Not every book can be a winner, and this week’s Saturday Sips is all about those reads that just didn’t hit the spot. Whether it was pacing issues, underdeveloped characters, or a plot that left me wanting more, these books had potential but ultimately missed the mark. In this post, I’ll break down what didn’t work for me—because even the misses make for great bookish discussions!
Never the Roses
Jennifer K. Lambert★★★☆☆
Never the Rose had an intriguing premise with its morally gray characters, forbidden romance, and magical creatures, but the third-person omniscient narration made it difficult to fully connect with the protagonists. While the world-building was lush and the slow-burn tension between Oneira and Stearanos had potential, the constant shifts in perspective created a sense of distance that kept me from becoming truly invested in their journey. I appreciated the unique elements, like the epistolary exchanges and the retired warrior trope, but the storytelling style ultimately made this a struggle to get through. A solid concept, but not the immersive read I had hoped for.
Becoming Madam Secretary
Stephanie Dray★★★☆☆
Becoming Madam Secretary by Stephanie Dray started strong, with an engaging look at Frances Perkins’ rise to power and the challenges she faced as the first female U.S. cabinet member. However, the second half of the novel felt overly long and drawn out, making it a struggle to stay invested. While the historical details were well-researched, the pacing slowed considerably, diminishing the impact of Perkins' remarkable achievements. The book would have benefited from a tighter narrative to maintain momentum. A solid read for history lovers, but it didn’t fully hold my interest throughout.
DNF
I went into Malice by John Gwynne expecting an epic fantasy filled with rich world-building and compelling characters, but unfortunately, it just didn’t work for me. While the story has all the hallmarks of a classic fantasy—prophecies, war, and a battle between good and evil—the slow pacing and dense exposition made it difficult to stay engaged. The multiple POVs, while ambitious, didn’t fully hook me, and I found myself struggling to connect with the characters. Ultimately, I decided to DNF this one, as it felt like too much of a slow burn without enough payoff to keep me invested. However, fans of classic, sprawling fantasy epics may have a different experience!
★★★☆☆
One of Us Knows by Alyssa Cole is a slow-burning psychological thriller with a chilling premise and a tense, atmospheric setting. The novel builds suspense effectively, weaving in social commentary and complex character dynamics. However, the pacing drags at times, and the shifting perspectives can feel disjointed, making it harder to fully immerse in the mystery. While the twists are intriguing, some reveals lack the impact needed to make this a truly unforgettable thriller. Still, Cole’s writing shines, and fans of her previous work may find plenty to enjoy.
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