The Fallen Angel, Kenneth B Andersen

The Fallen Angel, 5/5

Pages: 293

Book Number: 5 of 6

Genre: YA, Fantasy, Adventure

Summary by Author: It’s been almost two years since Philip left Hell and returned to life—this time for good. But things have changed and so has Philip. He’s haunted by terrifying nightmares and has never felt so lonely. Lonely and angry. Then one day the impossible happens and Philip is brought back to Hell. Not by the Devil, but by the Almighty himself. Although the Great Devil War ended a long time ago, the battle is far from over—and the worst is yet to come.

Opinions: "If the fifth and sixth books of this series are just as distinguished, we're going to have a new "best series" superlative on our hands!" Me, reviewing The Angel of Evil

Ladies and gentlemen, we are looking very good. So far, each book of "The Great Devil War" series has deserved a full 5/5 star rating for Andersen's magical and immersive writing style, the long-term character development, and a distinct, informed realm! Not only does this series focus on a setting not many YA author dare to discuss, Andersen also inserted religious evidence, historical figures, and his own creative twists to make Hell "special". Book five of this series marks the fifth time readers will be blown away by the devils, demons, gragorns, Nazis, and other dangerous creatures Hell is home to! Although I am forever impressed with the continuous theme and character development, I appreciate that each book has its own unique plot. What makes The Fallen Angel special is its distinctness from the other books. It houses an angsty, evil-ridden young man who we've grown to love with a life-changing decision to make. Every page was torture as we watched Philip face obstacles and overcome them in ways he wouldn't have in The Devil's Apprentice! I was gasping and shouting for him to stop and return to the innocent young man we met in book one. I feel a climactic ending coming, and I simply cannot wait to see how Philip's journey ends! 

My Favourite Thing: Just like time and time before, I adore the religious motifs. Andersen tackles the controversial topic of Christianity with extreme civility. The nature of heaven and hell is brought to the table and readers gain insight through the point of view of demons, rather than hunters like other YA books. Lucifer is not made out to be a "good guy" per se, but we do question the contrasting ideas of moral ugliness and alternate ideas of success. Although this is just some YA book, it really makes you think. 

My Least Favourite Thing: If you couldn't guess, I don't have a Least Favourite Thing! Normally, I dislike series that have more than four books, but because each book of "The Great Devil War" series has its own unique yet supportive plot, I've been able to adore each of them! I cannot wait to read The Fallen Devil, the finale of the series! 

Total Rating: PG-13

Language: PG-12

Adult Content: PG-12

Violence: PG-13+

Recommended For and Similar Reads: The Devil's Apprentice and the following Great Devil War novels are academic, complex, emotionally stimulating books. The story is engaging and entertaining but will appeal to mature teens who have studied religion (and even a bit of history)! Many historical personages are represented or recreated across the series, including Hitler, Pontius Pilate, Hieronymus Bosch, and more. If you have read and loved Lullaby of Flames by Candace Robinson, Good Omens by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett, Summoned by Mckayla Eaton, Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick, Feather by Olivia Wildenstein, The Power and the Fury by James Erith, or watched CW's 'Supernatural,' you'll adore "The Great Devil War" series just as much as I!

Kenneth B. Andersen | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

Publisher: Host and Son

Edition: Kindle

Publication Date: 28 May 2020

ISBN: 9788763839402
Per FTC regulations, please know that I received this title for free for review from the original author, the publisher, publicist, or a third party. I am honest in my reviews, meaning the fact I received the book for free does not alter the rating I give it. 

We Are Totally Normal, Rahul Kanakia

We Are Totally Normal, 2/5

Pages: 288

Book Number: 1 of 1

Genre: YA, LGBTQ, Romance

Summary by Author: Nandan’s got a plan to make his junior year perfect. He’s going to make sure all the parties are chill, he’s going to smooth things over with his ex, and he’s going to help his friend Dave get into the popular crowd—whether Dave wants to or not. The high school social scene might be complicated, but Nandan is sure he’s cracked the code.

Then, one night after a party, Dave and Nandan hook up, which was not part of the plan—especially because Nandan has never been into guys. Still, Dave’s cool, and Nandan’s willing to give it a shot, even if that means everyone starts to see him differently.

But while Dave takes to their new relationship with ease, Nandan’s completely out of his depth. And the more his anxiety grows about what his sexuality means for himself, his friends, and his social life, the more he wonders whether he can just take it all back. But is breaking up with the only person who’s ever really gotten him worth feeling “normal” again?

From Rahul Kanakia comes a raw and deeply felt story about rejecting labels, seeking connection, and finding yourself.

Opinions: If it's gay, I'm bound to love it, and the ending makes this book difficult to hate. But We Are Totally Normal is very controversial and has a harsh narrative tone. As a pro-queer reader, I understand that all teenagers question friendship, orientations, and first love differently, but for a large majority of We Are Totally Normal, Nandan is lying about his sexuality to somebody in order to get approval from them. Even if Kanakia is trying to express another teen's experience (because let's face it, not everybody's story is like Simon Spier's), it may be too confusing, chaotic, and bewildering for some teenagers to read. I'm not saying We Are Totally Normal is a bad book, I'm just stating that it can very easily be taken the wrong way. Teenagers should be taught to respect themselves, others, and take things as slowly as they need, not to have sex with enough people and lie to your friends until you get your own life together - complimenting that, this book is only about Nandan and rarely focuses on the feelings of others. Besides the controversial character struggles, I also found it difficult to stay engaged because there wasn't much plot! We Are Totally Normal hops from one idea to the next and leaves readers questioning the importance of any of it. Don't get me wrong, it was entertaining, but not the empowering, enlightening LGBTQ book I expected. Disclaimer: these opinions are not facts but rather my interpretation of the book. If you disagree, feel free to ignore me, and if I'm coming off as rude, let me know!

My Favourite Thing: Besides my confused feelings towards Nandan, I do appreciate how inclusive Kanakia is. There are other queer characters and queer people of colour represented in We Are Totally Normal that gives the book a decent amount of credibility! Even if some readers find the narrative harsh, we must still admit the author had great intentions and shows true passion in their writing.

Total Rating: PG-13+

Language: PG-13+

Adult Content: PG-15

Violence: PG-13

Recommended For and Similar Reads: We Are Totally Normal is a blunt, realistic novel focusing on the struggle some teenagers may face when questioning and coming to terms with their sexual orientation. If you're looking for a twist on cute first loves, this is for you! Similar reads are (based on LGBTQ themes and/or characters) Simon vs the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli, Out Now by Saundra Mitchell, Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender, The Gravity of Us by Phil Stamper, Autoboyography by Christina Lauren, Date Me, Bryson Keller by Kevin van Whye, and The Infinite Noise by Lauren Shippen!

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/rahkan

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/rahkan

Publisher: HarperTeen

Edition: Kindle

Publication Date: 31 March, 2020

ASIN: B07TRMMYYM

Per FTC regulations, please know that I received this title for free for review from the original author, the publisher, publicist, or a third party. I am honest in my reviews, meaning the fact I received the book for free does not alter the rating I give it. 

Disclaimer: I 100% support, love, and accept all queer things, people, and themes. My rating and opinions on We Are Totally Normal are only only based on the book, not the themes and orientations present. My review is mostly precautionary, so if my opinions come off as rude or don't match your thoughts, please let me know because I do not intend to offend anybody. Be proud and stand up for everybody!

The Sound of Stars, Alechia Dow

The Sound of Stars, 5/5

Pages: 400

Book Number: 1 of 1

Genre: YA, LGBTQ, Romance, Fantasy, Science Fiction

Summary by Author: Can a girl who risks her life for books and an alien who loves forbidden pop music work together to save humanity?

Two years ago, a misunderstanding between the leaders of Earth and the invading Ilori resulted in the deaths of one-third of the world’s population.

Seventeen-year-old Janelle “Ellie” Baker survives in an Ilori-controlled center in New York City. Deemed dangerously volatile because of their initial reaction to the invasion, humanity’s emotional transgressions are now grounds for execution. All art, books and creative expression are illegal, but Ellie breaks the rules by keeping a secret library. When a book goes missing, Ellie is terrified that the Ilori will track it back to her and kill her.

Born in a lab, M0Rr1S (Morris) was raised to be emotionless. When he finds Ellie’s illegal library, he’s duty-bound to deliver her for execution. The trouble is, he finds himself drawn to human music and in desperate need of more. They’re both breaking the rules for love of art—and Ellie inspires the same feelings in him that music does.

Ellie’s—and humanity’s—fate rests in the hands of an alien she should fear. M0Rr1S has a lot of secrets, but also a potential solution—thousands of miles away. The two embark on a wild and dangerous road trip with a bag of books and their favorite albums, all the while making a story and a song of their own that just might save them both.

Opinions: The Sound of Stars was a diverse, adventurous, all-consuming story of science combatting fiction. I loved it, and I suspect most teenage readers will too! This book is basically an alternate universe facing the same problems our universe is - global warming, discrimination, etc -  and therefore shines light on the inevitability of damage when nothing productive is done. I was impressed with the many motivating, influential themes Dow wove into such a complex storyline; there were so many meaningful characters, intriguing backstories, and mysterious side-plots that I wasn't even focused on the themes until the end when I sat down to ponder the book. This is what I call a perfect story: one that entices you with action but leaves you thinking in the end. I also adore the creativity that comes with most sci-fi novels but shines in The Sound of Stars! Dow stepped outside of the boundaries and included various science/dystopian-based creatures that wowed me! It was a treat to learn about the creations, "magic" system, and creatures of this alternate universe. All in all, The Sound of Stars was engaging, thematic, and though-provoking!

My Favourite Thing: Of all the great things in The Sound of Stars (and since I'm sure you've heard enough about the protagonist's book obsession from other bloggers), I'm choosing the quotes and songs referenced at the beginning of each chapter! Although in an alternate universe, these quotes from historical icons brought the book back to reality for readers and helped us remember that we're still on Earth. It keeps the book within a realistic perspective for us readers. The quotes and songs were each thought-provoking and/or gave the chapter context and a depicted atmosphere. I loved analysing the references and taking notes as I read to figure out how they tie in with the themes. These small details shows that Dow had a true passion for her writing!

My Least Favourite Thing: With all intentions of being blunt, I did not dislike a single thing about The Sound of Stars! If you like the sound of 5/5 stars, you should check this book out.

Total Rating: PG-13

Language: PG-13

Adult Content: PG-13

Violence: PG-13

Recommended For and Similar Reads: The Sound of Stars is the epitome of YA science fiction. If you're a teenager who wants to break the boundaries of science, this book is for you! Similar reads are "Star Wars", Tarnished Are the Stars by Rosie Thor, The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams, All the Stars and Teeth by Adalyn Grace, Carve the Mark by Veronica Roth, Star-Crossed by Pintip Dunn, and S1-R3N by Ben Wolf. I strongly recommend The Sound of Stars!

Website: https://alechiadow.com/

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/alechiawrites

Publisher: Inkyard Press

Edition: Kindle

Publication Date: 25 February, 2020

ISBN: 1335911553

Per FTC regulations, please know that I received this title for free for review from the original author, the publisher, publicist, or a third party. I am honest in my reviews, meaning the fact I received the book for free does not alter the rating I give it. 

Out Now: Queer We Go Again! by Saundra Mitchell

Out Now: Queer We Go Again! 3/5

Authors: Saundra Mitchell, Eliot Schrefer, C B Lee, Mark Oshiro, Kosoko Jackson, Hilary Monahan, Candice Montgomery, Meredith Russo, Fox Benwell, Jessica Verdi, Tanya Boteju, Tara Sim, Julian Winters, Will Kostakis, Caleb Roehrig, Kate Hart, Katherine Locke

Pages: 416

Book Number: 1 of 1

Genre: YA, LGBTQ, Romance, Coming of Age, Science Fiction

Summary by Authors: QUEER WE GO AGAIN! A follow-up to the critically acclaimed All Out anthology, Out Now features seventeen new short stories from amazing queer YA authors. Vampires crash prom, aliens run from the government, a president’s daughter comes into her own, a true romantic tries to soften the heart of a cynical social media influencer, a selkie and the sea call out to a lost soul. Teapots and barbershops, skateboards and VW vans, Street Fighter and Ares’s sword: Out Now has a story for every reader and surprises with each turn of the page!

Opinions: If it's gay, I'm bound to LOVE it, but I unfortunately didn't feel the excitement and warmth I expected with Out Now. I usually dislike short stories, and this is exactly why: there is little connection to the characters. Out Now focuses on themes, which means this book was full of inspirational and heartwarming queer representation. But 416 pages of sophistication and deep-thinking without the gushy, cheesy romance teenagers expect may be too much for some readers. These progressive themes also took away from the pain and fear the characters supposedly faced when coming out - Out Now focuses on the happy endings rather than the sad beginnings. On the other hand, some readers may not want another teenage first love - they may want to feel empowered and accepted by others! Out Now is a respectable book, but your level of adoration for it all depends on what your initial expectations are. All in all, I love Out Now and would definitely read it again but it is not everything I hoped it would be. I strongly recommend this book to struggling, afraid, queer, or allied teens looking for a bright future!

My Favourite Thing: I love the variety of queer representation! Another difference between Out Now and other YA romances is the fully-represented queer spectrum: there wasn't one random gay kid who is closeted until the very end of the book; there were trans characters, ace characters, bi characters, questioning, non-binary, and even more queer characters!! I felt very welcome and at home reading this book. Even though we didn't get to experience the heartbreak most of the characters supposedly faced, it was inspirational to see them achieve happiness at the end. It was heartwarming to see so much positive diverse queer representation in one setting!

My Least Favourite Thing: This may be petty, but I felt as if the authors were tasked with writing a short queer fiction. The stories seemed forced and not from the heart, at least in my eyes. The occasional stories with supernatural creatures also made the forced writing style more confusing. Half of the time, I couldn't tell what was a metaphor and what was a real vampire! (Although once I realized the vampires were literal, the rating went up a star :)

Total Rating: PG-13+

Language: PG-13

Adult Content: PG-13

Violence: PG-12

Recommended For and Similar Reads: I recommend this book to EVERYONE. Simply that. It is inspirational, empowering, and realistic, so whether you're a closeted teen, a proudly straight friend, or anything in between, you'll take something away from reading Out Now! Similar reads are All Out by Saundra Mitchell, The Life and (Medieval) Times of Kate Sweetly by Jamie Pacton, and Two Boys Kissing by David Levithan, and Openly Straight by Bill Konigsberg! 

Publisher: Inkyard Press

Edition: Kindle

Publication Date: 26 May, 2020

ISBN: 1335018263

Per FTC regulations, please know that I received this title for free for review from the original author, the publisher, publicist, or a third party. I am honest in my reviews, meaning the fact I received the book for free does not alter the rating I give it. 

Disclaimer: I 100% support, love, and accept all queer things, people, and themes. My rating and opinions on Out Now are only based on the book itself, not the themes and orientations it discusses. If my opinions come off as rude, please let me know because I do not intend to offend anybody. Be proud and stand up for everybody!

Shadowed by Despair, Candace Robinson

Shadowed by Despair, 5/5

Pages: 240

Book Number: 3 of 3

Genre: YA, Fantasy, Adventure

Summary by Author: Perin expected eternal darkness after his death, yet the land of Laith has other plans for him. Snapped awake with a desperate hunger for flesh, he fights the urge to feed, knowing that once he gives in to temptation, there is no turning back.

Tavarra’s deepest desire was always to be human. When she received her one true wish, the journey had already claimed those she cared about. Alone, she fights through each day, forgetting how to truly live.

To strip away his new curse, Perin needs to retrieve an enchanted liquid and bring it back to the Stone of Desire. Despite his unpredictability, and him being the monster this time, Tavarra chooses to help. Tied by fate and loneliness, they must cross the sea into a deadly part of Laith and find the solution before Perin’s hunger overtakes him.

Opinions: I'm always nervous reading the final installment of a series, but stress was the only emotion I didn't experience while reading Shadowed by Despair! It was a roller coaster of fear, anticipation, and love - an epic finale if I know one! As much as I can say "every page is better than the last," I really must focus on the fact that every book was better than the last! Clouded by Envy was a hearty introduction to the Laith realm, but Veiled by Desire and finally Shadowed by Despair climaxed the series and brought it all to a magnificent, empowering end. Shadowed by Despair is one of those books that you never want to end but you need to see what happens! Watching Perin and Tavarra, two characters who have made a lasting impression on me, meet their destiny was heart-wrenching and eye-opening, just like the conclusion of all my other favourite elements! All I can say is that I was an emotional mess after finishing this book. Shouting, crying, and squealing: three signs a reader loves the book they're reading! All in all, Shadowed by Despair was a masterful ending to this magical series. I strongly recommend you check out Candace Robinson's "Laith" series right now!

My Favourite Thing: Once again, I'm truly in awe of the characters. Sequels are often hard to judge, but everything is straightforward with Robinson's "Laith" series: it's magnificent. The character's consistency between books is amazing. Their perseverance is inspiring. The long-term character development is eye-opening. Candace did not skip planning any little detail; everything is mapped out and complex and perfect. Robinson's displayed passion is pertinent in my appreciation for these books!

Is This Book For Me? Sometimes, it's difficult to make up our minds on whether to read a book or not. Here are a few notes regarding whether you should or shouldn't read Shadowed by Despair!

Should: If you love Clouded by Envy and Veiled by Desire, the first two books of the series!

Shouldn't: If you're looking for a sophisticated, theological, multi-hundred page read.

Should: If you are looking for a creative, unique, yet formulaic fantasy trilogy!

Shouldn't: If you don't like action, violence, or thrill.

Should: If you are looking for an NA novel with some adult content, but not a lot. 

Shouldn't: If you want a steamy, explicit, full-on romantic NA book.

Should: If you have read and loved books by Holly Black and Sarah J. Maas!

Total Rating: PG-13

Language: PG-13

Adult Content: PG-12+

Violence: PG-13

Recommended For and Similar Reads: Shadowed by Despair is a tear-jerking finale to a magical series of lust, mystery, and anticipation! Robinson's "Laith" series is for teenage readers who love formulaic fantasy, supernatural creatures, and soft romance. If you have read and loved Alanna: The First Adventure by Tamora Pierce, The Power and the Fury by James Erith, Silken Scales by Alex Hayes, Knight School by Richard Lohrey, or Two Worlds of Provenance by Angelina J Steffort, you'll adore Robinson's "Laith" series! I strongly recommend this to anybody looking for a thrilling, unique read during lockdown!

Website: https://authorcandacerobinson.wordpress.com/
Book Blog: https://literarydust.wordpress.com/
Twitter: @literarydust

Publisher: Parliament Press

Edition: Kindle

Publication Date: 19 May, 2020

ISBN: ASIN: TBD
Per FTC regulations, please know that I received this title for free for review from the original author, the publisher, publicist, or a third party. I am honest in my reviews, meaning the fact I received the book for free does not alter the rating I give it. 

Cover Reveal: LYRICS AND CURSES by Candace Robinson!

Series: Lyrics & Curses (Cursed Hearts Duology)
Title: Candace Robinson
Publisher: Filles Vertes Publishing
Cover Designer: Jena R. Collins/JRC Designs
Publication Date: 10 November, 2020
Genres: Paranormal, Romance, Young Adult

Summary 

Lark Espinoza could get lost in her music—and she’s not so sure anyone in her family would even care to find her. Her trendy, party-loving twin sister and her mother-come-lately Beth, who’s suddenly sworn off men and onto homemaking, don’t understand her love of cassette tapes, her loathing of the pop scene, or her standoffish personality. For outcast Lark, nothing feels as much like a real home as working at Bubble’s Oddities store and trying to attract the attention of the cute guy who works at the Vinyl shop next door—the same one she traded lyrical notes with in class.

Auden Ellis silences the incessant questions in his own head with a steady stream of beats. Despite the unconditional love of his aunt-turned-mother, he can’t quit thinking about the loss of his parents—or the possibility he might end up afflicted with his father’s issues. Despite his connection with lyric-loving Lark, Auden keeps her at arm’s length because letting her in might mean giving her a peek into something dangerous.

When two strangers arrive in town, one carrying a mysterious, dark object and the other playing an eerie flute tune, Lark and Auden find that their painful pasts have enmeshed them in a cursed future. Now, they must come to terms with their budding attraction while helping each other challenge the reflection they see in the mirror. If they fail, they’ll be trapped for eternity in a place beyond reality.

Add to Goodreads / Pre-order

About Candace Robinson

Candace Robinson spends her days consumed by words and hoping to one day find her own DeLorean time machine. Her life consists of avoiding migraines, admiring Bonsai trees, watching classic movies, and living with her husband and daughter in Texas--where it can be forty degrees one day and eighty the next!

Find Candace Robinson 

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Newsletter / Bookbub

Excerpt!

Chapter One

To Lark: Lyrics from “Under Pressure” – Queen, David Bowie

“Just One Kiss” pulsed through Lark’s headphones as she hopped onto her bike and headed to work. A motorcycle would’ve been ideal, but her old-fashioned, rusty bicycle worked just as well. She preferred the term rustic.

Halfway out of the trailer park, she slammed on the brake pedal and plopped her feet to the cement to keep from tipping. Her mop of curly brown hair swung forward as she reached into her large jacket pocket to pull out her second-hand store Walkman. She pressed the stop button, bringing the band’s chanting to an end.

“Sorry, boys, this won’t do it for me today.”

Lark shifted her backpack, and her cluster of tapes clacked. She performed a mystery grab and quickly exchanged The Cure for The Pretenders.

“Brass in Pocket” drifted through her ears. The singer, Chrissie, knew just how to get Lark in a focused mood. And focused was what she needed today since she was going to impress a boy named Auden by wearing something outside of her baggy comfort zone. Besides that, today was her best friend Imani’s last day at work.

Maybe “Under Pressure” would’ve been a better song choice.

She pedaled her way through the scorching heat to the store—beads of perspiration gathered on her forehead and hands, more so from nervousness than the temperature. It might’ve only been the end of June, but in Texas, the sun’s rays liked to go ahead and start frying people a little early. Lucky for Lark, she didn’t get hot so easily.

Her bike wheels vibrated over the uneven parking lot as she pulled up to the gray-and-white painted strip mall. A large black sign with the name Bubble’s Oddities scrawled across, along with a picture of a skull and bubbles, loomed from in between the other stores. The owner, Jimbo, had originally named the store Oddities when he’d opened it a few years ago, but had thought adding the name Bubble’s to the title would draw more people in.

He was right.

Lark supposed people were attracted to the idea of happy, soapy spheres floating majestically through the air as opposed to having zilch—she sure was.

She pressed the brakes once she made it beneath the overhang. With a hard push on the rusty kickstand, she glanced up at her shop’s window, catching sight of the Help Wanted sign. The glass was black on the outside, yet clear on the inside. No one could peer in, but whenever she was inside the store, she could see all. A lot of people did interesting things when they thought no one was looking.

Lark stepped off the bike and slid her hands in the pockets of her heavy black jacket. The single piece of cloth was her security blanket, and she felt naked without the thing—whether the world was hot or not, she’d be seen wearing it.

Biting her lip, she avoided glancing at the music store for the time being because she wasn’t ready to face a certain boy just yet. Her heart pumped a little harder. “Calm down, you troublesome heart,” she whispered.

Before she could head inside Bubble’s, something caught her eye from the right. She slowly turned her head in the direction of the laundromat, just past the music store where Auden worked. Her stupid heart accelerating even faster as she thought it could be him. Instead, her brows lowered a fraction when her eyes focused on a man wearing all black—a pork pie fedora hat, ski mask, trench coat, and gloves.

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Super Doll, Erin Schulz

Super Doll, 4/5

Pages: 255

Book Number: 1 of 1

Genre: YA, Fantasy, Romance

Find Erin Schulz: https://www.superdollthenovel.com

Summary by Author: Rebellious 17-year-old Air Force brat, Ruth “Piper” Pfeiffer, has always dreamed of seeing the world. When she wins a contest to spend eight weeks on the mysterious Caribbean island of Carabajel studying Spanish she jumps at the chance. Carabajel is a stunning landscape, and her jet-set classmates are rich and glamorous, but nothing prepares her for a lurking darkness behind the island’s lush beauty. From the moment she lands on the island things are amiss. Haunted by a strange sense of déjà vu, she soon notices the locals are taken aback by her mere presence. Before long she finds herself a pawn between the islands two warring factions – the ruling leader, General Miguel Castillo, and Malfaedra, the high priestess of the Black Mariahs, an order of nuns who have turned to black magic. When General Castillo’s son, Julian, falls in love with her, Piper finds herself in a race against time and a hurricane to uncover the truth of her connection to Carabajel.

Opinions: Super Doll simply went in every direction I expected it not to! Body-flaunting nuns, romance with the prince, and rosaries having more significance than is let on were the elements that gave Super Doll its deserved 5 stars. Schulz did a superb job of layering information, a technique not common to Young Adult and therefore appreciated. When reading, you will find that you are handed themes, bits of information, and motifs slowly, forming an intricate storyline that unfolds into a masterpiece. Complimenting this, there was absolutely no dramatic irony in Super Doll: only when Piper noticed a strange occurrence did we notice it too, making for a spooky atmosphere and lots of connection between our protagonist and the reader. The first thing I look for when reading is relation with the characters, and this was instant in Super Doll for multiple reasons: I too am a military brat and have lived in many exotic, "off-the-grid" countries who hold their own mysteries. On the other hand, the lack of dramatic irony slowed the pace of the book down significantly. Even in the most climactic scenes, I struggled staying engaged because everything was seen through the eyes of one unreliable narrator. Other than the pace, there were no faults in Super Doll: it was invigorating, resonating, and empowering! I promise this book deserves to take priority of your entire TBR!

Total Rating: PG-12+

Language: PG-12

Adult Content: PG-12

Violence: PG-12+

Recommended For and Similar Reads: Super Doll is an empowering and atmospheric read for teens who love prophecies, unexpected romances, and stories set in completely foreign countries! I loved the religious motifs without the controversy - which there very well could be with the bikini-wearing nuns! Similar reads are Power and Fury by James Erith, Lullaby of Flames by Candace Robinson, Good Omens by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman, and Carry On by Rainbow Rowell!

Publisher: W S Beetle and Company

Edition: Kindle

Publication Date: 14 December, 2019

ASIN: B082S5X7DY

Per FTC regulations, please know that I received this title for free for review from the original author, the publisher, publicist, or a third party. I am honest in my reviews, meaning the fact I received the book for free does not alter the rating I give it.