Embracing the Gray Area 🩶 ... My Love/Hate Book Reviews 📚💔

[@WheezingBobcat]

Man, not to get dark, but I was in the psych ward last week (voluntary). I had been in a reading slump as well, and my brother brought me a copy of The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson. Giant book, unbelievable way to escape the pain I was in. Getting to your point about mental health early on in the video, I now firmly believe I need to keep up reading better than I have been, because it genuinely helped, as well as with processing. Appreciate your work, bro. Helps me stay on track.

[@officiallyliza7813]

I've recently read the way of Kings as well, really awesome book.... I hope you're doing better "Life before death, Strength before weakness, Journey before destination." virtual hugs/whatever you're comfortable with

[@WheezingBobcat]

@@officiallyliza7813 There is a particular scene involving a leaf and a chasm early on that was definitely interesting to read, given my circumstance. I have a long way to go, but I appreciate the support.

[@LitVibesWithFive]

That’s powerful man! I appreciate that fr, keep ya head up & keep reading. Cousin 5 here for ya 💪🏾💪🏾

[@JayGTheAwkwardBookworm]

“You can have my copy if you want” cracked me up 😂

[@BookishIntrovert63]

This is my first time commenting and I must say I truly enjoy your channel. I love how you review the books you've read without giving too much of the story. You speak more on your emotions and how you're pulled into the story oppose to telling what's happening on all the pages. In A Love Song For Rikki Wilde, I had the same feeling earlier on, too...IYKYK. S.A. Cosby is an auto author for me.

[@LitVibesWithFive]

Thank you so much! I appreciate the feedback 🙌🏾

[@lexilebkuecher]

I’ve had Atomic Habits on my shelf for months. The impact it made on you inspired me to pick it up. Can’t wait to finish it!

[@teehlfx5238]

Thanks for sharing your true thoughts on the books you are reading while also respecting it might be a good book for someone else. Much appreciated! ‘You can have my copy’ 😆

[@storiesandsadhbh4673]

I loved All The Sinners Bleed! The ending is crazy!!! My favourite by SA Cosby might be My Darkest Prayer - he’s seriously so talented!

[@LitVibesWithFive]

Just finished it a little bit ago & I can definitely agree that the ending was crazy! I’m on a mission to get all of S.A. Cosby’s books honestly.

[@aaron_osborne]

If you want more romance I recommend A Silent Voice where a deaf kid is teased but the bully wants to redeem himself. The movie is fantastic and I’m excited to read the original manga.

[@XxX__GAMER__XxX]

Absolutely! A Silent Voice was the first manga that I read, and it's such a powerful story. Super recommended!

[@Saltynebula-xi2di]

A silent voice makes me cry every time!

[@throughthepages_with_dee]

You really are a symbol of what the world should be. Your success here is a testament to you I remember watching your first video, we started booktube at the same time and you said you wanted to educate, I subscribed to you then and there. You’re a real example of what being yourself achieves 😊

[@vanitylagail]

Atomic habits is by far thee BEST “ productivity” book I have ever read. Life changing. I fixed my credit, got my first place, first car, started my channel and more after I read this book. It’s my highest recommended non-fic book.

[@crochet_the_pain_away]

If you haven’t already, you should definitely read Babel by R.F. Kuang. It’s truly a masterpiece of a book written by someone so incredibly intelligent and conscientious of every word she has ever written. Because of how well you resonated with Blacktop Wasteland , I think you would have strong opinions about Babel and I’m sure plenty of us would love to hear your thoughts.

[@lakeshas1421]

I’ve read Atomic Habits and Ricki Wilde and loved them both as well. I am corny because I’m reading Seven Days in June, in June 🤣. I can’t wait for to get into it.

[@sunshineeflyy]

I absolutely loved A Love Song for Ricki Wilde. All the elements were perfect for me.

[@ochoheido]

Tee hee hee the way you said "taken aback" at 11:20 was so delightful and funny 😁 I watched it like 3 times for the pure joy of it

[@faithisreading]

For anyone looking into SA Cosby, I highly recommend the audiobooks! The narrator is beyond talented, the best audiobook experiences I've had by far.

[@teehlfx5238]

This channel has helped me with my current reading slump ☺️ but one thing that helped me before was getting an ereader (I have a kindle oasis so it has a slightly bigger screen while still feeling book size and has page turn buttons) but having all the books I have purchased being at my fingertips makes it really easy to switch up if I feel slump-y. You also can get free samples of books which is usually like first chapter or first few pages depending on how long the book is which helps in avoiding purchasing something that may not be for me. I definitely don’t have as many physical books any more and my bookshelves stopped growing so quickly. But now I will still buy a physical copy of a book I have read and liked so my bookshelves are mostly books I really like. (I also then will give those away if someone seems interested and just rebuy when I can. It feels like I’m supporting the author that way and I still have my kindle version.) I miss going in bookstores and discovering new books that way but I don’t think that specifically has to stop because you have an ereader. I think a lot of libraries have ecopies of books you can get on ereaders so you don’t lose that aspect. There are pros and cons but it for sure makes it easy to read anywhere and you don’t have to plan ahead which book you are in the mood for.

[@TashaxMack]

I am quick to DNF a book if it isn’t delivering so no shame in that. Love hearing your thoughts on your reads. I have a recommendation for you, “Long Way Down” by Jason Reynolds. It’s YA but it’s really deep and touches on grief, also a black main character (and author) and short so it can be read in a day.

[@ladiepink]

I love me some Jason Reynolds!!!

[@TashaxMack]

@@ladiepinkhe’s great ❤

[@jamiyathewriter]

All the Sinners Bleed is PERFECT. Currently reading My Darkest Prayer by him and he does NOT miss.

[@shesthebethest]

“Ok first through fifth cousins” made me lol hahah

[@dobetterwithchristian4472]

If you like the twist in Ricki Wilde, check out Part of Your World by Abby Jimenez. Similar great writing.

[@stringofbooks]

I hated the hating game!! The ending was the only part I somewhat enjoyed, but getting there was a struggle. And even then, the ending wasn’t worth reading the cringe that was the first 2/3 of the book.

[@lisatortorella1051]

I really liked Razorblade Tears. You've convinced me to read All the Sinners Bleed. I love the way you review.

[@ImpRoll92]

Oh my, I hated the Hating game too! I DNF after a page and a half and from what you're saying, I'm glad I did! Keep up the reviews!

[@bibliomania158]

You're doing an awesome job!! Keep up the great videos man! ( watching from Oklahoma) 👊

[@sarahsims5607]

This makes me even more excited to read All the Sinners Bleed. It was already on my TBR. Gotta bump it up. Also a recommendation: check out The Chrestomanci Heptology by Dianne Wynn Jones. It's a kids series but it' genuinely so delightful so I still recommend it to adults.

[@andrewwelker2038]

Razorblade Tears is by far his best book!

[@krzysamm7095]

You are an inspiration for not only us old folks but also for a younger generation of men. Showing them that reading can help Us grow, help us process our emotions, and you are a role model for other men to see that reading can be a passion, you can have a variety of topics to pick from. Men you read are more attractive to me then than just his looks.

[@SmileForever92]

I've seen some people love The Hating Game and some hate it. I never thought I'd like it and you just confirmed that.

[@peaseblossom4252]

S. A. Cosby books are excellent on Audible, for those who like audiobooks. Narrator is fire. And if you like Cosby, I think you’d enjoy Chain-Gang All-Stars. Such a powerful book. I’m currently in the middle of The Reformatory, and really enjoying it. Horror book (I think it’s classified as that, I normally don’t read horror) set in 1950’s Jim Crow Florida at a boy’s school. Thanks for the reminder to read Atomic Habits. I’ve been meaning to for forever. Happy reading. 📚

[@hollyc4624]

Absolutely perfect recommendations! SA Cosby books have a brilliant narrator on audiobook. I listened to All the Sinners Bleed while driving through rural Georgia and could totally picture the scenes from the story. His books are outstanding. I also read The Reformatory at the end of last year and loved it. It is horror technically, although due to the real events that took place at that “school” (The Dozier School in Marianna FL). The book itself has enough reality with a mix of magical realism/supernatural elements to elevate the story to a different level.

[@peaseblossom4252]

@@hollyc4624 I didn’t realize it was based on a real school! I guess I should’ve, since it mentions other real events/people. So harrowing! And what a perfect setting/road trip to listen to a Cosby book. I bet it was chilling to listen to, driving those rural southern roads. Such good reads.

[@hollyc4624]

@@peaseblossom4252It definitely is. A few years ago a group of archaeologists from UCF or USF discovered the unmarked burial sites of some of the children. And due to the horrific conditions and the Jim Crow South, there was separate site for the Black boys who died. Colson Whitehead wrote The Nickel Boys a couple of years ago that covers the same events and institution.

[@thebooknitter]

Will def read atomic habits you described it so well You can have my copy 😂😂😂 I have added All the sinners to my wishlist ❤

[@sportsbabe1125]

Atomic Habits is on my TBR List

[@joslyngibson9965]

Top Thriller Dragster!!!! I haven’t ridden that in ages. Thanks for the laughs and heartfelt book reviews. I look forward to your next video.

[@Jennea]

I love your channel! It's usually women who give book reviews and I'm here for a man's perspective! ♥️

[@comicaltuber]

I NEED a spoiler-filled review of A Love Song for Ricki Wilde. The way you talk about books is so good

[@angelk5743]

Hearing you talk about Tia Williams' books makes me really excited to read them.

[@TiliaHaggstrom]

Your video just got recomended to me and I love how you talk about books, it feels so honest and not boring for a second. Not suprised that you already have a bunch of subs. Lookin forward to seeing more from you, and you got youself a subscriber from Sweden (the country of hot blond people and socialism)

[@PurposefulPursuits]

Enjoyed the reviews. I haven’t read anything by Tia Williams but I hope to get to at least one book by her this year. Also I know the hating game was super popular but I haven’t read it. I haven’t felt drawn to read it. I do like romance so I’ll see how I feel. I think I’m becoming more of a mood reader than I care to admit lol 😂

[@Msangiewow]

Thank you for these reviews! I want to read SA Cosby bad and I think I’m going to now!

[@AshArtois]

Homie got a sponsor im so excited for you 🎉

[@terridemarest7880]

Damn you explained Tia Williams so well. I Loved Seven Days In June so much. Starting the other one this week. I am a twisted thriller girl too. I love the way she writes so much. Also reading Razor Blade Tears. Love Love....

[@Travsbookshelf]

Great video! I read “All the Sinners Bleed” back in March and it was a definite 5-star read for me. Absolutely loved it. I have “Razorblade Tears” set for a summer read this year, maybe around July-ish if not June. I cannot wait to read that one.

[@Jennnnnnnnn570]

I love your channel! Your reviews are so real and honest, I appreciate you keeping it real. I’m about to check out atomic habits , thanks for the reccomendations :)

[@misselphie78]

I have two recs for you with black characters! I read them both this year and liked them a lot. One is SUPER long but don’t be intimidated. It’s worth it. The first is The Reformatory by Tananarive Due. The second is What the Fireflies Knew by Kai Harris

[@alexthomas962]

Another SA Cosby fan 🙌 I’m enjoying this reading journey of yours! I highly recommend Small Mercies by Dennis Lehane- SA Cosby has said that Dennis Lehane is one of his influences and even before he said that it’s been noted that they have a similar style I also recommend books by Harlan Coben- I Will Find You is his newest release and it was so good

[@CoffeeOverApples]

Great reviews! Yes for mental health!

[@shell1338]

I loved S.A. Cosby's Razorblade Tears. I have All The Sinners Bleed but haven't read it yet. Love Top Thrill Dragster and Cedar Point. So many memories.

[@InsightCreationz]

Razerblade tears is amazing 🎉 added this Cosby to my soon to read.

[@Watermelanie21]

Finally- someone that agrees with me about The Hating Game. I couldn’t finish it either! Really loving your channel and your refreshing takes on books. Keep putting out killer content 🔥

[@LitVibesWithFive]

Thank you so much 🙌🏾

[@ロジャー-q5f]

I've seen Atomic Habits aaaaall over the place. Might have to pick it up at some point. Definitely got some habits I'd like to change. Super interested in Tia Williams' books now as well. Keep doing what you do 👍

[@Budzzzy]

Watching your vids is the highlight of my day the way you speak about books🫶🏼 I just love it all thank you :)

[@LitVibesWithFive]

Thank you so much!! 🙌🏾

[@XxKatie95]

Not me needing to go to Cedar Point now 🫠

[@jazz5856]

i dnf’d the hating game too!! i tried but it completely didn’t work for me, i was annoyed and bored haha

[@tammiejo]

Keep up the great work!

[@thekhameleonreadsbooks]

Since you like Romance with Magical Realism like A Love Song for Ricki Wilde, you should check out The Seven Year Slip by Ashley Poston.

[@tessib.1043]

I love see you Cousin 5! I am actually shocked you DNF’d a book. I don’t remember you ever doing that. I totally agree about Tia Williams, but I also enjoy a slow burn, when it’s done well. I hope you’re settling in your new home, and new city. ❤❤

[@LitVibesWithFive]

Thank you!! 🙌🏾 & I’m shocked I DNF’d something too but I couldn’t take it 😂😂

[@Ballerina280]

just found your channel yesterday! so excited to support and see the channel grow bro! can’t explain how refreshing it is to see more people that I can identify with entering the booktube community 🫶🏽✨

[@sc5005]

You need to hit the classics my guy ✌

[@bookednnbusy]

DNF’ing a book for me is such a let down especially when I hear so many good things abt it 😩

[@suesasabbari3371]

Ok need to read seven days in June im so late on it

[@bookum]

Great book reviews!

[@LitVibesWithFive]

Thank you 🙌🏾

[@cuppa.books.]

100% agree on S A Cosby - an amazing writer 💜

[@bobbyshields4810]

I am enjoying your videos.

[@mbranche4234]

Heh Cuz 👋🏾👋🏾👋🏾The Four Agreements helped me organize my life and create habits that I still follow. It is a small book with a huge impact. I heard about S A Crosby from President Obama as he was one of his favorite authors. You have influenced me to move his books up on my TBR.

[@LitVibesWithFive]

The Four Agreements is an EXCELLENT book! 📖 & yes, read S.A. Cosby asap lol

[@cathyg.9996]

I am a huge fan of S.A. Cosby and all of his books have been 5 star reads for me. His books are so raw, gritty, and compelling. I can’t wait for you to read Razorblade Tears, my favorite book of his! I loved it!! Enjoy!

[@tiffanydaniels3374]

I’m reading Atomic Habits right now and it’s been very enlightening so far!!

[@jampsonn1826]

You're selling me more and more on S.A. Cosby! I only have Razorblade Tears on my TBR but damn, I need to consider trying more of their stuff!

[@leaf1885]

Ok you’ve got me now. I’ll put Cosby on my tbr list! Have you picked up Ann Pancake? I feel like you may like Strange as this Weather Has Been. Jane Smiley’s A Thousand Acres might be your thing, too. Both stories are about family and environment and society.

[@ashlynonline]

i've been wanting to read some S.A. Cosby books from your recommendations! I need to pick up some soon. I've been reading the raven cycle series and i'm loving it. I'm almost done with the second book

[@HeyHeyRebecca]

Thank you so much sharing your thoughts. Finishing up First Lie Wins!

[@flippinpages6550]

I'm impressed you DNF books. It took me until I was in my 60's to start DNFing. I don't have the time to read a book I don't like. I didn't know that when I was young. funny

[@chocolateoreo6489]

I am sending you all love (:

[@AngryStoner]

Ive been looking at getting atomic habits! Getting it now.

[@LitVibesWithFive]

Amazing book & super easy to digest in my opinion!!

[@shepherdstudios9229]

Quality video, my guy!

[@caprisbookisland]

I read the hating game a while ago and didn’t understand the hype it was just ok. I know if I re read it today id probably hate it.

[@susanalfieri4487]

A fun interview GMA did with S.A. Cosby in his hometown near Richmond, VA. (He has a great laugh and wonderful energy). kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z4WsfZ54ptR_g9E p.s. Everyone has reading slumps & real-life struggles. Thank you for talking about both. As a bookseller, I always say "there's something for everyone." You're not going to love (or even like) every book. Find what moves you.

[@oriolvidal5331]

This channel shows me not to trust stereotypes. Never thought I’d hear you talk about the hating game 😂 my bad

[@LitVibesWithFive]

😂😂😂

[@missjourneyfinn5579]

I also DNF “The Hating Games” I never understood the hype. It was boring and the movie was boring too 🤣

[@andreabey6084]

A love song for Ricki Wilde took entirely too long to get going. Those first 180 pages were one big drag.

[@LitVibesWithFive]

BINGO 💯 but I still rocked with it lol

[@bmartin4549]

All The Sinners Bleed was very well-written and such a compelling story, but the portrayal/treatment of his partner vs. his old flame/love interest was very perturbing to me and almost made me put the book down. I think the way things worked out in the end of it all made things “ok” for me, but I really detested the handling of this relationship dynamic.

[@LitVibesWithFive]

I can definitely see where you’re coming from cuz that made me cringe a little too, honestly!

[@bmartin4549]

@@LitVibesWithFiveI’m glad I’m not the only one lol!

[@autumnritchie1473]

🥰🥰🥰

[@cdub1210]

📚💪🏽

[@rachelspencer9456]

🧡📚🧡📚🧡📚🧡

[@chocolateoreo6489]

❤❤❤

[@sherribugd3799]

If you want a non-fiction book that will help you elevate your life, read Can’t Hurt Me, by David Goggins. It changed my life.

[@IoneEvans]

💛

[@asiram16]

SHOUT OUT TO THE TOP THRILL DRAGSTER (I'm from Ohio lol)

[@LitVibesWithFive]

YEAH YEAH 💯🙌🏾

[@aaron_osborne]

I’m also from Ohio.

[@af8604]

Love your content & so wonderful To see someone who isn’t a white lady reviewing books! One constructive suggestion: there’s a lot of echo in the audio. If you could improve sound quality, your videos would be even more fun to watch.

[@evieonthetv]

The hating game was very mid 😂 at best so You’re not missing anything dnf-ing