Saturday Sips: Disappointing Adventures

 


Not every book can be a winner, and this week’s Saturday Sips is dedicated to those reads that just didn’t live up to the hype. While I always try to find something to love in every story, sometimes the plot falls flat, the characters don’t connect, or the pacing drags. It’s all part of the reading journey, and even disappointing books can spark interesting conversations. Grab your coffee or tea, and let’s dive into a few titles that left me wanting more.

The Priory of the Orange Tree

Samantha Shannon

DNF 59%

I really wanted to love The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon, but I just couldn’t connect with it. While the world-building is undeniably intricate and the concept ambitious, the story felt overwhelmingly long and painfully slow for my taste. The sprawling cast of characters made it hard to form a meaningful connection with any one of them, and the pacing dragged to the point where it felt like a chore to keep going. I know this book has a devoted fan base, but unfortunately, it just wasn’t for me. Sometimes, even the most beautiful dragons can’t carry a story across the finish line.


One for My Enemy

Olivie Blake

★★☆☆☆

One for My Enemy by Olivie Blake was a highly recommended read from a podcast, but unfortunately, it didn’t work for me. While the premise of rival magical families had so much potential, I found the execution lacking. The characters felt distant, and I struggled to connect with their motivations and relationships. The narrative often felt overly complex without the emotional depth to balance it, making it difficult to stay invested in the story. While I can see how others might enjoy the lyrical prose and intricate world, it ultimately left me feeling detached and underwhelmed.


Not in Love

Ali Hazelwood

★☆☆☆☆
Not in Love by Ali Hazelwood was, unfortunately, a major disappointment for me. I listened to the audiobook, and while I usually enjoy Hazelwood’s witty banter and strong heroines, the main female character in this story was unbearably annoying. Her actions and dialogue felt over-the-top and grating, making it impossible to connect with her or root for her journey. The story lacked the charm and emotional depth I was hoping for, and I ultimately couldn’t bring myself to finish it. This one missed the mark entirely for me.



Blood of the Old Kings

Sung-Il Kim

★★☆☆☆
Blood of the Old Kings by Sung Il Kim had an intriguing premise, but it ultimately fell short of its potential. While the concept of ancient bloodlines and epic battles sounded promising, the execution left much to be desired. The pacing was uneven, with long stretches of exposition that slowed the story down, and the characters lacked the depth needed to make their struggles compelling. While there were moments of rich description and interesting lore, they weren’t enough to carry the narrative. It’s clear the author had ambitious ideas, but unfortunately, this one didn’t quite resonate with me.




Although not every book can capture the magic I’m looking for, each one offers a unique perspective and a different kind of experience. Whether it’s a story that didn’t quite land or one that kept me turning pages late into the night, every book is part of the journey. I hope these reviews give you a bit of insight into the books I’ve been reading and perhaps help guide your next literary adventure. Until next time, happy reading and may your next book be a perfect fit!

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