I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review. TL;DR: I couldn’t put it down. Plot twists I didn’t see coming, memorable characters, and a mystery that kept me guessing. Highly recommend it. I have been excited to read The Quest for the Reaper’s Lyre for months, and once I opened it, I couldn’t put it down. The story follows dysfunctional princesses as they search for the legendary Reaper's Lyre, an artifact that may be the key to stopping mysterious portals that have taken hundreds of people. They must do this secretly while also facing everyday threats in their kingdoms, such as dangerous drugs and criminals. Each of their circumstances, strengths, and quirks is unique and valuable to the search, which is coordinated by Charlie, who reminds me of Qifrey from Witch Hat Atelier. I never knew what to expect. Every time I thought I had the right path and was close to figuring everything out, the next page would reveal a new secret that derailed my theory and forced me to start over. I was enthralled from beginning to end. It only took one chapter to fill me with countless questions and leave me with an overwhelming urge to keep reading. Why was Vivi with the band? What were the portals? Why were they taking people? Where were they going? I fell in love with Madigan and Sorin instantly, and they are my favorite characters in the book. They demanded attention you couldn’t help but give, and they stole the show every time they appeared. I could relate to some of their experiences and to the lasting consequences they endured. Holy plot twists! I wholeheartedly recommend this read.

It’s Kind of a Funny Story, and it truly is. I first read this book during the darkest time of my life, when I needed it most. I still read it, and my love for it and its message never changes. I was in a similar dark space as Craig, the main character. I understood his experience with depression and anxiety, including entering a facility like the one where I was evaluated. I related to the internal isolation from family and friends, the disconnect, and his journey to finding himself and the peace he needed. As Craig found his peace and felt the desire to live, I found mine. Reading it today brings the same emotional and spiritual relief and sense of relatability it did all those years ago. This book saved my life then, and it continues to be the glimmer of light I need now. When I first started collecting books as an adult, this book was the first one I bought. Sometimes, writing what you know is exactly what someone else needs to read. While Ned Vizzini didn’t have the light he needed, he will always be the light that saved me.