2025 Reading Challenge discussion

After three attempts, I managed the 52 books in 52 weeks challenge. This year I'm adding a few. Let's go!

1. Mr. Penumbra's 24 Hour Bookstore by Robin Sloan

I hate to say it, but I was simply bored throughout. It has rave reviews though, so I'm willing to admit that it may just be me. Not my cup of tea.

1 star.

2. Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman

Loved it. I could visualize the entire world as I read. It was a fantastic self aware mix of Alice in Wonderland and The Wizard of Oz, while being completely its own story. Why haven't I read Gaiman before?

5 stars.

3. Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl

Reading the reviews for this book (most either LOVED it or HATED it) and then reading the book myself (loved it) made me realize how differently people can perceive the same book. What one loves, another despises. As a wannabe author, this is both encouraging and discouraging. I don't ever want to read a "Wow, that sucked" review of some thing I've written and yet there are reviews like that for this book, which I quite enjoyed. That should be encouraging, I guess. There are different styles, genres, and stories out there for all. For me, this was an enjoyable read and I am looking forward to continuing in this series and this world.

4 stars.

4. Beautiful Darkness by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl

Love the storyline and the mythos, but felt it got a little "preachy" and over explanatory with the exposition towards the end. Still, quite enjoyed it and looking forward to continuing with the series. :)

3 stars.

5. Warm Bodies by Isaac Marion

Meh.

It started out strong and I expected to love it. First person narrative from the zombie's point of view? Sounds fun! And having seen the trailer for the upcoming movie, I expected more humor. What I found was a story with plenty of potential that just didn't quite bring it home. I'm hoping this is one case where the movie is better than the book. Great idea, but just an okay read for me.

2 stars.