Melanie (TBR and Beyond)'s bookshelf: illustrations en-US Wed, 19 Mar 2025 20:49:26 -0700 60 Melanie (TBR and Beyond)'s bookshelf: illustrations 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg Saga, Volume 1 15704307
Collects: Saga #1-6.]]> 160 Brian K. Vaughan 1607066017 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5
Full review to come.]]> 4.16 2012 Saga, Volume 1
author: Brian K. Vaughan
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.16
book published: 2012
rating: 5
read at: 2017/03/19
date added: 2025/03/19
shelves: graphic-novels-and-manga, read-in-2017, illustrations, currently-reading
review:
I haven't really read any graphic novels but I was told that this was a great introductory series to get into. They were right, it was a really great series. I'll be reading more soon.

Full review to come.
]]> <![CDATA[Heartstopper: Volume Four (Heartstopper, #4)]]> 51574372
Nick¡¯s been feeling the same, but he¡¯s got a lot on his mind ¨C not least coming out to his dad, and the fact that Charlie might have an eating disorder.

As summer turns to autumn and a new school year begins, Charlie and Nick are about to learn a lot about what love means.]]> 384 Alice Oseman 144495279X Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5 4.67 2021 Heartstopper: Volume Four (Heartstopper, #4)
author: Alice Oseman
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.67
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2025/03/19
date added: 2025/03/19
shelves: books-i-own, favorites, friendship-goals, illustrations, lgbtqia, mental-illness, most-anticipated-2021, read-in-2021, worth-the-hype, read-in-2025
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Heartstopper: Volume Three (Heartstopper, #3)]]> 43449920
Meanwhile Tao and Elle will face their feelings for each other, Tara and Darcy share more about their relationship origin story, and the teachers supervising the trip seem¡­ rather close¡­?]]> 384 Alice Oseman Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5 4.55 2020 Heartstopper: Volume Three (Heartstopper, #3)
author: Alice Oseman
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.55
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2025/03/19
date added: 2025/03/19
shelves: books-i-own, friendship-goals, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, lgbtqia, mental-illness, read-in-2020, ya-contemporary, favorites, read-in-2021, top-2020-reads, read-in-2025
review:
Please do some full spin-off¡¯s for this one. I just love everyone. It¡¯s my happy place.
]]> <![CDATA[Heartstopper: Volume Two (Heartstopper, #2)]]> 43307358
But love works in surprising ways, and Nick is discovering all kinds of things about his friends, his family ... and himself.]]> 320 Alice Oseman 1444951408 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5 4.52 2019 Heartstopper: Volume Two (Heartstopper, #2)
author: Alice Oseman
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.52
book published: 2019
rating: 5
read at: 2025/03/19
date added: 2025/03/19
shelves: books-i-own, favorites, friendship-goals, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, lgbtqia, read-in-2019, worth-the-hype, ya-contemporary, ya-romance, read-in-2020, ya-adventure, top-2019-reads, read-in-2021, read-in-2025
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Heartstopper: Volume One (Heartstopper, #1)]]> 40495957
Charlie Spring is in Year 10 at Truham Grammar School for Boys. The past year hasn't been too great, but at least he's not being bullied anymore. Nick Nelson is in Year 11 and on the school rugby team. He's heard a little about Charlie - the kid who was outed last year and bullied for a few months - but he's never had the opportunity to talk to him.

They quickly become friends, and soon Charlie is falling hard for Nick, even though he doesn't think he has a chance. But love works in surprising ways, and sometimes good things are waiting just around the corner...]]> 288 Alice Oseman 152722533X Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5 Trigger Warnings: Non-Consensual Kissing/Sexual Assault Attempt, Homophobia and Bullying.


I know this book has trigger warnings, but this is honestly the most wholesome, sweet and endearing story I¡¯ve read in awhile. It¡¯s about a young guy named Charlie, who is getting out of toxic ¡°relationship¡± with a complete douchebag and he befriends a jock named Nick. Nick is the sweetest, goofiest guy and after meeting Charlie ¨C he starts questioning his sexuality as he begins to develop strong feelings for him. Amazing bi and gay representation in this one. I can¡¯t gush about this graphic novel enough. One of my favorites, it made me so happy and I would protect these boys with my life. They are the most precious things ever and seeing such a healthy friendship between them, blossoming into something more is just THE FEELS!!! I¡¯ve already pre-ordered the second volume from Book Depository (seems to be the only place that has it) and I¡¯m dying for July to see more of their story. The art work is freaking precious too. Everything about this book is five stars.

]]> 4.43 2018 Heartstopper: Volume One (Heartstopper, #1)
author: Alice Oseman
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.43
book published: 2018
rating: 5
read at: 2025/03/19
date added: 2025/03/19
shelves: books-i-own, illustrations, lgbtqia, friendship-goals, graphic-novels-and-manga, read-in-2019, underrated-gem, favorites, read-in-2020, top-2019-reads, ya-contemporary, read-in-2021, read-in-2025
review:
Trigger Warnings: Non-Consensual Kissing/Sexual Assault Attempt, Homophobia and Bullying.


I know this book has trigger warnings, but this is honestly the most wholesome, sweet and endearing story I¡¯ve read in awhile. It¡¯s about a young guy named Charlie, who is getting out of toxic ¡°relationship¡± with a complete douchebag and he befriends a jock named Nick. Nick is the sweetest, goofiest guy and after meeting Charlie ¨C he starts questioning his sexuality as he begins to develop strong feelings for him. Amazing bi and gay representation in this one. I can¡¯t gush about this graphic novel enough. One of my favorites, it made me so happy and I would protect these boys with my life. They are the most precious things ever and seeing such a healthy friendship between them, blossoming into something more is just THE FEELS!!! I¡¯ve already pre-ordered the second volume from Book Depository (seems to be the only place that has it) and I¡¯m dying for July to see more of their story. The art work is freaking precious too. Everything about this book is five stars.


]]> Blood City Rollers 186872556 Skates on. Fangs out. Let¡¯s roll. This perfectly paranormal graphic novel about a 13-year-old ice skater who embraces the dark side and finds her light when she joins a vampire roller derby team is to die for.

Ice-skater Mina is on a one-track path to Olympic gold and glory¡ªthat is, until she totally wipes out at her biggest competition, and is kinda-sorta-kidnapped by undead kids on roller skates. Sucked into the high stakes world of Paranormal Roller Derby, she finds herself "recruited" by a squad of vampires who need a human player to complete their team¡ªjust in time to save the league from losing it all.

Between learning to play derby well enough to kick butt on the track, crushing hard on the dreamy team captain, and navigating the spooky rules of the supernatural, how can Mina go from striving to be a ten alone, to becoming one of nine chaotic bodies forming a perfectly-imperfect team? Forget being the best. Will she be enough to help her new friends survive the season?]]> 192 V.P. Anderson 0593485696 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 3.61 2024 Blood City Rollers
author: V.P. Anderson
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.61
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2024/05/31
date added: 2024/05/31
shelves: books-i-own, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, lgbtqia, mg-paranormal-horror, middle-grade, read-in-2024
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Picture Day (The Brinkley Yearbooks, #1)]]> 62926934
Seventh-grader Viv never looks forward to picture day. It¡¯s just another day where she wears a boring braid and no one notices her. (Her two best friends, Milo and Al, don¡¯t count, of course.)?

But enough is enough. This year, she¡¯s taking matters into her own hands. Literally. Viv grabs a pair of scissors, her phone for live-streaming, and, well, bye-bye braid.

Suddenly Viv is an over-night influencer at Brinkley Middle School. Everyone wants her help planning their next big moment¡ª´Ú°ù´Ç³¾ haircuts, to dance proposals, activist rallies and mathlete championships. She hardly even has time for her friends anymore. It¡¯s exactly how she dreamed of reinventing herself¡­right?

In the tradition of modern classics like Vera Brosgol's Be Prepared , Svetlana Chmakova's Awkward ,?and Kayla Miller's Click , Picture Day brings answers to perennial questions of what it means to be true to yourself¡ªand a true friend.]]> 288 Sarah Sax 0593306899 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 3.78 2023 Picture Day (The Brinkley Yearbooks, #1)
author: Sarah Sax
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.78
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2024/05/31
date added: 2024/05/31
shelves: books-i-own, friendship-goals, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, lgbtqia, middle-grade, read-in-2024
review:

]]> Upstaged: A Graphic Novel 62792937
This is the last hurrah, the final curtain call.?

Ever since sixth grade, Ashton Price and their best friend and enduring crush, Ivy Santos, have spent their summers together at theater camp. Now it¡¯s their last year before they part ways for high school, and Ash is determined to end it on a high note!

With Ash as stage manager and Ivy the lead in this year¡¯s musical, this summer¡¯s shaping up to be everything the two could have hoped for. Maybe Ash will even work up the courage to ask Ivy out! But between Ivy rehearsing long hours with her colead and Ash throwing themself into an ambitious stage production, will they end up drifting apart instead?

As summer wanes and September looms, Ash and Ivy¡¯s friendship will change forever, one way or another.]]> 256 Robin Easter 031642952X Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 3.97 2024 Upstaged: A Graphic Novel
author: Robin Easter
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.97
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2024/05/30
date added: 2024/05/30
shelves: books-i-own, friendship-goals, illustrations, lgbtqia, middle-grade, read-in-2024
review:

]]> Sheets (Sheets, #1) 38958846
Wendell is a ghost. A boy who lost his life much too young, his daily routine features ineffective death therapy, a sheet-dependent identity, and a dangerous need to seek purpose in the forbidden human world.

When their worlds collide, Marjorie is confronted by unexplainable disasters as Wendell transforms Glatt¡¯s Laundry into his midnight playground, appearing as a mere sheet during the day. While Wendell attempts to create a new afterlife for himself, he unknowingly sabotages the life that Marjorie is struggling to maintain.]]> 242 Brenna Thummler 194130267X Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 3.84 2018 Sheets (Sheets, #1)
author: Brenna Thummler
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.84
book published: 2018
rating: 4
read at: 2024/05/30
date added: 2024/05/30
shelves: books-i-own, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, middle-grade, read-in-2024
review:

]]> Frankenstein 39810297
Junji Ito meets Mary Shelley! The master of horror manga bends all his skill into bringing the anguished and solitary monster¡ªand the fouler beast who created him¡ªto life with the brilliantly detailed chiaroscuro he is known for.

Also included are six tales of Oshikiri¡ªa high school student who lives in a decaying mansion connected to a haunted parallel world. Uncanny doppelgangers, unfortunately murdered friends, and a whole lot more are in store for him.

Bonus: The Ito family dog! Thrill to the adventures of Non-non Ito, an adorable Maltese!]]> 408 Junji Ito 1974703762 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 4.02 1999 Frankenstein
author: Junji Ito
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.02
book published: 1999
rating: 4
read at: 2022/11/30
date added: 2024/01/20
shelves: adult-horror, books-i-own, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, read-in-2022
review:

]]> Deserter 57147078 AN EVER-INCREASING MALICE. A MIND-NUMBING TERROR. SEE THE SEEDS OF HORROR SOWN IN THIS COLLECTION OF JUNJI ITO¡¯S EARLIEST WORKS.

A vengeful family hides an army deserter for eight years after the end of World War II, cocooning him in a false reality where the war never ended. A pair of girls look alike, but?they aren¡¯t?twins. And a boy¡¯s nightmare threatens to spill out into the real world¡­

This hauntingly strange story collection showcases a dozen of Junji Ito¡¯s earliest works from when he burst onto the horror scene, sowing fresh seeds of terror.]]> 392 Junji Ito 1974719863 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 3 3.5 3.99 2011 Deserter
author: Junji Ito
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2011
rating: 3
read at: 2023/10/14
date added: 2023/10/14
shelves: books-i-own, adult, adult-horror, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, read-in-2023
review:
3.5
]]> <![CDATA[The Clackity (Blight Harbor #1)]]> 59365597
Evie Von Rathe lives in Blight Harbor¡ªthe seventh-most haunted town in America¡ªwith her Aunt Desdemona, the local paranormal expert. Des doesn¡¯t have many rules except Stay out of the abandoned slaughterhouse at the edge of town. But when her aunt disappears into the building, Evie goes searching for her.

There she meets The Clackity, a creature who lives in the shadows and seams of the slaughterhouse. The Clackity makes a deal with Evie to help get Des back in exchange for the ghost of John Jeffrey Pope, a serial killer who stalked Blight Harbor a hundred years earlier. Evie reluctantly embarks on a journey into a strange otherworld filled with hungry witches, penny-eyed ghosts, and a memory-thief, all while being pursued by a dead man whose only goal is to add Evie to his collection of lost souls. Will she ever find Des, or is The Clackity planning something far more sinister?]]> 288 Lora Senf 1665902671 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 4.03 2022 The Clackity (Blight Harbor #1)
author: Lora Senf
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.03
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2023/10/11
date added: 2023/10/11
shelves: physical-disability, illustrations, mg-adventure, mg-fantasy, mg-paranormal-horror, middle-grade, middlegrade-must, read-in-2023
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Promised Neverland, Vol. 7]]> 38926373
Life at Grace Field House is good for Emma and her fellow orphans. While the daily studying and exams they have to take are tough, their loving caretaker provides them with delicious food and plenty of playtime. But perhaps not everything is as it seems¡­]]> 189 Kaiu Shirai 1974702243 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 4.37 2018 The Promised Neverland, Vol. 7
author: Kaiu Shirai
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.37
book published: 2018
rating: 4
read at: 2023/09/13
date added: 2023/09/13
shelves: graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, read-in-2023
review:

]]> The Moth Keeper 61356477 Being a Moth Keeper is a huge responsibility and a great honor, but what happens when the new Moth Keeper decides to take a break from the moon and see the sun for the first time? A middle-grade fantasy graphic novel about passion, duty, and found family.

Anya is finally a Moth Keeper, the protector of the lunar moths that allow the Night-Lily flower to bloom once a year. Her village needs the flower to continue thriving and Anya is excited to prove her worth and show her thanks to her friends with her actions, but what happens when being a Moth Keeper isn't exactly what Anya thought it would be?

The nights are cold in the desert and the lunar moths live far from the village. Anya finds herself isolated and lonely. Despite Anya's dedication, she wonders what it would be like to live in the sun. Her thoughts turn into an obsession, and when Anya takes a chance to stay up during the day to feel the sun's warmth, her village and the lunar moths are left to deal with the consequences.

K. O'Neill brings to life a beautifully illustrated fantasy world about responsibility to yourself and your community. The Moth Keeper is filled with magic, hope, and friendship.]]> 257 K. O'Neill 059318226X Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 4.05 2023 The Moth Keeper
author: K. O'Neill
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.05
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2023/05/04
date added: 2023/09/09
shelves: books-i-own, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, lgbtqia, mg-fantasy, middle-grade, read-in-2023, 2023
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Promised Neverland, Vol. 6]]> 38926409
Life at Grace Field House is good for Emma and her fellow orphans. While the daily studying and exams they have to take are tough, their loving caretaker provides them with delicious food and plenty of playtime. But perhaps not everything is as it seems¡­

The children have finally escaped Grace Field House, but their struggle is only just beginning. The outside world is filled with natural danger at every turn. And there are also demon hunters fast on their tail. When a mysterious girl suddenly offers help, are the children about to find themselves falling into a trap?]]> 195 Kaiu Shirai 1974701476 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 4.45 2017 The Promised Neverland, Vol. 6
author: Kaiu Shirai
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.45
book published: 2017
rating: 4
read at: 2023/08/30
date added: 2023/08/30
shelves: books-i-own, friendship-goals, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, read-in-2023
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Promised Neverland, Vol. 5]]> 36538831
Life at Grace Field House is good for Emma and her fellow orphans. While the daily studying and exams they have to take are tough, their loving caretaker provides them with delicious food and plenty of playtime. But perhaps not everything is as it seems¡­

As Grace Field House goes up in flames, Emma and the other children make their run for freedom. With Mom refusing to give up and an army of demons at her call, this escape from captivity won¡¯t be easy. Just what will Emma have to sacrifice to pull it off¡­?]]> 195 Kaiu Shirai 1421597160 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 4.48 2017 The Promised Neverland, Vol. 5
author: Kaiu Shirai
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.48
book published: 2017
rating: 4
read at: 2023/08/30
date added: 2023/08/30
shelves: books-i-own, friendship-goals, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, read-in-2023
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Promised Neverland, Vol. 4]]> 36538832
Life at Grace Field House is good for Emma and her fellow orphans. While the daily studying and exams they have to take are tough, their loving caretaker provides them with delicious food and plenty of playtime. But perhaps not everything is as it seems¡­

With Norman scheduled to be shipped out, the children try their best to save him. Emma and Ray come up with a new plan, but then Norman makes a surprising decision.]]> 191 Kaiu Shirai 1421597152 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5 4.60 2017 The Promised Neverland, Vol. 4
author: Kaiu Shirai
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.60
book published: 2017
rating: 5
read at: 2023/08/30
date added: 2023/08/30
shelves: books-i-own, read-in-2023, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Promised Neverland, Vol. 3]]> 35658001
Life at Grace Field House has been good for Emma and her fellow orphans. While the daily studying and exams they have to take are tough, their loving caretaker provides them with delicious foods and plenty of playtime. But perhaps not everything is as it seems¡­

As more children learn the horrifying truth, a rift begins to form between them. Can they work together so everyone can escape? Or will some children need to be left behind at the orphanage?]]> 197 Kaiu Shirai 1421597144 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5 4.47 2017 The Promised Neverland, Vol. 3
author: Kaiu Shirai
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.47
book published: 2017
rating: 5
read at: 2023/08/29
date added: 2023/08/29
shelves: books-i-own, friendship-goals, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, read-in-2023
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Promised Neverland, Vol. 1]]> 34852836
Emma, Norman and Ray are the brightest kids at the Grace Field House orphanage. And under the care of the woman they refer to as ¡°Mom,¡± all the kids have enjoyed a comfortable life. Good food, clean clothes and the perfect environment to learn¡ªwhat more could an orphan ask for? One day, though, Emma and Norman uncover the dark truth of the outside world they are forbidden from seeing.]]> 189 Kaiu Shirai 1421597128 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 4.38 2016 The Promised Neverland, Vol. 1
author: Kaiu Shirai
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.38
book published: 2016
rating: 4
read at: 2023/08/15
date added: 2023/08/15
shelves: books-i-own, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, read-in-2022, read-in-2023
review:

]]> The Last Unicorn 8890606 167 Peter B. Gillis 1600108512 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5 4.36 2011 The Last Unicorn
author: Peter B. Gillis
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.36
book published: 2011
rating: 5
read at: 2019/03/28
date added: 2023/07/31
shelves: books-i-own, friendship-goals, graphic-novels-and-manga, read-in-2019, ya-fantasy, illustrations
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Gone Rogue (Wires and Nerve, #2)]]> 34930815
The world of the Lunar Chronicles comes alive in this thrilling continuation of Wires and Nerve. Iko--an audacious android and best friend to the Lunar Queen Cinder--has been tasked with hunting down Alpha Lysander Steele, the leader of a rogue band of bioengineered wolf-soldiers who threaten to undo the tenuous peace agreement between Earth and Luna. Unless Cinder can reverse the mutations that were forced on them years before, Steele and his soldiers plan to satisfy their monstrous appetites with a massacre of the innocent people of Earth.

And to show he's serious, Steele is taking hostages.

Cinder and Kai, Scarlet and Wolf, Cress and Thorne, and Winter and Jacin all feature in this epic new battle. But it is Iko who must face her deepest fears when she uncovers the truth about her own unusual programming. Questions of love, friendship, and mortality take Iko on an emotional journey that will satisfy and delight fans of this bestselling series.]]> 324 Marissa Meyer 1250078288 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 3 4.20 2018 Gone Rogue (Wires and Nerve, #2)
author: Marissa Meyer
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.20
book published: 2018
rating: 3
read at: 2023/04/24
date added: 2023/07/22
shelves: books-i-own, friendship-goals, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, ya-fantasy, ya-science-fiction, read-in-2023
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Willow Moss and the Lost Day (Starfell #1)]]> 43317731
Willow Moss, the youngest and least powerful sister in a family of witches, has a magical ability for finding lost things ¨C like keys, or socks, or wooden teeth. Her magic might be useful, but it¡¯s not exactly exciting . . . Until, that is, the most powerful witch in the whole of Starfell turns up at her door needing Willow¡¯s help.

A whole day ¨C last Tuesday to be precise ¨C has gone missing. And the repercussions could be devastating. Can Willow find the day to save the day?]]> 288 Dominique Valente 000830839X Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4
This book is charming. It is a little more towards the younger crowd in middle-grade, but I think anyone can enjoy it. The characters are unique and fun and the plot keeps you invested the whole time. I love the main character, Willow, she's flawed but relatable and always has good intentions. I would recommend this one if you are a fan of Cressida Cowell (How to Train a Dragon, A Wizard of Once). It really reminded me of her works, which I also enjoy. ]]> 4.12 2019 Willow Moss and the Lost Day (Starfell #1)
author: Dominique Valente
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.12
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2020/12/02
date added: 2023/07/22
shelves: books-i-own, friendship-goals, illustrations, mg-adventure, mg-fantasy, middle-grade, middlegrade-must, read-in-2020, need-to-read-mg-series
review:
Adorable. I have to start by saying that if you pick up this book, order the UK edition from Book Depository - it's so much nicer! It's got that beautiful cover but the UK edition also has a little surprise under the dust jacket - a fully illustrated, full color naked book. It's so stunning. Worth the purchase for me.

This book is charming. It is a little more towards the younger crowd in middle-grade, but I think anyone can enjoy it. The characters are unique and fun and the plot keeps you invested the whole time. I love the main character, Willow, she's flawed but relatable and always has good intentions. I would recommend this one if you are a fan of Cressida Cowell (How to Train a Dragon, A Wizard of Once). It really reminded me of her works, which I also enjoy.
]]> <![CDATA[The Haunting of Aveline Jones (Aveline Jones, #1)]]> 48978265
Now someone... or something, is stirring. And it is looking for Aveline.

Turn on your torches, and join Aveline Jones in her first charmingly spooky mystery, from debut author Phil Hickes.]]> 216 Phil Hickes Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4
Highly recommend this gem. I can't wait for the next in the series. ]]> 4.14 2020 The Haunting of Aveline Jones (Aveline Jones, #1)
author: Phil Hickes
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.14
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2020/11/05
date added: 2023/07/22
shelves: books-i-own, friendship-goals, illustrations, mg-paranormal-horror, middle-grade, middlegrade-must, most-anticipated-2020, read-in-2020, need-to-read-mg-series
review:
Perfect fall ghost story. I'm a huge fan of middle-grade spooky reads and this would be among my top recommendations for it. The character of Aveline is intelligent and resourceful, while still being a just a relatable kid that makes mistakes. The mystery is solid and the side characters are very colorful and add to the story.

Highly recommend this gem. I can't wait for the next in the series.
]]> <![CDATA[The Wizards of Once (The Wizards of Once, #1)]]> 34455798
Perfect for boys and girls who love fantasy adventure ...

Once there was Magic, and the Magic lived in the dark forests.

Wizard boy, Xar, should have come in to his magic by now, but he hasn't, so he wants to find a witch and steal its magic for himself. But if he's got any chance of finding one, he will have to travel into the forbidden Badwoods.

Xar doesn't realise he is about to capture an entirely different kind of enemy. A Warrior girl called Wish.

And inside this book, at this very moment, two worlds collide and the fate of the land is changed forever.

Xar and Wish must visit the dungeons at Warrior fort, and face the evil Queen.

But something that has been sleeping for hundreds of years is stirring ...]]> 393 Cressida Cowell 1444936700 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 ¡°Surely, just because SOME Magic is bad, it doesn't mean that ALL Magic is bad?¡±

Wizards, warriors, sprites, witches, giants and lots more. Where do I sign up!?!?!

I've had the pleasure of reading this story twice now and I thoroughly enjoyed it both times. Wizards of Oncefeatures a young girl warrior and a young boy wizard. They are both complete and utter failures and outcasts in their tribes eyes but are constantly trying to prove their worth, for better or worse.

The boy, Xar is a wizard who was supposed to have his magic come in at 13 but it seems to have passed him by. He is incredibly desperate to get magic (by any means), so he can prove to everyone that he is truly "a boy of destiny." I had a completely hate to love relationship with this character because he's so arrogant and selfish that he makes it really hard for you to not want to smack him many times over. However, the parts where he is a little vulnerable were enough to show me that he really does care deeply for his family and friends - he's just a bit of a wild child.

On the other hand, Wish, who is from the warrior tribe is the exact opposite. She doesn't think she is anything special and knows how different she is but she still wants to impress her mother. She is always searching for that approval. Wish is very kind-hearted and willing to hear other sides and not just jump to conclusions. I also love that no matter what her mother does and how evil it may be, Wish always thinks the best of her. That could be a flaw but I found it really endearing. She just sees the best in people. I love her so much. We also get some Dyslexia representation in this book, as Wish. It is never identified as such, because of the time period and world the book takes place in. However, it's very clear it's Dyslexia as they go into detail about the letters being mixed up in her head and struggling with reading and writing because of it. We also see her write a couple of things and the letters are all out of order. I think the rep seems well done and it's not something that holds her back - she knows she struggles with it but keeps trying.

Xar has decided the way to prove himself is to catch a witch, who are supposed to be extinct and make them give him their magic. Not the best of plans but he does have a good (if oddball) bunch of followers that comprise of sprites, giants, snowcats, a crow, a bear and a wolf. It's quite the entourage but they are willing to do just about anything for him, even if he is being completely nuts. On his journey to find a witch, a bunch of chaos breaks out and he bumps into Wish and the story goes from there.

I dont't want to give too much away but, obviously witches do come in to play in this story and they aren't at all friendly or nice. Wish and Xar have to work together to try and defeat them, even though they have been taught to hate each other. There is tons of adventure and fun characters. Lots of societal commentary about the roles of girls and boys and what is expected of them. I really liked what roles they ended up playing and how it all turned out. Xar and Wish are fantastic protagonist and kids are bound to cozy right up to them.

There are also really fun illustrations all through-out this book, that make the story come alive even more. If you enjoy a good, fun adventure then I would certainly pick up this one. Younger kids could surely enjoy this one as early as probably five or six. There's nothing too scary in the book, just lots of fun times.]]> 3.91 2017 The Wizards of Once (The Wizards of Once, #1)
author: Cressida Cowell
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.91
book published: 2017
rating: 4
read at: 2019/03/02
date added: 2023/07/22
shelves: most-anticipated-2017, books-i-own, friendship-goals, illustrations, mg-adventure, mg-fantasy, middlegrade-must, read-in-2017, need-to-read-mg-series
review:
¡°Surely, just because SOME Magic is bad, it doesn't mean that ALL Magic is bad?¡±

Wizards, warriors, sprites, witches, giants and lots more. Where do I sign up!?!?!

I've had the pleasure of reading this story twice now and I thoroughly enjoyed it both times. Wizards of Oncefeatures a young girl warrior and a young boy wizard. They are both complete and utter failures and outcasts in their tribes eyes but are constantly trying to prove their worth, for better or worse.

The boy, Xar is a wizard who was supposed to have his magic come in at 13 but it seems to have passed him by. He is incredibly desperate to get magic (by any means), so he can prove to everyone that he is truly "a boy of destiny." I had a completely hate to love relationship with this character because he's so arrogant and selfish that he makes it really hard for you to not want to smack him many times over. However, the parts where he is a little vulnerable were enough to show me that he really does care deeply for his family and friends - he's just a bit of a wild child.

On the other hand, Wish, who is from the warrior tribe is the exact opposite. She doesn't think she is anything special and knows how different she is but she still wants to impress her mother. She is always searching for that approval. Wish is very kind-hearted and willing to hear other sides and not just jump to conclusions. I also love that no matter what her mother does and how evil it may be, Wish always thinks the best of her. That could be a flaw but I found it really endearing. She just sees the best in people. I love her so much. We also get some Dyslexia representation in this book, as Wish. It is never identified as such, because of the time period and world the book takes place in. However, it's very clear it's Dyslexia as they go into detail about the letters being mixed up in her head and struggling with reading and writing because of it. We also see her write a couple of things and the letters are all out of order. I think the rep seems well done and it's not something that holds her back - she knows she struggles with it but keeps trying.

Xar has decided the way to prove himself is to catch a witch, who are supposed to be extinct and make them give him their magic. Not the best of plans but he does have a good (if oddball) bunch of followers that comprise of sprites, giants, snowcats, a crow, a bear and a wolf. It's quite the entourage but they are willing to do just about anything for him, even if he is being completely nuts. On his journey to find a witch, a bunch of chaos breaks out and he bumps into Wish and the story goes from there.

I dont't want to give too much away but, obviously witches do come in to play in this story and they aren't at all friendly or nice. Wish and Xar have to work together to try and defeat them, even though they have been taught to hate each other. There is tons of adventure and fun characters. Lots of societal commentary about the roles of girls and boys and what is expected of them. I really liked what roles they ended up playing and how it all turned out. Xar and Wish are fantastic protagonist and kids are bound to cozy right up to them.

There are also really fun illustrations all through-out this book, that make the story come alive even more. If you enjoy a good, fun adventure then I would certainly pick up this one. Younger kids could surely enjoy this one as early as probably five or six. There's nothing too scary in the book, just lots of fun times.
]]> <![CDATA[The Magic Misfits (The Magic Misfits, #1)]]> 28107444 From award-winning actor, Neil Patrick Harris, comes the magical first book in a new series with plenty of tricks up its sleeve.

When street magician Carter runs away, he never expects to find friends and magic in a sleepy New England town. But like any good trick, things change instantly as greedy B.B. Bosso and his crew of crooked carnies arrive to steal anything and everything they can get their sticky fingers on.

After a fateful encounter with the local purveyor of illusion, Dante Vernon, Carter teams up with five other like-minded illusionists. Together, using both teamwork and magic, they'll set out to save the town of Mineral Wells from Bosso's villainous clutches. These six Magic Misfits will soon discover adventure, friendship, and their own self-worth in this delightful new series.

(Psst. Hey, you! Yes, you! Congratulations on reading this far. As a reward, I'll let you in on a little secret... This book isn't just a book. It's a treasure trove of secrets and ciphers and codes and even tricks. Keep your eyes peeled and you'll discover more than just a story--you'll learn how to make your own magic!)]]> 256 Neil Patrick Harris 0316355585 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 ¡°For me, magic can be a story, a game, a puzzle, or a surprise that takes my breath away in a single, furious gulp.¡±

Fantastic! This is the kind of middle-grade adventure that parents are going to want to run out and grab for their family and read it over and over again.

I'm starting to be convinced that Neil Patrick Harris must come from a planet far superior to ours because this man does it all and does it well. While here I am, thinking not burning my toast in the morning is a pretty awesome success. I had actually somehow managed to miss the fact that Neil was writing a children's book and then I was watching Booktube and noticed that people were getting them in their Owlcrate Jr (book subscription box) and I had to rush out and get myself a copy as well!

I almost feel guilty about giving this book four stars and the ONLY reason I did is because I didn't have a child to read it with. I think that experience would've been magical. This book is heavily catered to children and families. Don't get confused thinking I'm saying this is a Juvenile book, it isn't. Adults will likely love this one as well. However, there are some stand out elements that really target a family audience. That being, this book is interactive. There a couple of neat puzzles to work out and most importantly at the end of every chapter (or most anyway) there is a step-by-step guide for learning a new magic trick. That's brilliant! I wish I wasn't so lazy and had tried a few but atlas... The tricks seemed cool enough to appeal to even older kids but simple enough to be able to have the younger audience master them as well.

This book reminded me so much of The Series of Unfortunate Events it was crazy. It's very obvious that Harris was inspired by the book. I saw the author even ended up blurbing this book, so that is pretty damn cool. The Magic Misfitsis no where near as dark as the series Lemony Snickett brought to life but if you enjoyed that one then this likely a sure bet.

I was trying to think of what my favorite element is in this novel but I really struggled because it had a lot going for it. The cast is very diverse and felt very authentic. Since I am disabled, disability rep is always on my radar. I'm constantly looking out for good rep and honestly there isn't that much. The rep in this book was great. One of the main protagonists friends is in a wheelchair and it's not her plot point. Yes, it's mentioned but it's not what defines the character or what the focus is. She's not just thrown in their for the sake of diversity is what I'm failing to say eloquently. I want more of this! The main protagonist is very relatable and I don't think too many people have trouble connecting and identifying with him on some level.

There's not much to not love about this book. You have adventure, magicians, strong friendship, a carnival (I'm a total sucker for any book with this theme.) and some crazy, hilarious villains. I will for sure to continue with this series and highly recommend picking it up.]]> 4.00 2017 The Magic Misfits (The Magic Misfits, #1)
author: Neil Patrick Harris
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2017
rating: 4
read at: 2018/01/24
date added: 2023/07/22
shelves: books-i-own, friendship-goals, illustrations, mg-adventure, mg-fantasy, middle-grade, middlegrade-must, most-anticipated-2017, physical-disability, read-in-2018, worth-the-hype, need-to-read-mg-series
review:
¡°For me, magic can be a story, a game, a puzzle, or a surprise that takes my breath away in a single, furious gulp.¡±

Fantastic! This is the kind of middle-grade adventure that parents are going to want to run out and grab for their family and read it over and over again.

I'm starting to be convinced that Neil Patrick Harris must come from a planet far superior to ours because this man does it all and does it well. While here I am, thinking not burning my toast in the morning is a pretty awesome success. I had actually somehow managed to miss the fact that Neil was writing a children's book and then I was watching Booktube and noticed that people were getting them in their Owlcrate Jr (book subscription box) and I had to rush out and get myself a copy as well!

I almost feel guilty about giving this book four stars and the ONLY reason I did is because I didn't have a child to read it with. I think that experience would've been magical. This book is heavily catered to children and families. Don't get confused thinking I'm saying this is a Juvenile book, it isn't. Adults will likely love this one as well. However, there are some stand out elements that really target a family audience. That being, this book is interactive. There a couple of neat puzzles to work out and most importantly at the end of every chapter (or most anyway) there is a step-by-step guide for learning a new magic trick. That's brilliant! I wish I wasn't so lazy and had tried a few but atlas... The tricks seemed cool enough to appeal to even older kids but simple enough to be able to have the younger audience master them as well.

This book reminded me so much of The Series of Unfortunate Events it was crazy. It's very obvious that Harris was inspired by the book. I saw the author even ended up blurbing this book, so that is pretty damn cool. The Magic Misfitsis no where near as dark as the series Lemony Snickett brought to life but if you enjoyed that one then this likely a sure bet.

I was trying to think of what my favorite element is in this novel but I really struggled because it had a lot going for it. The cast is very diverse and felt very authentic. Since I am disabled, disability rep is always on my radar. I'm constantly looking out for good rep and honestly there isn't that much. The rep in this book was great. One of the main protagonists friends is in a wheelchair and it's not her plot point. Yes, it's mentioned but it's not what defines the character or what the focus is. She's not just thrown in their for the sake of diversity is what I'm failing to say eloquently. I want more of this! The main protagonist is very relatable and I don't think too many people have trouble connecting and identifying with him on some level.

There's not much to not love about this book. You have adventure, magicians, strong friendship, a carnival (I'm a total sucker for any book with this theme.) and some crazy, hilarious villains. I will for sure to continue with this series and highly recommend picking it up.
]]> Hooky Volume 1 56732222 Two twins,?one prophecy, and a whole lot of hijinks. From WEBTOON, the #1 digital comic platform, comes a fantastical story about twin siblings Dani and Dorian who have missed the bus to magic school and scramble to find a mentor? to teach them before their parents find out. Perfect for fans of THE OKAY WITCH and?the 5 Worlds series.?

When Dani and Dorian missed the bus to magic school, they never thought they'd wind up declared traitors to their own kind! Now, thanks to a series of mishaps, they are being chased by powerful magic families seeking the prophesied King of Witches and royals searching for missing princes.
?
But they aren't alone. With a local troublemaker, a princess, and a teacher who can see the future on their side, they might just be able to clear their names¡­but can they heal their torn kingdom?
?
Based on the beloved webcomic from WEBTOON, Hooky is in stunning print format for the first time with exclusive new content sure to please fans new and old.
?

Episodes 1-71]]> 384 M¨ªriam Bonastre Tur 0358468299 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 4.38 2021 Hooky Volume 1
author: M¨ªriam Bonastre Tur
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.38
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2023/05/31
date added: 2023/05/31
shelves: books-i-own, friendship-goals, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, mg-fantasy, middle-grade, read-in-2023
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Meesh the Bad Demon (Meesh the Bad Demon #1)]]> 61356492 A tale of unlikely heroes and myths is made real in this debut graphic novel series about a "bad" demon trying to find her place in the underworld. But she'll have to save it first!

Meesh is a bad demon. "Bad" meaning she always sees the good in those around her--which, strictly speaking, isn't how a demon is meant to feel or act.

Bullied by the other demons, twelve-year-old Meesh is more likely to be found poring over Fairy World's magazines and fangirling the fairy princesses. When disaster strikes and her family is threatened, Meesh must journey to the Fairy World to find a healing crystal that can save the underworld. And speak of the devil! She meets a fairy princess right away.

But things in the Fairy World aren't so perfect either. As Meesh makes surprising new friends and unites a band of outcasts--including her bully--she learns there's more to being a demon than being bad.

Sometimes the secret to real power is in loving yourself, faults and all.]]> 304 Michelle Lam 0593372867 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 so stinkin¡¯ cute! loved it! 3.99 2022 Meesh the Bad Demon (Meesh the Bad Demon #1)
author: Michelle Lam
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2023/04/30
date added: 2023/04/30
shelves: 2023, books-i-own, friendship-goals, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, mg-adventure, mg-fantasy, middle-grade, middlegrade-must, read-in-2023
review:
so stinkin¡¯ cute! loved it!
]]> Crumbs: A Graphic Novel 58839343
In a very special town, there¡¯s an even more unusual bakery with a selection of baked treats hand-crafted to help your dreams come true. For Ray, a quiet young woman with special powers of her own, the order is always the same: a hot tea with a delicious side of romance.

When Ray meets Laurie, the kind barista who aspires to be a professional musician, she gets a real taste of love for the first time. But even with a spark of magic, romance isn¡¯t so simple. Both Ray and Laurie are chasing their own dreams and even when Ray starts to see the future, she can¡¯t predict her fate with Laurie.

Based on the beloved webcomic from WEBTOON, this sweet coming-of-age story of friendship and first love comes to life in graphic novel format with gorgeous illustrations and exclusive content.]]> 384 Danie Stirling 0358467799 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 3.92 2022 Crumbs: A Graphic Novel
author: Danie Stirling
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.92
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2023/04/27
date added: 2023/04/27
shelves: books-i-own, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, ya-fantasy, ya-romance, read-in-2023
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Princess and the Grilled Cheese Sandwich (A Graphic Novel)]]> 60656847 A nobleman with a secret and a princess on a mission find love¡ªand lots of grilled cheese sandwiches¡ªwhen they least expect it, in this funny, heartfelt graphic novel rom-com.

Lady Camembert wants to live life on her own terms, without marriage. Well, without marrying a man, that is. But the law of the land is that women cannot inherit. So when her father passes away, she does the only thing she can: She disguises herself as a man and moves to the capital city of the Kingdom of Fromage to start over as Count Camembert.
?
But it¡¯s hard to keep a low profile when the beautiful Princess Brie, with her fierce activism and great sense of fashion, catches her attention. Camembert can¡¯t resist getting to know the princess, but as the two grow closer, will she able to keep her secret?
?
A romantic comedy about mistaken identity, true love, and lots of grilled cheese.]]> 256 Deya Muniz 0316538701 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5 4.42 2023 The Princess and the Grilled Cheese Sandwich (A Graphic Novel)
author: Deya Muniz
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.42
book published: 2023
rating: 5
read at: 2023/04/13
date added: 2023/04/13
shelves: books-i-own, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, lgbtqia, read-in-2023, ya-contemporary, ya-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Wires and Nerve (Wires and Nerve, #1)]]> 29772863 238 Marissa Meyer 1250078261 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 3 3.5, it was cute. 4.12 2017 Wires and Nerve (Wires and Nerve, #1)
author: Marissa Meyer
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.12
book published: 2017
rating: 3
read at: 2023/04/02
date added: 2023/04/02
shelves: books-i-own, finished-series, friendship-goals, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, read-in-2023, ya-fantasy, ya-science-fiction
review:
3.5, it was cute.
]]> <![CDATA[Something is Killing the Children, Book One (Something is Killing the Children, #1-3)]]> 57772525 The definitive collection of Something is Killing the Children's entire ¡°Archer¡¯s Peak¡± saga collected for the first time in a single deluxe hardcover.

WHAT IS ABDUCTING THE CHILDREN OF ARCHER¡¯S PEAK?

When the children in a sleepy Wisconsin town begin to go missing all hope seems lost. Most children never return, and those that do have terrible stories of terrifying creatures that live in the shadows. But even monsters fear the mysterious stranger that arrives shortly after. She believes the children and claims to be the only who sees what they can see.

Her name is Erica Slaughter. She kills monsters. This is all she does, and she bears the cost because it must be done.

The definitive collection of the entire ¡°Archer¡¯s Peak¡± saga for the first time in a single volume, this deluxe edition hardcover includes Something is Killing the Children #1-15 by GLAAD Award-winning writer James Tynion IV (Department of Truth, Batman) and artist Werther Dell-Edera (Razorblades).]]> 384 James Tynion IV 1684157641 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5 4.38 2021 Something is Killing the Children, Book One (Something is Killing the Children, #1-3)
author: James Tynion IV
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.38
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2023/03/19
date added: 2023/03/30
shelves: adult-horror, books-i-own, faves-in-2023-so-far, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, read-in-2023
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Lore Olympus: Volume Three (Lore Olympus, #3)]]> 60149524 Witness what the gods do after dark in the third volume of a stylish and contemporary reimagining of one of the best-known stories in Greek mythology, featuring a brand-new, exclusive short story from creator Rachel Smythe.

"It is natural for a King to be curious about his future Queen. . . ."

All of Olympus--and the Underworld--are talking about the God of the Dead and the sprightly daughter of Demeter. But despite the rumors of their romance, Hades and Persephone have plenty to navigate on their own.

Since coming to Olympus, Persephone has struggled to be the perfect maiden goddess. Her attraction to Hades has only complicated the intense burden of the gods' expectations. And after Apollo's assault, Persephone fears she can no longer bury the intense feelings of hurt and love that she's worked so hard to hide.

As Persephone contemplates her future, Hades struggles with his past, falling back into toxic habits in Minthe's easy embrace. With all the mounting pressure and expectations--of their family, friends, and enemies--both Hades and Persephone tell themselves to deny their deepest desires, but the pull between them is too tempting, too magnetic. It's fate.

This full-color edition of Smythe's original Eisner-nominated webcomic Lore Olympus brings Greek mythology into the modern age in a sharply perceptive and romantic graphic novel.

This volume collects episodes 50-75 of the #1 WEBTOON comic Lore Olympus.]]> 384 Rachel Smythe 0593160312 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5 4.47 2022 Lore Olympus: Volume Three (Lore Olympus, #3)
author: Rachel Smythe
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.47
book published: 2022
rating: 5
read at: 2023/01/15
date added: 2023/01/15
shelves: books-i-own, adult, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, read-in-2023, sexual-assault, faves-in-2023-so-far
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Lore Olympus: Volume Two (Lore Olympus, #2)]]> 57717417 Witness what the gods do after dark in the second volume of a stylish and contemporary reimagining of one of the best-known stories in Greek mythology from creator Rachel Smythe.

Persephone was ready to start a new life when she left the mortal realm for Olympus. However, she quickly discovered the dark side of her glamorous new home¡ª´Ú°ù´Ç³¾ the relatively minor gossip threatening her reputation to a realm-shattering violation of her safety by the conceited Apollo¡ªand she¡¯s struggling to find her footing in the fast-moving realm of the gods. Hades is also off-balance, fighting against his burgeoning feelings for the young goddess of spring while maintaining his lonely rule of the Underworld. As the pair are drawn ever closer, they must untangle the twisted webs of their past and present to build toward a new future.

This full-color edition of Smythe¡¯s original Eisner-nominated webcomic Lore Olympus features a brand-new, exclusive short story, and brings Greek mythology into the modern age in a sharply perceptive and romantic graphic novel.

This volume collects episodes 26¨C49 of the #1 WEBTOON comic Lore Olympus.]]> 368 Rachel Smythe 059335608X Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5 4.42 2022 Lore Olympus: Volume Two (Lore Olympus, #2)
author: Rachel Smythe
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.42
book published: 2022
rating: 5
read at: 2023/01/15
date added: 2023/01/15
shelves: books-i-own, sexual-assault, adult, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, read-in-2023
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Lore Olympus: Volume One (Lore Olympus, #1)]]> 57282218
Persephone, young goddess of spring, is new to Olympus. Her mother, Demeter, has raised her in the mortal realm, but after Persephone promises to train as a sacred virgin, she¡¯s allowed to live in the fast-moving, glamorous world of the gods. When her roommate, Artemis, takes her to a party, her entire life changes: she ends up meeting Hades and feels an immediate spark with the charming yet misunderstood ruler of the Underworld. Now Persephone must navigate the confusing politics and relationships that rule Olympus, while also figuring out her own place¡ªand her own power.

This edition of Smythe¡¯s original Eisner-winning webcomic Lore Olympus features a brand-new, exclusive short story, and brings the Greek Pantheon into the modern age in a sharply perceptive and romantic graphic novel.

This volume collects episodes 1-25 of the #1 WEBTOON comic, Lore Olympus.]]> 384 Rachel Smythe 0593160290 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5 4.23 2021 Lore Olympus: Volume One (Lore Olympus, #1)
author: Rachel Smythe
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.23
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2023/01/15
date added: 2023/01/15
shelves: books-i-own, adult, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, read-in-2023
review:

]]> Remina 51323375 I MET REMINA'S EYE.

An unknown planet emerges from inside a wormhole, and its discoverer, Dr. Oguro, christens the celestial body "Remina" after his own daughter. His finding is met with great fanfare, and Remina herself rises to fame. However, the planet picks up speed as it moves along in its curious orbit, eliminating planets and stars one after another until finally Earth itself faces extinction¡­ Is the girl Remina the true cause of the catastrophe? A masterwork of horror from Junji Ito, unfolding on a universal scale.

THE PLANET NOTICED OUR EXISTENCE...]]> 256 Junji Ito 197471747X Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 3 3.5 craziness!!! 3.70 2005 Remina
author: Junji Ito
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.70
book published: 2005
rating: 3
read at: 2023/01/10
date added: 2023/01/10
shelves: adult-horror, books-i-own, adult, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, read-in-2023
review:
3.5 craziness!!!
]]> Krampus: The Yule Lord 13505670
¡ª´Ú°ù´Ç³¾ Krampus

The author and artist of The Child Thief returns with a modern fabulist tale of Krampus, the Lord of Yule and the dark enemy of Santa Claus

One Christmas Eve in a small hollow in Boone County, West Virginia, struggling songwriter Jesse Walker witnesses a strange spectacle: seven devilish figures chasing a man in a red suit toward a sleigh and eight reindeer. When the reindeer leap skyward, taking the sleigh, devil men, and Santa into the clouds, screams follow. Moments later, a large sack plummets back to earth, a magical sack that thrusts the down-on-his-luck singer into the clutches of the terrifying Yule Lord, Krampus. But the lines between good and evil become blurred as Jesse's new master reveals many dark secrets about the cherry-cheeked Santa Claus, including how half a millennium ago the jolly old saint imprisoned Krampus and usurped his magic.

Now Santa's time is running short, for the Yule Lord is determined to have his retribution and reclaim Yuletide. If Jesse can survive this ancient feud, he might have the chance to redeem himself in his family's eyes, to save his own broken dreams, . . . and to help bring the magic of Yule to the impoverished folk of Boone County.]]> 357 Brom 006209565X Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 4.10 2012 Krampus: The Yule Lord
author: Brom
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.10
book published: 2012
rating: 4
read at: 2022/12/29
date added: 2022/12/29
shelves: dec-tbr, horror-group, adult-horror, audio, illustrations, read-in-2022
review:

]]> Squad 52295479 Pretty Little Liars meets Teen Wolf in this fast-paced, sharply funny, and patriarchy-smashing graphic novel from author Maggie Tokuda-Hall and artist Lisa Sterle. When the new girl is invited to join her high school¡¯s most popular clique, she can¡¯t believe her luck¡ªand she can¡¯t believe their secret, either: they¡¯re werewolves. Fans of Mariko Tamaki and Elana K. Arnold will devour the snappy dialogue, vivid artwork, and timely social commentary.

When Becca transfers to a high school in an elite San Francisco suburb, she¡¯s worried she¡¯s not going to fit in. To her surprise, she¡¯s immediately adopted by the most popular girls in school. At first glance, Marley, Arianna, and Mandy are perfect. But at a party under a full moon, Becca learns that they also have a big secret.

Becca¡¯s new friends are werewolves. Their prey? Slimy boys who take advantage of unsuspecting girls. Eager to be accepted, Becca allows her friends to turn her into a werewolf, and finally, for the first time in her life, she feels like she truly belongs.

But things get complicated when Arianna¡¯s predatory boyfriend is killed, and the cops begin searching for a serial killer. As their pack begins to buckle under the pressure¡ªand their moral high ground gets muddier and muddier¡ªBecca realizes that she might have feelings for one of her new best friends.

Lisa Sterle¡¯s stylish illustrations paired with Maggie Tokuda-Hall¡¯s sharp writing make Squad a fun, haunting, and fast-paced thriller that will resonate with fans of Riverdale, and with readers of This Savage Song, Lumberjanes, and Paper Girls.]]> 213 Maggie Tokuda-Hall 0062943154 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 3.77 2021 Squad
author: Maggie Tokuda-Hall
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.77
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2022/11/30
date added: 2022/11/30
shelves: books-i-own, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, lgbtqia, read-in-2022, sexual-assault, ya-horror, ya-paranormal
review:

]]> The Bone Garden 37648365
Made of dust and bone and imagination, Irr¨¦elle fears she¡¯s not quite real. Only the finest magical thread tethers her to life¡ªand to Miss Vesper. But for all her efforts to please her cruel creator, the thread is unraveling. Irr¨¦elle is forgetful as she gathers bone dust. She is slow returning from the dark passages beneath the cemetery. Worst of all, she is unmindful of her crooked bones.

When Irr¨¦elle makes one final, unforgivable mistake by destroying a frightful creature just brought to life, Miss Vesper threatens to imagine her away once and for all. Defying her creator for the very first time, Irr¨¦elle flees to the underside of the graveyard and embarks on an adventure to unearth the mysterious magic that breathes bones to life, even if it means she will return to dust and be no more.

With echoes of Neil Gaiman's The Graveyard Book, debut author Heather Kassner crafts a gorgeously written story humming with magic, mystery, and dark imaginings.]]> 288 Heather Kassner Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 3.74 2019 The Bone Garden
author: Heather Kassner
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.74
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2020/10/19
date added: 2022/11/28
shelves: books-i-own, friendship-goals, illustrations, mg-paranormal-horror, middle-grade, middlegrade-must, read-in-2020, tbr-and-beyond-group-reads
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Search for WondLa (The Search for WondLa, #1)]]> 7327327 484 Tony DiTerlizzi 1416983104 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5 ¡°Welcome to the real world, Mother Robot, a beautiful and dangerous place. Now you can truly begin to live.¡±

You can find this review and all of my other reviews at Thanks for the support!

I was completely engrossed in this book from the start. The characters, the world, the illustrations - all had me wanting to know and explore more.

The Search for Wondla is about a young human girl, Eva Nine, who is 12 years old and has been brought up in an underground sanctuary by her robot mother. She has never seen another human and knows nothing of the outside world and its beauty and dangers. Eva Nine's house goes under siege by a a large monster-like hunter and everything she knows is destroyed. She must make her way in a new world and find where she came from and maybe make some interesting friends along the way.

I just loved this book. The first book is all about world-building and discovering this strange and mysterious land. Everything is new and dangerous. This book felt like Wizard of Oz meets Star Wars. My little fan girl heart was pretty pumped from the start really. This book is mainly a fantasy and adventure story mixed in with a few science-fiction elements. The genres mesh really well together and the the story was a fast quick read.

I think the strongest element this book has going for it is the detail to the world building. You feel like you are discovering everything right along with Eva Nine. You can feel the wonderment and fear as she's figuring it out herself. I was 100% along for the journey with her. I loved Otto, the water bear - he was so sweet. I wouldn't say he was deep character with all kinds of layers to discover but it was kind of nice that he was simple and safe. Another character we meet is named Rovee, he really wasn't fleshed out at all till the end so he kind of seems to just be there for awhile to play the grumpy side character. By the end though, I felt like I knew him and his motivations and he became much more three dimensional for me overall. I think in the next book we will really see this character develop. Muther, the robot, was a pretty interesting character. I loved the idea of a robot trying to work through emotions and information, despite what her programming was telling them. I wish they would've taken her storyline a little further, there was a ton of potential there. I know the book was already almost 500 pages, but I really think she could've used some more fleshing out. Eva Nine was a relatable and likable protagonist. I think most people will enjoy her character and she still has lots of room for growth. The villain of the story was a hunter named Beestal, he was alright. I thought he was going to be really scary because when we first meet him, he really seems to have no conscience. I found him to be a little one-dimensional in the end though and pretty much everyone else in the story interested me more.

I can't talk about this book without talking about Tony DiTerrlizzi's beautiful illustrations. They are through-out the book and they add such a wonderful element to the reading experience. You get to look at the author's creations through their eyes and I was very happy for it. I wish more books would do this.

This book was't flawless but I'm rating it five stars on pure enjoyment. I will be finishing the series. This book is very family friendly - would be a great book to read to any child probably about eight and over. I highly recommend this book and this is one where it really is worth the price of a hardcover - just for how nice it looks with the illustrations.]]> 4.11 2009 The Search for WondLa (The Search for WondLa, #1)
author: Tony DiTerlizzi
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2009
rating: 5
read at: 2017/03/17
date added: 2022/11/28
shelves: books-i-own, read-in-2017, underrated-gem, ya-fantasy, ya-science-fiction, illustrations, cry-worthy, favorites, top-2017-reads, finished-series
review:
¡°Welcome to the real world, Mother Robot, a beautiful and dangerous place. Now you can truly begin to live.¡±


You can find this review and all of my other reviews at Thanks for the support!

I was completely engrossed in this book from the start. The characters, the world, the illustrations - all had me wanting to know and explore more.

The Search for Wondla is about a young human girl, Eva Nine, who is 12 years old and has been brought up in an underground sanctuary by her robot mother. She has never seen another human and knows nothing of the outside world and its beauty and dangers. Eva Nine's house goes under siege by a a large monster-like hunter and everything she knows is destroyed. She must make her way in a new world and find where she came from and maybe make some interesting friends along the way.

I just loved this book. The first book is all about world-building and discovering this strange and mysterious land. Everything is new and dangerous. This book felt like Wizard of Oz meets Star Wars. My little fan girl heart was pretty pumped from the start really. This book is mainly a fantasy and adventure story mixed in with a few science-fiction elements. The genres mesh really well together and the the story was a fast quick read.

I think the strongest element this book has going for it is the detail to the world building. You feel like you are discovering everything right along with Eva Nine. You can feel the wonderment and fear as she's figuring it out herself. I was 100% along for the journey with her. I loved Otto, the water bear - he was so sweet. I wouldn't say he was deep character with all kinds of layers to discover but it was kind of nice that he was simple and safe. Another character we meet is named Rovee, he really wasn't fleshed out at all till the end so he kind of seems to just be there for awhile to play the grumpy side character. By the end though, I felt like I knew him and his motivations and he became much more three dimensional for me overall. I think in the next book we will really see this character develop. Muther, the robot, was a pretty interesting character. I loved the idea of a robot trying to work through emotions and information, despite what her programming was telling them. I wish they would've taken her storyline a little further, there was a ton of potential there. I know the book was already almost 500 pages, but I really think she could've used some more fleshing out. Eva Nine was a relatable and likable protagonist. I think most people will enjoy her character and she still has lots of room for growth. The villain of the story was a hunter named Beestal, he was alright. I thought he was going to be really scary because when we first meet him, he really seems to have no conscience. I found him to be a little one-dimensional in the end though and pretty much everyone else in the story interested me more.

I can't talk about this book without talking about Tony DiTerrlizzi's beautiful illustrations. They are through-out the book and they add such a wonderful element to the reading experience. You get to look at the author's creations through their eyes and I was very happy for it. I wish more books would do this.

This book was't flawless but I'm rating it five stars on pure enjoyment. I will be finishing the series. This book is very family friendly - would be a great book to read to any child probably about eight and over. I highly recommend this book and this is one where it really is worth the price of a hardcover - just for how nice it looks with the illustrations.
]]> <![CDATA[A Hero For WondLa (The Search for WondLa, #2)]]> 12049592 445 Tony DiTerlizzi 085707301X Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5 4.27 2012 A Hero For WondLa (The Search for WondLa, #2)
author: Tony DiTerlizzi
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.27
book published: 2012
rating: 5
read at: 2017/08/16
date added: 2022/11/28
shelves: books-i-own, illustrations, mg-fantasy, mg-adventure, read-in-2017, friendship-goals, underrated-gem, ya-adventure, ya-fantasy, finished-series
review:
Another great installment in this series. This really deserves a lot more attention. Review to come.
]]> The Battle for WondLa 33014773 Battle for WondLa 496 Tony DiTerlizzi 0857073044 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5
Review to come. ]]> 4.43 2014 The Battle for WondLa
author: Tony DiTerlizzi
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.43
book published: 2014
rating: 5
read at: 2017/09/18
date added: 2022/11/28
shelves: books-i-own, friendship-goals, illustrations, mg-adventure, mg-fantasy, middlegrade-must, read-in-2017, underrated-gem, ya-adventure, finished-series
review:
Fantastic and very underrated series. I'm sad to see it come to an end but I'm glad I got to go on a great journey with these characters.

Review to come.
]]> <![CDATA[Obsidio (The Illuminae Files, #3)]]> 24909347
Meanwhile, Kady's cousin, Asha, survived the initial BeiTech assault and has joined Kerenza's ragtag underground resistance. When Rhys--an old flame from Asha's past--reappears on Kerenza, the two find themselves on opposite sides of the conflict. With time running out, a final battle will be waged on land and in space, heros will fall, and hearts will be broken.

From bestselling author duo Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff comes the exciting finale in the trilogy that broke the mold and has been called "stylistically mesmerizing" and "out-of-this-world-awesome."]]> 618 Amie Kaufman 055349919X Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5
]]> 4.45 2018 Obsidio (The Illuminae Files, #3)
author: Amie Kaufman
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.45
book published: 2018
rating: 5
read at: 2018/03/25
date added: 2022/11/28
shelves: most-anticipated-2018, books-i-own, cry-worthy, friendship-goals, illustrations, physical-disability, read-in-2018, worth-the-hype, ya-science-fiction, finished-series
review:
I have no words yet for this! I just can't believe it's over.... AHHHHH! Honestly, I likely won't review this one till I read it again. I was so tense and excited at the same time during this whole book that I'm sure I missed stuff and I just don't feel like I'm prepared to write out a big review on it. I will say if you haven't checked this series out - DO IT. Don't like sci-fi? Doesn't matter, I thought the same thing. This series is completely accessible for newbies to the genre and once you get used to the format the book just flies. If the format is not for you than grab the audio books because I've heard nothing but incredible things about them .


]]> <![CDATA[The Language of Thorns: Midnight Tales and Dangerous Magic (Grishaverse, #0.5, 2.5, 2.6)]]> 34076952 Love speaks in flowers. Truth requires thorns.

Travel to a world of dark bargains struck by moonlight, of haunted towns and hungry woods, of talking beasts and gingerbread golems, where a young mermaid's voice can summon deadly storms and where a river might do a lovestruck boy's bidding but only for a terrible price.

Inspired by myth, fairy tale, and folklore, #1 New York Times¡ªbestselling author Leigh Bardugo has crafted a deliciously atmospheric collection of short stories filled with betrayals, revenge, sacrifice, and love.

Perfect for new readers and dedicated fans, these tales will transport you to lands both familiar and strange¡ªto a fully realized world of dangerous magic that millions have visited through the novels of the Grishaverse.

This collection of six stories includes three brand-new tales, all of them lavishly illustrated with art that changes with each turn of the page, culminating in six stunning full-spread illustrations as rich in detail as the stories themselves.

Zemeni Ayama and the Thorn Wood --
Ravkan The too-clever fox --
The witch of Duva --
Little knife --
Kerch The soldier prince --
Fjerdan When water sang fire]]> 281 Leigh Bardugo 125012252X Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5 ¡°Bad fates do not always follow those who deserve them.¡±

I am obsessed with this book! It's perfection! Anyone who says different can FIGHT ME! Just kidding, back up!

I was going to write a big review on this one and go into a ton of detail about all the stories and such but I don't really see the point as I gave each and every story in the book five stars. Yes, five stars. I liked this more than The Grisha Trilogy itself *gasp* I've always loved fairytales - my favorites usually being Andrew Lang's colored fairy collection. Even though I love Leigh - she can drag sometimes and I wasn't really expected must from this one honestly. The fairytales in this book read like legit folk tales/fairy tales from classic books. Yes, you can see inspiration from other tales but that is not a bad thing. Leigh put her own spin on all of them and I swooned over the book so hard. I could've easily read this in a day but I chose to read a tale here and there in between the other reads I had going. I wanted to savor the book and not rush it and I'm so glad I did.

Can we talk about the cover and illustrations now please?!?!? OMG! The book is STUNNING, YES, STUNNING!!! It's a cloth dust jacket and when you take that off, the book itself it also beautiful. It doesn't end there people, it also has colored illustrations on all of the pages. It adds so much life to the stories. Kudos to Sara Kipin for those drawings!

I would highly recommend this to anyone who loves old school fairy tales. This is a great shout out to them. GO. BUY. THIS. BOOK!]]> 4.30 2017 The Language of Thorns: Midnight Tales and Dangerous Magic (Grishaverse, #0.5, 2.5, 2.6)
author: Leigh Bardugo
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.30
book published: 2017
rating: 5
read at: 2019/02/28
date added: 2022/11/28
shelves: most-anticipated-2017, books-i-own, illustrations, read-in-2018, finished-series
review:
¡°Bad fates do not always follow those who deserve them.¡±

I am obsessed with this book! It's perfection! Anyone who says different can FIGHT ME! Just kidding, back up!

I was going to write a big review on this one and go into a ton of detail about all the stories and such but I don't really see the point as I gave each and every story in the book five stars. Yes, five stars. I liked this more than The Grisha Trilogy itself *gasp* I've always loved fairytales - my favorites usually being Andrew Lang's colored fairy collection. Even though I love Leigh - she can drag sometimes and I wasn't really expected must from this one honestly. The fairytales in this book read like legit folk tales/fairy tales from classic books. Yes, you can see inspiration from other tales but that is not a bad thing. Leigh put her own spin on all of them and I swooned over the book so hard. I could've easily read this in a day but I chose to read a tale here and there in between the other reads I had going. I wanted to savor the book and not rush it and I'm so glad I did.

Can we talk about the cover and illustrations now please?!?!? OMG! The book is STUNNING, YES, STUNNING!!! It's a cloth dust jacket and when you take that off, the book itself it also beautiful. It doesn't end there people, it also has colored illustrations on all of the pages. It adds so much life to the stories. Kudos to Sara Kipin for those drawings!

I would highly recommend this to anyone who loves old school fairy tales. This is a great shout out to them. GO. BUY. THIS. BOOK!
]]> Snapdragon 44280844 Kat Leyh¡¯s Snapdragon is a magical realist graphic novel about a young girl who befriends her town¡¯s witch and discovers the strange magic within herself.

Snap¡¯s town had a witch.

At least, that¡¯s how the rumor goes. But in reality, Jacks is just a Crocs-wearing, internet-savvy old lady who sells roadkill skeletons online. It¡¯s creepy, sure, but Snap thinks it's kind of cool, too.

Snap needs a favor from this old woman, though, so she begins helping Jacks with her strange work. Snap gets to know her and realizes that Jacks may in fact have real magic¡ªand an unlikely connection to Snap¡¯s family¡¯s past.]]> 224 Kat Leyh 1250171113 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5 4.47 2020 Snapdragon
author: Kat Leyh
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.47
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2021/05/19
date added: 2022/11/28
shelves: books-i-own, friendship-goals, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, lgbtqia, mg-fantasy, middlegrade-must, read-in-2020, read-in-2021, tbr-and-beyond-group-reads
review:

]]> <![CDATA[House of Furies (House of Furies, #1)]]> 29736099
Louisa begins to fear for a young man named Lee who is not like the other guests. He is charismatic and kind, and Louisa knows that it may be up to her to save him from an untimely judgment. But in this house of distortions and lies, how can Louisa be sure whom to trust?]]> 416 Madeleine Roux 0062498606 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4
Full review to come soon. ]]> 3.78 2017 House of Furies (House of Furies, #1)
author: Madeleine Roux
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.78
book published: 2017
rating: 4
read at: 2021/11/03
date added: 2022/11/28
shelves: most-anticipated-2017, books-i-own, illustrations, read-in-2017, ya-horror, ya-paranormal, audio, read-in-2021, finished-series
review:
This was a slower-paced book but I really enjoyed it all the same. It's not very scary but does have some gore in it. This is basically a paranormal/gothic horror YA novel. I thought it had a really interesting premise and a strong start. I didn't realize this was going to be a series but I'm glad it is, lots of potential here.

Full review to come soon.
]]> <![CDATA[The Secrets of Winterhouse (Winterhouse, #2)]]> 40584349 Bookish puzzles, phantom mysteries, and evil curses await as Elizabeth returns to Winterhouse in The Secrets of Winterhouse, the second book in Ben Guterson's magical series.

Back at the Winterhouse hotel for another holiday season, Elizabeth and Freddy dig deeper into the mystery surrounding Riley S. Granger, a hotel guest who left behind odd artifacts¡ªone being a magical book that the evil Gracella Winters once attempted to use to gain destructive power over the entire Falls lineage. The two friends follow a trail of clues, inadvertently attracting the attention of a suspicious new hotel guest: Elana Vesper. The clock is ticking as Elizabeth and Freddy struggle to figure out whether Elana is merely a pawn or a player in the plot to revive the spirit of Gracella. If that wasn¡¯t enough, Elizabeth suspects she is coming into her own special powers¡ªand she¡¯s fearful it might lead her right into Gracella¡¯s vicious web. Mystery, adventure, and a winning friendship combine in this much anticipated sequel.]]> 371 Ben Guterson 1250123909 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 3.93 2018 The Secrets of Winterhouse (Winterhouse, #2)
author: Ben Guterson
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.93
book published: 2018
rating: 4
read at: 2022/05/08
date added: 2022/11/28
shelves: audio, books-i-own, friendship-goals, illustrations, mg-mystery, middle-grade, middlegrade-must, read-in-2022, finished-series
review:

]]> Fragments of Horror 23705532
Ma no Kakera (ħ¤Î¶ÏƬ, also titled Shard of Evil or Fragments of Horror), is a series of short stories by Junji Ito.
It began serialization in the first issue of the revived Nemuki+ (¥Í¥à¥­¥×¥é¥¹) magazine on April 13, 2013. It was subsequently published as a collection in Japan in June 2014, with the final story, "Whispering Woman", having been previously published in Shinkan (¥·¥ó¥«¥ó) rather than Nemuki+. In December 2014, it was licensed by VIZ Media to be released in English in June 2015, under the "Fragments of Horror" title.

Chapters:

Futon (Blanket)
Haunted Wood Mansion
Tomio: Red Turtleneck
Lingering Farewell
Dissection Girl
Black Bird
Magami Nanakuse
Whispering Woman]]> 224 Junji Ito 1421580799 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5 4.11 2014 Fragments of Horror
author: Junji Ito
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2014
rating: 5
read at: 2022/11/04
date added: 2022/11/04
shelves: adult-horror, books-i-own, faves-in-2022-so-far, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, read-in-2022
review:

]]> Gallant 58064046 Everything casts a shadow. Even the world we live in. And as with every shadow, there is a place where it must touch. A seam, where the shadow meets its source.

Olivia Prior has grown up in Merilance School for girls, and all she has of her past is her mother¡¯s journal¡ªwhich seems to unravel into madness. Then, a letter invites Olivia to come home¡ªto Gallant. Yet when Olivia arrives, no one is expecting her. But Olivia is not about to leave the first place that feels like home, it doesn¡¯t matter if her cousin Matthew is hostile or if she sees half-formed ghouls haunting the hallways.

Olivia knows that Gallant is hiding secrets, and she is determined to uncover them. When she crosses a ruined wall at just the right moment, Olivia finds herself in a place that is Gallant¡ªbut not. The manor is crumbling, the ghouls are solid, and a mysterious figure rules over all. Now Olivia sees what has unraveled generations of her family, and where her father may have come from.

Olivia has always wanted to belong somewhere, but will she take her place as a Prior, protecting our world against the Master of the House? Or will she take her place beside him?]]> 338 Victoria E. Schwab 0062835777 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5 3.70 2022 Gallant
author: Victoria E. Schwab
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.70
book published: 2022
rating: 5
read at: 2022/11/04
date added: 2022/11/04
shelves: most-anticipated-2022, illustrations, physical-disability, audio, faves-in-2022-so-far, read-in-2022, ya-fantasy
review:

]]> Elatsoe (Elatsoe, #1) 49089632
There are some differences. This America has been shaped dramatically by the magic, monsters, knowledge, and legends of its peoples, those Indigenous and those not. Some of these forces are charmingly everyday, like the ability to make an orb of light appear or travel across the world through rings of fungi. But other forces are less charming and should never see the light of day.

Elatsoe lives in this slightly stranger America. She can raise the ghosts of dead animals, a skill passed down through generations of her Lipan Apache family. Her beloved cousin has just been murdered in a town that wants no prying eyes. But she is going to do more than pry. The picture-perfect facade of Willowbee masks gruesome secrets, and she will rely on her wits, skills, and friends to tear off the mask and protect her family.]]> 362 Darcie Little Badger 1646140052 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 3.98 2020 Elatsoe (Elatsoe, #1)
author: Darcie Little Badger
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.98
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2022/06/05
date added: 2022/06/19
shelves: audio, books-i-own, friendship-goals, illustrations, lgbtqia, read-in-2022, ya-fantasy, ya-paranormal
review:

]]> Tidesong: A Graphic Novel 57094282 Perfect for fans of Studio Ghibli and The Tea Dragon Society, this is a magically heartwarming graphic novel about self-acceptance and friendship.

Sophie is a young witch whose mother and grandmother pressure her to attend the Royal Magic Academy¡ªthe best magic school in the realm¡ªeven though her magic is shaky at best. To train for her entrance exams, Sophie is sent to relatives she¡¯s never met.

Cousin Sage and Great-Aunt Lan seem more interested in giving Sophie chores than in teaching her magic. Frustrated, Sophie attempts magic on her own, but the spell goes wrong, and she accidentally entangles her magic with the magic of a young water dragon named Lir.

Lir is trapped on land and can¡¯t remember where he came from. Even so, he¡¯s everything Sophie isn¡¯t¡ªbeloved by Sophie¡¯s family and skilled at magic. With his help, Sophie might just ace her entrance exams, but that means standing in the way of Lir¡¯s attempts to regain his memories. Sophie knows what she¡¯s doing is wrong, but without Lir¡¯s help, can she prove herself?]]> 240 Wendy Xu 0062955799 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5 3.89 2021 Tidesong: A Graphic Novel
author: Wendy Xu
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.89
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2022/05/15
date added: 2022/05/15
shelves: books-i-own, faves-in-2022-so-far, friendship-goals, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, mg-fantasy, middle-grade, middlegrade-must, read-in-2022
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Hex Vet: Witches in Training (Hex Vet, #1)]]> 40225166 80 Sam Davies 1684152887 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 3 3.59 2018 Hex Vet: Witches in Training (Hex Vet, #1)
author: Sam Davies
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.59
book published: 2018
rating: 3
read at: 2022/05/15
date added: 2022/05/15
shelves: e-books, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, mg-fantasy, middle-grade, read-in-2022
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Barb the Last Berzerker (Barb the Last Berzerker, #1)]]> 56980444
Barb is a Berzerker, one of a group of warriors sworn to protect the land of Bailiwick from the scourge of monsters that plagues it. But the fearsome crew seem to have met their match in the nefarious Witch Head. Using power from his magical sword, he tricked the Zerks and took them captive. Only Barb was able to escape¡ªand she took Witch Head¡¯s Shadow Blade with her.

Now it¡¯s up to Barb to free her fellow warriors so they can stop Witch Head from taking over Bailiwick. On the way, she¡¯ll battle vampire goat fiends, snot goblins, and a giant with serious foot odor issues (but don¡¯t mention that to him¡ªhe¡¯s very sensitive about it). Luckily, she¡¯s got her best friend, Porkchop the yeti, to help her.

But the power of the Shadow Blade has a mind of its own, and the deeper Barb gets into her quest, the harder it is to keep the blade¡¯s awesome power under control.]]> 256 Dan Abdo 1534485716 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 3 4.05 2021 Barb the Last Berzerker (Barb the Last Berzerker, #1)
author: Dan Abdo
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.05
book published: 2021
rating: 3
read at: 2022/05/03
date added: 2022/05/03
shelves: books-i-own, friendship-goals, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, mg-adventure, mg-fantasy, middle-grade, read-in-2022
review:

]]> Stargazing 40864836 Moon is everything Christine isn¡¯t. She¡¯s confident, impulsive, artistic . . . and though they both grew up in the same Chinese-American suburb, Moon is somehow unlike anyone Christine has ever known.

When Moon¡¯s family moves in next door to Christine¡¯s, Moon goes from unlikely friend to best friend¨Dmaybe even the perfect friend. The girls share their favorite music videos, paint their toenails when Christine¡¯s strict parents aren¡¯t around, and make plans to enter the school talent show together. Moon even tells Christine her deepest secret: that she sometimes has visions of celestial beings who speak to her from the stars. Who reassure her that earth isn¡¯t where she really belongs.

But when they¡¯re least expecting it, catastrophe strikes. After relying on Moon for everything, can Christine find it in herself to be the friend Moon needs?

New York Times¨Cbestselling author-illustrator Jen Wang draws on her childhood to paint a deeply personal yet wholly relatable friendship story that¡¯s at turns joyful, heart-wrenching, and full of hope]]> 213 Jen Wang Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 4.16 2019 Stargazing
author: Jen Wang
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.16
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2022/05/03
date added: 2022/05/03
shelves: e-books, friendship-goals, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, middle-grade, read-in-2022
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Jim Henson's Labyrinth: Under the Spell]]> 55711271 A new collection of stories expanding the world of Jim Henson¡¯s beloved fantasy classic Labyrinth, including the secret history of Sir Didymus and an all-new story that reveals the history one of Jareth¡¯s Masquerade guests who embarks on a journey of self discovery after Sarah shatters the mirror during the Masquerade Ball.

RETURN TO THE MASQUERADE. Discover an all-new collection of stories expanding the world of Jim Henson¡¯s beloved fantasy classic Labyrinth, including the secret history of Sir Didymus and the untold story that reveals the history one of Jareth¡¯s Masquerade guests who embarks on a journey of self discovery after Sarah shatters the mirror during the Masquerade Ball. An all star line-up of creators includes S.M. Vidaurri, Sina Grace, Michael Dialynas, Sara Webb, Boya Sun, Lara Elena Donnelly, French Carlomagno, Pius Bak, Samantha Dodge and more. Collects Jim Henson¡¯s Labyrinth: Under the Spell #1 and Jim Henson¡¯s Labyrinth: Masquerade #1.]]> 112 Sina Grace 1684156955 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 3.95 Jim Henson's Labyrinth: Under the Spell
author: Sina Grace
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.95
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2022/02/26
date added: 2022/02/26
shelves: books-i-own, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, read-in-2022
review:

]]> Venus in the Blind Spot 49081449 No Longer Human¡ªeach chilling tale invites readers to revel in a world of terror.]]> 272 Junji Ito 1974715477 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 4.12 2019 Venus in the Blind Spot
author: Junji Ito
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.12
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2022/01/29
date added: 2022/01/29
shelves: adult-horror, books-i-own, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, read-in-2022
review:

]]> Tomie 29632242 750 Junji Ito 1421590565 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 3 4.14 1987 Tomie
author: Junji Ito
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.14
book published: 1987
rating: 3
read at: 2022/01/23
date added: 2022/01/23
shelves: adult-horror, disappointing-reads, e-books, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, read-in-2022
review:

]]> Dissolving Classroom 30221917
Chapters:
1. Dissolving Classroom
2. Meet Again
3. Children of the Earth
4. Worshipping Beauty (Dissolving Beauty)
5. Dissolving Apartment
6. Chizumi's Dissolving Love
7. The Demon's Conference]]> 178 Junji Ito 1942993854 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 3.81 2013 Dissolving Classroom
author: Junji Ito
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.81
book published: 2013
rating: 4
read at: 2022/01/23
date added: 2022/01/23
shelves: adult-horror, books-i-own, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, read-in-2022
review:

]]> Coming Back 56988000 A beautiful graphic novel fantasy romance that follows two young women who have to go on their own separate adventures to discover the truth about themselves and about each other.

Preet is magic.

Valissa is not.

Everyone in their village has magic in their bones, and Preet is the strongest of them all. Without any power of her own, how can Valissa ever be worthy of Preet's love? When their home is attacked, Valissa has a chance to prove herself, but that means leaving Preet behind. On her own for the first time Preet breaks the village's most sacred laws, and is rejected from the only home she's ever known and sent into a new world.

Divided by different paths, insecurities, and distance, will Valissa and Preet be able to find their way back to each other?

A beautiful story of two young women who are so focused on proving they're meant to be together that they end up hurting each other in the process. This gorgeous graphic novel is an LGTBQ+ romance about young love and how it can grow into something strong no matter what obstacles get in the way.]]> 248 Jessi Zabarsky 0593125436 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 3.50 2022 Coming Back
author: Jessi Zabarsky
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.50
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2022/01/21
date added: 2022/01/21
shelves: books-i-own, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, lgbtqia, read-in-2022, ya-adventure, ya-fantasy, ya-romance
review:

]]> Shiver: Selected Stories 34852851
This volume includes nine of Junji Ito¡¯s best short stories, as selected by the author himself and presented with accompanying notes and commentary. An arm peppered with tiny holes dangles from a sick girl¡¯s window¡­ After an idol hangs herself, balloons bearing faces appear in the sky, some even featuring your own face¡­ An amateur film crew hires an extremely individualistic fashion model and faces a real bloody ending¡­ An offering of nine fresh nightmares for the delight?of horror fans.

1. Used Record or Second-Hand Record (from House of the Marionettes, ¤¢¤ä¤Ä¤ê¤ÎÎÝ·ó Ayatsuri no Yashiki), a story about people fighting over the ownership of a record that has a singer's singing as they died recorded on it.
2. Shiver (from Slug Girl, ¤Ê¤á¤¯¤¸¤ÎÉÙÅ® Namekuji no Shoujo), a story about a cursed jade stone that causes holes to open up all over a person's body if they're around it.
3. Fashion Model (from Souichi's Diary of Curses, Ë«Ò»¤Î…⤤ÈÕÓ›, S¨­ichi no Noroi no Nikki), a story about an oddly ominous fashion model.
4. Hanging Balloons (from The Face Burglar, î†Äà°ô Kao Dorobou), a story about balloon headed dopplegangers out to hunt their counterparts the moment they go outside.
5. Marionette Mansion (from House of the Marionettes, ¤¢¤ä¤Ä¤ê¤ÎÎÝ·ó Ayatsuri no Yashiki), a story about a family who rather than deciding what they do or how they live, they instead hire puppeteers to control their actions via strings from the attic of their home.
6. Painter (from Tomie), a story about a strange but beautiful woman named Tomie who wishes for an artist to accurately capture her beauty, and all the misfortune that happens as a result...
7. The Long Dream (from The Story of the Mysterious Tunnel,¥È¥ó¥Í¥ëÆæ×T Ton'neru kitan), a story about a man who claims that the length of his dreams are becoming longer and longer and about how he begins to change as his dreams extend farther and farther.
8. Honored Ancestors (from The Face Burglar, î†Äà°ô Kao Dorobou), a story about an amnesiac girl and the encounter that caused her to lose her memories and about carrying on the family line. At all costs.
9. Greased (from Voices in the Dark, 霤ÎÉù Yami no Koe, a story about oil and grease.
10. Fashion Model: Cursed Frame [new]]]> 400 Junji Ito 1421596938 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5 4.33 2015 Shiver: Selected Stories
author: Junji Ito
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.33
book published: 2015
rating: 5
read at: 2022/01/13
date added: 2022/01/13
shelves: adult-horror, books-i-own, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, read-in-2022, faves-in-2022-so-far
review:

]]> S¨¦ance Tea Party 42593850 272 Reimena Yee Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 4.24 2020 S¨¦ance Tea Party
author: Reimena Yee
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.24
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2021/10/29
date added: 2021/10/29
shelves: books-i-own, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, mg-fantasy, middle-grade, middlegrade-must, read-in-2021
review:

]]> The Prince and the Dressmaker 34506912 Paris, at the dawn of the modern age:

Prince Sebastian is looking for a bride¨Dor rather, his parents are looking for one for him. Sebastian is too busy hiding his secret life from everyone. At night he puts on daring dresses and takes Paris by storm as the fabulous Lady Crystallia¨Dthe hottest fashion icon in the world capital of fashion!

Sebastian¡¯s secret weapon is his brilliant dressmaker, Frances¨Dhis best friend and one of only two people who know the truth: sometimes this boy wears dresses. But Frances dreams of greatness, and being someone¡¯s secret weapon means being a secret. Forever. How long can Frances defer her dreams to protect her friend?

Jen Wang weaves an exuberantly romantic tale of identity, young love, art, and family. A fairy tale for any age, The Prince and the Dressmaker will steal your heart.]]> 277 Jen Wang 162672363X Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5
RTC]]> 4.34 2018 The Prince and the Dressmaker
author: Jen Wang
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.34
book published: 2018
rating: 5
read at: 2021/06/25
date added: 2021/06/25
shelves: books-i-own, friendship-goals, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, lgbtqia, middle-grade, middlegrade-must, read-in-2019, read-in-2021
review:
Oh my goodness, this book was perfection. I had a smile on my face so much of this book, it's just so beautiful. I really hope parents are showing their children this story. It has so much to offer.

RTC
]]> <![CDATA[Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up with Me]]> 40864841 All Freddy Riley wants is for Laura Dean to stop breaking up with her.

The day they got together was the best one of Freddy's life, but nothing's made sense since. Laura Dean is popular, funny, and SO CUTE ... but she can be really thoughtless, even mean. Their on-again, off-again relationship has Freddy's head spinning ¡ª and Freddy's friends can't understand why she keeps going back.

When Freddy consults the services of a local mystic, the mysterious Seek-Her, she isn't thrilled with the advice she receives. But something's got to give: Freddy's heart is breaking in slow motion, and she may be about to lose her very best friend as well as her last shred of self-respect. Fortunately for Freddy, there are new friends, and the insight of advice columnist Anna Vice, to help her through being a teenager in love.

Mariko Tamaki and Rosemary Valero-O'Connell bring to life a sweet and spirited tale of young love that asks us to consider what happens when we ditch the toxic relationships we crave to embrace the healthy ones we need.]]> 289 Mariko Tamaki 1250312841 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 Love is hard. Breaking up is hard. Love is dramatic. Breaking up is dramatic.

Trigger Warnings: Cheating, Abortion, Toxic Relationship

This is an ownvoice graphic novel for the queer representation. I am hesitant to say that I really ¡°enjoyed¡± this story because I found it super uncomfortable a lot of the time, I really like it though. It is about a young girl (Freddy) in a toxic relationship with another young girl, Laura Dean. This story is uncomfortable because it¡¯s just so freaking real ¨C I think a lot of people reading thing one will cringe at a lot of the poor decisions that Freddy makes to be with Laura. Lots of us have done similar things. I loved the character of Freddy, she was sweet and awkward and hopeful but she was also incredibly selfish at times. Like I said ¨C real. The representation is fantastic and the problems Freddy has with her friends are very relatable. The artwork is stunning. I love the pops of pink through-out this one.]]> 3.86 2019 Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up with Me
author: Mariko Tamaki
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.86
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2021/06/18
date added: 2021/06/18
shelves: books-i-own, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, read-in-2021, read-in-2019
review:
Love is hard. Breaking up is hard. Love is dramatic. Breaking up is dramatic.

Trigger Warnings: Cheating, Abortion, Toxic Relationship

This is an ownvoice graphic novel for the queer representation. I am hesitant to say that I really ¡°enjoyed¡± this story because I found it super uncomfortable a lot of the time, I really like it though. It is about a young girl (Freddy) in a toxic relationship with another young girl, Laura Dean. This story is uncomfortable because it¡¯s just so freaking real ¨C I think a lot of people reading thing one will cringe at a lot of the poor decisions that Freddy makes to be with Laura. Lots of us have done similar things. I loved the character of Freddy, she was sweet and awkward and hopeful but she was also incredibly selfish at times. Like I said ¨C real. The representation is fantastic and the problems Freddy has with her friends are very relatable. The artwork is stunning. I love the pops of pink through-out this one.
]]> The Girl from the Sea 54776523 From the author of The Witch Boy trilogy comes a graphic novel about family, romance, and first love.

Fifteen-year-old Morgan has a secret: She can't wait to escape the perfect little island where she lives. She's desperate to finish high school and escape her sad divorced mom, her volatile little brother, and worst of all, her great group of friends...who don't understand Morgan at all. Because really, Morgan's biggest secret is that she has a lot of secrets, including the one about wanting to kiss another girl.

Then one night, Morgan is saved from drowning by a mysterious girl named Keltie. The two become friends and suddenly life on the island doesn't seem so stifling anymore.

But Keltie has some secrets of her own. And as the girls start to fall in love, everything they're each trying to hide will find its way to the surface...whether Morgan is ready or not.]]> 256 Molly Knox Ostertag 1338540580 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 4.13 2021 The Girl from the Sea
author: Molly Knox Ostertag
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.13
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2021/06/09
date added: 2021/06/17
shelves: books-i-own, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, lgbtqia, read-in-2021
review:
Oh my goodness, this was such a sweet and lovely graphic novel. I'm always looking for f/f relationships in books and this one was amazing. I loved the characters and the idea that one of them is Selkie - I'm obsessed with Selkie lore. The ending broke my heart just a little but it was all worth it.
]]> Bloom 39073387
Writer Kevin Panetta and artist Savanna Ganucheau concoct a delicious recipe of intricately illustrated baking scenes and blushing young love, in which the choices we make can have terrible consequences, but the people who love us can help us grow.]]> 368 Kevin Panetta 1626726418 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 3.91 2019 Bloom
author: Kevin Panetta
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.91
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2021/06/09
date added: 2021/06/09
shelves: books-i-own, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, lgbtqia, read-in-2021
review:

]]> Ghosts 25903764 256 Raina Telgemeier 0545540674 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 3 4.22 2016 Ghosts
author: Raina Telgemeier
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.22
book published: 2016
rating: 3
read at: 2021/04/26
date added: 2021/04/26
shelves: books-i-own, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, mg-paranormal-horror, middle-grade, read-in-2021
review:

]]> Solutions and Other Problems 51323365
Solutions and Other Problems includes humorous stories from Allie Brosh¡¯s childhood; the adventures of her very bad animals; merciless dissection of her own character flaws; incisive essays on grief, loneliness, and powerlessness; as well as reflections on the absurdity of modern life.

This full-color, beautifully illustrated edition features all-new material with more than 1,600 pieces of art.]]> 519 Allie Brosh 1982156945 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4
The author's first book was so important to me - I've read it over and over again and it's among my favorites on mental health. I don't know if I've ever related to a book more. Solutions and Other Problems I did really enjoy, but it was a little more depressing than the first book or at least it didn't feel quite as humorous about things. There are still amazing gems and I still really enjoyed it. It's one I'm going to have to read again - my rating might possibly even go higher. I think the four stars has a lot to do with her first book being like holy grail status for me, so I had that expectation on it - which isn't really fair. It's still worth reading 100% and it's great hearing how Allie has been doing - even if a lot of it has been hard for her. ]]> 4.21 2020 Solutions and Other Problems
author: Allie Brosh
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.21
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2020/10/12
date added: 2021/02/01
shelves: adult, books-i-own, illustrations, mental-illness, read-in-2020, most-anticipated-2020
review:
Allie is back and I'm crying. I honestly thought we'd never get another book from this author and it came out of nowhere. There was very little marketing, it seemed very hush hush. I think a lot of people's year was made just to hear that this author was okay and writing again. We all just root for Allie so much.

The author's first book was so important to me - I've read it over and over again and it's among my favorites on mental health. I don't know if I've ever related to a book more. Solutions and Other Problems I did really enjoy, but it was a little more depressing than the first book or at least it didn't feel quite as humorous about things. There are still amazing gems and I still really enjoyed it. It's one I'm going to have to read again - my rating might possibly even go higher. I think the four stars has a lot to do with her first book being like holy grail status for me, so I had that expectation on it - which isn't really fair. It's still worth reading 100% and it's great hearing how Allie has been doing - even if a lot of it has been hard for her.
]]> <![CDATA[The Lives of Saints (Grishaverse)]]> 54205369 Length: 2 hours and 14 minutes

Enter the world of the Grishaverse and Shadow and Bone, soon to be a Netflix original series!

Dive into the epic world of international bestselling author Leigh Bardugo with this beautifully illustrated replica of The Lives of Saints, the Istorii Sankt¡¯ya, featuring tales of saints drawn from the beloved novels and beyond. Out of the pages of the Shadow and Bone trilogy, from the hands of Alina Starkov to yours, the Istorii Sankt¡¯ya is a magical keepsake from the Grishaverse.

These tales include miracles and martyrdoms from familiar saints like Sankta Lizabeta of the Roses and Sankt Ilya in Chains, to the strange and obscure stories of Sankta Ursula, Sankta Maradi, and the Starless Saint.

This beautiful collection includes stunning full-color illustrations of each story.]]> 121 Leigh Bardugo 125076520X Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 3.95 2020 The Lives of Saints (Grishaverse)
author: Leigh Bardugo
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.95
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2021/01/18
date added: 2021/01/18
shelves: books-i-own, illustrations, read-in-2021
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Willow Moss and the Forgotten Tale (Starfell #2)]]> 51141719
Sometimes has discovered how to see ten minutes into the future. Unfortunately that¡¯s only enough time to find out that his kidnappers are on their way! His only hope is to write an urgent letter to Willow, asking if she wouldn¡¯t mind trying to find him.

As Willow and her friends piece together what has happened to Sometimes, their adventure takes them from an enchanted tower to the magical forest of Wisperia and into dangerous new realms¡­ Can Willow save Sometimes when her own powers are out of control?]]> 288 Dominique Valente 0008308438 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 3 4.12 2020 Willow Moss and the Forgotten Tale (Starfell #2)
author: Dominique Valente
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.12
book published: 2020
rating: 3
read at: 2021/01/12
date added: 2021/01/12
shelves: books-i-own, friendship-goals, illustrations, mg-adventure, mg-fantasy, middle-grade, read-in-2021
review:

]]> The Ice Dragon 20518784
Adara could not remember the first time she had seen the ice dragon. It seemed that it had always been in her life, glimpsed from afar as she played in the frigid snow long after the other children had fled the cold. In her fourth year she touched it, and in her fifth year she rode upon its broad, chilled back for the first time. Then, in her seventh year, on a calm summer day, fiery dragons from the North swooped down upon the peaceful farm that was Adara's home. And only a winter child¡ªand the ice dragon who loved her¡ªcould save her world from utter destruction.]]> 120 George R.R. Martin 0765378779 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 3.89 1980 The Ice Dragon
author: George R.R. Martin
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.89
book published: 1980
rating: 4
read at: 2020/12/15
date added: 2020/12/15
shelves: illustrations, mg-fantasy, read-in-2020
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Jim Henson's Labyrinth: Coronation, Vol. 1]]> 38747888
Long before Sarah ventured to save her baby brother from the clutches of the Goblin King, another young woman sought to save her child from an unknown fate within the Labyrinth. Set in 18th-century Venice, Jim Henson¡¯s Labyrinth: Coronation is a striking look into the mysteries of the Labyrinth itself, uncovering the fate of a small boy named Jareth who would one day be King.

Simon Spurrier (The Spire, Jim Henson¡¯s The Power of the Dark Crystal) and Daniel Bayliss (Jim Henson¡¯s The Storyteller: Dragons, Big Trouble in Little China/Escape from New York) present a look into a magical world where nothing is as it seems and introduce Maria, a heroine instilled with courage, hope, and determination.

Collects issues #1-4]]> 112 Simon Spurrier 1684152666 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5 4.07 2018 Jim Henson's Labyrinth: Coronation, Vol. 1
author: Simon Spurrier
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.07
book published: 2018
rating: 5
read at: 2020/11/08
date added: 2020/11/08
shelves: books-i-own, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, read-in-2020
review:

]]> Thornhill 33163379
1982: Mary is a lonely orphan at the Thornhill Institute for Children at the very moment that it's shutting its doors. When her few friends are all adopted or re-homed and she is left to face a volatile bully alone, her revenge will have a lasting effect on the bully, on Mary, and on Thornhill itself.

2016: Ella has just moved to a new town where she knows no one. From her room on the top floor of her new home, she has a perfect view of the dilapidated, abandoned Thornhill Institute across the way, where she glimpses a girl in the window. Determined to befriend the girl, Ella resolves to unravel Thornhill's shadowy past.

Told in alternating, interwoven plotlines¡ªMary's through intimate diary entries and Ella's in bold, striking art¡ªPam Smy's Thornhill is a haunting exploration of human connection, and a suspense-filled story.]]> 539 Pam Smy 162672654X Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 3.85 2017 Thornhill
author: Pam Smy
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.85
book published: 2017
rating: 4
read at: 2020/09/22
date added: 2020/09/22
shelves: books-i-own, illustrations, read-in-2020
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Down Among the Sticks and Bones (Wayward Children, #2)]]> 31450908
This is the story of what happened first¡­

Jacqueline was her mother¡¯s perfect daughter¡ªpolite and quiet, always dressed as a princess. If her mother was sometimes a little strict, it¡¯s because crafting the perfect daughter takes discipline.

Jillian was her father¡¯s perfect daughter¡ªadventurous, thrill-seeking, and a bit of a tom-boy. He really would have preferred a son, but you work with what you've got.

They were five when they learned that grown-ups can¡¯t be trusted.

They were twelve when they walked down the impossible staircase and discovered that the pretense of love can never be enough to prepare you a life filled with magic in a land filled with mad scientists and death and choices.]]> 187 Seanan McGuire 0765392038 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5 RTC 4.14 2017 Down Among the Sticks and Bones (Wayward Children, #2)
author: Seanan McGuire
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.14
book published: 2017
rating: 5
read at: 2020/05/01
date added: 2020/05/01
shelves: books-i-own, favorites, illustrations, lgbtqia, read-in-2018, ya-fantasy, read-in-2020
review:
RTC
]]> Mooncakes 44774415
Nova Huang knows more about magic than your average teen witch. She works at her grandmothers' bookshop, where she helps them loan out spell books and investigate any supernatural occurrences in their New England town.

One fateful night, she follows reports of a white wolf into the woods, and she comes across the unexpected: her childhood crush, Tam Lang, battling a horse demon in the woods. As a werewolf, Tam has been wandering from place to place for years, unable to call any town home.

Pursued by dark forces eager to claim the magic of wolves and out of options, Tam turns to Nova for help. Their latent feelings are rekindled against the backdrop of witchcraft, untested magic, occult rituals, and family ties both new and old in this enchanting tale of self-discovery.]]> 243 Suzanne Walker 154930304X Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5 3.82 2019 Mooncakes
author: Suzanne Walker
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.82
book published: 2019
rating: 5
read at: 2020/02/01
date added: 2020/03/15
shelves: books-i-own, friendship-goals, illustrations, lgbtqia, read-in-2020, ya-contemporary, ya-fantasy
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Locke & Key, Vol. 2: Head Games]]> 6120349
Meanwhile, six-year-old Bode Locke tries to puzzle out the secret of the head key, and Uncle Duncan is jarred into the past by a disturbingly familiar face.

Open your mind - the head games are just getting started]]> 160 Joe Hill Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5 4.31 2009 Locke & Key, Vol. 2: Head Games
author: Joe Hill
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.31
book published: 2009
rating: 5
read at: 2019/10/10
date added: 2019/10/10
shelves: graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, read-in-2017
review:
Another fantastic installment of this series. Review to come.
]]> <![CDATA[Locke & Key, Vol. 1: Welcome to Lovecraft]]> 3217221 168 Joe Hill 1600102379 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5
I've very behind on my reviews but I will try to get this one down soon. ]]> 4.14 2008 Locke & Key, Vol. 1: Welcome to Lovecraft
author: Joe Hill
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.14
book published: 2008
rating: 5
read at: 2019/10/09
date added: 2019/10/09
shelves: graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, read-in-2017
review:
This one has been recommended to me a few times and now I know why. Completely loved it.

I've very behind on my reviews but I will try to get this one down soon.
]]> <![CDATA[Moonstruck, Vol. 1: Magic to Brew (Moonstruck, #1)]]> 35758543
Collects issues 1 through 5.]]> 120 Grace Ellis 1534304770 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 3
This one falls at a 3.5 rating overall for me. ]]> 3.59 2018 Moonstruck, Vol. 1: Magic to Brew (Moonstruck, #1)
author: Grace Ellis
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.59
book published: 2018
rating: 3
read at: 2019/01/06
date added: 2019/06/23
shelves: books-i-own, friendship-goals, illustrations, lgbtqia, graphic-novels-and-manga, read-in-2019
review:
I really did enjoy this one, but I didn¡¯t love it unfortunately. The queer representation is incredible in this one. It¡¯s just so diverse and it was so lovely to see and it had healthy fat representation, which I am all about! The story basically centers around an adorable werewolf teenage girl and her misadventures with her friends (who are also mythical creatures) and her first date with another werewolf teen girl that goes wrong but in all the right ways. All the characters are so fun and the artwork is BEAUTIFUL. I loved the bright, fun colors. The only thing that kept this from being a higher rating for me was that the author seemed to think she needed to add in drama because she suddenly had the girls fighting over stupid things that came out of nowhere. It was distracting and frustrating. I still think it was a good start to the series.

This one falls at a 3.5 rating overall for me.
]]> Little Girls 42835831 176 Nicholas Aflleje 1534310592 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 1 The Lion King and I'm not saying that in a positive way in the slightest.

What a strange story - I feel like the author didn't even know where he was going with this when he started writing it. It started off as two little girls in Ethiopia befriending each other and becoming fascinated with the local monster legend of Kerit and if it's him killing all the people in their village. They decide to play Nancy Drew and investigate what is really happening. Sounds pretty cool, right? WRONG. Kerit turns out to be some big hyena with a lot of infection looking shit all over his face and he is pretty pissy at the local lions. Yep, it takes a weird turn about halfway in the book and this becomes a territorial war between the hyenas and lions. We get a lot of gory animal violence and the girls just watch, I guess... I can't even wrap my head around this mess.

The illustrations are odd, particular the illustrations of the people. I don't even know how to describe it other than plain odd. The animals were fine I guess - nothing awful but nothing to care about either.]]> 2.74 2019 Little Girls
author: Nicholas Aflleje
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 2.74
book published: 2019
rating: 1
read at: 2019/03/22
date added: 2019/05/08
shelves: disappointing-reads, earcs, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, ya-adventure
review:
Ok, I went into this thinking we were going to get a cool dark fairytale/folk lore story but instead I got a weird version of The Lion King and I'm not saying that in a positive way in the slightest.

What a strange story - I feel like the author didn't even know where he was going with this when he started writing it. It started off as two little girls in Ethiopia befriending each other and becoming fascinated with the local monster legend of Kerit and if it's him killing all the people in their village. They decide to play Nancy Drew and investigate what is really happening. Sounds pretty cool, right? WRONG. Kerit turns out to be some big hyena with a lot of infection looking shit all over his face and he is pretty pissy at the local lions. Yep, it takes a weird turn about halfway in the book and this becomes a territorial war between the hyenas and lions. We get a lot of gory animal violence and the girls just watch, I guess... I can't even wrap my head around this mess.

The illustrations are odd, particular the illustrations of the people. I don't even know how to describe it other than plain odd. The animals were fine I guess - nothing awful but nothing to care about either.
]]> <![CDATA[I Hate Fairyland, Vol. 4: Sadly Never After]]> 37491878
Collects issues 16 through 20.
]]> 120 Skottie Young 1534306803 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 3 4.10 2018 I Hate Fairyland, Vol. 4: Sadly Never After
author: Skottie Young
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.10
book published: 2018
rating: 3
read at: 2019/04/01
date added: 2019/04/16
shelves: books-i-own, disappointing-reads, illustrations, read-in-2019
review:
Skottie, what happened? This series has been five stars all the way through for me and then I read the very last volume and all I can think to say is "that's it?" It wasn't terrible but it was so lackluster and I expected so much for a finale from the book. I wanted, no NEEDED more from this story. I mean it has some cool stuff in it - Gert's punishment in hell was fitting and cute but that is really all I even remember. There wasn't much in the way of dialogue - half of it was just full pages of photos. The art work is still fun and gory, but I think most fans of the series will find this a huge let down. Still love Gert though.
]]> <![CDATA[I Hate Fairyland, Vol. 1: Madly Ever After]]> 28204545 Rocket Raccoon, Wizard of OZ, Fortunately, The Milk), comes the first volume of an all-new series of adventure and mayhem.

An Adventure Time/Alice in Wonderland-style epic that smashes its cute little face against grown-up, Tank Girl/Deadpool-esque violent madness. Follow Gert, a forty year old woman stuck in a six year old's body who has been trapped in the magical world of Fairyland for nearly thirty years. Join her and her giant battle-axe on a delightfully blood-soaked journey to see who will survive the girl who HATES FAIRYLAND.

Collecting: I Hate Fairyland 1-5]]> 128 Skottie Young 1632158477 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5
Gert also has a drunken fly, Larry, as her sidekick and although their relationship is twisted, confused and resentful - I'm still totally calling them friendship goals! I need a drunk, sarcastic fly having my back! Larry is better than stupid Jimminey Cricket any day of the week and I'll fight anyone that says different.

At the end of the day, I Hate Fairyland takes classics like Oz and Wonderland and turns them on their head. Completely recommend this if you like satire, bright, vibrant graphics and crazy over-the-top violence and gore.]]> 4.04 2016 I Hate Fairyland, Vol. 1: Madly Ever After
author: Skottie Young
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.04
book published: 2016
rating: 5
read at: 2019/03/30
date added: 2019/04/15
shelves: books-i-own, friendship-goals, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, read-in-2018, read-in-2019
review:
This was everything! It's such a crazy, twisted and amazingly fun adventure. I love the idea of a 30-something trapped in a child's body and stuck in a happy, sugar-coated world and has been driven completely homicidally insane because she has been trying to finish her quest and go back home for years. Our protagonist, Gertude, is one violent chick and I loved every minute watching her hack and slash her way through too many creatures than I can count. I think a lot of us can relate to the character's very cynical view on things, Gert just deals with things more extreme - a giant axe, kind of extreme LOL

Gert also has a drunken fly, Larry, as her sidekick and although their relationship is twisted, confused and resentful - I'm still totally calling them friendship goals! I need a drunk, sarcastic fly having my back! Larry is better than stupid Jimminey Cricket any day of the week and I'll fight anyone that says different.

At the end of the day, I Hate Fairyland takes classics like Oz and Wonderland and turns them on their head. Completely recommend this if you like satire, bright, vibrant graphics and crazy over-the-top violence and gore.
]]> <![CDATA[I Hate Fairyland, Vol. 2: Fluff My Life]]> 31338721 144 Skottie Young 1632158876 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5
Also, loved the inclusive of DarkDeathe - it was so hilarious. Of course Gert would bond with someone like that, was there ever any doubt? The story is full of lots sass, crass and, of course, GORE! SO. MUCH. GORE.

That ending was perfect.
]]> 4.06 2016 I Hate Fairyland, Vol. 2: Fluff My Life
author: Skottie Young
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.06
book published: 2016
rating: 5
read at: 2019/03/31
date added: 2019/04/15
shelves: books-i-own, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, read-in-2018, read-in-2019
review:
Skottie did it again with his second volume of this hilarious graphic novel series! Gert is still on her epic quest looking for that damn key, so she can go home and be with her parents. Every now and then Gert makes a reference to just wanting to go home and it's a great reminder of why this poor girl went completely homicidal. I'd kill some bitches too if they took me away from my family! This volume changes things up by bringing in some competition for Gert with a pint sized, adorable young girl named Happy. Happy is a great addition and completely cracks me up with her sweet but kind of psychotic personality. I dug it.

Also, loved the inclusive of DarkDeathe - it was so hilarious. Of course Gert would bond with someone like that, was there ever any doubt? The story is full of lots sass, crass and, of course, GORE! SO. MUCH. GORE.

That ending was perfect.

]]> <![CDATA[Moonstruck, Vol. 2: Some Enchanted Evening (Moonstruck, #2)]]> 38812877
Collects MOONSTRUCK #6-10
]]> 136 Grace Ellis 1534308458 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 2 It starts off that from where Vol 1 ended and Julie has landed a gig writing the next story of her favorite series and we see little snippets of her work but she isn't ready to show her girlfriend Selena what she has written and problems ensue. I get this is not a high stakes GN but the author really wants to throw drama in the series for zero reason. Selena and Julie bicker back and forth and then suddenly make-up. It's not needed and really distracting. We just want to see a cute relationship - drama is not always required.

The biggest problem with Vol 2 though is that it made no damn sense. It jumped all over the place - we'd be watching a nice little scene with our main characters and then suddenly we are in a fairy house and they are trapped? Who are the fairies? Good question - I have no idea. Why are they trapping our main characters? Another great question that I have zero answers to. It was just bizarre. I have read other reviews and it seems I am not alone in my confusion. It was kind of a hot mess of a plot, to be completely blunt.

Yet again, I wanted to enjoy this story so much more than I did. I still love the main characters - Selena and Julie. They are freaking adorable and I love their chubby little selves (Hooray for fat rep!) and the LGBTQIA and POC representation is again amazing, but it's just not enough to save this story. I doubt I'll continue if there are anymore in the series. ]]> 3.45 2019 Moonstruck, Vol. 2: Some Enchanted Evening (Moonstruck, #2)
author: Grace Ellis
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.45
book published: 2019
rating: 2
read at: 2019/03/22
date added: 2019/04/01
shelves: graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, friendship-goals, lgbtqia, read-in-2019, ya-fantasy, ya-contemporary, earcs
review:

It starts off that from where Vol 1 ended and Julie has landed a gig writing the next story of her favorite series and we see little snippets of her work but she isn't ready to show her girlfriend Selena what she has written and problems ensue. I get this is not a high stakes GN but the author really wants to throw drama in the series for zero reason. Selena and Julie bicker back and forth and then suddenly make-up. It's not needed and really distracting. We just want to see a cute relationship - drama is not always required.

The biggest problem with Vol 2 though is that it made no damn sense. It jumped all over the place - we'd be watching a nice little scene with our main characters and then suddenly we are in a fairy house and they are trapped? Who are the fairies? Good question - I have no idea. Why are they trapping our main characters? Another great question that I have zero answers to. It was just bizarre. I have read other reviews and it seems I am not alone in my confusion. It was kind of a hot mess of a plot, to be completely blunt.

Yet again, I wanted to enjoy this story so much more than I did. I still love the main characters - Selena and Julie. They are freaking adorable and I love their chubby little selves (Hooray for fat rep!) and the LGBTQIA and POC representation is again amazing, but it's just not enough to save this story. I doubt I'll continue if there are anymore in the series.
]]> Sleepless, Vol. 1 37491883
Collects issues 1-6.
]]> 168 Sarah Vaughn 1534306846 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5 4.21 2018 Sleepless, Vol. 1
author: Sarah Vaughn
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.21
book published: 2018
rating: 5
read at: 2019/03/28
date added: 2019/03/31
shelves: books-i-own, friendship-goals, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, read-in-2019, ya-fantasy
review:

]]> Exorsisters, Vol. 1 42835835 Included in Book Riot's Best Comics of 2018

Did you sign a deal with the devil? Has a loved one been dragged to Hell? Then Kate and Cate Harrow should be the first ones you call for timely soul removal at a reasonable rate. This collection is perfect for fans of case-solving procedurals like Veronica Mars , Netflix's Jessica Jones , and the CW's Supernatural , and introduces readers to the Harrows, who have to deal with the end of the world, fallen angels, demon worshipping ex-boyfriends, and their Mother.

Collects EXORSISTERS #1-5.
]]> 120 Ian Boothby 1534312048 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 3 3.75 2019 Exorsisters, Vol. 1
author: Ian Boothby
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.75
book published: 2019
rating: 3
read at: 2019/03/28
date added: 2019/03/31
shelves: earcs, illustrations, read-in-2019, ya-contemporary, ya-fantasy
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Giant Days, Vol. 1 (Giant Days, #1)]]> 25785993
Collects issues #1-4.]]> 112 John Allison 1608867897 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 3.92 2015 Giant Days, Vol. 1 (Giant Days, #1)
author: John Allison
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.92
book published: 2015
rating: 4
read at: 2019/03/30
date added: 2019/03/31
shelves: friendship-goals, illustrations, lgbtqia, read-in-2019, graphic-novels-and-manga, ya-contemporary
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Tea Dragon Society (Tea Dragon, #1)]]> 34895950 Princess Princess Ever After comes The Tea Dragon Society, a charming all-ages book that follows the story of Greta, a blacksmith apprentice, and the people she meets as she becomes entwined in the enchanting world of tea dragons.

After discovering a lost tea dragon in the marketplace, Greta learns about the dying art form of tea dragon care-taking from the kind tea shop owners, Hesekiel and Erik. As she befriends them and their shy ward, Minette, Greta sees how the craft enriches their lives¡ªand eventually her own.]]> 71 Kay O'Neill 1620104415 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5 So stinking cute! RTC! 4.35 2017 The Tea Dragon Society (Tea Dragon, #1)
author: Kay O'Neill
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.35
book published: 2017
rating: 5
read at: 2019/03/30
date added: 2019/03/30
shelves: books-i-own, friendship-goals, illustrations, mg-fantasy, middle-grade, middlegrade-must, physical-disability, read-in-2019, graphic-novels-and-manga
review:
So stinking cute! RTC!
]]> Christmas Dinner of Souls 34457212
For this is the annual meeting of a secret club for those who despise children, warmth, happiness, and above all Christmas. Each member must try to outdo the others by telling the most terrible, disgusting story they know.

A spooky, shocking, bloodthirsty alternative to festive cheer that will appeal to, fascinate and delight young readers.]]> 240 Ross Montgomery 0571317979 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 3
RTC]]> 4.04 2017 Christmas Dinner of Souls
author: Ross Montgomery
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.04
book published: 2017
rating: 3
read at: 2018/12/23
date added: 2018/12/30
shelves: books-i-own, illustrations, mg-paranormal-horror, middle-grade, read-in-2018
review:
This was a pretty fun little read. It wasn't quite as good as I wanted it to be but it was worth a read. Probably more of a library borrow than a buy though.

RTC
]]> <![CDATA[Harrow County, Vol. 1: Countless Haints]]> 25486101 A southern gothic fairy tale from the creator of smash hit The Sixth Gun, beautifully and hauntingly realized by B.P.R.D.'s Tyler Crook!

Collecting: Harrow County 1-4]]> 144 Cullen Bunn 161655780X Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 3 4.04 2015 Harrow County, Vol. 1: Countless Haints
author: Cullen Bunn
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.04
book published: 2015
rating: 3
read at: 2018/10/02
date added: 2018/10/03
shelves: books-i-own, read-in-2018, illustrations, graphic-novels-and-manga
review:

]]> The House with Chicken Legs 33832945
But that's tough when your grandmother is a Yaga, a guardian who guides the dead into the afterlife. It's even harder when you live in a house that wanders all over the world . . . carrying you with it. Even worse, Marinka is being trained to be a Yaga. That means no school, no parties--and no playmates that stick around for more than a day.

So when Marinka stumbles across the chance to make a real friend, she breaks all the rules . . . with devastating consequences. Her beloved grandmother mysteriously disappears, and it's up to Marinka to find her--even if it means making a dangerous journey to the afterlife.


With a mix of whimsy, humor, and adventure, this debut novel will wrap itself around your heart and never let go.]]> 337 Sophie Anderson 1474940668 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4
RTC]]> 4.09 2018 The House with Chicken Legs
author: Sophie Anderson
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.09
book published: 2018
rating: 4
read at: 2018/06/19
date added: 2018/06/19
shelves: most-anticipated-2018, books-i-own, cry-worthy, friendship-goals, illustrations, mg-adventure, mg-paranormal-horror, middle-grade, middlegrade-must, read-in-2018
review:
Not exactly what I was expecting but this was a beautiful take on Baba Yaga, it got me right in the feels!

RTC
]]> <![CDATA[Tales from the Crypt #1: Ghouls Gone Wild: Ghouls Gone Wild (Tales from the Crypt Graphic Novels, 1)]]> 387300 The original series suspended publication over fifty years ago. Papercutz has obtained the exclusive rights to revive this frightful franchise and to create all-new TALES FROM THE CRYPT comics, in our full-color digest-sized format. The debut volume features four tales of
"Body of Work," reveals how two nosy and somewhat murderous neighbors discover the shocking inspiration for Jack Kroll's outsider artwork. "Runway Roadkill" presents a behind the scenes look at what is destined to be fashion designer Kimberly Kinselling's final show. "For Serious Collectors Only" proves that even connoisseurs of Japanese action figures should always carefully read the labels-or risk deadly consequences.
"The Tenant" features the fearsome fate of slumlord James Winchell, who, after one of his tenants dies due to his neglect, is forced to live in one of his buildings by a creepy
cemetery. All stories, painfully introduced by the perpetually-punning
GhouLunatics, The Crypt-Keeper, The Old Witch, and the Vault-Keeper]]> 112 Don McGregor 1597070823 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 2
Overall, it was alright. A bit of a let down though. ]]> 3.38 2007 Tales from the Crypt #1: Ghouls Gone Wild: Ghouls Gone Wild (Tales from the Crypt Graphic Novels, 1)
author: Don McGregor
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.38
book published: 2007
rating: 2
read at: 2017/12/16
date added: 2018/05/29
shelves: books-i-own, illustrations, read-in-2017, graphic-novels-and-manga
review:
This was a quick little read. I grew up on Tales from The Crypt and these stories were very on brand for them. I wish the book had been full sized and maybe had a few more stories in it. I was thrown a little by the illustrations of the Crypt Keeper himself because I grew up on the adult television show and later the kids cartoon. He didn't look anything like the skelton guy that most of us associate with the Crypt Keeper but I guess that is being nit picky.

Overall, it was alright. A bit of a let down though.
]]> Tinder 18113422
Otto Hundebiss is tired of war, but when he defies Death he walks a dangerous path. A half beast half man gives him shoes and dice which will lead him deep into a web of dark magic and mystery. He meets the beautiful Safire - pure of heart and spirit, the scheming Mistress Jabber and the terrifying Lady of the Nail. He learns the powers of the tinderbox and the wolves whose master he becomes. But will all the riches in the world bring him the thing he most desires?

Fairy tales are often the cruellest stories of all; in this exquisite novel Sally Gardner writes about great love and great loss.]]> 270 Sally Gardner 1780621493 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 3 ¡°There are too many ghosts walking this earth. They weigh heavy on the living.¡±


I read this back in October of 2016 and I'm just reviewing it at the end of January 2017. I loved this book so much but I felt a little intimidated about reviewing it. I feel like to give a really in-depth review I would need to read it a couple of times to really get a good grasp on all the themes. I'll do my best to give my thoughts on the book as is though. I'd give this a 3.5 rating but that could change once I read it again.

Trigger warning: Rape and scary imagery.

The book is a retelling of Han's Christian Anderson's fairy tale Tinderbox. I was not familiar with it at all. I'm honestly not sure if it's one of his more well-known tales, but it wasn't in the collection that I had of his popular fairy tales.

This was a cover buy for me, I'm not going to even try to lie. I was browsing the YA section at my local bookstore and I saw it and all of its beautiful glory. I mean come on, that cover though! There is similar artwork through-out the entire book. The drawings are incredible and haunting. They really added an extra element to the story.

The writing was beautiful and read just like an old fairy tale. Normally a fairy tale is fairly short so this was really going deeper into the story. The book has a very eerie atmosphere. There is almost a sense of dread that I felt the entire time I was reading this. I knew from that start that this wasn't likely to end up with a happy ending. I know from Anderson's other work that he likes to write very depressing fairy tales, so I didn't trust for a second that this one would be any different.

I will likely read this again in the near future so that I can take a harder look at it. First time through I just sat back and enjoyed the writing and illustrations.

I would recommend this to anyone looking for a much darker fairy tale. Don't go into this expecting your typical YA read. You will be very disappointed. This tale is strange and haunting.
This would be more along the line of a Grimm Fairy Tale. I think it's worth the purchase just for how beautiful the illustrations are.]]> 3.88 2013 Tinder
author: Sally Gardner
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.88
book published: 2013
rating: 3
read at: 2016/10/17
date added: 2018/05/29
shelves: books-i-own, fairytale-retellings, read-in-2016, ya-horror, ya-fantasy, ya-romance, sexual-assault, illustrations
review:
¡°There are too many ghosts walking this earth. They weigh heavy on the living.¡±


I read this back in October of 2016 and I'm just reviewing it at the end of January 2017. I loved this book so much but I felt a little intimidated about reviewing it. I feel like to give a really in-depth review I would need to read it a couple of times to really get a good grasp on all the themes. I'll do my best to give my thoughts on the book as is though. I'd give this a 3.5 rating but that could change once I read it again.

Trigger warning: Rape and scary imagery.

The book is a retelling of Han's Christian Anderson's fairy tale Tinderbox. I was not familiar with it at all. I'm honestly not sure if it's one of his more well-known tales, but it wasn't in the collection that I had of his popular fairy tales.

This was a cover buy for me, I'm not going to even try to lie. I was browsing the YA section at my local bookstore and I saw it and all of its beautiful glory. I mean come on, that cover though! There is similar artwork through-out the entire book. The drawings are incredible and haunting. They really added an extra element to the story.

The writing was beautiful and read just like an old fairy tale. Normally a fairy tale is fairly short so this was really going deeper into the story. The book has a very eerie atmosphere. There is almost a sense of dread that I felt the entire time I was reading this. I knew from that start that this wasn't likely to end up with a happy ending. I know from Anderson's other work that he likes to write very depressing fairy tales, so I didn't trust for a second that this one would be any different.

I will likely read this again in the near future so that I can take a harder look at it. First time through I just sat back and enjoyed the writing and illustrations.

I would recommend this to anyone looking for a much darker fairy tale. Don't go into this expecting your typical YA read. You will be very disappointed. This tale is strange and haunting.
This would be more along the line of a Grimm Fairy Tale. I think it's worth the purchase just for how beautiful the illustrations are.
]]> Wytches, Volume 1 25243735
Collecting: Wytches 1-6]]> 192 Scott Snyder 1632153807 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 3.79 2014 Wytches, Volume 1
author: Scott Snyder
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.79
book published: 2014
rating: 4
read at: 2017/12/17
date added: 2018/05/29
shelves: adult, books-i-own, illustrations, graphic-novels-and-manga, read-in-2017
review:

]]> Spell on Wheels, Vol. 1 34390407
Andy, Jolene, and Claire aren't your average twenty-somethings. They're legacy witches making their way through a modern world. When a jealous nonmagical ex breaks into their home and steals a spell that could awaken potentials with magical powers, the witches plan their revenge. Traveling down the East Coast, they must retrieve their powerful stolen artifacts and strengthen their friendship... the big bad is even worse than they imagined.

Collects Spell on Wheels #1¨C#5.]]> 136 Kate Leth 1506701833 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 Loved it. <br /><br />RTC 4.04 2017 Spell on Wheels, Vol. 1
author: Kate Leth
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.04
book published: 2017
rating: 4
read at: 2018/02/25
date added: 2018/05/29
shelves: books-i-own, friendship-goals, illustrations, graphic-novels-and-manga, lgbtqia, read-in-2018
review:
Loved it.

RTC
]]> El Deafo 20701984
Then Cece makes a startling discovery. With the Phonic Ear she can hear her teacher not just in the classroom, but anywhere her teacher is in school ¡ª in the hallway... in the teacher's lounge... in the bathroom! This is power. Maybe even superpower! Cece is on her way to becoming El Deafo, Listener for All. But the funny thing about being a superhero is that it's just another way of feeling different... and lonely. Can Cece channel her powers into finding the thing she wants most, a true friend?

This funny perceptive graphic novel memoir about growing up hearing impaired is also an unforgettable book about growing up, and all the super and super embarrassing moments along the way.]]> 233 Cece Bell 1419710206 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4
RTC]]> 4.19 2014 El Deafo
author: Cece Bell
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.19
book published: 2014
rating: 4
read at: 2018/03/26
date added: 2018/05/29
shelves: friendship-goals, graphic-novels-and-manga, illustrations, middle-grade, physical-disability, read-in-2018
review:
Such a great book with awesome representation. Really enjoyed it.

RTC
]]> <![CDATA[Unicorn vs. Goblins (Phoebe and Her Unicorn #3)]]> 26071563 Not every kid skips a rock across a pond and winds up with a unicorn best friend, right? The popular friendship of Phoebe and Her Unicorn is back for a third collection of adventures so heavenly they had to be shared.

School¡¯s out! That means no more teachers, no more books, and lots of time to compliment Marigold Heavenly Nostrils on her good looks. In this third volume, Phoebe and her obligational best friend, Marigold, learn that summer still has plenty of surprises for the both of them.

All of our old friends are back¡ªPhoebe¡¯s part-time ¡°frenemy¡± Dakota, upon whom Marigold has bestowed sentient hair, Phoebe¡¯s goofy parents, and even Lord Splendid Humility (but please, ignore his magnificence if you can)!

Have fun as Phoebe and Marigold continue the ¡°Phoebegold Detective Agency,¡± spend a week at Wolfgang Music Camp, and find themselves in more misadventures, thanks to Marigold¡¯s enchanted sparkles! Along the way, Phoebe makes some new friends, such as Sue¡ªher unique clarinet-playing bunkmate, Florence Unfortunate Nostrils, Marigold¡¯s estranged sister, and Camp Wolfgang¡¯s lake monster who enjoys tacos and Wi-Fi.

When school resumes, read along as Phoebe enjoys (or suffers from) a brief case of popularity, mentally catalogs her grievances against dodge ball, and, with Marigold¡¯s help, rescues Dakota and her hair from the queen of the goblins. Through these wacky adventures, Phoebe and Marigold learn that their friendship is the second most magical thing of all, after Marigold¡¯s beauty, of course.

Includes an introduction by Cory Doctorow and his daughter Poesy!]]> 174 Dana Simpson 1449476287 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 3 4.23 2016 Unicorn vs. Goblins (Phoebe and Her Unicorn #3)
author: Dana Simpson
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.23
book published: 2016
rating: 3
read at: 2018/05/24
date added: 2018/05/24
shelves: friendship-goals, illustrations, graphic-novels-and-manga, mg-adventure, mg-fantasy, middle-grade, read-in-2018
review:
This one wasn't my favorite of the series so far but I still had a great time. I can't wait to read this whole series. It's just freaking adorable.
]]> <![CDATA[Unicorn on a Roll (Phoebe and Her Unicorn #2)]]> 23492248 The magical friendship of Phoebe and her best friend, unicorn Marigold Heavenly Nostrils, is back in this second adventure of a girl and her mythical creature!

One year has passed since Phoebe skipped a rock across a pond, accidentally hit a unicorn in the face, and was granted a single wish¡ªwhich she used to make the unicorn, Marigold Heavenly Nostrils, her obligational best friend. In some ways, not much has changed. At school Phoebe still clashes with her rival--and sometimes ¡°frenemy¡±--he ever-taunting and imperious Dakota. Outside of school, she still fills her free time with extra-credit homework assignments, dramatic monologues about the injustices associated with school cliques, and imaginative conspiracy theories regarding global forces like the ¡°powerful construction paper lobby.¡± But unlike before, Phoebe now has a best friend to share it with¡ªsomeone to make her laugh and to listen to all her extravagant ideas.

In this second volume of Dana Simpson's Phoebe and Her Unicorn series, titled, Unicorn on a Roll, the reader is invited on a journey into the lives of Phoebe and Marigold as they navigate the difficulties of grade school, celebrate the winter holidays, and explore their super hero/super villain personas together. Join in the fun, as Phoebe competes against Dakota for the leading role of ¡°Lisa Ladybug¡± in their fourth-grade play¡ªor as she struggles to ¡°manage¡± the PR debacle related to her nose-picking-scandal. (¡°I will neither confirm nor deny the events surrounding Boogergate.¡±) Witness a band of unicorns staging an ¡°intervention¡± and learn all the details of Marigold¡¯s secret crush on a mysterious creature she has never seen. Perhaps most important, watch as this surprising friendship between a charming, nine-year-old dreamer and a vain, mythical beast forever changes both of them for the better.]]> 222 Dana Simpson 1449470769 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4 4.20 2015 Unicorn on a Roll (Phoebe and Her Unicorn #2)
author: Dana Simpson
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.20
book published: 2015
rating: 4
read at: 2018/05/20
date added: 2018/05/22
shelves: friendship-goals, illustrations, graphic-novels-and-manga, mg-adventure, mg-fantasy, middlegrade-must, middle-grade, read-in-2018
review:
Why didn't I pick up this series sooner?!?! RTC
]]> <![CDATA[Phoebe and Her Unicorn (Phoebe and Her Unicorn #1)]]> 22710140
Come along for the unicorn ride with Phoebe, as she deals with the usual burdens of childhood (cruel classmates, gym class, piano lessons) and also some unusual ones (magic hair, candy-breathing dragons, and the legendary Shield of Boringness).

Can a precocious little girl and a self-absorbed mythical forest creature find common ground? Indeed they can, and that's how Phoebe and Her Unicorn unfolds.]]> 222 Dana Simpson 1449446205 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5 Loved it! RTC 4.08 2014 Phoebe and Her Unicorn (Phoebe and Her Unicorn #1)
author: Dana Simpson
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 4.08
book published: 2014
rating: 5
read at: 2018/05/19
date added: 2018/05/22
shelves: friendship-goals, illustrations, mg-fantasy, mg-adventure, middlegrade-must, middle-grade, read-in-2018
review:
Loved it! RTC
]]> West of the Moon 18405507 213 Margi Preus 1419708961 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 3
This book is strange and the parallels it's trying to make with immigration and the fairy talk East of The Sun and West of the Moon is sometimes hard to follow and there is just no way a child is going to have a clue what she is talking about most of the time. It's not even about maturity in a reader - it's about having a lot some back knowledge of some of things that are going on. There are also some really disturbing scenes like the adult goatman trying to sexually assault the main child in the story and then later trying to marry her so he could "bed her." A lot of parents are likely to feel pretty uncomfortable with letting their children read this - hell I was uncomfortable reading it myself in some parts.

I'm not really sure if I recommend this story because it's just so bizarre. You are either going to get a couple chapters in and throw it at the wall or you're going to think it's the greatest thing since sliced bread. If you want to give this one a shot yourself than by all means - go for it and let me know how you made out with it.

TRIGGER WARNING: Attempted child rape and child marriage. ]]> 3.72 2014 West of the Moon
author: Margi Preus
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.72
book published: 2014
rating: 3
read at: 2018/04/16
date added: 2018/04/16
shelves: fairytale-retellings, illustrations, mg-adventure, mg-fantasy, read-in-2018, sexual-assault
review:
I almost have no idea what I just read. I'm really reluctant to place this in my middle-grade reads because I don't really think this is a middle-grade novel. Another reviewer said something like this was not a great middle-grade book but it was great literature and I have to kind of agree for the most part on that note.

This book is strange and the parallels it's trying to make with immigration and the fairy talk East of The Sun and West of the Moon is sometimes hard to follow and there is just no way a child is going to have a clue what she is talking about most of the time. It's not even about maturity in a reader - it's about having a lot some back knowledge of some of things that are going on. There are also some really disturbing scenes like the adult goatman trying to sexually assault the main child in the story and then later trying to marry her so he could "bed her." A lot of parents are likely to feel pretty uncomfortable with letting their children read this - hell I was uncomfortable reading it myself in some parts.

I'm not really sure if I recommend this story because it's just so bizarre. You are either going to get a couple chapters in and throw it at the wall or you're going to think it's the greatest thing since sliced bread. If you want to give this one a shot yourself than by all means - go for it and let me know how you made out with it.

TRIGGER WARNING: Attempted child rape and child marriage.
]]> <![CDATA[The Essential Fan Guide to RuPaul's Drag Race]]> 34714562 ?
Bursting onto the scene over two decades ago (with smash hit 'Supermodel of the World') RuPaul has been confounding critics to clear her own path over the many years since. Most recently, RuPaul has again become an unlikely pop-cultural icon by producing and starring in RuPaul's Drag Race - a reality television series that judges the charisma, uniqueness, nerve and talent of the competing drag queens. Over nine seasons and numerous spin-off series (including All Stars and RuPaul's Drag U), RuPaul's Drag Race has become a cult global hit - fans know the catchphrases, the personalities, the cat fights.?
?
The Essential Fan Guide to RuPaul's Drag Race celebrates all the queens (all 100+) that have graced the stage, as well as memorable Drag terms, inspiring quotes from RuPaul and so many facts and figures that even a hardcore RuPaul fan will learn a thing or two. This is one for the true fans.]]> 216 192541857X Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4
Just incase anyone is curious - my favorite queens are: Alyssa Edwards, Tati, Roxxxy, Detox, Milk, Bianca, Katya, Alaska, Raven, Raja, Aja and Ben. I know nobody wanted that information but I wanted to put it in anyway because..... obsessed.]]> 3.96 2019 The Essential Fan Guide to RuPaul's Drag Race
author: John Davis
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.96
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2018/03/16
date added: 2018/03/29
shelves: books-i-own, illustrations, lgbtqia, read-in-2018
review:
I'm not going to do a full review on this because there isn't a ton I could really say about it. I enjoyed it and am glad to have bought it. If you are a hardcore Drag Race fan then you might have fun with this but casual fans aren't going to find anything here. The book is pretty basic but it does give a little information about every queen over the first nine season and first two all-star seasons. The information is nothing that juicy though - most dedicated fans will already know this stuff. I still liked reading it here and there and the illustrations are cute. I hope a fan guide eventually comes out that has more info and queen interviews. I know I will be buying but I'm completely OBSESSED with the show. It's not healthy haha

Just incase anyone is curious - my favorite queens are: Alyssa Edwards, Tati, Roxxxy, Detox, Milk, Bianca, Katya, Alaska, Raven, Raja, Aja and Ben. I know nobody wanted that information but I wanted to put it in anyway because..... obsessed.
]]> The Inn Between 25667027
Eleven-year-old Quinn has had some bad experiences lately. She was caught cheating in school, and then one day, her little sister Emma disappeared while walking home from school. She never returned

When Quinn's best friend Kara has to move away, she goes on one last trip with Kara and her family. They stop over at the first hotel they see, a Victorian inn that instantly gives Quinn the creeps, and she begins to notice strange things happening around them. When Kara's parents and then brother disappear without a trace, the girls are stranded in a hotel full of strange guests, hallways that twist back in on themselves, and a particularly nasty surprise lurking beneath the floorboards. Will the girls be able to solve the mystery of what happened to Kara's family before it's too late?]]> 208 Marina Cohen 1626722021 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 4
I will say that this is a really good book and I got it for only a few dollars on Bookoutlet - so it's worth picking up. I didn't find this book in the least bit scary but there was a sense of eerie present the entire time. It's more a paranormal/mystery book than a straight up horror book. I think younger children could read this but they might need some help with some of the themes that are presented and what was really going on. Particularly towards the end. Either way, check it out. ]]> 3.74 2016 The Inn Between
author: Marina Cohen
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.74
book published: 2016
rating: 4
read at: 2018/03/15
date added: 2018/03/23
shelves: books-i-own, cry-worthy, friendship-goals, illustrations, mg-paranormal-horror, mg-mystery, read-in-2018
review:
I've decided that I don't think I can write a full review on this book until I have read it a second time. I basically inhaled this book in one sitting. I was so curious to see what was going to happen with these characters and the strange place they were in, that I feel like I didn't take in a lot of the background stuff. I have a feeling that now I know the mystery, if I read it again, it will be a completely different and interesting experience. I'm not sure when I'll get a chance to read it again but I most certainly will.

I will say that this is a really good book and I got it for only a few dollars on Bookoutlet - so it's worth picking up. I didn't find this book in the least bit scary but there was a sense of eerie present the entire time. It's more a paranormal/mystery book than a straight up horror book. I think younger children could read this but they might need some help with some of the themes that are presented and what was really going on. Particularly towards the end. Either way, check it out.
]]> <![CDATA[The Secret Horses of Briar Hill]]> 28588101 The Secret Horses of Briar Hill shows readers everywhere that there is color in our world -- they just need to know where to look. There are winged horses that live in the mirrors of Briar Hill hospital -- the mirrors that reflect the elegant rooms once home to a princess, now filled with sick children. Only Emmaline can see the creatures. It is her secret.

One morning, Emmaline climbs over the wall of the hospital's abandoned gardens and discovers something incredible: a white horse with a broken wing has left the mirror-world and entered her own.

The horse, named Foxfire, is hiding from a dark and sinister force--a Black Horse who hunts by colorless moonlight. If Emmaline is to keep him from finding her new friend, she must surround Foxfire with treasures of brilliant shades. But where can Emmaline find color in a world of gray?]]> 220 Megan Shepherd 1101939753 Melanie (TBR and Beyond) 5
RTC]]> 3.85 2016 The Secret Horses of Briar Hill
author: Megan Shepherd
name: Melanie (TBR and Beyond)
average rating: 3.85
book published: 2016
rating: 5
read at: 2018/03/17
date added: 2018/03/17
shelves: books-i-own, cry-worthy, friendship-goals, illustrations, middle-grade, physical-disability, read-in-2018, underrated-gem
review:
This book was so beautiful, I just can't take it! This book truly is magical and I believed every word.

RTC
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