Scan barcode
stormywolf's reviews
814 reviews
Certain Dark Things by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
challenging
dark
tense
fast-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
4.0
This month's pick for Maven's Vampire Book Club is a recent reprint following the author's wildly successful Mexican Gothic, which I admittedly haven't read yet. So, other than knowing that this author has gotten a lot of praise for her suspenseful and beautiful writing, I had absolutely no idea what I was getting into. I'm not one who usually enjoys gritty stories (I'm a bit put off by the mention of "narco-vampires"), but a kick-ass vampire on the run with a charming human sounds like it could be fun, right? Right?
Read my full review at The Wolf's Den
Overall, it took a while, but like the puppy that is Domingo, this story grew on me. It's definitely not for everyone, with dark and adult themes very much overwhelming the 'vampire romance' vibes, but so long as you're prepared for a somewhat gritty vampire noir, I think you'll enjoy it as much as I did. The fast-paced writing and unique world made it easy to fly through, though you may, like me, need more time added to the end to fully digest everything, but luckily the newer version offers just that with its Encyclopaedia Vampirica, author interview, discussion questions, and more. So if you're in the mood for a stand-alone vampire book with unique lore, strong female characters, a bit of sci-fi punk, and a lot lurking beneath the surface, then try sinking your teeth into this one.
Read my full review at The Wolf's Den
Overall, it took a while, but like the puppy that is Domingo, this story grew on me. It's definitely not for everyone, with dark and adult themes very much overwhelming the 'vampire romance' vibes, but so long as you're prepared for a somewhat gritty vampire noir, I think you'll enjoy it as much as I did. The fast-paced writing and unique world made it easy to fly through, though you may, like me, need more time added to the end to fully digest everything, but luckily the newer version offers just that with its Encyclopaedia Vampirica, author interview, discussion questions, and more. So if you're in the mood for a stand-alone vampire book with unique lore, strong female characters, a bit of sci-fi punk, and a lot lurking beneath the surface, then try sinking your teeth into this one.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Animal cruelty, Death, Violence, Blood, Medical content, Death of parent, Murder, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Adult/minor relationship, Gun violence, Hate crime, Mental illness, Torture, Xenophobia, and Grief
Minor: Addiction, Animal death, Drug use, Sexual assault, Sexual content, Police brutality, Sexual harassment, and Colonisation
Adult is 23, Minor is 17.
Hate crime & Xenophobia is against vampires as a race.
Dogs are injured The main dog gets shot, but survives
There is mention of various crimes being ignored by the police - either from corruption or from sexism - but none appears directly in the story.
Certain Dark Things by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
dark
emotional
tense
fast-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
4.0
Audiobook Read by Dan Bittner (2016 version)
Unabridged Length: 9.4 Hours
Listened at 2x Speed
Read my full review at The Wolf's Den
Overall, this audio was a great listen, but you might want to check out the newly revised version. I think Bittner's performance was spectacular, but I can definitely understand why they chose to recast a female latinx reader for the update. I'd definitely be willing to compare and contrast both performances in the future, but for now I can still recommend this one for its great voice acting and delivery on the whole.
Unabridged Length: 9.4 Hours
Listened at 2x Speed
Read my full review at The Wolf's Den
Overall, this audio was a great listen, but you might want to check out the newly revised version. I think Bittner's performance was spectacular, but I can definitely understand why they chose to recast a female latinx reader for the update. I'd definitely be willing to compare and contrast both performances in the future, but for now I can still recommend this one for its great voice acting and delivery on the whole.
Gotham High by Melissa de la Cruz
dark
mysterious
fast-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
3.0
I'm actually not that big of a Batman fan. Okay, so I've watched the Christopher Nolan films, the Adam West movie, all of Batman Beyond, a bit of The Animated Series, the first season of Gotham, reviews of some of the more well-known comics, playthroughs of the Arkhamgames, and his appearances in Justice League stuff, but...is that really enough to be called a fan and not just culturally knowledgeable? Lol. Anyway, after seeing this as a recommendation off of the Teen Titans novels I just reviewed, I figured another modern YA interpretation of classic characters might be fun to continue in this spooky month.
Read my full review at The Wolf's Den
Overall, this book impressed me. I wasn't really looking for more than a fun whodunit with teenaged Batman characters, and I found an interesting character study and exploration of class, crime, and desperation, all wrapped up in a stylized and diversified bow. It's definitely a darker story, as you'd probably expect of anything concerning Gotham, so I don't know that I'd recommend it to everyone, but it at least does give a good list of resources for US readers to whom themes and situations might hit a little too close to home. Still, if you're a Batman fan, are looking for a new graphic novel that catches your eye, or are interested in a stand-alone YA mystery, you might give this one a try. Lots of fun references, familiar gothic noir, and a diverse cast should give any fan a good time, and offer a unique jumping-on point for newcomers. And I'll definitely be keeping my eye out for more stories with the Gotham crew.
Read my full review at The Wolf's Den
Overall, this book impressed me. I wasn't really looking for more than a fun whodunit with teenaged Batman characters, and I found an interesting character study and exploration of class, crime, and desperation, all wrapped up in a stylized and diversified bow. It's definitely a darker story, as you'd probably expect of anything concerning Gotham, so I don't know that I'd recommend it to everyone, but it at least does give a good list of resources for US readers to whom themes and situations might hit a little too close to home. Still, if you're a Batman fan, are looking for a new graphic novel that catches your eye, or are interested in a stand-alone YA mystery, you might give this one a try. Lots of fun references, familiar gothic noir, and a diverse cast should give any fan a good time, and offer a unique jumping-on point for newcomers. And I'll definitely be keeping my eye out for more stories with the Gotham crew.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying, Suicidal thoughts, Torture, Dementia, Kidnapping, Gaslighting, and Toxic friendship
Moderate: Alcoholism, Child death, Drug use, Infidelity, Suicide, Violence, Grief, Stalking, and Death of parent
Minor: Death
Teen Titans: Beast Boy by Gabriel Picolo, Kami Garcia
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
As I said last time, my first introduction to the Teen Titans was via the Cartoon Network show. Beast Boy always appealed to me, partly because of his sense of humor, and partly because his super power was becoming any animal you could think of. Granted, all his animals were green, but just the ability to be a human one moment and a bird the next was definitely a power fantasy of mine. So when I saw him on a book cover, I immediately knew I had to check the series out. Coming off of Raven's quick-paced introduction, I had my suspicions that this might be a flashback of sorts...but there was only one way to find out!
Read my full review at The Wolf's Den
Overall, Gar's story gave me more of what I loved, but left me utterly starving for more. The fact that it was another setup story made it feel like backtracking instead of furthering what Raven had established, and its under-explained "science" made me roll my eyes, but it also brought more personal depth to one of my favorite characters, so it definitely was worth it for me. Its improved pacing, artwork, and side character exploration definitely all worked in its favor, and fans will no doubt enjoy finding more familiar names and references to speculate over. And while the ending was a bit too soon for my liking, I assume that's mostly because I wasn't ready for Gar's story to end, rather than it actually being abrupt. I'm currently counting down the days til I can get my hands on the next installment, so you can bet I'll be back with more to report soon!
Read my full review at The Wolf's Den
Overall, Gar's story gave me more of what I loved, but left me utterly starving for more. The fact that it was another setup story made it feel like backtracking instead of furthering what Raven had established, and its under-explained "science" made me roll my eyes, but it also brought more personal depth to one of my favorite characters, so it definitely was worth it for me. Its improved pacing, artwork, and side character exploration definitely all worked in its favor, and fans will no doubt enjoy finding more familiar names and references to speculate over. And while the ending was a bit too soon for my liking, I assume that's mostly because I wasn't ready for Gar's story to end, rather than it actually being abrupt. I'm currently counting down the days til I can get my hands on the next installment, so you can bet I'll be back with more to report soon!
Content Warnings
Minor: Animal cruelty and Medical content
Teen Titans: Raven by Kami Garcia
emotional
inspiring
mysterious
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? No
4.0
My first introduction to Raven and the Teen Titans was via the Cartoon Network show which ran from 2003 to 2006, while I was in high school. I loved the action, the comedy, and all the characters, but especially Raven—who had the perfect amount of snark and intelligence to appeal to teenagers, plus a ton of drama and angst to keep you invested in her story—and Beast Boy—the shapeshifter and goofball. So when I saw they each had a new book/graphic novel out, I knew I had to jump in on that nostalgia and see what my fave Titans were up to.
Read my full review at The Wolf's Den
Overall, I really enjoyed the introduction to this world of the Teen Titans. I think familiar fans will enjoy this new take on Raven's origin along with some Easter-eggs pointing toward future developments, while newcomers will enjoy getting to know a relatable character in an extraordinary situation. The artwork is really great in bringing the characters and action to life, and while the coloring isn't always understandable, it certainly does its job to draw the eye where it needs to focus. I'd definitely recommend this to any DC comics/movies fans, as well as those interested in YA heroes & heroines. It may be a quick read, but that just means it'll take less time to hook you and get you excited for more.
Read my full review at The Wolf's Den
Overall, I really enjoyed the introduction to this world of the Teen Titans. I think familiar fans will enjoy this new take on Raven's origin along with some Easter-eggs pointing toward future developments, while newcomers will enjoy getting to know a relatable character in an extraordinary situation. The artwork is really great in bringing the characters and action to life, and while the coloring isn't always understandable, it certainly does its job to draw the eye where it needs to focus. I'd definitely recommend this to any DC comics/movies fans, as well as those interested in YA heroes & heroines. It may be a quick read, but that just means it'll take less time to hook you and get you excited for more.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Car accident and Death of parent
Moderate: Bullying and Emotional abuse
Minor: Homophobia and Suicidal thoughts
The Promised Neverland, Vol. 6 by Posuka Demizu, Kaiu Shirai
dark
hopeful
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Animal death and Violence
Minor: Body horror, Child death, and Medical content
The Promised Neverland, Vol. 5 by Posuka Demizu, Kaiu Shirai
dark
hopeful
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
I first heard about this story through praise of its anime adaptation. One of my favorite Ani-Tubers, Geoff Thew (aka Mother's Basement) has been gushing about its story, characters, and tension for years. And then they made a second season and absolutely slaughtered any good will they'd built up from the first. So, I decided to take him up on his suggestion and dive into the manga to see just what I'd been missing out on.
I decided to stop at the same place Season 1 of the anime stopped, just at the end of the Jailbreak arc (the second arc of the manga), which took me through the better part of 5 volumes, or 37 chapters. I figured that was the best way to get a good taste of the story and characters (ha), without leaving off on too big of a cliffhanger (like each volume tended to do).
Read my full review at The Wolf's Den
Overall, I really enjoyed this peek outside my comfort zone. I'd definitely recommend anyone check it (or its [first season of] anime) out if you're interested in high-tension horror/thriller, suspenseful twists, or intelligent characters using logic and reasoning against equally impressive opponents. There honestly isn't as much horrific imagery (gore or body horror) as I was expecting, but there are some deaths, as well as a lot of imagined (child) corpses, so it's not that tame either. Dread, lots and lots of dread. Still, if you're looking for something spooky for this season, but the typical ghosts and ghouls aren't piquing your interest, give this series a look.
I decided to stop at the same place Season 1 of the anime stopped, just at the end of the Jailbreak arc (the second arc of the manga), which took me through the better part of 5 volumes, or 37 chapters. I figured that was the best way to get a good taste of the story and characters (ha), without leaving off on too big of a cliffhanger (like each volume tended to do).
Read my full review at The Wolf's Den
Overall, I really enjoyed this peek outside my comfort zone. I'd definitely recommend anyone check it (or its [first season of] anime) out if you're interested in high-tension horror/thriller, suspenseful twists, or intelligent characters using logic and reasoning against equally impressive opponents. There honestly isn't as much horrific imagery (gore or body horror) as I was expecting, but there are some deaths, as well as a lot of imagined (child) corpses, so it's not that tame either. Dread, lots and lots of dread. Still, if you're looking for something spooky for this season, but the typical ghosts and ghouls aren't piquing your interest, give this series a look.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Animal death, Grief, and Fire/Fire injury
Minor: Body horror and Child death
The Promised Neverland, Vol. 4 by Posuka Demizu, Kaiu Shirai
dark
hopeful
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Overall, I really enjoyed this peek outside my comfort zone. I'd definitely recommend anyone check it (or its [first season of] anime) out if you're interested in high-tension horror/thriller, suspenseful twists, or intelligent characters using logic and reasoning against equally impressive opponents. There honestly isn't as much horrific imagery (gore or body horror) as I was expecting, but there are some deaths, as well as a lot of imagined (child) corpses, so it's not that tame either. Dread, lots and lots of dread. Still, if you're looking for something spooky for this season, but the typical ghosts and ghouls aren't piquing your interest, give this series a look.
See my full review: https://the-wolfs-den-147.blogspot.com
See my full review: https://the-wolfs-den-147.blogspot.com
Content Warnings
Graphic: Fire/Fire injury
Moderate: Medical content, Grief, Suicide attempt, Gaslighting, and Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Body horror and Child death
The Promised Neverland, Vol. 3: Destroy! by Posuka Demizu, Kaiu Shirai
dark
hopeful
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Overall, I really enjoyed this peek outside my comfort zone. I'd definitely recommend anyone check it (or its [first season of] anime) out if you're interested in high-tension horror/thriller, suspenseful twists, or intelligent characters using logic and reasoning against equally impressive opponents. There honestly isn't as much horrific imagery (gore or body horror) as I was expecting, but there are some deaths, as well as a lot of imagined (child) corpses, so it's not that tame either. Dread, lots and lots of dread. Still, if you're looking for something spooky for this season, but the typical ghosts and ghouls aren't piquing your interest, give this series a look.
See my full review: https://the-wolfs-den-147.blogspot.com
See my full review: https://the-wolfs-den-147.blogspot.com
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child abuse, Death, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Gaslighting
Minor: Body horror and Child death
The Promised Neverland, Vol. 2 by Posuka Demizu, Kaiu Shirai
dark
hopeful
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
Overall, I really enjoyed this peek outside my comfort zone. I'd definitely recommend anyone check it (or its [first season of] anime) out if you're interested in high-tension horror/thriller, suspenseful twists, or intelligent characters using logic and reasoning against equally impressive opponents. There honestly isn't as much horrific imagery (gore or body horror) as I was expecting, but there are some deaths, as well as a lot of imagined (child) corpses, so it's not that tame either. Dread, lots and lots of dread. Still, if you're looking for something spooky for this season, but the typical ghosts and ghouls aren't piquing your interest, give this series a look.
See my full review: https://the-wolfs-den-147.blogspot.com
See my full review: https://the-wolfs-den-147.blogspot.com
Content Warnings
Moderate: Gaslighting
Minor: Body horror and Child death