When the World Tips Over by Jandy Nelson
Book Review: When the World Tips Over by Jandy Nelson – A Dreamy, Emotional Ride
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Every now and then, a book comes along that sweeps you off your feet, tugs at your heartstrings, and leaves you feeling utterly enchanted. When the World Tips Over by Jandy Nelson is that kind of book. It’s not just a story—it’s an emotional experience, a journey through love, loss, hope, and everything in between.
From the moment I started reading, it felt like stepping into a dream. Nelson’s writing is nothing short of magical. Her words flow like poetry, drawing you in and wrapping you in a whirlwind of emotions. Every sentence feels deliberate, like a brushstroke on a canvas, creating vivid images and deep feelings that stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
The Characters:
Let’s talk about the real heart of this story—the characters. Dizzy, Cassidy, and Marigold, all of them, completely captured my soul. They felt so real that I found myself completely invested in their journeys. Dizzy’s quiet strength, Cassidy’s fierce determination, and Myles’s vulnerable courage, all of the characters made me fall in love with them.
Each of the characters are navigating their own personal storms, but together, they form a tapestry of human emotions that we can all relate to. They’re flawed, messy, hopeful, and so, so real. It’s impossible not to root for them as they try to find their way through life’s challenges. You don’t just read about them—you feel their pain, their love, their fears, and their moments of joy.
Jandy Nelson’s Mastery of Words
What sets When the World Tips Over apart from so many other books is Nelson’s mastery of language. Her writing isn’t just beautiful—it’s immersive. The way she weaves emotions into her sentences made me feel like I was living inside the story. It’s almost dreamlike in its ability to pull you in, and it makes the entire reading experience feel both ethereal and deeply grounded at the same time.
There’s this wonderful rhythm to her writing that makes it impossible to put down. I found myself completely swept up in the story, carried along by the flow of her words. It’s the kind of book where you want to linger on every page because each sentence is a work of art.
A Story That Stays with You
By the time I finished When the World Tips Over, I felt like I had been on an emotional rollercoaster—and I loved every second of it. It’s a book that stays with you long after you close it. The characters, the writing, the emotional depth—it all leaves a lasting impression.
If you’re looking for a book that’s more than just a story, one that will make you feel, think, and fall in love with its characters, then When the World Tips Over is for you. It’s the kind of book that reminds you why you fell in love with reading in the first place. Jandy Nelson has truly created something magical with this one, and I can’t recommend it enough.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab a copy, dive into this beautifully raw dream, and prepare to be swept away. 💖✨
The Cottage Around the Corner by D. L. Soria
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
As fall begins to creep in, I couldn’t have picked a more perfect book to kick off the season than The Cottage Around the Corner by D.L. Soria. Even though the crisp autumn air is still on its way, this charming, magical read provided all the cozy, warm vibes I was hoping for as the days begin to shorten.
Imagine a quaint, small town filled with the charm of Practical Magic—an enchanting cottage full of mystical surprises, a dash of mystery, and a beautiful blend of relationships that tug at your heartstrings. That’s what this book offers, and it does it so effortlessly. The world-building is full of magic, yet it’s grounded in strong, authentic relationships, especially among its fierce female characters.
One of the things I appreciated most about this book was the powerful portrayal of female relationships. Soria writes with a deep understanding of the strength and complexities that come with friendships between women. Whether they’re offering a shoulder to cry on, solving problems together, or navigating their own personal struggles, these characters highlight the importance of community and support, giving the story depth and heart.
The slow-burn romance between Charlie and Fitz is another reason to love this book. It’s got that You’ve Got Mail feel—playful, lighthearted banter sprinkled with moments of pure heart. Their chemistry builds naturally throughout the story, and Charlie’s sharp wit and humorous insults only add to the delightful tension between them. You can’t help but root for them from the start.
Another standout aspect of The Cottage Around the Corner is its diverse representation. Soria masterfully weaves together a cast of characters from various cultural and experiential backgrounds, making each feel real and relatable. The diversity isn’t forced; it’s a natural and authentic part of the story, enhancing the richness of the world Soria has created.
Whether you’re still holding on to the last days of summer or eagerly awaiting fall’s arrival, this book will sweep you up in its cozy, magical atmosphere. It’s the kind of story that leaves you feeling comforted and content, much like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket on a crisp autumn day.
A special thank you to Penguin Random House for providing me with a copy of this heartwarming read! 🍁📚
What Lies in the Woods by Kate Alice Marshall
My Rating⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)
From the first page, What Lies in the Woods pulls you into a web of secrets and buried truths 🕸️. The haunting backdrop and intricate plot kept me flipping pages late into the night 🌙. As the story digs into long-forgotten events from the past, it masterfully plays with your mind, making you question everything and everyone 🤯.
The complex friendship at the heart of the story, marked by a chilling incident, added a layer of raw emotion that really hit home 💔. Marshall does an incredible job of exploring the fallout of childhood trauma, and while the pacing slowed a bit in places, the constant tension and reveals made up for it 🕵️♀️.
A few of the twists were easy to see coming, but the emotional depth of the characters kept me glued. Overall, this is a gripping psychological thriller that will stay with you long after you’ve reached the final chapter!
Their Vicious Games by Joelle Wellington
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐.5/5
I just finished Their Vicious Games by Joelle Wellington, and wow, what a ride! 🎢 This YA thriller dives deep into themes of privilege, ambition, and survival.
The story follows Adina, who finds herself in a high-stakes competition where only one person can come out on top. 🏆 I loved the fierce energy of the book and how Wellington tackled issues of race and class head-on. Adina is a strong, complex protagonist who you can’t help but root for, even when the game gets brutally intense.
There were moments throughout the book that I felt the pacing was a bit uneven. Some parts were fast and gripping, while others slowed down more than I would have liked. Also, while the premise was intriguing, certain plot points felt predictable. Despite this, the book’s social commentary and the thrilling, dark atmosphere kept me hooked until the end. 🔥
Their Vicious Games is definitely worth a read if you enjoy a mix of suspense, social issues, and a fight for survival. If you’re into books like The Hunger Games or Ace of Spades, this one might just be your next page-turner! 📖✨
Book Lovers by Emily Henry
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐ (5/5)
If there’s one thing Emily Henry knows how to do, it’s deliver a story that feels like a warm hug, and Book Lovers is no exception! This novel is a delightful mix of wit, charm, and romance that had me hooked from the very first page. 😍
Nora Stephens, our protagonist, is a literary agent. She’s focused, driven, and yes, a bit of a workaholic. 💼 Enter Charlie Lastra, an editor who’s just as sharp and ambitious. The two have a rocky first meeting, but fate has other plans when they cross paths again in a small town that’s straight out of a Hallmark movie. 🏡
What I loved most about Book Lovers is the clever way it plays with classic rom-com tropes while giving them a fresh spin. 💖 Henry’s writing is sharp, full of banter that had me laughing out loud 😂, and the chemistry between Nora and Charlie? Off the charts!
But this book isn’t just about romance. It’s also about sisterhood, the sacrifices we make for family, and figuring out what truly matters in life. The dynamic between Nora and her sister Libby is so beautifully written that it almost steals the show. 🌟
If you’re a fan of enemies-to-lovers, stories set in small towns, or just love books about books 📚, Book Lovers is a must-read. It’s the perfect escape that will leave you smiling long after you’ve turned the last page. 😊💖
Everyone Here is Lying by Shari Lapena
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️(4/5)
Everyone Here is Lying by Shari Lapena had me hooked from the very first page! Lapena masterfully weaves a tale full of secrets, lies, and suspense!
One thing that stood out to me was how brilliantly she structured the chapters, each one ended on such a gripping note that I just had to keep going. The pacing is spot on, pulling you deeper into the tangled web of deceit.
And let’s talk about the characters! Lapena did an incredible job of making most of them utterly unlikeable. It’s fascinating how she crafted such flawed and frustrating personalities, yet kept me fully invested in their stories. You might not root for them, but you can’t look away from the chaos they create.
If you’re a fan of domestic thrillers with a dark twist, this one’s for you! 🎢 It’s a wild ride that will keep you guessing until the very end. Trust me, you won’t see the final twists coming. Perfect for those who love a good, twisty thriller to get lost in!
Survive the Night by Riley Sager
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️(4/5)
Looking for a psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat? Survive the Night by Riley Sager is the one! 📚 This book starts off as a bit of a slow burn, but once the suspense kicks in, it doesn’t stop. 🔥
The story follows Charlie, a college student dealing with the recent loss of her best friend. She picks up a ride with a stranger she meets at the ride board on campus, and from there, the tension escalates. Is her driver the friendly helper he seems to be, or is something much darker lurking?
The claustrophobic setting of their car ride makes every twist and turn even more intense. 😱 At first, the pacing might feel a bit slow, but trust me, it’s worth sticking with it. 🕰️ Once the plot picks up, it’s a non-stop thrill ride with twists that’ll keep you guessing until the very end. There are a few moments that require some suspension of disbelief, but Sager’s skill in building suspense makes this a book you won’t want to put down. ✨ Although I did predict the ending, it didn’t take away from the reading experience at all!
If you love thrillers that mess with your mind and keep you turning the pages, Survive the Night is a must-read. 📖💥
A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Hey book lovers! 📖✨ If you’re looking for a thrilling page-turner that you can’t put down, “A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder” by Holly Jackson is an absolute must-read! This book had me hooked from the very first page, and I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough to uncover all the secrets. 🔍🕵️♀️
Plot: Pip Fitz-Amobi decides to investigate a closed murder case for her senior project, convinced that the wrong person was accused. What she uncovers is a web of secrets and lies that had me flying through the pages to uncover what was going to happen next! The mystery is so well-crafted, and the twists and turns kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. 📜🕵️♀️
Characters: Pip is an incredibly relatable and determined protagonist. Her dedication to finding the truth is inspiring, and I loved seeing her growth throughout the book. The sprinkle of romance between Pip and Ravi adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the darker elements of the story. 💕 Their chemistry is undeniable and adds a lovely touch to the intense plot. 🔎❤️
Writing Style: Holly Jackson’s writing is sharp, engaging, and perfectly paced. The mix of interviews, diary entries, and narrative keeps the story dynamic and makes you feel like you’re solving the mystery right alongside Pip. 📜📝
Overall: This book is unputdownable, filled with suspense, intrigue, and a touch of romance that makes it a well-rounded read. If you’re a fan of mysteries and thrillers, “A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder” should definitely be on your TBR list. 📚📖
Have you read this book? Let me know in the comments, and let me know what I should read next!📚🔍💬
Happy reading! 📖❤️
The Night House by Jo Nesbo
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
The Night House” by Jo Nesbo is a masterful blend of psychological horror and suspense that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. As a fan of all things horror and scary, this book was an absolute thrill to dive into!
🔪 Plot: The story follows Richard Elauved, a troubled teenager who moves to the small town of Ballantyne after the tragic death of his parents. The eerie atmosphere of the town and the mysterious house at the edge of the forest quickly pull Richard into a chilling adventure. The nightmarish events that unfold are both terrifying and captivating, making it impossible to put the book down.
🖤 Characters: Nesbo’s characters are well-developed and complex, adding depth to the suspenseful plot. Richard’s struggle with his inner demons and the haunting secrets of Ballantyne make for a gripping read. The supporting characters contribute to the overall tone and mystery.
🌌 Writing Style: Jo Nesbo’s writing is vivid and immersive, perfectly capturing the sinister mood of the story. His ability to create tension and build suspense is unmatched, making “The Night
House” a must-read for horror enthusiasts.
❤️ What I Liked: The atmospheric setting and the way Nesbo builds suspense are phenomenal. The twists and turns kept me guessing, and the psychological depth of the characters added an extra layer of intrigue. The eerie descriptions of the house and the town were particularly chilling and immersive.
💔 What I Didn’t Like: Sometimes, the pacing was a bit off. Some parts dragged a little, and a few plot points could’ve used more detail. But honestly, these are just minor gripes in an otherwise fantastic read.
👻 Final Thoughts: “The Night House” is a spine-chilling journey into the unknown that fans of horror and psychological thrillers will love. Nesbo has once again proven his mastery in crafting a story that lingers long after the final page is turned.
What Moves the Dead by T. Kingfisher
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Looking for a spine-chilling, gothic horror tale? What Moves the Dead by T. Kingfisher is the perfect read to send shivers down your spine! 🖤🌒
Synopsis:
When retired soldier Alex Easton receives word that their childhood friend, Madeline Usher, is dying, they rush to the Usher family’s ancestral home in the remote countryside. What they find is a house filled with eerie fungi, possessed wildlife, and a creeping sense of dread. As Alex investigates, they uncover dark secrets that threaten to consume everyone in the house.
What I Loved:
🌫️ The eerie atmosphere – the detailed descriptions make you feel the damp, decaying air of the Usher estate.
🛡️ Alex Easton’s character – their bravery and determination to uncover the truth make for a compelling protagonist.
🏰 The rich gothic elements – from the crumbling mansion to the hauntingly beautiful prose, it’s a gothic lover’s dream.
🐇 The unsettling wildlife – the possessed animals add an extra layer of horror that keeps you on edge.
📖 The suspenseful plot – the mystery unravels at a perfect pace, keeping you hooked from start to finish.
📜 The nod to classic horror – fans of Edgar Allan Poe will appreciate the inspiration from “The Fall of the House of Usher.”
A Few Thoughts:
⏳ The narrative’s pacing is excellent, keeping the tension high throughout the story.
🧩 The blend of horror and mystery elements is masterfully done, creating a truly immersive experience.
👫 The supporting characters add depth to the story and enhance the overall eerie vibe.
🔚 The ending is both satisfying and thought-provoking, leaving a lasting impression.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This book is a must-read for fans of gothic horror and classic literature! Have you read What Moves the Dead yet? Share your thoughts in the comments! 📖💭
A Flicker in the Dark by Stacey Willingham
My Rating: Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
If you’re in the mood for a psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat, A Flicker in the Dark by Stacey Willingham is a must-read! 🌌🖤
📚 Synopsis:
Chloe Davis was just twelve when six teenage girls went missing in her small Louisiana town. By the end of the summer, her own father had confessed to the crimes and was put away for life. Now, twenty years later, Chloe is a psychologist in Baton Rouge, finally trying to move on. But when local teens start to disappear again, she’s thrown back into a nightmare she thought was long buried.
❤️ What I Loved:
✨ The atmospheric setting – you can practically feel the Louisiana heat and the tension simmering in every chapter.
✨ Chloe’s complex character – her struggle to balance her past trauma with her present reality is both compelling and heartbreaking.
✨ The plot twists – just when you think you have it all figured out, Willingham throws another curveball that will leave you gasping!
✨ The intricate narrative – the way past and present intertwine keeps you constantly guessing.
✨ The exploration of family dynamics – how secrets and lies can tear a family apart.
✨ The vivid descriptions – they bring every scene to life and make the suspense even more palpable.
💭 A Few Thoughts:
✨ The pacing is perfect, making it hard to put the book down once you start.
✨ The exploration of how past traumas can shape our present lives is handled with sensitivity and depth.
✨ The supporting characters are well-developed, adding depth to the story.
✨ The ending is satisfying and ties up loose ends, leaving you with a sense of closure.
This book is electrifying and thriller fans won’t want to miss it!
Have you read A Flicker in the Dark yet?
The Museum of Extraordinary Things by Alice Hoffman
My Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
🎡 Step into the captivating world of ‘The Museum of Extraordinary Things’ by Alice Hoffman, where curiosity meets enchantment in the heart of Coney Island. 🎠
🔮 Hoffman’s storytelling prowess shines as she introduces us to Coralie, a young woman with a secret, and Eddie, a photographer on a quest for truth. Their paths intertwine amidst the colourful backdrop of Coney Island’s bustling boardwalks and the mystical wonders of Coralie’s father’s museum.
📸 Through Hoffman’s masterful prose, we are transported to a time when the extraordinary was just a stone’s throw away. From the flickering lights of the carnival to the dark depths of the Hudson River, every scene is alive with wonder and intrigue.
🌊 But amidst the spectacle lies a tale of love, loss, and the search for identity. As Coralie and Eddie navigate the complexities of their own lives, they discover that sometimes the most extraordinary things are found in the most unexpected places.
🎪 With its rich historical detail and unforgettable characters, ‘The Museum of Extraordinary Things’ is a must-read for anyone who has ever dreamed of escaping reality for a journey into the unknown. So grab your ticket and prepare to be swept away on a whirlwind adventure that will leave you breathless and longing for more.
Stardust by Neil Gaiman
My Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Alright, folks, let’s talk about Neil Gaiman’s “Stardust”! This book is like a ticket to a whole new world of magic and wonder, and trust me, you’re gonna want to hop on this ride! 🌟💫
We’ve got Tristran Thorn, a love-struck lad from the village of Wall, on a quest to fetch a fallen star to win his sweetheart’s heart. But this isn’t your ordinary fetch quest! Tristran’s journey takes him far beyond the Wall and straight into the mystical realm of Faerie, where things get seriously wild! 🧚♂️🌈
Now, let’s talk about characters. From the sassy star Yvaine to the downright diabolical witch Lamia, Neil Gaiman’s got a knack for creating folks you can’t help but root for (or against!). And let’s not forget the swoon-worthy romance that’ll have you grinning like a fool! 💖😍
But what really sets Stardust apart is Gaiman’s storytelling prowess. Seriously, he knows how to spin a yarn! His prose is like magic on the page, painting vivid pictures that’ll transport you straight into the heart of Faerie. You’ll feel like you’re right there alongside Tristran, sailing with sky pirates and sitting on clouds.
In a nutshell, Stardust is the kind of book that’ll make you believe in magic all over again. So if you’re craving an adventure that’ll leave you spellbound, grab yourself a copy and get ready for the journey of a lifetime! ✨🌌
Homeland by R.A. Salvatore
“There is no pain greater than this; not the cut of a jagged-edged dagger nor the fire of a dragon’s breath. Nothing burns in your heart like the emptiness of losing something, someone, before you truly have learned of its value.”
Embark on an immersive journey into the intricate world of Menzoberranzan with R.A. Salvatore’s “Homeland.” 🌟
In this gripping fantasy tale, readers are introduced to Drizzt Do’Urden, a drow torn between the ruthless expectations of his society and his own moral compass. Set against the backdrop of Menzoberranzan, a city ruled by treachery and deception, Drizzt’s quest for identity and redemption unfolds amidst a tapestry of political intrigue and rivalries. 🗡️🌌
Salvatore paints a vivid portrait of a world teetering on the brink of chaos. From the ruling houses to the shadowy depths of the Underdark, every detail is rendered with stunning clarity, drawing readers deeper into the story with each turn of the page. ✨📖
“Homeland” is more than just a fantasy novel–it’s a thought-provoking exploration of themes such as identity, morality, and the enduring power of hope. As Drizzt grapples with his own sense of right and wrong, readers are invited to reflect on their own beliefs and prejudices, making this a truly immersive reading experience. 🤔💫
So, if you’re craving a spellbinding adventure that will transport you to another world and leave you pondering life’s deepest questions, look no further than “Homeland” by R.A. Salvatore. It’s a journey you won’t soon forget. 🌟📚
Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman
“When angels go bad they are worse than anyone else. Remember Lucifer used to be an angel.”
Neverwhere is a captivating urban fantasy that immerses readers in the mysterious and magical world beneath London. 🏙️
The novel’s strength lies in Gaiman’s ability to craft a darkly atmospheric setting that feels both fantastical and eerily familiar. The characters are a highlight, with Richard Mayhew serving as a relatable protagonist thrust into the unknown. Door and the Marquis de Carabas add depth and intrigue, each with a unique charm. I absolutely loved them! 💕
Gaiman’s storytelling mastery shines through, keeping readers engaged with a mix of suspense and humor. The blend of urban and fantasy elements is masterfully executed, creating a world that is both enchanting and unsettling.
✨Neverwhere is a must-read for those who appreciate inventive storytelling and vividly drawn characters, offering a journey into a fantastical realm that lingers in the imagination long after the final page! 📚
The Saturday Night Ghost Club by Craig Davidson
“Reality never changes. Only our recollections of it do. Whenever a moment passes, we pass along with it into the realm of memory. And in that realm, geometries change. Contours shift, shades lighten, objectivities dissolve. Memory becomes what we need it to be.”
Augtober/Summerween is on in full force at my house, and I have been eager to devour all of the spooky and cozy Halloween reads that have been on my list. The Saturday Night Ghost Club being one of them. I absolutely loved this book! It’s a quick read, but does not lack in depth and wonderful storytelling. It unfolds at a great pace, and everything ties up beautifully at the end, all while tugging at your heartstrings and making you reach for the Kleenex. It will have you thinking back fondly on those carefree childhood summers. Those days where you were just on the cusp of childlike innocence and teenage wonder. It’s a wonderful coming of age story that has some great haunting elements to it. The Saturday Night Ghost Club was far more than I imagined it to be. If you’re a fan of Stand By Me, The Goonies or Stranger Things, I would highly recommend it! Though I would recommend you read it even if you’re not a fan of those movies, as it’s just a great read overall!
Jellicoe Road by Melina Marchetta
“Hold my hand because I might disappear.”
I first read this book about 10 or 12 years ago and absolutely adored every page, every word, every blot of ink between the covers. I was craving a reread of it last week so plucked it off my shelf. Was I scared I wasn’t going to love it as much? A little, but I went in anyways. To my surprise I loved it just as much and more. Even reading it in my 30’s I related to 17 year old Taylor so much. Her story is one of the most moving coming of age stories. Reading Jellicoe Road again was like revisiting old friends. Their familiarity warmed my heart. I felt reading this book now gave me an even bigger understanding of who these characters are, and where each of them are on their journey. It was just as heartbreaking as I remember; but also sweet, painful and lovely. I’m so glad I reread this old favourite, and cannot wait to visit my old friends again, maybe another 10-12 years from now. As Melina Marchetta said, “I’m so lucky to know these characters for the rest of my life“