Fresh Reads, Honest reviews, Educator-approved
This graphic novel adaptation of Grand Master of Demonic Cultivation offers fast paced mystery, reincarnation, and magic, though it loses some of the depth and character nuance found in the original novel. The reviewer notes that while the art conveys key moments, the story moves quickly and can be hard to follow. Featuring music based magic through instruments like the flute and guqin, it offers unique classroom connections and an engaging blend of fantasy, ghosts, and mystery.
The Wilderness of Girls starts strong with an intriguing mix of mystery, identity, and survival. Reviewer Tami Rigling notes that while the opening captivates, the story becomes confusing as major details go unresolved, especially the question of who Mother is. Simple black and white illustrations add atmosphere but not clarity. With its emotional intensity and ambiguous ending, this book may appeal to readers who enjoy darker, unresolved stories but may frustrate others.
Welcome to the Grandest Game, a high stakes competition designed to give anyone a chance at fortune. Seven golden ticket holders enter with different motives, secrets, and ambitions. As challenges grow more dangerous, tensions rise and alliances shift. Each puzzle pushes the players mentally and physically, revealing who is willing to bend the rules to win.
Molly Gray is not like everyone else. Her Gran taught her simple rules to navigate a complicated world. After Gran passes away, Molly throws herself into her work as a hotel maid. Her routines and love of order comfort her until she enters a guest’s suite and finds him dead. Suddenly Molly is swept into a mystery filled with secrets, misunderstandings, and suspects. She must rely on her instincts and unexpected friends to uncover the truth.
A Flicker in the Dark follows Chloe Davis, the daughter of a convicted serial killer, as new disappearances in her hometown mirror her father’s crimes. The novel explores trauma, memory, identity, and fear, raising questions about whether we can ever truly escape the past.