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ppalimar's reviews
170 reviews
Burn It Down: Power, Complicity, and a Call for Change in Hollywood by Maureen Ryan
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
informative
inspiring
reflective
sad
medium-paced
4.0
"Burn It Down" by Maureen Ryan is a powerful and thought-provoking read that deserves every bit of its five-star rating. Ryan's incisive writing delves deep into the complexities of the entertainment industry, exposing the dark underbelly of Hollywood while also celebrating its transformative potential. Her firsthand experiences lend authenticity to her narrative, making it both compelling and relatable.
The book expertly weaves personal anecdotes with broader societal issues, highlighting themes of power dynamics, gender inequality, and the urgent need for change. Ryan’s candidness and vulnerability resonate throughout, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences and the systemic challenges many face.
With sharp wit and a fierce determination for justice, "Burn It Down" not only informs but inspires action. This is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the intricacies of media culture and advocating for a more equitable future. The depth of this systemic injustice over decades includes so many of my favorite shows and is incredibly eye-opening and disheartening. Highly recommended!
The book expertly weaves personal anecdotes with broader societal issues, highlighting themes of power dynamics, gender inequality, and the urgent need for change. Ryan’s candidness and vulnerability resonate throughout, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences and the systemic challenges many face.
With sharp wit and a fierce determination for justice, "Burn It Down" not only informs but inspires action. This is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the intricacies of media culture and advocating for a more equitable future. The depth of this systemic injustice over decades includes so many of my favorite shows and is incredibly eye-opening and disheartening. Highly recommended!
The Seven Year Slip by Ashley Poston
emotional
funny
mysterious
reflective
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? No
4.0
"Seven Year Slip" is a captivating blend of romance and magical realism that draws readers into its enchanting world. Ashley Poston masterfully weaves a tale about love, loss, and the passage of time through the lens of an unexpected time slip. The characters are well-developed, with relatable struggles and emotions that resonate deeply.
The protagonist's journey is both heartwarming and heartbreaking as she navigates her feelings for a man from another time. Poston's lyrical writing style brings vivid imagery to life, making it easy to get lost in the story. The pacing is generally strong, though some moments feel slightly drawn out.
While the premise is intriguing and original, certain plot twists may be predictable for seasoned readers of the genre. However, the emotional depth and exploration of relationships make up for any narrative clichés. Perhaps above all, the way in which food is interwoven into the conversations about love and nostalgia are a lovely surprise and creating a lingering taste in your mind.
Overall, "Seven Year Slip" is a beautifully crafted novel that will leave you pondering its themes long after you've turned the last page. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys a touch of magic in their love stories. Highly recommended!
The protagonist's journey is both heartwarming and heartbreaking as she navigates her feelings for a man from another time. Poston's lyrical writing style brings vivid imagery to life, making it easy to get lost in the story. The pacing is generally strong, though some moments feel slightly drawn out.
While the premise is intriguing and original, certain plot twists may be predictable for seasoned readers of the genre. However, the emotional depth and exploration of relationships make up for any narrative clichés. Perhaps above all, the way in which food is interwoven into the conversations about love and nostalgia are a lovely surprise and creating a lingering taste in your mind.
Overall, "Seven Year Slip" is a beautifully crafted novel that will leave you pondering its themes long after you've turned the last page. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys a touch of magic in their love stories. Highly recommended!
The Wedding People by Alison Espach
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Alison Espach’s “The Wedding People” is a poignant and transformative narrative that delves into the depths of despair and the unexpected paths to healing. The story follows a woman whose marriage and struggles with infertility leave her feeling lost, leading her to contemplate a tragic end. As she meets the characters who are here for a wedding, their stories unravel and allow for her to be an emotional Sherpa of sorts, guiding them past the mountains they seem to want to die on.
Espach expertly weaves together themes of trauma, resilience, and self-discovery as the protagonist encounters a group of wedding planners who inadvertently become catalysts for change in her life. The intimacy of these interactions allows for profound revelations; from moments that evoke “rapt reading” to witnessing characters unveil their honest truths, each scene resonates deeply. One character poignantly remarks, “We all carry our own stories,” reminding us that everyone has their battles hidden beneath the surface.
A standout element is Espach's portrayal of confidence rooted in familial love. She contrasts the experiences of women shaped by nurturing environments against those burdened by insecurity, illustrating how maternal support can foster resilience: “Her mother made her feel like her feelings matter.” This insight adds layers to the narrative, making it relatable and impactful.
While some plot developments felt slightly rushed towards the conclusion—particularly when addressing complex emotions—it ultimately serves to highlight the protagonist's evolution from despair to hope. By letting go of her former self, she embraces a version of herself that was previously overshadowed by fear: “I had to unlearn what I thought I knew about myself.”
Overall, “The Wedding People” is a beautifully written exploration of grief and growth that invites readers to reflect on their own journeys. Espach’s remarkable ability to create relatable moments sparks familiarity in our lives, making this book an engaging read that lingers long after the final page.
Espach expertly weaves together themes of trauma, resilience, and self-discovery as the protagonist encounters a group of wedding planners who inadvertently become catalysts for change in her life. The intimacy of these interactions allows for profound revelations; from moments that evoke “rapt reading” to witnessing characters unveil their honest truths, each scene resonates deeply. One character poignantly remarks, “We all carry our own stories,” reminding us that everyone has their battles hidden beneath the surface.
A standout element is Espach's portrayal of confidence rooted in familial love. She contrasts the experiences of women shaped by nurturing environments against those burdened by insecurity, illustrating how maternal support can foster resilience: “Her mother made her feel like her feelings matter.” This insight adds layers to the narrative, making it relatable and impactful.
While some plot developments felt slightly rushed towards the conclusion—particularly when addressing complex emotions—it ultimately serves to highlight the protagonist's evolution from despair to hope. By letting go of her former self, she embraces a version of herself that was previously overshadowed by fear: “I had to unlearn what I thought I knew about myself.”
Overall, “The Wedding People” is a beautifully written exploration of grief and growth that invites readers to reflect on their own journeys. Espach’s remarkable ability to create relatable moments sparks familiarity in our lives, making this book an engaging read that lingers long after the final page.
The Boyfriend by Freida McFadden
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-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
3.0
"The Boyfriend" offers an intriguing premise with its dual timelines, which keeps the plot engaging. However, I found the author’s writing style to be quite simple and lacking in complexity. As a reader who appreciates wit and cleverness in thrillers, I felt this book fell short in that regard. While it serves as a fine easy read that entertains, it lacks the critical language needed to fully immerse the reader in the story. Overall, it feels more suited for a young adult audience rather than mature readers seeking depth. I think this will be my last read for this author. I have read "The Teacher" and "The Housemaid" and I feel that I have scratched that itch and will actively seek out authors who write for a more mature audience.
The Last One at the Wedding by Jason Rekulak
adventurous
dark
emotional
funny
mysterious
medium-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
3.0
"The Last One at the Wedding" features a compelling plot filled with intriguing twists and turns, culminating in an ending that feels fitting for the story. I enjoyed the exploration of power dynamics related to money and social class, as well as the themes of family and the quest for justice among well-meaning characters. However, the writing itself felt somewhat simplistic, which made it easy to follow but lacked depth. Having appreciated Rekulak's previous work, "Hidden Pictures," for its immersive language and emotional intensity, I found this book less effective in creating that same atmosphere. It tends to rely more on straightforward explanations rather than employing a kinesthetic approach that invites readers into the mystery. Overall, while entertaining, it doesn’t quite reach the heights of his earlier work.
What Does it Feel Like? by Sophie Kinsella
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
reflective
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? No
4.0
Sophie Kinsella’s "What Does it Feel Like" is a poignant yet charming exploration of life in the face of a tragic diagnosis. This loosely autobiographical novel beautifully illustrates the power of supportive relationships when confronted with mortality, showcasing how love and friendship can provide grace and strength during life's most challenging moments.
Kinsella masterfully balances heartbreak and hope, creating characters that resonate deeply. Though this was my first experience with her writing, I found enough heart and depth in this story to inspire me to seek out her other works. The narrative flows effortlessly, making it an extremely quick read—perfect for an afternoon or a short flight.
While some themes are heavy, Kinsella's trademark wit shines through, ensuring that the overall tone remains uplifting. This book is a testament to resilience and connection, earning a solid four stars for its emotional impact and engaging storytelling. Highly recommended!
Kinsella masterfully balances heartbreak and hope, creating characters that resonate deeply. Though this was my first experience with her writing, I found enough heart and depth in this story to inspire me to seek out her other works. The narrative flows effortlessly, making it an extremely quick read—perfect for an afternoon or a short flight.
While some themes are heavy, Kinsella's trademark wit shines through, ensuring that the overall tone remains uplifting. This book is a testament to resilience and connection, earning a solid four stars for its emotional impact and engaging storytelling. Highly recommended!
The Friend Zone by Abby Jimenez
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
The Friends Zone is a lovely and engaging read, with great storytelling that showcases authentic banter and genuinely heartfelt friendships. Abby Jimenez has a knack for creating characters that feel real and relatable. I particularly appreciated the way she tackled the sensitive topic of infertility, choosing a male lead who embodies support throughout such a challenging journey.
However, I found the on-again, off-again nature of the central relationship to be somewhat repetitive. It felt like there were too many cycles around the same issue—at least two fewer breakups would have made for a tighter narrative without losing any emotional impact. Despite this, there were moments that truly resonated with me; the wedding scene had my eyes getting glassy, which is no surprise since I tend to cry during vow exchanges in real life too!
Overall, while the story shines in many areas, it could have benefited from a bit more restraint in its romantic turmoil.
However, I found the on-again, off-again nature of the central relationship to be somewhat repetitive. It felt like there were too many cycles around the same issue—at least two fewer breakups would have made for a tighter narrative without losing any emotional impact. Despite this, there were moments that truly resonated with me; the wedding scene had my eyes getting glassy, which is no surprise since I tend to cry during vow exchanges in real life too!
Overall, while the story shines in many areas, it could have benefited from a bit more restraint in its romantic turmoil.
The Midnight Feast by Lucy Foley
dark
emotional
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Lucy Foley’s "The Midnight Feast" offers an intriguing blend of macabre elements and social commentary, but it ultimately falls short of its ambitious potential. The novel's nod to Hitchcock's "Birds" is a clever touch, weaving suspense with a sense of foreboding that mirrors the disquieting atmosphere of the original film. However, while this homage sets the stage for tension, it sometimes feels overshadowed by the characters' elitism and entitlement.
Foley deftly critiques gentrification, portraying how sacred spaces become commodified in the hands of those who see them as mere playgrounds for their privilege. The juxtaposition between the haunting events and the characters’ self-absorbed lives creates a compelling backdrop that highlights societal disparities. Yet, at times, this critique can feel heavy-handed, detracting from the narrative flow.
Overall, "The Midnight Feast" presents an interesting premise with moments of brilliance but struggles to breach the predictability barrier. It’s a thought-provoking read that invites reflection on class dynamics and local lore but may leave some readers yearning for deeper character development amidst its atmospheric thrills.
Foley deftly critiques gentrification, portraying how sacred spaces become commodified in the hands of those who see them as mere playgrounds for their privilege. The juxtaposition between the haunting events and the characters’ self-absorbed lives creates a compelling backdrop that highlights societal disparities. Yet, at times, this critique can feel heavy-handed, detracting from the narrative flow.
Overall, "The Midnight Feast" presents an interesting premise with moments of brilliance but struggles to breach the predictability barrier. It’s a thought-provoking read that invites reflection on class dynamics and local lore but may leave some readers yearning for deeper character development amidst its atmospheric thrills.
Sandwich by Catherine Newman
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
lighthearted
reflective
sad
fast-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
4.0
"Sandwich" by Catherine Newman is a beautifully woven tale that masterfully balances humor and grief. The story captures the essence of a family returning annually to their cherished vacation spot, where they confront hidden struggles and celebrate growth together. Newman's exploration of life's complexities—parenting, marriage, miscarriages, trust issues, social challenges, and aging—is both poignant and elegantly crass.
The narrative begins with a heartfelt reunion, seamlessly transitioning into new love stories while revisiting existing ones. It bravely addresses fluid genders and evolving relationships with eloquence. One standout quote describes the enduring nature of grief as "a silver locket of grief with two faces," perfectly illustrating the duality of emotions we carry through life.
Newman's writing leaves a lasting impact by capturing the love-hate dynamics of life—where love can simultaneously explode and implode within us. This book is an exquisite journey through life's emotional landscape, leaving readers reflecting on its resonant themes long after closing the cover.
The narrative begins with a heartfelt reunion, seamlessly transitioning into new love stories while revisiting existing ones. It bravely addresses fluid genders and evolving relationships with eloquence. One standout quote describes the enduring nature of grief as "a silver locket of grief with two faces," perfectly illustrating the duality of emotions we carry through life.
Newman's writing leaves a lasting impact by capturing the love-hate dynamics of life—where love can simultaneously explode and implode within us. This book is an exquisite journey through life's emotional landscape, leaving readers reflecting on its resonant themes long after closing the cover.
The Final Girl Support Group by Grady Hendrix
adventurous
challenging
dark
mysterious
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
"The Final Girls Support Group" by Grady Hendrix has an intriguing premise that initially draws you in, promising a fresh take on the horror genre. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes quite lengthy and convoluted, with repetitive elements that detract from the overall experience. The pacing could have benefited from a more direct approach to the resolution.
Hendrix spends considerable time exploring various potential culprits, which unfortunately causes the narrative to drag. By the time the resolution arrives, it feels like a relief rather than a climax, leaving readers less invested in its outcome.
For those who enjoy gore and action-packed scenes, this book delivers plenty of blood and fight sequences. There's even a touch of romance woven into the storyline. However, some plot points, like attributing blame to parental figures, felt clichéd in an otherwise innovative concept.
Overall, while "The Final Girls Support Group" offers moments of excitement and creativity, it ultimately falls short due to its pacing and eventual predictability.
Hendrix spends considerable time exploring various potential culprits, which unfortunately causes the narrative to drag. By the time the resolution arrives, it feels like a relief rather than a climax, leaving readers less invested in its outcome.
For those who enjoy gore and action-packed scenes, this book delivers plenty of blood and fight sequences. There's even a touch of romance woven into the storyline. However, some plot points, like attributing blame to parental figures, felt clichéd in an otherwise innovative concept.
Overall, while "The Final Girls Support Group" offers moments of excitement and creativity, it ultimately falls short due to its pacing and eventual predictability.