samanthamaereads's reviews
24 reviews

The Dawn and Its Light by Piper C.J.

adventurous challenging emotional medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

A Dark and Drowning Tide by Allison Saft

adventurous challenging dark emotional mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

How to Be an Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi

informative inspiring reflective medium-paced

3.75

A Fragile Enchantment by Allison Saft

adventurous emotional hopeful medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? N/A
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Niamh is a lovable and kind female main character who reminds you of what it was to be young and naive of the world around you. Her sunny disposition balances the moody and glum Prince Kit very well. 

The story gives off a vibe of Carnival Row meets Bridgerton. It has slight spice to it which is just enough to make you want more. The depth of the characters and the rich history of the world Saft has created made this a fun weekend read!

The Frost Queen's Blade by Meg Smitherman

adventurous challenging dark emotional fast-paced

5.0

Smitherman’s writing style compliments the sullen attitude of our Frost Queen Elma Volta. It is refreshing to read a female main character who is not sunshine and rainbows. Elma is complex and her self doubt is nearly out measured by her self loathing. Born to a kingdom soaked in the blood of its enemies, Elma dares to believe that positive change is possible after learning the truth of her kingdom’s cruelty. 

Elma’s somber attitude is well balanced by her would be assassin Rune. He’s outspoken and unafraid of the truly horrific past between their countries. His candor and willingness to watch Elma change her kingdom for the better makes him easy to fall in love with.

I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy

challenging dark emotional reflective medium-paced

5.0

I Have Some Questions for You by Rebecca Makkai

challenging emotional reflective slow-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? No

3.5

If He Had Been with Me by Laura Nowlin

challenging dark emotional sad 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

5.0

In Five Years by Rebecca Serle

emotional reflective sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.75

Hidden Pictures by Jason Rekulak

challenging dark emotional mysterious reflective sad 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? No

4.5