the poem it felt right to power through it all.