Lory

A couple of years ago I read The Last Tale of the Flower Bride and was absolutely captivated by the dark and rich atmospheric writing. It was a story that stayed with me long after finishing it. So keeping that in mind, I was both excited and ready to be wowed by another Chokshi novel. Happy to report she did it again. 


The Swan's Daughter was a strange and whimsical tale. One where the world building is subtle and grows around you the more you immerse yourself in its beautiful prose. Where humor is woven in masterfully (seriously, I can't remember the last time I laughed so much while reading) and isn't afraid to show the darkness behind its cozy and fantastical world. It's mainly character driven, with Demelza and Arris being relatable and enchanting. Both wanting. Wanting to be seen and loved for who they are. But also being intensely afraid of that very thing. I loved the way the theme of love is explored in all its facets—poked and prodded, and what almost seems like a cautionary tale, leaves us with a hopeful and true view of it. 


So, this will definitely be another story that stays with me. And if like me, you enjoy an author who isn't afraid to be unhinged (ugly duckling retelling crossed with the bachelor, with sentient castles and lots of whimsy?!) highly recommend you check this one out.

Didn't think this would be my first 5 star of the year but here we are. This was so so good. 

Probably one of the darkest things I've ever read. Won't rate because I don't even know how I'd go about judging this work. 

I don't think I've ever laughed this much while reading a book. 

Not in the mood. Currently wanna read all the October things, so postponing this to November. 

Haven't found the motivation to pick this back up. So setting it aside for now. 

This was a reread for me and I definitely enjoyed it a lot more the second time around. Mainly because I've finally read the Prose Eda and other Norse mythology related texts. So I had a lot of fun recognizing the different inspirations and aspects that Riordan picked for his retelling. Plus there was a lot I had forgotten since my first read through so it was very entertaining and wonderful to follow Magnus and his adventures. As well as rediscover this world again. Very happy to continue with my reread of this trilogy. 

My heart is a puddle of feelings. This book destroyed me in all the best ways. For sure a favorite of all time. These characters, this family, this home 💕 Absolutely wonderful and endearing. 

I was pleasantly surprised by this one. I had heard a lot of mixed reviews but I have to say, I really enjoyed my time with it. It was fun and very entertaining. Harry as a main character was enjoyable and didn't annoy me like other male mcs. Some of the writing and dialogue was cheesy but it amused me at least, instead of putting me of. I'm definitely curious enough to continue the series, plus I hear they get better. So looking forward to that.

I think this was a fantastic way to be introduced to the Arthurian legends. The story is summarized very well, while still feeling like you're getting the story you came for.  Also simple and easy to understand language. Overall, I really enjoyed my time reading this one and I can't wait to pick up more Arthur related books! 

Atmospheric and spooky 🖤

Asian Horror stories are just top notch. Hoping they make this into a movie because it has a lot of tense creepy scenes that I would both enjoy and regret watching lol. Also, this book has reinforced my hatred of elevators.

Edit: I pushed through and I'm so glad I did! Because the second half of this book really redeemed itself for me. So good! And that ending 👌


Got through about 35% of the way through and it's been a struggle. I have absolutely no motivation to read it. The story has been moving super slow and I really don't like any of the characters in this one. I'll keep it on my list and maybe give it a chance some other time. 

So so good. I'm a little overwhelmed with emotions right now. It's been a while since I've connected with a main character like this and seen myself in a story.  Our experiences and circumstances are different but there was a lot that really hit me in the gut. Things I've thought of, my complicated relationship with religion growing up, etc. I can't wait to read more by this author!

Re-Read

Stopping at chapter 16.

This books has been melodramatic and racist so far. It's spent 110 pages setting up the characters and unfortunately all of them suck. And the science hasn't been enough to keep my attention. Might come back to it, might not. We will see. 

Idk. The narrative style just isn't pulling me in. Some things are super interesting but others are very confusing. And there's such a disconnect with the characters. I just can't find anything to get into. 

The extremely quirky MC was super annoying, I really tried to look past it but coupled with the love triangle 🙄 and the boring mystery, I just felt like I was wasting my time. 

The MC is insufferable and I'm not intrigued enough by the mystery to make myself suffer through her narration. 

I'm bored 🫠 maybe I'll pick this one up some other time. For now, it's a soft dnf. 

Booooored. 

Unfortunately, I've lost interest in this one. The first 35% really pulled me in but the pacing feels off right now. And anytime I pick it up I feel bored. Plus at one point completely forgot I was reading this one. So setting it down for now. Might revisit it again someday. 

Got bored. 

MC is starting to annoy me 🙄

For a novella, the plot was moving at a glacial pace and I just couldn't focus or feel curious enough to stick to it.