Take the scenic route in reading with me. Slow down, savor the stories. Take a closer look at noteworthy scifi and fantasy reads in this new segment of the Novel Creature space.

An Annotated Snapshot

This story is full of meaning. There is so much powerful symbolism here, and the page below is one of my favorite passages that illustrates this.

Warning. Sistah Samurai will make you hungry. Exhibit A:

I’m a purple girlie, but pink is another one of my favorite colors. I love the powerful meaning Obey attributed to the color.

There are many more lines I could share, but I don’t want to spoil the fun for you. Get into Sistah Samurai and snag the sequel Return of the Sistah Samurai while you’re at it.

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Did you read and loved Sistah Samurai? Share your annotated thoughts and favorite lines.

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Take the scenic route in reading with me. Slow down, savor the stories. Take a closer look at noteworthy scifi and fantasy reads in this new segment of the Novel Creature space.

An Annotated Snapshot

This is the perfect book to read as we explore the new year, especially in a world that feels like it’s on fire. Brionni Nwosu’s writing shows the pattern and cycles of life through Nella’s journey. From slavery to rebellions, from poverty to privilege, sickness, health, love and despair, this story offers a powerful reminder of what it really means to be alive.

There were moments in this story where Death’s sentiments echoed some real life fatigue. Humanity, at its worst can make us question our existence. The capacity of darkness can leave us weary. But Nella’s stubborn hope was a gentle reminder that there is still good, light, love, and reason to continue, to persist.

Not only did this book feel cathartic for our current climate, but I also really enjoyed the appreciation for the arts represented in the story thematics. Just thinking on the premise of the story, that one woman’s written account of life and love could save her own life and others, shows just how powerful our stories can be.

Beyond writing, the beauty of art, imagination, and even dreams and aspirations are explored in such a hopeful and encouraging way.

Here’s another line I enjoyed.

There were many more profound moments and conversations within the book. I could gush over them for days. But for now, let me just urge you to read it for yourself…

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Did you read and loved The Wondrous Life and Loves of Nella Carter? Share your annotated thoughts and favorite lines.

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Just a note of caution for this week’s annotated thoughts. We are going to touch on some sensitive topics that may be triggering for some. These topics will primarily deal with topics like fat phobia, body image, and elements of racism like dehumanization and being othered.

A Quick Annotated Snapshot

Chapter 22 is heavily highlighted chapter for me. Below is one of the many significant passages that really stuck out to me in exploring the world in the story, as well as reflecting on the systems in our own society.

Have you ever felt othered or dehumanized? Was there ever a situation where you misjudged someone else based on your perception of them? Let’s talk about it!

We discuss how the characters are perceived, how it shapes their self-image and their security in society, but there are so many themes and concepts to note in this chapter and throughout the book.

What are some themes and topics that really stood out or resonated with you throughout the story? I want to hear your annotated thoughts.

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This week we are talking first impressions. What made you pick up this book? What kept you reading? While we dive in deeper to explore and appreciate the story, I do try to keep My Annotated Thoughts low risk for major spoilers.

Still, listen and read at your own risk…

A Quick Annotated Snapshot

I knew I wanted to read it because Liselle Sambury is an auto-buy author for me. Couple that with the fact that this title has been associated with two of my other favorite reads, and I was sold. This book doesn’t miss a dark academia mark, giving all the expected major tropes of the genre while also deliberately challenging its conventions.

The characters really brought this story to life for me. There were some jarring scenes for me, some strong emotions that struck my heart. I was intrigued and then quickly invested. Today’s annotated selection was a scene that really jumped out at me. The comparison. The mysterious tension/conflict between August and her mom… Liselle Sambury knows how to reel a reader in!

Share your annotated thoughts

What was your first impression of A Mastery of Monsters by Liselle Sambury?

Did you enjoy this new segment? Don’t forget to like, share and subscribe for more.

You can also show some extra love on Ko-Fi. Contributions add fuel to the Novel Creature Community maintenance, production, and improvements.

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Dive deeper into the Montrez-Verse, exploring my own stories with early access, behind the scenes , bookish swag and more. Come build a book with me on Patreon!

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Dive into A Mastery of Monsters by Liselle Sambury for the month of September (or whenever this post finds you). Explore the themes, all the literary elements of this dark academia darling, and let’s chat about our reading experience!

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