Gen’s Book Nook

  I’ve read a few 12 Dancing Princesses retellings, but this one is my favorite. Set in 16th century Transylvania, Wildwood Dancing pulls from a variety of folklore and fairytales and the book shimmers with magic and whimsy. When I think of what I want a fairytale-esque story to feel like, Wildwood Dancing comes to mind immediately. The contrast of enchanting and sinister fairy land with the bleakness of Transylvanian winter swiftly draws one in, both worlds vivid and real.  Amid the splendorous fantasy, themes of love, learning to let go of control, and respecting others’ decisions provide a deeper layer.  I’m not going to tell you Wildwood Dancing will change your life, but if fairytales and sweet romances are your thing you may very well enjoy this. Happy reading! Gen

  You must allow me to introduce you to a new favorite of mine: I Hope This Doesn’t Find You by Ann Liang.  Sadie Wen is a model student, happy to do whatever is asked of her. Top of her class, except on the  occasions that Julius Gong beats her, she strives to excel in everything. Her rivalry with Julius has been going on for 10 years and she has to stay on top of her game to keep ahead of him. When the pressure is too much, she writes email drafts to anyone she’s upset with — a teacher who won’t raise her grade, a classmate who stole her work, but especially Julius. She’s written 42 to him alone over the years. She would never send them, but it’s a cathartic release just to write her feelings out. Until one day she is horrified to realize her drafts all got sent! Her reputation is in shambles and now Julius has more reason than ever to hate her. She’s desperate to fix things and get her life on track, but how? And just what will Julius do to get back at her? This was su...

Welcome to one of my top favorite series of all time.   My word. How do I begin to describe this spectacular series?  Immersive world building like Brandon Sanderson, deep and beautiful themes like JRR  Tolkien, hilarious dialogue like Diana Wynne Jones, and good pacing like Lloyd Alexander, all while being its own unique story.  The atmosphere feels similar to Ancient Greece and as the series progresses the rich culture becomes more fleshed out through myths, religion, and plays.  While each book is enjoyable in its own right, the entire series plot is stunning and well worth reading through to the end.  The audiobooks read by Steve West are an alternate way to imbibe them and he does an awesome job on the voices.  Prepare to be flummoxed by the protagonist, to be exasperated, amused, impressed, and moved, over and over.  If you haven’t read this series, consider this your sign to start! 10/10 recommend.  Happy reading!  Gen :)

 Welcome to my blog! I hope this can become a cozy place to connect over shared hobbies and interests, as well as a way to discover treasures in the literary world.  I’m primarily a fiction reader, and adore fantasy. My romance preferences are swoony more than steamy or spicy, so most of my recommendations are going to be closed door and or minimal descriptiveness.  I’m planning on writing around 3 book reviews a month, and posting fan art I find every now and then. Thanks for being here!  Gen