Pablo
After ~40 percent the novelty wears off. I like the idea of a video game-esque book, with tons of gear, leveling up, boss fights, upgrades, a big dungeon, etc. However, it failed to keep me interested half way through the book until the end.
I see the attractiveness of this book and the series as a whole. It is very easy to read, it’s very funny at times, with ridiculously wild scenes. The premise and cliffhanger at the end is enough to keep me interested and will continue reading the series.
Robin Hobb has a way with words that is just mesmerizing! This booked captured me in ways no other fantasy book has, it hooked me from beginning to end.
The plot itself isn't that grand or unique, and it was interesting enough to keep me invested. However, the book shines in its characters, their intricacies, relationships, and the rich world they live in.
This book isn't flashy with intricate magic systems and tons of actions scenes, and is regarded as a “slow burn” read. This I have found, really suits me as I have come to enjoy character driven stories.
The story is still filled with many mysteries, interesting and unique magical powers, and cleverly crafted plot twist that had me at the edge of my seat.
I came to really care for the many characters and their ties with one another. I rooted for some, cried for others, and at times felt betrayed.
I'm fully invested in Fitz's journey through this harsh and unforgiving world he lives in! Can't wait to pick up the second book!
Such an insightful book! Very dense, informative and incredibly well researched. This book is literally a step by step guide to meditation with the ultimate goal of achieving enlightenment/awakening.
It is mostly objective in nature and backed up by scientific research. I do have to say, as you get to the later stages, it does become more experiential and anecdotal. The author explains the 10 stages of mastering Samatha meditation. Each chapter provides exercises, tips, objectives and expected struggles or road blocks that one must deal with along the way.
In no way is this book preachy, and one does not need to be a Buddhist in order to “get it”. This book does not discriminate and the author gives good encouragement to anyone interested in meditation.
Inspiring book! This is my first introduction to the life of the Buddha. This books strikes the perfect balance between retelling the Buddha's life and introducing sutras and teachings that are foundational for following the way. The book can at times be a bit slow and redundant (same teachings are repeated here and there), but it stroke so many cords in me and inspired me to continue applying these beautiful teaching in my everyday life.
The premise of this series is so gripping and fascinating! yet I had such a hard time getting through this book. I found myself grinding through many chapters before things started to pick up. Even so, I am fully invested in this series because the premise is that good!
The problem I have with the writing style is that Hadrian is very introspective and very descriptive. He often compares his experiences with Kings and Heroes of the old times, with old philosophies and lectures that he has learned in the past.
I have no problem with this, however I feel like this is way overdone and takes me, the reader away from the story telling (what is actually happening) instead of adding to it.
The last 10 chapters of this book are absolutely incredible! The chapters before that are very slow paced, just like “Empire of Silence”. This is still a worth read for me, and I can't wait to see how the story unfolds.
One of my first introductions to buddhist teachings. Lots of eye opening teachings and a simple guidance in living a rich fulfilling life. Surrendering the self and living in the benefit of others is key in reaching enlightenment. Chapter 9 is missing in this commentary as Pema felt it was too difficult to include in this book. I am looking forward to reading other commentaries on the of The Way of the Bodhisattvas.
Enjoyable short novella. It sheds light on Hadrian's brother Crispin and alongside his sister Sabine, fight for their lives against a mysterious attacker. This novella paints Crispin to be more like his brother Hadrian. Despite his barbaric ways, Crispin finds compassion and admiration to those plebeians below his decree. This story adds to the overarching world of the Sun Eater series, with mysteries revealed that I am sure will add to the overall main story line.
Such a simple short story, yet so rich and heartfelt. I enjoyed this one much more than “small things like these”. The innocence of a child and her first hand experiences made me reflect on my own childhood. This story made me realize that little things and gestures do matter to those young and growing up. This is a story that I will most definitely come back to in the future.
A story rooted in the mundane moments of everyday life—carrying a dark truth and the quiet struggles of a man. It's a short story about him and his family, about his past and how it comes back to test him in the present. It's raw and honest. There isn't much happening on the surface, but underneath are the battles of a man haunted by what he's been through, and how certain moments force him to face what he truly believes in.
You can tell right away this story's going to be massive. The galaxy is insanely detailed, packed with planets, moons, species, aliens, and plenty of mysteries. Coming from reading Lord of the Rings, I'm used to super descriptive writing—sometimes I'm into it, other times it's a slog—but here it mostly hits the sweet spot.
Hadrian is interesting enough to carry the book, with so many strengths and positive traits that he usually has the edge. What really grabbed me, though, are the mysterious Cielcin and how little the empire actually understands them. The author's descriptions of these aliens are fascinating and vivid, making them feel intelligent, alien, and genuinely terrifying through Hadrian's eyes. This book sets the tone for what feels like an epic, long-haul series.
I loved this world so much! The characters are fascinating, and all the different races are unique and interesting. The depth and history of Middle-earth feel completely believable. At times, it reads like a history book—as if these events really took place.
The world-building is by far the most beautiful and rich I have ever read. The landscapes of all the places the Fellowship travels to are forever ingrained in my mind (and I haven't even seen the movies!). Lothlórien, Mordor, Rivendell, and the Mines of Moria are places I will never forget.
I wouldn't say this series is an easy read by any means. It takes some work and, at times, re-reading pages to fully grasp what Tolkien is trying to convey. Ultimately, the payoff is well worth it.
The conclusion to the series was perfection, and The Return of the King is my favorite of the three books.
Wow! What a fun journey! I was not convinced 1/3 of the way into the book, as it read like a YA novel with children as protagonist. But slowly, the story starts revealing its depth, you'll notice the characters are not as simple and shallow as you may think, their actions have real consequences and the plot weighs heavy on all of them. These children have not been allowed to be children and are instead tools made for destruction. The deception, the mistrust, and the uncertainty are things Ender wrestles with from the beginning of the story to the end. Finally, the plot twists in this book are phenomenal! and probably some of the best I have experienced.
The depth of this world is enormous! The lore and history of the different lands and its people is at times very hard to follow, but you can tell that the outmost care was given to this world by the author. This book is far better than this first one, mainly due to the increased pace and its multiple high tension moments. The characters are all incredibly unique and ever growing as they face new challenges. The pace of book may still be very slow for most people as Tolkien loves to describe everything! But personally, that is what makes the world so vivid and beautiful. Overall incredible series so far!
This book is filled with tons of interesting insights and historical facts about how money, its value, and its meaning has changed over time. Like many people have mentioned on their reviews, a lot of this stuff is common sense, but yet many of us fall victim of outside forces drawing us away from making common sense decisions. I enjoyed this book, although It felt like it dragged on at times, specially during the mid chapters (the ending chapters are way better in my opinion). Also, read the postscript! Amazing last few pages.
Very short, fast paced, and enjoyable book. Great for anyone that is interested in learning about investing in the stock market. It is written in very simple terms that anyone can understand. The humor is a hit or miss and at times it drags a bit. Overall, Greenblatt does an excellent job at explaining the “magic” behind his magic formula and why it works, and why it is so hard to stick to for many of those who try implementing it.
What a journey! Loved the book almost in its entirety. I really enjoyed the deep and meticulous world building that Tolkien is known for. The detailed descriptions of the land, the nature and the terror that followed the fellowship. All of those little details came together to paint a beautiful picture in my head of all the different locations Frodo and his companions set foot on.
My only gripe with the book has to be the council of Elrond. It was tough reading through the pages and having no clue what was going on. I know the author intended this, but at this point in the book I was losing interest quickly. Thankfully, I kept on reading because the rest of the book is absolute gold!