nwreader's reviews
695 reviews

A Bad Case of Tinnitus by Tony Evans

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funny lighthearted fast-paced

3.5

Forgotten Sisters by Cynthia Pelayo

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dark emotional slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? N/A

4.0

Bruises on a Butterfly by Chad Lutzke

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dark emotional sad medium-paced

5.0

πŸ¦‹Three Friends, One Secret, and a Heart-Wrenching Discovery: My Bookish Thoughts on BRUISES ON A BUTTERFLY by Chad Lutzke

Calling all fans of STAND BY ME and THE FLY! Prepare to be swept away by a powerful tale of friendship, loss, and the complexities of being a preteen boy. This book follows three inseparable teenagers who find solace and adventure in their hidden clubhouse in a cornfield. But their world is turned upside down by an unexpected event that forces them to confront uncomfortable truths and acknowledge dark secrets.

Chad's masterful storytelling paints vivid portraits of each boy, their unique struggles, and the delicate dynamics of their friendship. He doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of life, tackling sensitive topics with honesty and nuance. Be prepared to have your heart wrenched – but in the best way possible. This is a coming-of-age story that packs a punch, leaving you with a rollercoaster of emotions long after the final page.

If you're looking for a quick read that delves into grief, trauma, and the enduring power of friendship, look no further. This book is a must-read for anyone who appreciates raw, emotional storytelling and characters you can't help but root for. It's a guaranteed "feels" trip, and you won't regret taking the plunge. So grab your copy, settle in, and prepare to be surprised, challenged, and deeply moved.

This author really is one of the top authors in the indie world. Thank you for making me feel my feels @chad_lutzke πŸ˜…πŸ–€πŸ¦‹

*Thank you to Chad and Cemetery Dance for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
**CW - if you want to know them, look them up or DM me.

Expand filter menu Content Warnings
The Plight Before Christmas by Kate Stewart

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emotional funny hopeful lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

Listened to the audiobook.

The audiobook was perfectly produced--I love the narrators.

The story is a second chance romance that has a similar vibe as the movie THE FAMILY STONE, which is one of my favorite movies. I adored the main characters and their chemistry. This wasn't overtly spicy which I appreciated at the moment (I'm spiced out lol) but the tension between the characters was fun.

I enjoyed the side characters (family members) and learning about their real life issues that weren't over the top like most romances. This book is also a forced close proximity story with so many laugh out loud and genuinely pull at your heartstrings moments that you can't help but love.

This is my first time reading this author and I definitely plan on reading more by them.
Ponyboy by Eliot Duncan

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Did not finish book. Stopped at 20%.
I had to return to the library before finishing.
Nevada by Imogen Binnie

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Did not finish book. Stopped at 9%.
Soft dnf