bite-sized book reviews batch two (featuring nonfiction, booktok sensations, novellas, and more!)

I've been trying to write this post for the past two weeks, and I'm finally getting around to doing it. It's about time! This the second bite-sized review post I've ever written, and here's the first one. 

The Summer of Broken Rules 

by K. L. Walther (5/5 stars)

I'm a little late to the party, but this booktok sensation definitely lived up to its hype!

• This contemporary YA novel is an escape into a summer filled with romance, family traditions, and the poignant process of healing, with Taylor Swift references sprinkled throughout.
• The story follows Meredith Fox as she navigates grief, love, and self-discovery during her cousin's wedding festivities. 
• It's different from other summer novels because of the amazing subplot: a game of Assassin. Basically, everyone gets a target (another guest at the wedding) who they try shoot with a water gun. The last people standing win.
• The Summer of Broken Rules is a charming mix of the Assassin element, a heartwarming family dynamic, and a whirlwind romance. This book is both engaging and emotionally resonant.
• A perfect fit for Jenny Han fans and a great read that can be enjoyed by anyone who likes YA.

If you want to know more, explore the dull reviews at Drizzle & Hurricane Books​​, Read & Wright​​, The Nerd Daily​​, and Hopelessly Devoted Bibliophile​​.

Growth of the Soil 

by Jen Bliton (3/5 stars)

"Growth of the Soil" by Knut Hamsun is a Nobel Prize-winning classic that supposed to "immerse readers into the essence of human connection with nature". I had high hopes, but it got really boring in the middle. 

• Growth of the Soil tells a tale of hard work, the simplicity of life, and the profound impact of our ancestors and the land on our existence. It isn't just a story; it's a reflection on the fundamental aspects of life.
• The first 20% or so was amazing, talking about a man in Norway with a simple, hardworking existence and a deep connection to the soil. But when I had finished a third of the book, it became boring and dragged-on. I was reading the same day in different words, over and over again.
• Because of that, I DNF'ed the book. I could see why others liked, though: It's celebrated for its powerful depiction of life's basic elements. Personally, the book was too basic, so that's why I would rate in three out of five stars.

For a more in-depth review, you can explore the insights on Gemma D. Alexander, Shoshi's Book Blog, Civilized Bears​​, and Old Books by Dead Guys.

Signal Moon 

by Kate Quinn (5/5 stars)

"Signal Moon" by Kate Quinn is a masterfully woven tale that spans time, connecting past and present through a gripping narrative.

• Quinn intricately layers historical detail with emotional depth, creating characters that are both relatable and compelling. The plot's twists and turns are expertly crafted, leading to a satisfying conclusion that resonates long after the last page.
• A five-star read for anyone who loves historical fiction with heart, suspense, and a touch of romance. Quinn once again proves her skill in bringing history to life with vivid imagination and emotional clarity.

A Book Wanderer, Upside-Down Books, and The Caffeinated Reviewer all have amazing full-length reviews you can check out, too!

The Enneagram for Teens 

by Ainsley Britain (3/5 stars)

I wanted to love this book, I really did! It seemed directed at "young adults who are new to the Enneagram or want to learn more" and "an approachable guide that’s perfect for beginners". That's not what it was, though.

• It seemed fine at the start, and I was enjoying it for the first 15% of so. It looked at each enneagram type and discussed various aspects of it (ex: how to deal with someone of that type, what that type needs to hear). But, pretty soon...
• At around 20%, the book started to push forth Christian ideas. "If you're a type three, you need to hear that... Jesus loves you... achievements alone won't get you anywhere, Jesus will..." 
• Now, there's no problem with a book discussing religion. The problem is that this book appeared to be directed at any teen who needed help figuring out their Enneagram, not a Christian teen. If I had known it was directed at a specific religion,  I would not have picked up the book.
• To me, this book would have been absolutely perfect, if it wasn't for that. 

I suppose it might be my fault for not doing proper research before reading the book, and that's why I'm rating it 3 stars. I would recommend it to only Christian readers who are looking for thier Enneagram type.

Conclusion

I sincerely hope you enjoyed reading these four reviews and they provided you with valuable info. Stay tuned for my next post, coming your way soon! I would be thrilled to have you join me again, and you can do so by following this blog. Until then, happy reading!

Paige, signing off.