Incredibly well discussed and suited my style of non-fiction. For personal reasons, I will be giving it 5 stars. Though I do not agree with some of thIncredibly well discussed and suited my style of non-fiction. For personal reasons, I will be giving it 5 stars. Though I do not agree with some of the arguably transphobic views, I resonated a lot with Lasco’s thought processes or at least where they were coming from. Fellow Filipinos, you need to read this.
This is labeled as a mystery-thriller and rightfully so, the atmosphere was intense and fast-paced the whole way through. I think you should be in theThis is labeled as a mystery-thriller and rightfully so, the atmosphere was intense and fast-paced the whole way through. I think you should be in the right headspace when you start reading this because watching the manipulation unfold just elicited so many emotions for me. I couldn’t put it down even though it just kept getting more intense.
I didn't like with some things about the ending and the plot twist TDJ chose... and that's the main reason didn't give it a full perfect rating.
— overall thoughts: 4.5 — ⇢ content warnings// (view spoiler)[Adult/minor relationship, Body shaming, Bullying, Death (including loved one), Emotional abuse, Grooming, Pedophilia, Physical abuse, Suicide ideation, Victim Blaming (hide spoiler)] ⇢ representation: Black Main Characters, Black Side Characters, Latinx Side Character
The story begins at the climax of the plot when Enchanted wakes up to find Korey Fields dead and she has no recollection of what happened. From there the narration goes to what happened before the incident and as well as shows the aftermath of trauma after you go through said traumatic events with the main character. The way Tiffany D. Jackson decided to end the plotline was, I think, the best decision that could have been possible and I still didn’t see it coming. I do think that it could have been built up more that it was.
As a musician, it was so interesting to me that the author chose to portray racism and prejudices in the music industry specifically. It added a layer of relatability for me, especially at the moments when her PTSD manifested while performing. I don’t wish to glorify or romanticize that in any way but since Enchanted is a singer and part fo the trauma was a result of that, it makes sense.
My favorite aspect about this whole thing was probably the fact that Korey is actually humanized and not cast as a straight up bad guy while still making it very clear that what he did was manipulative and wrong. He felt like a real person with real feelings, real stories to tell. As the book said, it explores the complicated feelings of loving your torturer.
I loved that the teenage dialogues didn’t make me cringe, they felt realistic and genuine. I found it easy to relate to Enchanted as a character. The writing style made everything feel so tangible. I was so intrigued the whole time from her being a swimmer, to a singer, and the murdering mystery part too. I don’t know why it took me so long to pick up a Tiffany D. Jackson book but I’m glad this was the first, I get the hype now.
There was such a well established family foundation that I didn’t expect to actually be invested in Enchanted’s family as much as just herself. Usually, I find that even though a book has strong family dynamics, they are never seem to be as deeply entertained to the main character’s development. The author went that extra mile to showcase that and it just goes to show how no one is ever exempt from trauma/manipulation, even those from two parent households. That was a detail I highly appreciated since even in real life, we tend to look at the background of the victim before actually starting to accuse the person who committed the crime.
The father-daughter content was very intense for me to read as I am so close to my own dad and the emotions hit me on another level but was still, I think, handled beautifully.
Furthermore, it reflected the complicated feelings of not just Enchanted as a victim but her parents as well (with the self blame that parents have being a catalyst for the trauma that was caused). There was one part that sounded like it glorified her trauma when she they said she sang so well in the middle of a panic attack but I think that was done more so to reflect the personality of the people around her.
The book even discusses (this all sounds like a lot but it was placed so well into the story) how even those who were abused by Korey in the past didn’t believe Enchanted not killing him even. The story actively tries to show how sometimes abuse is normalized which will always be triggering and intense to read for a lot of people. Again, this is a challenging read but Tiffany D. Jackson managed it well.
Please read the author’s note at the end because I feel like it wraps up the themes of the story in the best way.
↣ aside from being so important, I find that this was an incredibly written story that handled such sensitive topics well while exploring so many different views on manipulation, grooming, victim blaming, ++ ↢
“I mean, we’re all scared of drowning, everybody trying to keep afloat. You just have to keep swimming. Like in Finding Nemo.”
This isn’t the book’s fault, I just think I’ve reached my tolerance for contemporaries for the next few weeks… or months— overall thoughts: DNF @40% —
This isn’t the book’s fault, I just think I’ve reached my tolerance for contemporaries for the next few weeks… or months, who knows. With that said, this book actually had supernatural elements to it, inspired by the Salem witch trials. I feel like if you enjoy those speculative fiction kind of stories, you'll probably enjoy this. Especially if you enjoy books that are centered around camaraderie and discussions on social constructs. And perhaps if you just like reading about girls getting together for hockey and friendships. I just accepted that I am in a more SFF mood.
This is essentially about a hockey team and I would say that they discovered the secret to winning... but it isn't exactly natural. It's weird and intriguing, I feel like I'd be in the mood for this in October. It's set in the 80s which WAS SO FUN! I think Quan Barry was able to bring the mood of that era into her writing style.
I love that the girls on the team were both diverse and distinct in their own ways. It honestly made me smile and appealed to my personal sense of humor so it wasn't a bad experience at all. Discussions on disparities between people of color in a white majority were present. The pacing was amazing because there was always something going on in the plot. This reminds me of Beartown but add weirdness to it (in a good way).
If Quan Barry ever comes out with a fantasy, I would be happy to try it out in the future because the idea for this novel was so intriguing. Again, it was the plot that I had a hard time getting into because I am naturally a Fantasy person at heart.
“Sometimes, good leaders follow.”
↣ For the part that I read, it was mainly light and not too heavy to read. It's just not the kind of story I'm currently looking for which is not the book's fault. I'd still recommend this if you enjoy speculative fiction weirdness with a group of female characters and friendships that you can root for. ↢...more
This was a such a wholesome and adventurous story that felt like home wrapped up in a bow.
Together with an extremely important perspective and story This was a such a wholesome and adventurous story that felt like home wrapped up in a bow.
Together with an extremely important perspective and story for younger generations to be aware of and be normalized, Mala’s story had me charmed the whole way through. Mala and the Mask of Gold is an adventurous, Philippine-inspired MG Fantasy that is able to represent LGTBQ+ people of color bravely and unapologetically.
— overall thoughts: 4.5 —
It’s nice that there were translations for the Tagalog words to accommodate non-Tagalog speakers. It did feel like the construction of the writing made it more for non-local readers and more towards readers who are not as familiar with the language and the culture. In a way, this does make it more accessible and a great starting point in familiarizing yourself with Philippine mythology.
To give you a bit of background, Babaylans (ancient Philippine priestesses) are traditionally females in Philippine history so seeing a gender fluid main character embody that, was a detail I highly appreciated and was a take that I have never seen (admittedly, I never even thought of it like that).
What stood out to me most was the fact that it takes down gender barriers and stereotypes while still holding on to the core traits of the Filipino culture such as family and traditions. We get to see this explored and discussed when we are placed both in Mala and their brother’s head spaces. And I have to say, the author handled usually-taboo topics really well given how Filipinos can be very traditional when it comes to gender norms. It felt very normalized which I loved reading about.
Mala as the main character is easliy lovable and I loved reading from their perspective. Moreover, I didn’t expect that she would actually set off on the adventure with their brother so experiencing their familial relationship throughout the story was touching and one that I enjoyed immensely.
In terms of flow, the footnotes were not my favorite because a lot of times they were redundun and a few times wherein they were a little bit inaccurate based on my knowledge of it’s local uses. Story and flow wise, I think integrating the meaning of the words into the narrative would have done the job of getting what needs to be sent across to the readers.
In a lot books, I find that the plot usually gets less intriguing as it unfolds since you since the initial interest gets lost somewhere but this just kept getting more interesting as it went on. I was curious to see the interpretation of a mythology that I have known my whole life (finally!) and even if you had no idea what all of these creatures were, the author does a good job of getting you up to speed. The writing style does deal with a more telling rather than showing at certain parts. There was also a short bit of info dump in the beginning as one of the characters tells the background of the mythology through a story but given the length of the novel, I think it benefited the world building. It certainly brought Philippine mythology to life in such a short novel.
I loved the use of Filipino honorifics and certain phrases throughout the story, I do think it could have been more consistent. There were times, for example, when Mala would call their brother by his first name rather than Kuya (*used to refer to an older male relative or simply an older male like a brother). As someone fluent in the language, it just felt off to me since it feels weird myself to call an older male or relative solely by their first name if I knew that they were of Philippine heritage.
Other than that, the other most obvious one to me was the use of pana. This was used in the story to refer to the bow but from what I know it’s usually used to refer to the arrow part or whatever you shoot. The bow part is usually called pangpana, which might not be entirely accurate but I just know that pana isn’t the bow. It's the little things that help the story feel more natural to a local speaker such as myself. I know this is fantasy but given that it takes from Philippine culture, I just thought that it should be mentioned.
I completely loved the way this wrapped up though. It was the perfect kind of nostalgic that makes you feel satisfied and uplifted. You would be surprised how many books aren't able to do just that.
↣ I think the Author’s Note says it all, this is for everyone who just wants a classic adventure from a refreshing perspective. Whether or not you are familiar with Philippine mythology, there is lots to love and definitely a book that I can see myself giving to my younger cousins/nieces/nephews to read. I really hope you pick this one up too because heaven knows how much I needed stories like this when I was younger. ↢
*Thank you to the author for sending me a finished copy to review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
—————— PRE READ:
you guys have no idea how hyped I am for this philippine mythology inspired story with queer characters :))...more
The character dynamics are so nuanced and the writing is on that fine line of poetic. Fight me.
The small shred of what was left of my sanity was used The character dynamics are so nuanced and the writing is on that fine line of poetic. Fight me.
The small shred of what was left of my sanity was used in writing this review.
The first line of this book is: “Father told me I’m broken,” …and I was sold. I couldn’t stop reading.
some reasons why this might not be for you: • the plot takes ages to develop since the changes in narration takes up a lot of page time • if you don't vibe the mysterious atmosphere, you might find it grueling to read • the magic system is very straight to the point and explained plainly • if you don't like reading from constantly changing points of view that focuses more on character interactions and character build ups
some reasons why this might be for you: • mysterious prose • complicated characters with heartwarming character dynamics • reluctant hero trope • dark, gruesome, with some slight steampunk vibes • unique magic system • animal companion (very cute) • society-normalized LGBTQ+ relationships • The Fifth Season x Mistborn vibes • multilayered plot • multi POV • themes on ruling and nuance of ruling
The setting itself reminded me of Mistborn wherein this beaten-down town/city is ruled by this mysterious ruler locked up in a castle + with all the mystery surrounding the world-building. One of the main characters of this story is the heir of said ruler. However, there’s a chance that she might lose her chance if she doesn’t prove herself in some unconventional way, which was surprising to me. All I’ll say is that it deals with the lost memory concept in Fantasy and that was the aspect that really hooked me in the beginning.
The fact that multiple characters in this story didn’t know who they were and so we didn’t know who they really were… was so tantalizing to me? It made the story extra intriguing to read by adding that mystery aspect. The pages actually flew by. It’s so interesting being able to explore the dark, gruesome, almost steampunk kind of magic system that feels like you are unravelling a mystery that is already falling apart at the seams.
“I would show him that even broken daughters could wield power.”
It’s funny because I know the title is called “The Bone Shard Daughter” but I didn’t expect the magic to… actually involve bone shards. The bone shards are used to power these, sometimes haphazardly composed, constructs that are made to function for certain things like guard animals, spies, etc. which gave the steampunk feel.
The complicated sibling but not-sibling relationship between Lin and Bayan got me so intrigued that I was excited every time Bayan was on the page. I was living and breathing for the dynamic believe me. This first book is character driven for the most part but there’s an underlying plot keeping everything moving behind the scenes. Which I’m starting to realize is the only time that I’m fine with slow paced plots.
“You were quiet. For once in your life, you were quiet. And when I sat next to you to help, shoulder to shoulder, I could feel a future in that silence.”
i really took my time reading this book and i need to say that every. single. page. of. slow. paced. plot. progression. is totally worth it because it gave way into each of the character’s heads and get to know their motives/personalities . I usually can’t stand relatively slow paced books but as usual, there are exceptions because these characters are TOP TIER :”)
One of my favorite tropes in fantasy is when the main character/s stumbles into becoming a “hero” or reluctantly takes up that kind of position. We see that in Stormlight Archives with Kaladin and we see that in Jovis in this book.
”They’ll think they know you, and that’s very different”
I loved how the themes on complications of ruling and leadership were dealt with as it was exemplified by perspectives from those at the top of the ruling body to the bottom. Every time fantasy books writes POVs from two characters in opposing social standings given the fantastical world that they are set in.... so much dimension is added to the world-building while keeping things interesting. The mood was a lot lighter than I thought it would be, especially given the body horror (seriously, please read the content warnings at the bottom of this review).
all of the characters start off the story in very unique roles and positions that it was so satisfying watching them come together.
Though it isn’t a romance novel the side romances made me feel so hopeful. It showed how someone can love you that much while still being aware of every single one of your flaw. I do wish we get more of our sapphic duo in the next book.
↣ Very highly recommended if you like dark magic systems with complicated characters set in a kingdom that is falling apart. Especially ones that deal with themes of ruling and "what really is right". Bonus points for you if you like cute animal companion dynamics because this one is adorable. ↢
“I was now the only keeper of these memories, and that was the truest sort of loneliness.”
i'm going to now go find a hole to crawl in to read the next book
— 4.75 — ⇢ content warnings// Human trafficking, Physical parental abuse, Child sexual abuse (mentioned), Amnesia (memory loss), Blood & gore depiction, Body horror, Medical experimentation, Death of a child, Death of a brother, Death of a mother & father, Death of a wife, Murder & attempted murder, Physical assault, Imprisonment, Drowning, Earthquakes, Disappearance of a loved one, Child homelessness & poverty (recounted), Rebellion themes & regicide, Animal attack, Animal injury & illness, Animal abuse
“When you love a thing too much, it is a special kind of pain to show it to others and to see that it is lacking.”
[2nd read] Nghi Vo's distinctive
“When you love a thing too much, it is a special kind of pain to show it to others and to see that it is lacking.”
[2nd read] Nghi Vo's distinctive writing really makes it so easy to get lost in the story. The amount of depth that is put into these short stories astounds me. It felt like I watched a scene from a movie.
I don't want to give too much away but this takes place in the same world as TEOSAF and it's when these two people find themselves in the mercy of these tigers in a snowwy forest, to be vague. The prose isn't exactly lyrical but the overall vibe does give it that feeling. Reading the actual words and listening the audiobook were both very different experiences and I do recommend both/either one.
[1st read] such charming characters and stories that talk about the wonders of storytelling?? we love those.
↣ If you’re into short stories that pack a lot of themes and culture into it, you will fall in love with this series. Nghi Vo has such a unique voice and I could listen to the narrator of these audiobooks talk for hours. ↢
— 4.0 — ⇢ content warnings// Animal death, Cannibalism, Cheating (minor), Death (on-page), Drug use, Gore, Manipulation, Murder, Sexual content, Violence ⇢ representation: Vietnamese cast and setting (coded), Non-binary main character, WLW main and side characters...more
1/22/22: today's episode of convincing myself i need to read this "you accidentally summon a prince of hell but now he's bound to protect you ---------1/22/22: today's episode of convincing myself i need to read this "you accidentally summon a prince of hell but now he's bound to protect you -----------------
12/17/20: they need to stop releasing art for this because each one i see makes me so restless and pushes it up my tbr
----------------- 12/6/20: I wasn’t planning on reading this but the setting and the character arts for this book just look too good ...more
I will forever be in awe of Kuang's writing. These short 15 pages added a layer to Nezha's character that I 3.75
well that was sad, and now i am crying
I will forever be in awe of Kuang's writing. These short 15 pages added a layer to Nezha's character that I really wish was incorporated to the main trilogy.
i'm still on WoK but i just realized that the girl on the cover might be Shallan (please don't tell me if I'm right or wrong XD i'm scared of spoilersi'm still on WoK but i just realized that the girl on the cover might be Shallan (please don't tell me if I'm right or wrong XD i'm scared of spoilers)
----------- everyone's already reading this and I'm still on chapter 1 of WoK because I can only focus on one of my main authors at a time >_> excuse me while I escape under a rock to avoid all the spoilers...more
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