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lit_vibrations's reviews
318 reviews
How to Lose a Best Friend by Jordan K. Casomar
funny
lighthearted
reflective
fast-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? N/A
5.0
Special thanks to @mtvbooks & @simonteen for my gifted copy‼️
I fell so in love with this book it’s soooo cute and adorable. It’s a YA novel that will keep you engaged because Zeke had me laughing at his affection for Imogen. Not that it wasn’t cute but if doing to much was a person it would def be him. The boy was so in love and over the top with it. Imagine a guy applying all the right pressure to get your attention but he’s not the guy you want. I thought this was going to be a friends-to-lovers thing but it came with a twist because they almost went from friends-to-enemies.
Zeke and Imogen have been friends for so long that everyone around them thinks they’d make the perfect couple. With that extra pressure from friends and family Zeke thinks it’s only right to make Imogen his girl. But Imogen wasn’t sure if dating Zeke was something she wanted to do. So, she kissed him AGAIN confirming nothing’s there. But Zeke took that kiss to heart and was ready for marriage.
I loved everything about this book. The authors message posing the question can a guy and a girl be friends without catching feelings. In our MC’s case I would say yes and no lol Zeke proved that love will make you do some crazy things. The rumors, him being warned to fall back, Imogen’s 16th bday party, and what he said to her parents crossed a line that no real friend should but a childish boy madly in love would.
Overall, this was a great read highly recommend if you’re looking for something quick, cute, and fluffy but has messy drama. The author touched on themes involving a sick parent, financial struggles, entitlement, the complexity of teenage relationships, dealing with rejection, losing your virginity, first loves, and so much more. It was a must I add this to my top fav YA books of the year‼️
I fell so in love with this book it’s soooo cute and adorable. It’s a YA novel that will keep you engaged because Zeke had me laughing at his affection for Imogen. Not that it wasn’t cute but if doing to much was a person it would def be him. The boy was so in love and over the top with it. Imagine a guy applying all the right pressure to get your attention but he’s not the guy you want. I thought this was going to be a friends-to-lovers thing but it came with a twist because they almost went from friends-to-enemies.
Zeke and Imogen have been friends for so long that everyone around them thinks they’d make the perfect couple. With that extra pressure from friends and family Zeke thinks it’s only right to make Imogen his girl. But Imogen wasn’t sure if dating Zeke was something she wanted to do. So, she kissed him AGAIN confirming nothing’s there. But Zeke took that kiss to heart and was ready for marriage.
I loved everything about this book. The authors message posing the question can a guy and a girl be friends without catching feelings. In our MC’s case I would say yes and no lol Zeke proved that love will make you do some crazy things. The rumors, him being warned to fall back, Imogen’s 16th bday party, and what he said to her parents crossed a line that no real friend should but a childish boy madly in love would.
Overall, this was a great read highly recommend if you’re looking for something quick, cute, and fluffy but has messy drama. The author touched on themes involving a sick parent, financial struggles, entitlement, the complexity of teenage relationships, dealing with rejection, losing your virginity, first loves, and so much more. It was a must I add this to my top fav YA books of the year‼️
Home Is Where the Bodies Are by Jeneva Rose
dark
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.0
Special thanks to the author & @blackstonepublishing for my gifted listening copy‼️
I loved the cover of this book so much I had to buy it and after finally reading it I was not disappointed. This was a fast-paced believe nothing and question everything twisted thriller that had me hooked from beginning to end.
It started off a bit sad with our characters losing their mother. Then took a major turn when Beth heard her mother’s final words “Don’t trust.” Immediately we’re thrown into a web of lies and go down the rabbit hole trying to uncover the truth behind a VHS tape dated back to 1999.
All fingers were pointed at their dad who was covered in blood on the tape and asking their mother for help to hide the body. But as we get deeper our suspicions shift from person to person then you realize the truth was hidden in plain sight. Idk how but I knew from the beginning who the killer would be it was just something about their character.
Overall, this was a pretty good read that will make you question why people do the things they do. And why they choose to protect and look past the wrongdoings of the ones they love. The way the narrative changed up and went in a different direction made this a really good twisted thriller. The writing style was convincing and kept me guessing for the most part. I also loved how well the author plotted everything out and gave us multiple perspectives from each character. If you’re looking for a good family thriller this is the perfect read for October.
I loved the cover of this book so much I had to buy it and after finally reading it I was not disappointed. This was a fast-paced believe nothing and question everything twisted thriller that had me hooked from beginning to end.
It started off a bit sad with our characters losing their mother. Then took a major turn when Beth heard her mother’s final words “Don’t trust.” Immediately we’re thrown into a web of lies and go down the rabbit hole trying to uncover the truth behind a VHS tape dated back to 1999.
All fingers were pointed at their dad who was covered in blood on the tape and asking their mother for help to hide the body. But as we get deeper our suspicions shift from person to person then you realize the truth was hidden in plain sight. Idk how but I knew from the beginning who the killer would be it was just something about their character.
Overall, this was a pretty good read that will make you question why people do the things they do. And why they choose to protect and look past the wrongdoings of the ones they love. The way the narrative changed up and went in a different direction made this a really good twisted thriller. The writing style was convincing and kept me guessing for the most part. I also loved how well the author plotted everything out and gave us multiple perspectives from each character. If you’re looking for a good family thriller this is the perfect read for October.
Magic Enuff by Tara M. Stringfellow
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
fast-paced
4.0
Special thanks to the author & @thedialpress for my gifted e-ARC‼️
This was such an amazing collection of poetry that proves only few words are needed to deliver a meaningful message. Magic Enuff delves into the magic and power of Black womanhood, physical abuse from a loved one, celebrating Black boy joy, Black life and how society treats us, and the horrific situations witnessed within the Black community.
There are poems many will find relatable and others that will pull you in because you know someone with a shared experience. A lot of the poems are short and sweet and I found myself rereading them to gain a deeper understanding of the message the author was trying to convey. As the book title suggests, we may go through trials, experience hardships, broken relationships, or even continued acts of oppression but at the end of it all we are still magic enuff. “A͟ B͟l͟a͟c͟k͟ w͟o͟m͟a͟n͟ i͟s͟ n͟o͟ p͟i͟c͟n͟i͟c͟.”
Favorite Poems:
•Only Read From Exodus (for Tyre Nichols)
•This Woman
•Black Boys
•Conversations I Never Had With My Father
•The Whole Sick Mess
•My Ex-Husband
•I DREAMT THE KKK WAS IN MY LIVING ROOM
•A Sonnet
•Route to Freedom
Overall, I loved this and the fact she’s from my city and the book makes references to it. I’m happy to have a copy on my shelf and definitely recommend if you’re into poetry.
Only for the Holidays by Abiola Bello
adventurous
inspiring
lighthearted
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? N/A
3.5
This was a fun, cozy, and adorable YA Christmas read and while the book was super cute why was the drama so juicy lol. Kali and Simon would have never been forgiven let alone been able to speak to me again and everything about Mike screamed toxic Tia deserved better.
I loved the holiday theme and atmosphere the author created with the horseback riding, ice skating, the snow storm, and winter ball. The pacing started a bit slow but the build up to that magical night at the winter ball was perfect.
I think the author perfectly captured the complexities of teenage relationships exploring themes of trust, betrayal, miscommunication, personal growth, and letting go. The way Tia drove herself mad after Mike asked for space did annoy me. But what really got me was how he tried flipping things on her in the end. Quincy was the nicest guy in the book and him meeting Tia when he had was obviously fate. There wasn’t an instant connection between the two MC’s but I did enjoy the alternating perspectives and watching their connection build.
Overall, I liked the book and think it’s the perfect holiday read. If you enjoy fake-dating, opposites attract, he falls first, or burdened-ex tropes you’ll like this book. Special thanks to @hearourvoicestours @soho_teen for my gifted copy‼️
Rating: 3.5/5⭐️
I loved the holiday theme and atmosphere the author created with the horseback riding, ice skating, the snow storm, and winter ball. The pacing started a bit slow but the build up to that magical night at the winter ball was perfect.
I think the author perfectly captured the complexities of teenage relationships exploring themes of trust, betrayal, miscommunication, personal growth, and letting go. The way Tia drove herself mad after Mike asked for space did annoy me. But what really got me was how he tried flipping things on her in the end. Quincy was the nicest guy in the book and him meeting Tia when he had was obviously fate. There wasn’t an instant connection between the two MC’s but I did enjoy the alternating perspectives and watching their connection build.
Overall, I liked the book and think it’s the perfect holiday read. If you enjoy fake-dating, opposites attract, he falls first, or burdened-ex tropes you’ll like this book. Special thanks to @hearourvoicestours @soho_teen for my gifted copy‼️
Rating: 3.5/5⭐️
The Night Guest by Hildur Knútsdóttir
dark
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
2.5
Wtf was this? It was such a quick read and I have not a clue what it was supposed to be about lol the chapters were short and choppy like one sentence chapters. The MC was sleep walking and killing cats and kidnapping people which she wasn’t aware of then it gets to a point where she notices her behavior is odd. The ending left me wondering was she possessed by something or if it was her sister that passed away. I need somebody to make this make sense!!! It was an interesting book I didn’t like it but I didn’t hate it either I’m really lost for words because I don’t know what I just read lol.
Disappearing Acts by Terry McMillan
emotional
reflective
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I’ve loved every book and movie based off of Terry’s books and ya’ll this one did not disappoint. I watched the movie years ago when I was a teenager and while the book and movie have similarities reading it now was a totally different experience. I also found the book to be a little more enjoyable and funny compared to the movie.
Zora was a teacher, singer, and songwriter who recently relocated to Brooklyn hoping to put more time and money into her music career. She meets Franklin Swift around move in day. He was a sometimes-employed construction worker, and a not-quite-divorced daddy of two. Oddly enough when the two meet there’s an instant connection and Franklin made up in his mind he had to have Zora.
Fast-forward Franklin wasn’t shit ya’ll and Zora was to lost in the sauce to see through his BS. Franklin’s character will have you laughing but also thinking WTF Zora can’t really be putting up with this. His issue with fatphobia, dealing with his mother and sister, keeping a steady job, and his drinking habit would’ve been enough to call it quits. But Zora was really on some that’s my man ima stick beside him mess so I can’t fault her for loving her man lol. His mother was something else and the mashed potatoes I was just as shocked as Zora when that happened cause obviously this woman wanted to fight.
Overall, I loved the book and the movie highly recommend both. The author touched on themes surrounding giving into desire, trust in relationships, ignoring red flags, finding love, the male ego, and survival. I watched the movie before reading the book and it didn’t change my experience so if you haven’t seen the movie but read the book it’s rentable on Amazon prime.
Zora was a teacher, singer, and songwriter who recently relocated to Brooklyn hoping to put more time and money into her music career. She meets Franklin Swift around move in day. He was a sometimes-employed construction worker, and a not-quite-divorced daddy of two. Oddly enough when the two meet there’s an instant connection and Franklin made up in his mind he had to have Zora.
Fast-forward Franklin wasn’t shit ya’ll and Zora was to lost in the sauce to see through his BS. Franklin’s character will have you laughing but also thinking WTF Zora can’t really be putting up with this. His issue with fatphobia, dealing with his mother and sister, keeping a steady job, and his drinking habit would’ve been enough to call it quits. But Zora was really on some that’s my man ima stick beside him mess so I can’t fault her for loving her man lol. His mother was something else and the mashed potatoes I was just as shocked as Zora when that happened cause obviously this woman wanted to fight.
Overall, I loved the book and the movie highly recommend both. The author touched on themes surrounding giving into desire, trust in relationships, ignoring red flags, finding love, the male ego, and survival. I watched the movie before reading the book and it didn’t change my experience so if you haven’t seen the movie but read the book it’s rentable on Amazon prime.
Deja Brew by Celestine Martin
adventurous
lighthearted
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.0
Special thanks to the author & @readforeverpub for my gifted copy‼️
In book 3 we follow kitchen witch Sirena Caraway as she struggles to get her magic back on track after a string of bad luck. A disastrous night at a Halloween party results in her making a wish for a second chance to do things over. But little did Sirena know this simple wish would push her right into the arms of Gus Dearworth a former reality star/ magician.
I just love the cover of this book doesn’t it give Fall/Halloween vibes? The Elemental Love series has come to an end and I can truly say Celestine put her all into this one. Everything I wanted out of the first two books she delivered with Deja Brew. It was swoony, full of magic, steamy, romantic, and set mainly during the month of October which gave me the fall vibe I was looking for.
I loved all of the magical elements especially seeing Gus work his magic like yes finally a male character who uses his powers. Them both making similar wishes, the connected experience of deja vu, and watching them get lost in time together was so romantic.
Overall, this was a swoon-worthy read‼️ The pacing was great, the chemistry between both MC’s was perfect, and I love how the author also gave us updates on both Lucy and Ursula. She ended this series so well. If you’re looking for a paranormal romantasy series filled with magical elements, witches, and fall vibes add this to your list.
Bad Witches by H.B. Akumiah
adventurous
lighthearted
mysterious
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? N/A
3.75
Special thanks to the author, @bibliolifestyle @blackstonepublishing for my gifted copy & @libro.fm for my ALC‼️
Twitches meets Charmed & The Craft where some of the main characters are Black witches. Bad Witches is a commendable debut with a fun, adventurous twist, and filled with loveable characters. The setting and world building was described so vividly it really enhanced the story. I also loved the spell casting and the statistical research data that showed how often typics (people without magic) and witches were born.
On the night of their twenty-second birthday Maya the Imitator, Gabbie the Influencer, and Delali the Mindreader randomly meet in a bar bathroom turning their night of partying into sparks of magic. Unsure of what’s happening they knew it wasn’t a coincidence they all began receiving notes from the witch counsel regarding improper use of magic they didn’t know they possessed.
But to help guide them down the right path they stumble upon or are rather stalked by soon to be mentor Alba. Her plan was to help the girls learn to harness their magic and once the final test was complete they’d be able to travel between realms. Soon they’ll learn not everyone can be trusted, their final test is really an execution, and together they are actually more powerful than they think.
I loved the idea of the Witch Sphere being referred to as the Witch Health Organization (WHO) that was so clever to me. I did feel there was too much world-building and not enough attention given to the plot. We learn more about their powers, the magic realm, and the current typic crisis than we do really getting to know the characters.
Overall, it was a good read I just wanted more from the story. It’s like once things got good and the chaos developed the book was ending. However, I did like the clever plot twist in the end kind of makes me wonder if there will be a book 2.
Ruin Road by Lamar Giles
adventurous
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.5
Special thanks to the author @lamargiles @coloredpagesbt & @ireadya for my gifted copy‼️
This book was really good first thing that came to mind was the 1986 movie Crossroads. It’s not completely similar aside from the making a wish/deal with the devil aspect. But in so many ways they both portray the same concept of “Be Careful What You Wish For.”
Cade Webster lived between two worlds and didn’t really have the best in either. With his dreams so close in reach his way out of hell was a football scholarship and soon the NFL so he could take care of his family. One night while on the way home he got involved in a situation and to avoid confrontation he ran into a pawn shop. His experience that night would be one to remember and would lead him straight to Ruin Road.
It was such a thrill seeing everything unfold and wondering how Cade would break his wish. The author was very detailed in painting a vivid picture of how fear can hold you back, the horrors of simply being a Black man/boy, the consequences of being mislead, and how greed can consume you. I also like how the author created Skinner’s character he was the grantor of tainted wishes and the collector of souls. The people of Jacob’s Court feared him and I felt their fear was what kept him alive.
Overall, the book was great and the pacing was fair enough to keep you engaged. He did an amazing job blending the eerie paranormal elements into the narrative. Nothing about this book was too scary to imagine. It also explored themes surrounding racial profiling, social acceptance, self-sacrifice, grief, family dynamics, and selflessness. Here’s another great book to add to your TBR.
Such Lovely Skin by Tatiana Schlote-Bonne
adventurous
dark
mysterious
tense
fast-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? N/A
5.0
Special thanks to the author @thebuffwriter @coloredpagesbt @pagestreetya for my gifted copy‼️
First let me just say Ta👏🏽ti👏🏽ana👏🏽 wrote tf outta this book I mean gave it her all‼️ It was so well-plotted and put together I felt like I was watching a horror movie. The way the first chapter pulls you in it turned me every which way but loose. I promise you won’t be able to put this down. I read at least 60% of it the first day that’s how good this book is.
Character development ATE‼️
Paranormal/Supernatural elements ATE‼️
The entire premise ATE‼️
Who’s my new favorite author HER‼️
Viv was a popular Twitch streamer with an addiction to video games specifically horror. After the loss of her little sister Riley her urge and desire to play was gone as she struggled with the grief and guilt of such a major loss. To make matters worse the death of Riley was actually Viv’s fault. (THIS ALONE GOT ME) With hopes of redeeming herself with her parents she decides to stream again. Thinking that if she could gain more subscribers she could use the money as an apology to them.
Before going live Viv stumbles upon an email with a cool new horror game attached. As she begins to play before it allows her to escape the room she’s in she had to tell the game a dark secret. Once the secret was told things around her got eeire‼️
I don’t wanna say much and spoil it for anyone but this book was such a fun, creepy, and adventurous ride. You’ll experience themes involving the loss of a sibling, Viv’s gameception, psychosomatic reactions, sleep paralysis, being stalked by a doppelgänger, paranormal behavior, and how telling lies do more harm than good.
Overall, I need ya’ll to read this book it’s spooky szn worthy TRUST ME‼️ And just when you think it’s all over you’re WRONG. Welcome to 𝖫ᝪ𝖢𝖪𝖤𝖣 𝖨𝖭: ɑ𐓣 𝖤ડɕɑρ౿ 𝖱𝗈𝗈ო 𝖧𝗈𝗋𝗋𝗈𝗋 𝖦ɑო౿!