Seven Ways We Lie by Riley Redgate | Rating: ★★★★★

"We are always moving forward--I can see it now. We are hurtling through our lives. We are never standing still."

As a note, a printed galley of this novel was sent to me by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not effect my opinions in any way.

Newcomer Riley Redgate knocks things out of the park with her debut novel, Seven Ways We Lie. It’s the sort of story you pick up and somehow, within pages, know that it’s bound to be something special. Seven Ways We Lie tackles touchy topics of sins and coming of age and each of our narrators speaks to us on a personal level.

It was a privilege to read it.

Why? Because of the characters. Because of the beautiful prose and the excellent development. In so many ways, we all have a part of each of them and it’s something we can’t miss. It’s an instant classic amongst the crowded young adult contemporary genre and a delectable one at that, which isn’t a term I like to use often.

But it’s the only title I’ve found fitting.

Island of a Thousand Mirrors by Nayomi Munaweera | Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3.5)

“When a bone breaks, it heals stronger in the cracks. I realize this is what is happening to her heart.”

From 2014. As a note, this novel was sent to me by the publisher in exchange for a review. This does not effect my opinions in any way. Island of a Thousand Mirrors in one word? Heartbreaking. It is not something to read if you are light of heart and do not think you can handle it. And although I didn't know much of the subject/location before reading it, I walked away with a better understand and knowledge of the violence and happenings in this part of the world. Sri Lanka has quite the history, it will leave you reeling for days after you learn of the events that took place.

It's all written very sharp and there are many things that could be triggering. It's as beautifully written as the story itself is tragic and shocking. Violence against women, the struggles and horror of it all; the cruelty of many. It isn't exactly an easy read to take in and at times you need to walk away and contemplate all that you've learned. The detailing is incredible and informative and done at a pace that is easy to follow but still hard to read due to the horrifying nature of it all.

Honestly, I found my heart breaking on more than one occasion the more I read and learned. This is what makes the novel itself a gift. Everything about it was captured in a breathtaking manner. It's a difficult feeling to describe, but it's source is one that is easy to pinpoint: when an author explores the truth and tragedy of the world, and opens your eyes, you know that you've found an excellent read.