brutally honest thoughts on my 10 March reads

Okay, let's dive deeper into some of the standout books from my March reading wrap-up, especially those that left a lasting impression – for better or worse! It's always fascinating how some books just click, while others... well, not so much. First up, let's talk about the absolute masterpiece that shot straight to the top of my 'all-time favorites' list: 'The Spear Cuts Through Water' by Simon Jimenez. Seriously, you guys, this book is a *must-read*. The moment I saw the stunning book cover, I was intrigued, and the story itself completely blew me away. Jimenez has crafted not just a fantasy novel, but a profound love letter to oral storytelling. It’s an epic journey that feels ancient and mythical, yet incredibly fresh and innovative. He pushes the boundaries of what epic fantasy can be, weaving together narratives that are both poignant and breathtaking. I gave this a solid 5 stars because it transported me to another world, made me feel deeply for its characters, and left me pondering its themes long after I'd turned the last page. If you're looking for a unique, beautifully written story that challenges traditional fantasy, you absolutely need to pick up 'The Spear Cuts Through Water.' Simon Jimenez's writing is truly something special, and I’m already eager to explore more of his work. Now, on the other end of the spectrum, we have 'Several People Are Typing' by Calvin Kasulke. This one was definitely an experience, but not entirely in the way I hoped. The concept is incredibly clever and unique: an entire novel told through Slack channels. I’m a big fan of unconventional storytelling, and for a good portion of the book, it delivered! It’s genuinely funny and captures the absurdity and passive-aggressiveness of modern office communication so perfectly. I found myself chuckling at the relatable corporate jargon and the bizarre situations the characters found themselves in. However, the reason I ultimately rated it 3 stars is a significant one. As the story progressed, there was the inclusion of an unnecessary and problematic rape scene. This felt completely out of place with the satirical, lighthearted tone the book had established and honestly, it left a really sour taste. It felt like it was included for shock value rather than serving any meaningful narrative purpose, and it really overshadowed the ingenuity and humor that Calvin Kasulke clearly possesses. It's a shame, because the premise and much of the execution were brilliant, but that particular element made it a difficult read to recommend without a major caveat. So, there you have it – two very different reading experiences from my March stack. It just goes to show, even in a 'strong reading month,' you can hit both soaring highs and unexpected lows. What were your most impactful reads recently? I'd love to hear!