Bad Witch Burning by Jessica Lewis

Where do I even begin to review this book?  When I first read the description of the book (a teenage Black witch bringing the dead back to life), I instantly thought this would be about a magical realm with Katrell, the MC, against the world.  I didn’t expect it to be about the struggles of a young Black teenager just trying to keep her head above water.

The things I loved about this book are numerous.  There’s Will, the type of friend everyone wishes for.  She is a strong force hidden behind weak walls.  Conrad the gentle turned not-so-gentle-giant.  Who doesn’t love a protector that is also a cuddle-buddy? Mike, honest but ruthless Mike, is that one outlier that goes above and beyond. Then, there is the sisterly relationship between Will and Katrell.  *chef’s kiss* They are friendship goals.

The one thing that I felt could really use some improvement is that there were some loose ends that I am left wondering about after finishing the book. I needed to understand more about the revived persons, the relationship between them and their families, as well as Katrell’s and Will’s control over them.  I also needed some more explanation about Katrell’s abilities. 

The magical realism in this book sometimes took a backseat to the other issues in the book.  I would have liked more magic, but I thoroughly appreciate this book for what it is.  It is a cry for help.  Katrell’s development, the development of her relationship with Will, Katrell’s moments of stark realization about how people feel about her, and the sisterly bond that Will and Katrell share are enough to make this book magical without the magical elements.

My heart was heavy, I ached with apprehension, and I cried thug tears for Katrell.  Knowing that this story is a take on the author’s life makes me wonder how many Katrells are out in the world right now.

4.5/5 stars for my thug tears

White Smoke by Tiffany D. Jackson

 

Once again I have devoured a Tiffany D Jackson book in one sitting! I loved everything about this book.

What I loved most was that the horror elements were set against a social backdrop and were based on real life themes i.e. the "Get Out" reference. It's totally warranted. It deals with many issues from marijuana legalization to mass incarceration. These social issues help build up the atmosphere and environment of the setting, but they aren't the main issue. They are just used in the setup of the book. I think Ms. Jackson expects the reader to already know a little about these subjects, which is why she doesn't go into detail.

I fell HARD for Marigold, but I also questioned everything that she saw, did, or said because she's an unreliable narrator. She has problems with anxiety, phobias, and drug addiction with the latter being fueled by the former. Because she is the MC, we see everything from her point of view, so everything and every interaction needs to be taken with a grain of salt. She can easily make enemies out of everyone, but everyone wasn't an enemy. In the end, the novel is half about her self-growth and half about the problems in the town.

My favorite character was Sammy. OMG! I love that kid. He was a big bundle of love, brains, truth, and sarcasm. I would fight anyone to keep him safe.

It's a 5/5 for me!

This or That

 Just a quick little rundown of Krystal...and by quick, I mean Instagram posts.  😂  I don't do pages and pages of writing.  I like to top everything off with a K.I.S.S. (keep it short and sweet)

As for my book faves, I'm a moord reader.  I read what I feel like reading at the time, which is why I tend to back away from read-a-thons.  I tried, but I get too moody.

I recently got back into reading after taking about a 2-3 year hiatus.  I went from reading 8 books last year to over 70 this year.  I'm spilling out the sides with newly read information, and I don't know what to do with it!  Hence, this blog. 😅

An Introduction

 Hello peoples!

My name is Krystal.  I am a lifetime of weird and lovable.  But, I am also all over the place and into (and also) out off many things.  I have been into nails, makeup, Disney pins, fantasy pins, book, etc. etc.  So, expect this blog to be all over the place just like it's owner.  

Welcome to my life.  I hope you enjoy your time with me.