Katherine

If you like gang politics and cool action, but you’re tired of everything being done with guns, do I have a book for you! (Sadly, there are still guns, but the combat is very interesting). Jade City takes a while to get going, but once it does, you’re on a nonstop rollercoaster ride to the end. I LOVED the character work in this book- the individual development plotlines combined with the politics makes for a fantastic read. Each character is very unique. I did think there were a few too many times where the book launched into a paragraph or so of worldbuilding that could kill the pacing for me. However, Lee does a great job of building tension until the ignition of the conflict- trust the book will get there and it will blow you away. I left this book thinking “god DAMN what a strong ending”, and I’m eager to start Jade War soon.

I was surprised by how much I liked this book. I am always a little hesitant going into older science fiction and fantasy, but my friend bullied me into reading this one. Bujold being a female author definitely swayed me. The beginning of the book is SUCH a cliche setup, but past that it becomes a little more unique. The politics are great, the characters are interesting (what a change from most 80s speculative fiction I’ve read), and I found the romance sweet (even though falling in love in like a week makes me roll my eyes every single time). I wouldn’t say everything surprised me but the plot does twist and turn enough that it keeps you on your toes. Looking forward to reading more in the Vorkosigan Saga!

I loved this! The main character is such a mood with being unable to stop talking about her obsession and struggling with small talk. I love how curious and scientific she is. Honestly, I totally forgot this was a Snow White retelling (the one benefit of reading something WAY after you got it recommended to you- so thanks Libby for the long hold time…?) so when those elements started popping up I was like OH!! The plot was surprising- I could guess at times where it was going, but not always. I thought the romance was cute!! I’d definitely recommend this- it’s a fun blend of horror, fairytales, mystery, and a small amount of romance that really worked for me.

This was an interesting read! It’s short and simple plot wise, and nothing comes as a huge surprise. However, the premise was really interesting and I loved this idea of bringing someone who is an expert in elephant behavior back to help establish a population of mammoths in Siberia. It’s definitely a response towards the horrors of poaching and a revenge fantasy, but it’s kinda cathartic in a way. A good book to read in a single afternoon when you’re frustrated by the state of the world.