Samia
Amanda Montell's Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism is an eye-opening exploration of how language shapes not only the way cults operate but also the ways we engage with everyday organizations, from multi-level marketing (MLM) schemes to fitness communities. The book dives into the jargon and esoteric terminology used by cults like Heaven's Gate and Scientology, as well as more familiar groups like MLMs and fitness centers, showing how specific words create a sense of belonging and shared purpose among members.
What stands out most in Montell's analysis is how deeply layered the concept of a “cult” truly is. From high-control religious movements to seemingly harmless trends, Montell illustrates how the line between legitimate community and exploitation can blur when language is used to manipulate thoughts and squash independent thinking. Her discussion on the origin of the word “cult” was particularly enlightening, revealing how far the definition stretches beyond sensationalized media portrayals. She also interviews people that belong or belonged to some of these cults which adds to understanding the mind behind those that fall for cults.
Montell's coverage of these cult-like behaviors extends even into everyday capitalist systems, particularly MLMs that prey on individuals seeking financial independence. The book brilliantly highlights the power dynamics involved in language, opening readers' eyes to how seemingly innocent phrases can enforce control and loyalty. This fresh perspective on the power of words makes Cultish a thought-provoking read, compelling readers to reflect on the everyday groups they may belong to and the language that binds them.
Ultimately, the book underscores how language—whether through jargon, thought-terminating clichés, or emotionally charged phrases—serves as a tool of control, making you realize just how ubiquitous these tactics are in modern society. It's not just about extreme cults anymore; Cultish shows us that the mechanics of influence are everywhere. This book definitely opened my eyes and I appreciate the nuances of language so much more now and have to think about the cults even I belong to.
SHARK DADDY DID NOT DISAPPOINT!!
Holy crap this third book was INSANE!! I barely have words as to how great this was. We focus on Scythe in this book and getting inside of his head and motivations was really amazing. He's probably the more tortured one of the mates and we get to see how his childhood built him into the ruthless man he is today. We also get to see Aurelia grow as she gets closer to one of her new mates. I really don't want to spoil anything but I will say that there is so much stuff I did NOT expect to happen at ALL. And I'm not mad at it but I really hate this cliffhanger because I'm dying for the next book right now. Great plot line and my heart is broken and bleeding right now
So much to unpack about this book. This is a great reference to understanding how deep and widespread poverty is. It also breaks down all of the stereotypical reasons we think poverty exists “people don't wanna work”, “government handouts”, “people are lazy”. None of these reasons or the numerous others ones our society has been fed are really the real reason. The truth is that there's tons of reasons. Matthew Desmond has taken extensive research and compiled together a history of poverty in America, its roots that are embedded in our society, and proposes potential ways to take action. I really liked the book and feel more well informed.
I. AM. FLOORED. Amber V. Nicole, you've utterly ruined me with The Dawn of the Cursed Queen. In this third installment of the Gods and Monsters series, we witness Dianna truly succumb to the broken parts of herself—and honestly, I can totally relate. Dianna is constantly plagued by feelings of inadequacy, vilifying herself for the extreme lengths she would go to save or protect those she loves. The world often seems to hate her for it—or so she believes. After spending over a thousand years being emotionally abused and treated like a mere tool, it's no wonder that when Samkiel, her amata, finally gives her the love she deserves, her instinct is to bolt. I see so much of myself in her character.This book is a bit crazier than the last two, with many moving pieces and several POVs. We gradually uncover the secrets that each character is holding. However, at its core, this book is about recovery. While it may feel somewhat like a filler book, it still delivers crucial information and contains some (no spoilers here) astounding moments that leave me aching for the fourth book.Amber, you've broken me. I'm now a mindless wreck, desperately waiting for you to drop the next installment.
I found this book very helpful as a WOC and the tips and stories were quite insightful. I related a lot with some of the authors discoveries about the challenges of the workplace for WOC and how to navigate them. Definitely a great read if you're looking for the confidence free to get ahead at work and life !
Ugh what the heck. Again, writing is beautiful, plot is confusing as hell. Main FMC is annoying and childish with literally no growth to. She's an idiot and a child and for five second I thought we would learn more about her but nope, she was too busy being irritating and annoying. I stuck through because the ending actually did stress me out and I've started the third book but over all this has been an exhausting read for me.
So I'm reading this after reading When the Moon Hatched and I give it four stars because I like the way Sarah A. Parker writes. She has a way of world building and emotion building that's fascinating and can really grip you.
Thanks being said, Oralaith is literally the epitome of messed up junkie kid cuz of childhood trauma. This book is her origin story so it goes kind of slow and there's an emphasis on her drug habits and why they are there but honestly I am flabbergasted that all these adults around her just let this happen. She's also childish and impulsive and you kind of hate her at times because it feels like she has no redeemable qualities at all. I'm used to more independent FMCs but I guess that's literally the point. She's sheltered and hidden from herself in a way and part of it is her doing.
But the other part is her, “Master”, Rhordyn. I literally think he's such an asshole and I think he's toxic AF not to mention he's had her as his ward since she was a baby and he rescued her but never tells her anything about herself or her family which he probably knows. On top of it she's obsessed with him and I don't like it cuz I have a feeling she's his mate but like also how old is he?? And he's not nice at all??
Orlaith gets some semblance of a backbone toward the end of the book and I had enough curiosity to go ahead and start reading the next book so I guess we will see what the plot becomes then. Becuase right now there wasn't really much of a plot ? So while the writing is good the storyline is slow which is probably why this is rated lower than the next two books.
Set in a dystopian world where society is sharply divided between the privileged Untouchables and the impoverished Unfortunates, Kingdom of Fallen Ash follows the intertwining lives of Forest, an ambitious Untouchable who begins to unravel the truth behind her society's oppressive structure, and Fallan, an Unfortunate driven by a deep-seated desire for vengeance. As the secrets of their world unfold, they must navigate a web of lies, rebellion, and the harsh realities of their divided society. Together, they confront the question: can free will exist in a world so steeped in deception?
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, especially the storyline. The society depicted in the novel is one where nothing is as it seems, and the protagonist, Forest, is determined to separate truth from the lies that are literally implanted in people's brains. The sci-fi aspect of the story is eerily relevant, considering how our society is edging closer to technologies like health-monitoring chips.
The sexual tension between Forest and Fallan was absolutely delightful. I'm a sucker for the “I hate you because I love you” trope, and these two characters nailed it. Their connection feels fated, yet I find myself equally intrigued by Xavier. He's painted as a villain but insists he isn't? Since he didn't come from New Haven I really want to know where did he come from? Could there be other societies out there?
The writing did get a little awkward after Forest and Fallan finally gave in to their urges (FINALLY!), but the plot was so captivating that I can easily overlook a few clunky sentences. I'm already diving into the second book and can't wait to devour the entire series. There are currently four prequel books that set the stage for the six main books in the series, one of which is already published. I hope Katerina speeds up the process because I'm ready to binge them all!
WOW. I am literally stunned speechless.
In “Wool,” we witnessed the Silo world unravel as secrets were revealed about what the silo is and what the outside world looks like. The story is set in a post-apocalyptic future where humanity lives in a giant underground silo, and stepping outside is a death sentence. The narrative centers around Juliette, a mechanic who rises to leadership and starts uncovering the harsh truths about their existence. We saw a lot of internal conflict, politics, and deceit within the hierarchy of the silo, especially looking at the lower levels and how the ruling class maintained control over the population.
Juliette is back in the silo, but “Shift,” the second book, really gives us what we want - the origins of the silos and where they came from. “Shift” takes us back to the beginning, to the creation of the silos and the events that led to humanity's downfall. We follow the story of Donald, a congressman in our current world, who is manipulated into creating the silos as a safeguard against an impending disaster. The book alternates between different timelines, showing us the construction of the silos and the early days of their inhabitants.
This book really had me feeling crazy with all the hardships of this world that one crazy dude made happen. That's what it essentially boils down to - one senator thinking he could outsmart everyone and control the future. The complexity of the characters, especially Donald, who grapples with the morality of his actions, adds depth to the story. Howey masterfully intertwines political intrigue, psychological tension, and survival instincts, making “Shift” a compelling read that expands the universe introduced in “Wool.”
What struck me the most is the complexity of what it means to be a savior. The mission of Silo 1, where they work in shifts to maintain control over the other silos and ensure the long-term survival of humanity, is both fascinating and disturbing. The idea that they decided, 500 years later, they would choose one part of the silo to survive is something I didn't fully grasp. It raises profound questions about the ethics of their mission and the psychological toll on those deemed “saviors.” The fact that these people are working tirelessly with the knowledge that they are the gatekeepers of humanity's future adds a layer of complexity to their roles and the overall narrative.
Moreover, the individuals in Silo 1 don't fully know why they're doing what they're doing because they “forget” their past and general identities. This element adds to the eerie and tragic nature of their existence. By the end of the book, it seems moot because those in Silo 1 will ultimately never have a normal life, including the frozen people who are in suspended animation. Donald is a fascinating character as he navigates this morally ambiguous role, torn between his sense of duty and the realization of the consequences of their mission.
Another highlight of “Shift” is that we finally understand Jimmy's mind and psyche before we meet him through Juliette's perspective in “Wool.” His story provides a deeper understanding of his character and the experiences that shaped him, making his later actions and interactions with Juliette more profound and poignant.
“Shift” not only delves into the origins of the silos but also raises questions about human nature, power, and the lengths to which people will go to ensure their survival. It's a gripping continuation of the saga that leaves you craving for more.
‘The Last Murder at the End of the World' is a fast-paced whodunit murder mystery set in a society governed by an AI narrator. The story begins on an island enveloped by a deadly fog, protected by a technological barrier. The inhabitants live under the rule of the Elders and appear content despite waking up with mysterious cuts, bruises, and no memory of their causes. Everything seems fine—until a murder occurs.
The plot thickens as the islanders realize they must solve the murder to prevent their collective demise, yet Abi, the AI, cannot reveal what happened. This premise offers a unique and intriguing exploration of what it means to be a person versus being human and the concept of humanity itself. The AI's bio-program, based on one of the Elders' paradigms, adds a fascinating layer to the narrative, prompting readers to ponder if our world might someday resemble this AI-driven society.
A significant theme in the book is the emphasis on serving the community. Everyone on the island has a role and a purpose, contributing to the greater good. This makes the protagonist, Emory, stand out as she feels purposeless and different, becoming almost a stranger in her own village. However, Emory's uniqueness becomes her strength. She does the one thing no one else considers: she questions the status quo. In the end, she emerges as the MVP, solving the murder through her curiosity and determination.
I found this book both unique and enjoyable. It's a substantial read, but it's fun and thought-provoking, making it an excellent choice for book clubs. The interplay between the AI and human elements, along with the tension of the murder mystery, kept me engaged throughout. The exploration of community, purpose, and individuality, combined with the innovative use of AI, makes this book a compelling read.
This story revolves around a group of children who experience significant childhood trauma, which they, in turn, inflict on other kids, perpetuating a cycle of lifelong trauma into adulthood. The narrative follows the main character, whose best friend, Billy, goes missing on his watch, adding layers of guilt and anxiety.
As far as thrillers go, this was okay. I wasn't the biggest fan because when I read thrillers, I like to feel thrilled. Instead, I felt incredibly anxious because the main character was incredibly anxious, which stressed me out and annoyed me. This is probably the point, considering his best friend's disappearance. We get a front-row seat to many adults who never reconciled their problems from youth, which festered into something much darker as they grew older. Everyone in Hemlock Circle is kind of weird, tormented, and dishonest over the 30-year span covered in the narrative, which alternates between different characters and “That Night” (the night Billy went missing).
I will say that the killer was not who I expected. There were a lot of little breadcrumbs throughout the book, but they didn't come together as I thought they would.
I've heard Riley Sager has some great books, but this is his newest one, and while it was mildly entertaining, I look forward to reading his other works to see what the hype is all about.
Oh my god what an arousingly creepy mind fuck book!
I LOVED IT.
Ami is lost in space. She wakes up to her crew dead (they never woke up from their sleep statis), no fuel, no communicator, and the vastness of space before her with the reality that everyone she loved on Earth is already dead.
So yeah, her psychological well being is probably not the greatest right.
By a miracle she is able to hail a ship nearby with a short comm distress signal. As she leaves the ship she feels some excitement and a lot of fear.
Alien life, how exciting! That is...until she sees it. Until she sees him.
Dorian Grey.
He looks like a human, except not...something is so off about him -asides from his painfully beautiful looks. Something is off about everything, the entire ship. And Ami finds herself wondering who the hell is he and where the hell is she and what the hell is going on with this ship.
This book totally creeped me out and I am so HAPPY about that! Meg's writing is fantastic, keeping it simple and really leading the reader around in circles making us go crazy along with Ami, all the while keeping us on our toes about this tension between Ami and Dorian. The question of what is reality is the main plot theme in this book and I found it enthralling. She has me curled up n a ball frantically reading because I NEEDED to know what happened to Ami's crew and her ship and is Ami going to be okay?? I felt horrified, turned on, creeped out, scared, curious, wigged out completely so she did a great job.
As her debut horror/scifi/sort-of romantasy novel, I am so impressed. I'm excited to read her other work and hope she keeps writing more in this scifi world!
This book is absolutely BRILLIANT! I've watched the Silo series and let me tell you, you're not ready for the crazy shit that's going to ensue here.
The story is set in a dystopian future where humanity survives in a massive underground silo. The outside world is toxic, and the silo's inhabitants are kept under strict control by a rigid set of rules. Juliette, a determined and resourceful mechanic, becomes the unlikely leader who challenges the status quo and uncovers the dark secrets that govern their lives.
I think my favorite part of this series is that it isn't necessarily happy - it's very realistic and there's so much interplay of characters that you could argue that Juliette is the main one, but there are so many other people who, all together as a community, really shape the changes that occur in the Silo.
The sense of mistrust that carries through the book is so satisfyingly eliminated -ehem- and we really get to see the dystopian vibes and ponder what the hell happened to the world that they live in.
Themes of the book include survival, control, freedom, and the quest for truth. The characters grapple with moral dilemmas, and the oppressive atmosphere creates a constant tension that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The exploration of power dynamics and the human spirit's resilience adds depth to the narrative, making it a thought-provoking read.
I am so excited to start the next book in this series. I 100% recommend this if you're into the end of the world type of vibes and dystopian energy!
What a cute book filled with Fall vibes and sweetness!
Thank you Scarlett for the opportunity to ARC read this!
Within the Darkening Woods is a light-hearted, far and human fantasy romance in which Amber, our main female protagonist, is bitten by a giant magical spider and is dying, only to be saved by Eldrin, eldest Prince of the Woods. The world they live in has a mixture of the magical realms and the human, a sudden phenomenon that happened and left people stranded in their own pieces of land or entirely lost to the other realms.
As soon as they meet there's a connection and Eldrin finds himself falling in love with Amber, his rather dull life taking life once more as he sees the world through a lens with her in it.
Amber feels like something is brewing between them too but can they ever be together ? She can't live in his Woods and he can't live in the human world. Throw in his despicable brother, the King, and we've got some drama in there as well as to who will live and who will die.
I found this book to be light and cute, great read for some downtime and maybe on a beach day. Really though once it's truly fall this is a perfect read under a blanket watching the leaves fall in a cabin somewhere.
Highly recommend if you want something short and sweet to check out in the fantasy world!
This book is filled with so much rage: feminine rage, masculine rage, societal rage, forgotten and keenly remembered rage. It truly encompasses the deep feelings we carry within us as humans (or in their case, elves). Raeve isn't who she is, but the problem is that she doesn't know who she is supposed to be or used to be. She's filled with anger, revenge, and hidden secrets so deep within herself that she can't even begin to unravel them.
As we see her journey begin, we quickly learn that Raeve is truly just broken pieces hastily put back together with revenge as the glue and a glaze of fierce hatred.
Initially, Raeve's mission is to get revenge on a loved one lost, but that soon becomes a problem when she's captured and tortured for being part of a rebellion group. It is then that we see Raeve has sides to her that she doesn't even know about.
Through this all, there is Kaan, the Burn King, and the bane of Raeve's existence. He knows her, but she doesn't know how he knows her. This is where I'll stop so that I don't give you any spoilers because it gets crazy.
You've got dragons galore, political powers fighting, an underlying buildup of tension and rage, and so many secrets to unfold. Who is lying to whom, and really, who is lying to themselves the most?
There is also a lot of back and forth through multiple POVs and flashbacks that seem to make little to no sense until we see everything start intertwining in the most crazy cliffhanger of this book.
Overall, I loved this book because it made me angry, it made my heart hurt, it reminded me dragons are no joke, and honestly, it encompasses the unfairness of living. All the bad things that happen will happen, and there isn't necessarily a happy ending coming your way. I really resonated with that.
This was such a clever book!
Let me start by saying this isn't a fantasy romance—and I'm not mad about that at all.
Everyone is a liar; the question is, who's the best one?
“Five Broken Blades” is an exhilarating ride that brings together five assassins from different regions, classes, and upbringings with a common goal: kill the King. The catch? The King is immortal, and that's going to be a problem.
The narrative is skillfully woven through the different POVs of all the characters. Despite gaining insight into their motives, readers themselves can't fully trust each character, adding to the suspense and intrigue.
Themes and Elements:
Deception and Trust: The book delves deeply into themes of deception. With every character having their own agenda, the question of trust is central. Who can be trusted when everyone has something to hide?
Female Empowerment: There is a strong commentary on women taking on roles traditionally held by men, such as being assassins or killers. The female characters in this book are powerful, skilled, and unapologetically fierce, breaking stereotypes and proving their capabilities.
Class Differences: The story highlights the stark differences between various classes and how small, seemingly insignificant things are used to control the masses. This adds a layer of social commentary, making readers reflect on the power dynamics in their own world.
Elaborate Murder Plans: The assassins' plans to kill the immortal King are super elaborate, evoking vibes similar to “The Hunger Games,” “Ocean's 11,” and “Game of Thrones.” The intricate strategies and high stakes keep readers on the edge of their seats, wondering what will happen next.
High Stakes: The book maintains high stakes throughout, with each character's life hanging in the balance. The tension and urgency in their mission create a gripping, page-turning experience.
Did they kill the King or not? I guess you'll have to find out.
Mai Corland has crafted a story that combines action, strategy, and complex characters in a way that keeps you guessing until the very end. If you're looking for a book that's smart, thrilling, and unafraid to tackle big themes, “Five Broken Blades” is a must-read.
Linda Villarosa is an amazing researcher and writer who has become a bridge between the grassroots movement for healthcare change and the marginalized population of Black people, particularly Black women. Her dedication to bringing the stories of real people and humanity into the discourse about the lack of representation and respect in the healthcare field for Black people has truly inspired me, and I'm sure it will inspire anyone else who reads her work.
I highly recommend this book to understand the structure of racism from its historical roots to its integration into the healthcare field and education. Learning the stories of others and the initiatives people are undertaking in their communities is crucial for paving the way for betterment.
Linda splits her book into 10 chapters covering topics such as the education of doctors and healthcare professionals, why “being Black” isn't a diagnosis, the unfair and unjustified medical devices and testing practices, the lack of information for the most vulnerable people, and so much more. She delves deeply into the concept of medical racism, exploring how historical misconceptions about Black bodies continue to influence modern medical practices and contribute to health disparities.
One of the key points Villarosa makes is about the systemic neglect and abuse that Black patients face in the healthcare system. She highlights how deeply ingrained biases and stereotypes lead to significant disparities in treatment and outcomes. For instance, Black women are more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than white women, a fact that underscores the urgent need for systemic change.
Another critical aspect Villarosa discusses is the psychological toll of racism on Black individuals. She explains how the chronic stress of living in a racially biased society can lead to severe health consequences, including higher rates of hypertension and heart disease among Black people. This connection between mental health and physical health is an essential point that underscores the pervasive impact of racism.
Please, please read this. If you remotely care about healthcare, if you're a doctor, a nurse, a technician, or any person in the health-related field, you should read this. Villarosa's work is not just a call to action but a blueprint for how we can start to make meaningful changes in the healthcare system to ensure equity and justice for all.
Amazing work Linda, I truly feel well informed, enraged, humbled, and hungry to see what I can do to help.
I LOVED THIS BOOK AND THIS WORLD!!!
What started as a whimsical tale of girl meets annoying boy became our main character, Nepheli's, ascension into adulthood. Apollo, our rakish MMC, drags Nepheli out of her comfort zone to run away from monsters. All the things that Nepheli hoped and dreamed of, read about in her little shop of curiosities, are now very real and right in front of her. She should feel the excitement and wonder of all the things that she had read coming to life with her at the center to explore.
So why is she so scared?
Apollo doesn't have feelings, he doesn't care and yet he barrels into Nephili's in search of something that might solve the all the problems he's ran away from for so long. As he destroys the shop that he barrels into, he turns Nephili's world inside out.
And now he's stuck here's with this infuriating beautiful stubborn woman.
As the pair travels together, they fight the urge to kill each other (or is it to kiss each other)? They discover what it means to be themselves, to shed the skin of who they used to be, and to build themselves into who they can become. I personally loved this novel for its sweet love story and amazing banter—I love a good verbal parry, and the whole book is a verbal foreplay into something—ehem— quite spicy, and satisfying.
I also love the exploration of what it means to be human and how we constantly restrict ourselves, thereby restricting all our hopes and dreams along with it. Nepheli struggles to reconcile the ideas and images she has in her head with the reality of the magical world she is in, to put aside her immediate judgment of everyone and everything because it's easier to judge than to be judged. She truly grows, and along with her, we find that Apollo grows as well, learning the kind of man he could have the chance of being if he could be that man for her.
100% recommend as a gorgeous summer day beach or garden read for those who love an enemies-to-lovers romance, the fantastical world of stardust, and vintage fantasy cottagecore vibes.
“Sold to the Fae” is a dark romantasy novel that follows Thalia, a human woman considered a slave in a world dominated by fae. After a dark event in her life, Thalia runs away from home and hides, disguising herself to avoid detection. She finds herself stuck in another realm with three fae men—Dane, Grey, and Kallum—whom she grew up with and who harbor intense hatred for her due to her past crimes. Known as The Harbinger, Thalia is seen as the epitome of death.
As the story unfolds, the fae men discover her true identity and buy her as a slave with the intention of taking her back to their homeland for punishment. However, during their journey, they begin to uncover the truth about the events that led to her current situation and realize that Thalia may not be as evil as they believed. As they start to develop feelings for her, they are faced with a difficult decision: get rid of her or protect her.
Great book! This is my first experience with forced proximity and reverse harem vibes. The main character, Thalia, is compelling and complex. The dynamic between her and the three fae men she once knew is intense and full of tension. The journey they undertake together is filled with revelations and emotional growth, making for a gripping read. The blend of dark romance and fantasy elements creates a captivating story that keeps you hooked until the end.
Key Themes and Tropes:
-> Forced Proximity: Thalia is thrust into the fae world against her will, creating a tense and dynamic relationship with her captors.
-> Dark Romance: The book contains elements of dark, sometimes forbidden, romance that add depth and complexity to the characters' interactions.
-> Enemies-to-Lovers: Initially viewed as an enemy, Thalia's relationship with the fae men evolves as they learn more about her true past.
-> Magical Realms: The story is set in a vividly described fae world with its own unique rules and dangers, enhancing the fantastical atmosphere.
-> Power Dynamics: Themes of power, control, and resistance are prevalent as Thalia struggles to find her place and assert her identity in a world that views her as a mere commodity.