Let's go One Piece!!!! Also you've made me curious about Gentleman Bastards for a while, also Malazan and Hitchhiker's so well now there's a big TBR list
@@adamtideman4953 I haven't been encouraged yet but I do tend to read only series because if I like the book I want more of it and I know I'll be sad if it's just one lol
I have been reading one piece since i was 8 (I just turned 27) and I have been slowly going through your one piece reviews and the genuine passion, joy and excitement you show has legitimately brought me close to tears as you go over some of my favorite moments it’s like I’m a kid again reading it for the first time. You are a breath of fresh air. Thank you
I'm in the middle of book 10 of Malazan and I can confidently say that it's taken over the top spot for my favorite series from Wheel of Time. The way Erickson BRILLIANTLY is bringing everything together is absolutely incredible storytelling. His world building is insanely complex and consistent, his characters feel real, and the series has expanded my perspective on a lot of things.
You have the best mindset for Malazan. You are taking it all in, but you are not stressing about not understanding things. You WILL understand things more and more as time goes on and you will put some things together yourself and those will be some of the best moments. Man I'M SOOOOO excited for MoI review! And of course for all the books to follow!
I have been reading Malazan for the past 2 years. I have almost only read it during my lunch breaks at work or when I'm waiting for trains/planes I was really enjoying it for what it was but I hit halfway through Bonehunters a couple days ago and have been sleeping 3 hours a night to fit more in 10/10
@@ebarobyre2720 pretty much similar to me. Usually I can only get a few pages in, but sometimes I can find time for that 1 hour or 2 hours reading stretch that feels SO GOOD. I remeber that I took Erikson's advice and read chapter 7 of Bonehunters in one sitting. Best reading decision ever.
As a One Piece fan I watch your book videos cuz you gave us a chance so we should give your recommendations a chance, I think I will start with Hitchhiker's guide that sounds up my alley! I don't read a ton of non manga but I am not opposed to it if its good 😁
Then you will love the series. “Traveling through hyperspace is uncomfortably like being drunk. What’s so wrong about being drunk? Ask a glass of water”
I came in for your delightfully thorough One Piece reviews and have stayed to now watch whatever you put out. I find it wonderful to see how you were able to pull both OP fans into traditional novels, and normal book readers into manga based on the comments. A friend's let me borrow Gardens of the Moon because he loves the series, and it's been sitting collecting dust - these videos have made me start reading it because of your infectious enthusiasm.
I just started reading The Lies of Locke Lamora because of you. I’m about 1/3 through so far. I wasn’t really feeling it for the first 30 or so pages but after that it really picked up for me and I’m really enjoying it so far. Thanks for always talking about it.👏😎 I love how much you got into One Piece. It and Haikyuu are my two favourite manga/series’ in general.
Same. Haikyuu is amazing. I've read many manga so it would be difficult for any one series that I read along the way to become my favorite. And yet, just like Karasuno does regularly, Haikyuu has become one of my Top 5 series. Sitting pretty next to Berserk, One Piece, HunterxHunter, and Rurouni Kenshin
I love Haikyuu so much!! I didn't think I would love something as much as One Piece again and that stayed true for 13-14 years until I watched Haikyuu (and Gintama) this past year. I'm still going through Haikyuu withdrawal cuz I only finished it a week or so ago.
I picked up OP due to your recommendation (not Daniel’s) and now my family things I have a bit of a problem… As for my top five favorite series: 1) the Queen’s Thief series by Megan Whalen Turner 2) the Broken Earth trilogy by NK Jemisin 3) OP 😍 4) the Expanse by James SA Corey, which I’m not finished with yet 5) the Lymond Chronicles by Dorothy Dunnett? Again, not finished with.
Malazan is not an easy read but by gods the pay off is worth it. Cast of main characters change between some books and it can be jarring for readers. Specially when you grew attached to characters in previous books. But please give it a chance, Malazan is a gigantic tapestry of events spanning multiple continents but still somehow the details and the characters 'realness' are not lost in the vastness. They shine through.
I have read The Lord of the Rings twice a year, every year for the last 9 years. I think it is the greatest story ever told and I think it’s the most beautifully written book ever. Tolkiens prose (and poetry) is so beautiful, and often underrated. The first 2 times I read lotr, I kind of skimmed a bit through the wordy flowery descriptions. Now I go back over them whenever I read them. His writing is just a masterclass in visceral experience. It’s so immersive and real. What’s amazing about him is that he didn’t travel much, and yet had such an incredible grasp of topography and geography and nature. He writes places as if they were all directly based off somewhere he actually went, and very often he never did. Yes you have Mordor (South Africa, where he was born), and the Shire (Sarehole/Worcestershirein the English countryside). But then you have so many other places that beautifully resemble places in the world he had never been to. He describes mosses and flowers and regions that he almost certainly had never personally seen, and in such a palpable and intimate way. “There is one passage in The Two Towers that forever solidified my love for Tolkien as a wordsmith and crafter of language, not just as my favorite overall author. It’s in the chapter “Of Herbs and Stewed Rabbit” and I think it’s one of the most beautifully written descriptions in all of literature. I go back every month and read this, so I can recite it from memory. I actually wrote 2 university papers on this, that’s how much I love it. Some people don’t have the same reaction as me…many are like “meh” and I genuinely feel sorry for those people. Now this paragraph is only one in the middle of 6 other paragraphs that all work together to paint one of the most beautiful pictures ever painted with words IMO, but I’m only going to give this one because it would be way to long to post all of it. This is just my favorite snippet from it. Here’s the passage; “Day was opening in the sky, and they saw that the mountains were now much further off, receding eastward in a long curve that was lost in the distance. Before them, as they turned west, gentle slopes ran down into dim hazes far below. All about them were small woods of resinous trees, fir and cedar and cypress, and other kinds unknown in the Shire, with wide glades among them; and everywhere there was a wealth of sweet-smelling herbs and shrubs. The long journey from Rivendell had brought them far south of their own land, but not until now in this more sheltered region had the hobbits felt the change of clime. Here Spring was already busy about them: fronds pierced moss and mould, larches were green-fingered, small flowers were opening in the turf, birds were singing. Ithilien, the garden of Gondor now desolate, kept still a dishevelled dryad loveliness.” Again, if you don’t get it, that’s fine. to me it’s just unbelievably beautiful.
I completely agree about authors that create a world that we don't wish to leave. I'm a very slow reader, (dyslexic), but Tolkien makes my journey so enchanting that if he needs a thousand words to describe something..I'm all for it. I was so saddened when I finished the trilogy that I devoured the appendixes. What a wonderful world.
I struggle a lot with reading books with only text, as i have Aphantasia and cant see images in my head, but given your feelings on one piece lining up so well with my own, it makes me want to give these other series a try. The way you break down series with so much passion is so refreshing that even if i havent read most of these series i can still understand what makes them great.
I’ve been thinking about reading Malazan for a little while, but I’ve been reluctant to do it because of the mixed reviews. It’s nice to hear that I can enjoy the series without understanding it. I might pick it up sometime.
Honestly, 3 of those would easily make it to my top 5 and I didn't know of the Gentlemen Bastards but your pitch totally sold it to me. After you finish Hitchhiker's, if you're looking for more stuff from Douglas Adams, I really enjoyed the Dirk Gently series Discworld would 100% be my favorite series of all time. If you have not read anything from Terry Pratchett, I'm sure you'll love him, from how you talk about enjoying theme writing, and diving into human nature. Pratchett had a great understanding of humankind, I learnt a lot by reading him. Also, he's absolutely hilarious when he wants to.
Just wanted to thank you for recommending Locke Lamora again and again. You got me to read them and I loved them. Needed some time to adjust to the humor but now I consider it one of the best I've ever read. So thanks
Thanks merphy you're the one who introduced me to the world of books i just got my very first book today i decided it's gonna be mistborn 60 pages in im already very intrigued by the world also im planning on reading atleast one of your favorite authors book I've read the way of the kings as well in my cellphone and god it's so amazing especially the characters everytime jasnah and shallan have conversations together im just head over heels loving it there's a lot of thing I'd like to say about reasons why i loved it so much but since this video is not even related to the way of the kings I'll refrain myself
Maybe weird to say, but One Piece and Malazan are my favorites in their respective genre, and somehow a lot of the same reasons. Look at the exploration of theme, the layers upon layers of world building and mystery, the quirky humor, the variety of awesome characters, the completely bonkers and unique magic, the author's authentic compassion and love for humanity, etc.,etc.
Just discovered your channel and I’m hooked. Locke Lamora is next up on my listening list. (I have vision issues so depend mostly on audiobooks.) I read the Tolkien books, oh maybe 50-something years ago and have been thinking lately that I needed to revisit them. I have a “42” tee shirt and I try to keep up with my towel. My favorite series list would have to include The Chronicles of St. Mary’s (“don’t call it time travel!”) and Louise Penny’s Inspector Gamache series.
Just discovered your channel from a Reddit thread (I've never been on booktube before!) and I'm so happy to see that the Gentleman Bastards series is one of your fave series! I think our book tastes match a lot so you're the first booktuber I'm following! Can't wait for more great recommendations :)
OMG, You're doing the Malazan series, don't even know what you're gonna say about it yet because I paused it in excitement. It's my favorite so far, hope you enjoy it!
Hi, Merphy. I'm from Costa Rica. Glad You'll be coming here. We have really nice beaches. I recommend Tamarindo for the best waves and black sand, Manuel Antonio if you don't like waves and prefer white sand and Tambor for the best hotel experience as well as having a nice journey through a boat in order to get there. The beach you take the boat in order to get there is really awful though.
All the reasons you state for loving Backman, there are many of his prime examples of in The Winners. It does not disappoint. Not going to spoil anything, but I personally liked it more than Us Against Them. The first book is still the hardest hitting one story-wise, though this third one I think he shines more in his writing and his prose. Definitely my favorite Swedish author. So yeah, well deserved of being on the list.
Finished the Lies of Locke Lamora last month. Loved the book and was satisfied with the end of the novel (ignoring the last appearance of the Bondsmage, that chapter made me really uncomfortable). I wish I could find Red Seas under Red Skies in any of my local bookstores, but it seems like I'll have to order it online unfortunately. Also, the cuts in this video that basically start with books falling over is pretty fun. Enjoyed the books falling over at the word "chaos". Oh, didn't realize that I had the first book for the Malazan series on my shelf for years. Bought it and then stopped by the 1st page because the names were overly complex. I'll get to it eventually.
"They're basically on the same level." Wow, the dude that got you to read one piece must feel so proud if you like it as much as gentleman bastards lol
Lord of the rings will be my favourite series 4ever🖤 thanks for the recommendations, I'll definitely gonna check out some of those! My top 5 atm are probably: 1. Lord of the Rings 2. Dark Tower series 3. A song of ice and fire 4. Dune series 5. The secrets of the immortal Nicholas flamel
I think the Empire trilogy is still my favorite series of all time, and it has been so for 30 or so years. I just love how Mara starts out as the teenaged sole survivor of her family, which a mere 37 warriors at her command and wolves at the door. And through her own cunning and machinations, incrementally, she claws her way back from the brink, turning the Acoma into one of the most powerful houses in the Empire. And her own personal transformation that takes place during the books, and the effect that change has on her society's culture as a whole is quite a great read.
Omg same! And no one ever talks about the series I read it when I was like 13 for the first time and it really shaped my reading taste in so many ways.
I’m an op fan for so long now, and lord of the rings is one of the stories I love as well and now I’m so interested in reading the gentleman bastard to thanks to you! Gotta add it to my list to read very soon and I can’t wait to do so.
Can't tell how much I appreciate this. Have been having pretty rough time lately, being away from home for the 1st time n' having my life upside down, just like that. Thanku merph for the comforting home like vid.
I got Beartown and Us Against You audiobooks for christmas when they came out, we were going on a skiing trip, and were going to spend a lot of time in the car. I was nine by then, and only read My Grandma Asked Me To Tell You She's Sorry, a book explaining adoult struggles to a seven year old. So when the rape scene came on she let it be because she thought it'd be explained in a family friendly manner. It wasn't. I remember thinkig they were just messing around, like a couple, and he just got to full of himself (I didn't understand the concept of rape at the time). But when I got the townfolk's reaction compared to how she felt, I could see myself fitting nicely right between all of them, too blind to see how devastating it was, even being there with them when he did it. I couldn't ski properly that day and ever since I try to think about how not to hurt others or ignore them, even if it is unintentional. Truly a book that changed my life. also sorry if the grammar is unreadable, English isn't my first language :/
As a long time stan of One Piece and Hitchhiker's Guide series, I couldn't be happier about your list, and it makes me want to check out the Gentleman series.
As a huge one piece fan and LOTR fan I‘m in love right now 😂. Love your takes and I came across this video just as I was looking for book recommendations
Great list! Definitely want to read Gentleman Bastard and some Backman soon, mainly cause you're hyping them up so much. Also looks like we share two favorites now. My top 5: 1. Discworld 2. One Piece 3. Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy 4. Zamonia 5. Goodnight Punpun
Just ordered the first installment of The Gentleman Bastard. ☺️ Your video was my first introduction to the series and it piqued my interest since then. Can't wait to start it!
Omg, i'm so happy you are visiting Costa Rica! Unfortunately i'm not the type of person to visit many places so i can't suggest much but wherever you'll go I bet you will like it! Something you will notice we say a lot is pura vida, the meaning can change a bit depending on the context but it generally means good vibes, have a nice day or that everything is alright/good
Thank you for the list! I enjoyed the books collapsing in the background too. Whoever says the Hitchhiker series drops off is wrong. The books are different, not worse, and thoroughly enjoyable.
Don't worry about not speaking Spanish, it's very unlikely that you'll need it here! You'll probably be disappointed about not being able to use what you've learned. But it never hurts to learn "baño", "agua", "cerveza por favor". If you don't have a set itinerary yet, I'd recommend going to Manuel Antonio (beach+forest+cute animals) for a few days, Poás volcano + la paz waterfall gardens as a day trip (volcano+waterfalls+animal sanctuary), and either a few days in La Fortuna for hot springs or in Monteverde for rainforest exploration! There's tons of other stuff but those are definitely some of the best places! Hope you enjoy the trip :)
Basically, thanks to you (plus a few others) I started reading the Malazan series and I can't thank you enough. I have the first book almost finished and up to a half, I was terribly confused but now I'm getting more used to the book and I love it!
As of right now Malazan might be my favourite Fantasy series. I go back and forth between it, ASOIAF and R Scott Bakker's Second Apocalypse. First Law isn't far behind. Though lately Dresden Files has been climbing higher and higher up the ranks.
Imho Fool Moon is the worst book in the series, and it’s still pretty darn good. A lot of people seem to think Blood Rites is the worst (book 5 I think) but I personally enjoyed it. Anyways, everyone pretty much agrees 6 is one of the best and the series really hits its stride from there, there is not a sub par book after that. 12 is just…. A must.
As a Costa Rican/American duel citizen who has lived in both countries brought to you by One Piece and stuck around for great book recommendations. Have fun in your trip to my other beautiful country
I enjoyed this video. I did expect this to be strictly fantasy because these types of videos usually are, but I still enjoyed it. Your passion for Gentleman Bastards and LOTR makes me want to read both. I don't have a top 5 series list unless we specifically talk about manga. First Law Trilogy I've read. I've started Realm of the Elderlings. I am reading Red Rising Series too. On Golden Son currently. Looking forward to the stand-alone video.
I don't know if you have any room on your TBR but I would like to suggest the books of Jonathan Stroud. Specifically I have read 2 full series of his, the Bartemaus trilogy and the Lockwood and Co. series. Bartemaus is an interesting magical society where demons and other dimensional beings exist and we follow one of those beings and the 11 year old boy who summoned him for a dangerous mission. More highly recommended though is the Lockwood and Co. series about paranormal detectives in an alternate England where the dead have begun returning to the earth for the past 50 years and each book is unveiling a little bit more about the "Problem" as it is called and leads to many thrilling ghost encounters and fun mysteries. I would just be curious to hear your thoughts on either series, and in particular Lockwood and Co. has been adapted for Netflix and is set to be released later in the year.
I have put so much time watching your One Piece playlist, I am almost caught up. I am catching some of these other videos and HxH too, so glad to find your channel and I was glad to see your love for OP blossom during your early reviews
Good luck with the rest of The Malazan Book of the Fallen! It is far and away one of my favorite series, I've read it in its entirety 3 times. Book 5 is probably my favorite and I really hope you make it there! I also adore The Gentleman Bastards! So glad to see these two series make it into your favorites list. Have a wonderful day!
I’m pretty sure you held up the right book for the chairs! My partner gave me the Dirk Gently books by Douglas Adams for my birthday because I turned 42 and you have to have some adams to celebrate that, but we already owned Hitchhikers Guide so…
Alright, I'm convinced. I read The Hobbit when I was younger and enjoyed it quite a bit. I have tried a few times to get into Fellowship and I just keep bouncing off it. I'm going to buckle down and power through. I really want to be able to say that I have read the whole Lord of the Rings series as it is quintessential classic fantasy. And I have heard you talk about the Gentleman Bastard series a few times now so that's on my list.
I wonder how Merphy feels about light novel series now that she is reading manga. I read so many light novel books this summer. Over 300 hours! Danmachi, overlord, sword oratoria. Danmachi is my favorite series so far, but I’m trying to look for new series to read.
8:35 one of the reasons I have huge respect for Douglas Adams is that he managed to not only have me invested in a three page long rant on how to make a single sandwich, but I was also cracking down in laughter
Will be looking forward to see what you think of Malazan. I read the first 3 books and have had to take a break for a while. I do want to read the rest as well as the other books Erikson and Esslemont have written in that world, but they are just heavy books that drained me. I am committed to getting through all of them though as I am just fascinated by this world that they built together first as RPG gamers and then as writers.
Need to reread Hitchhikers- has been ages since first read. Also need to read Adams other popular series Dirk Gently which I have owned for 15 years, but have never started. Agree with your 1-5, but scared to start your honorable mention.
End of book 4 of Malazan put me on a hiatus from fantasy for some months. I know it didn't hit like the end of deadhouse gates for some but I loved the characters involved and man did that hurt.
At the very least I’m convinced we have similar taste in books. Also, you’re hilarious and I enjoy your enthusiasm. Subscribed & I’ll be adding these to my tbr! ♥️
Merphy, I picked up my first Backman book about a year ago based on your recommendation, and am so grateful for the idea. I mainly read fantasy, but wanted to branch out. I had no clue where to start, and now Backman is one of my favorite authors. I loved Beartown, and will be reading Us Against You this month. Also, very excited for book 3 this year.
I’m glad to hear you are enjoying Malazan. When I read it I became obsessed and read it four times in the same year. I was determined to figure everything out and it took me four times (plus help from the internet) to do so. But you can enjoy it without figuring everything out. You can keep reading for the characters. Also, have you read Terry Pratchett’s Discworld series yet? If you like Douglas Adams you should like Pratchett. My top five: 1. The Malazan Book of the Fallen 2. The Hobbit / The Lord of the Rings / The Silmarillion 3. The Wheel of Time 4. Discworld 5. The Deed of Paksenarrion
Thanks so much for your videos. Since I was a child, loooong time ago, I was mainly into Classics, which I still love. Fantasy, and I mean mainly high-fantasy, was not even on my radar. Thanks to you and other fantastic booktubers I have opened my mind to fantasy, so far the toughest I have read is American Gods, and I am now curious on so many of these fantasy recommendations. I think that fantasy puts the mind into a different mode, scarce things to relate to reality and that must be helpful for the mind, brain and soul, trying different and challenging things. So thanks again also for your great enthusiasm which is contagious. Saludos desde México !
Bear Town is AMAZING! It was my first by him and I cried. I wasn't even finished with the book and wanted to reread it. The way he explores the characters and their challenges is incredible. I haven't read Gardens of the Moon yet, but I feel like I would be the same way reading it. I will definitely have to be okay not understanding everything.
The Lies of Locke Lamora has been on my TBR since 2020 because of one of your videos. I think it's about time I get to it. Oh and the last two books of The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy are not that bad.
Ayo off topic from the video but have fun in Costa Rica! Took a vacation there a couple years back and it was the friendliest place I had ever been to. Absolutely loved it.
I'm glad you're loving Hitchhiker's and plan on finishing it. I hate when people try to deter people from forming their own opinions on anything. Finally got around to the second Gentleman Bastards book and I loved it. Book 3 soon(ish).
I’ve seen a few booktubers do like “my top 50 favorite books” and some of them do just standalones, some of them include like their favorite in a series but I would love to see your spin on that
The plethora of videos that you've made with great passion on One Piece make your choice very unsurprising, Merph. It's just one of the greatest stories ever told.
The Culture by Iain M Banks is my Sci-fi favourite book series hands down, followed Dan Simmons' Hyperion Cantos and Pierce Brown's Red Rising. In terms of Historical-Fiction, Bernard Cornwell's Warlord Chronicles which is an Arthurian retelling.
If you love Hitchhiker's Guide you should try more by Douglas Adams, including watching his Doctor Who stories from the 4th Doctor (Tom Baker) era. His stories are : The Pirate Planet, City of Death (one of the best of all Dr. Who), and Shada. Douglas likes to recycle his plots so both Dr. Gently's Holistic Detective Agency and Long Dark Tea Time of the Soul are basically Dr. Who stories rewritten without the Doctor in them cuz copyright. But no matter which way you experience them, Douglas is a great writer. I also highly recommend listening to the audio drama of Hitchhiker's Guide which is considered a classic. (I only made it through book three of the series myself, but I remember some people saying book 4 was a step up from 3 if only for the dolphins. But book one is so good I just usually reread that one over and over. Book one is one of my favorite sci-fi novels of all time!) And thanks for mentioning Leverage. I love that show!
Hi Merphy! I have a new book suggestion for you. Saving Savannah by Patti Calahan is a historical fiction novel following a modern day museum currator unraveling the mystery of two women who experienced the Pulaski shipwreck. I read this book right before we went to Tybee Island and Savannah and it made me appreciate the trip even more. Have a great day!
After reading some of the comments I really hope that the next manga you read is Haikyu. It’s a manga about boys volleyball and I went in with such low expectations and it blew me out of the water. Its themes are so good and the characters are all handled perfectly and a few of them are my very high in my favorite characters in fiction- one being in my top 5. Plus the ending is actually perfect. Hope you can check it out when you have time!
"Oda is both a masterful story teller and a goober"
Never have i heard a more perfect descriptor for such a funny man
Merphy got the whole One Piece community blushing right now
YOOOOO, so true haha
She’s so goddamn hot aswell
Let's go One Piece!!!! Also you've made me curious about Gentleman Bastards for a while, also Malazan and Hitchhiker's so well now there's a big TBR list
OP and Gentlemens bastards both are two of my favs as well. Character interactions and relations just too good
Merphy encourages me to read more series and not just stand-alones🖤
She encourages me to read stand-alones and not just series
@@adamtideman4953 I haven't been encouraged yet but I do tend to read only series because if I like the book I want more of it and I know I'll be sad if it's just one lol
Lol so opposite. Stand alone books for me are harder to get into. I want to know I’m gonna be diving deep into the story and for a longer time frame.
I like series more lol. Just cause I can spend a few weeks really delving into the stories.
I've started reading one piece because of you! Have only read the first three volumes so far, currently waiting on an order for the next three😊
Enjoy the ride
I envy you!
I’ve been reading one piece for 11 years
Happy to see a new fan!
Good luck on our adventure 🙌🏼
Have fun! She convinced me to read hitchhikers guide the the galaxy
Yeah... READ pyshical Manga/comic is GREAT !!
Its possible to read one piece and other manga online! Since 100+ volumes can get quite expensive, im around volume 85 rn and it only gets better!
I have been reading one piece since i was 8 (I just turned 27) and I have been slowly going through your one piece reviews and the genuine passion, joy and excitement you show has legitimately brought me close to tears as you go over some of my favorite moments it’s like I’m a kid again reading it for the first time. You are a breath of fresh air. Thank you
I'm in the middle of book 10 of Malazan and I can confidently say that it's taken over the top spot for my favorite series from Wheel of Time. The way Erickson BRILLIANTLY is bringing everything together is absolutely incredible storytelling. His world building is insanely complex and consistent, his characters feel real, and the series has expanded my perspective on a lot of things.
50 pages left in DoD… i cannot wait
You have the best mindset for Malazan. You are taking it all in, but you are not stressing about not understanding things. You WILL understand things more and more as time goes on and you will put some things together yourself and those will be some of the best moments. Man I'M SOOOOO excited for MoI review! And of course for all the books to follow!
I have been reading Malazan for the past 2 years. I have almost only read it during my lunch breaks at work or when I'm waiting for trains/planes
I was really enjoying it for what it was but I hit halfway through Bonehunters a couple days ago and have been sleeping 3 hours a night to fit more in 10/10
@@ebarobyre2720 pretty much similar to me. Usually I can only get a few pages in, but sometimes I can find time for that 1 hour or 2 hours reading stretch that feels SO GOOD.
I remeber that I took Erikson's advice and read chapter 7 of Bonehunters in one sitting. Best reading decision ever.
11:32 Merphy saying "chaos" while the books fell in the background is making me cackle like a mad woman 💀
As a One Piece fan I watch your book videos cuz you gave us a chance so we should give your recommendations a chance, I think I will start with Hitchhiker's guide that sounds up my alley! I don't read a ton of non manga but I am not opposed to it if its good 😁
HHGG is very British. As much as I absolutely love it, if you don’t like dry smart British humor it can be hard to get into.
@@peterepeatepete2845 I love the british office 😁
Then you will love the series.
“Traveling through hyperspace is uncomfortably like being drunk.
What’s so wrong about being drunk?
Ask a glass of water”
W
as a huge One Piece fan myself, I would highly recommend Hitchhiker's series (if you haven't started yet)
I came in for your delightfully thorough One Piece reviews and have stayed to now watch whatever you put out. I find it wonderful to see how you were able to pull both OP fans into traditional novels, and normal book readers into manga based on the comments.
A friend's let me borrow Gardens of the Moon because he loves the series, and it's been sitting collecting dust - these videos have made me start reading it because of your infectious enthusiasm.
did you ever finish the book
@@EE12345 not yet, but no harm picking it up today
I just started reading The Lies of Locke Lamora because of you.
I’m about 1/3 through so far. I wasn’t really feeling it for the first 30 or so pages but after that it really picked up for me and I’m really enjoying it so far.
Thanks for always talking about it.👏😎
I love how much you got into One Piece. It and Haikyuu are my two favourite manga/series’ in general.
Oh my god Haikyuu was probably the biggest surprise for me in my anime watching life. I would cry over a single point being scored 😂👌
Same. Haikyuu is amazing. I've read many manga so it would be difficult for any one series that I read along the way to become my favorite. And yet, just like Karasuno does regularly, Haikyuu has become one of my Top 5 series. Sitting pretty next to Berserk, One Piece, HunterxHunter, and Rurouni Kenshin
I love Haikyuu so much!! I didn't think I would love something as much as One Piece again and that stayed true for 13-14 years until I watched Haikyuu (and Gintama) this past year. I'm still going through Haikyuu withdrawal cuz I only finished it a week or so ago.
Bro same. Haikyuu is my second favorite series behind one piece.
The love for haikyu in this thread makes me feel like maybe Im not so crazy to have read almost 50 manga and still have it as my favourite
I picked up OP due to your recommendation (not Daniel’s) and now my family things I have a bit of a problem…
As for my top five favorite series:
1) the Queen’s Thief series by Megan Whalen Turner
2) the Broken Earth trilogy by NK Jemisin
3) OP 😍
4) the Expanse by James SA Corey, which I’m not finished with yet
5) the Lymond Chronicles by Dorothy Dunnett? Again, not finished with.
You sold me on The Gentleman Bastard series! Just bought a box set with the first 3 books...can't wait to read.
Malazan getting an honorable mention 2 books in is so impressive. Excited to see what you think of the rest.
Came to this channel as a One Piece fan but I'm definitely gonna check out Malazan and Gentleman Bastards! Thanks!
Malazan is not an easy read but by gods the pay off is worth it. Cast of main characters change between some books and it can be jarring for readers. Specially when you grew attached to characters in previous books. But please give it a chance, Malazan is a gigantic tapestry of events spanning multiple continents but still somehow the details and the characters 'realness' are not lost in the vastness. They shine through.
@@stramaisdead thanks. I've definitely read some heavy stuff before but Malazan sounds amazing and I need a challenge hahaha
I have read The Lord of the Rings twice a year, every year for the last 9 years. I think it is the greatest story ever told and I think it’s the most beautifully written book ever. Tolkiens prose (and poetry) is so beautiful, and often underrated. The first 2 times I read lotr, I kind of skimmed a bit through the wordy flowery descriptions. Now I go back over them whenever I read them. His writing is just a masterclass in visceral experience. It’s so immersive and real. What’s amazing about him is that he didn’t travel much, and yet had such an incredible grasp of topography and geography and nature. He writes places as if they were all directly based off somewhere he actually went, and very often he never did. Yes you have Mordor (South Africa, where he was born), and the Shire (Sarehole/Worcestershirein the English countryside). But then you have so many other places that beautifully resemble places in the world he had never been to. He describes mosses and flowers and regions that he almost certainly had never personally seen, and in such a palpable and intimate way.
“There is one passage in The Two Towers that forever solidified my love for Tolkien as a wordsmith and crafter of language, not just as my favorite overall author. It’s in the chapter “Of Herbs and Stewed Rabbit” and I think it’s one of the most beautifully written descriptions in all of literature. I go back every month and read this, so I can recite it from memory. I actually wrote 2 university papers on this, that’s how much I love it. Some people don’t have the same reaction as me…many are like “meh” and I genuinely feel sorry for those people. Now this paragraph is only one in the middle of 6 other paragraphs that all work together to paint one of the most beautiful pictures ever painted with words IMO, but I’m only going to give this one because it would be way to long to post all of it. This is just my favorite snippet from it. Here’s the passage;
“Day was opening in the sky, and they saw that the mountains were now much further off, receding eastward in a long curve that was lost in the distance. Before them, as they turned west, gentle slopes ran down into dim hazes far below. All about them were small woods of resinous trees, fir and cedar and cypress, and other kinds unknown in the Shire, with wide glades among them; and everywhere there was a wealth of sweet-smelling herbs and shrubs. The long journey from Rivendell had brought them far south of their own land, but not until now in this more sheltered region had the hobbits felt the change of clime. Here Spring was already busy about them: fronds pierced moss and mould, larches were green-fingered, small flowers were opening in the turf, birds were singing. Ithilien, the garden of Gondor now desolate, kept still a dishevelled dryad loveliness.”
Again, if you don’t get it, that’s fine. to me it’s just unbelievably beautiful.
I completely agree about authors that create a world that we don't wish to leave. I'm a very slow reader, (dyslexic), but Tolkien makes my journey so enchanting that if he needs a thousand words to describe something..I'm all for it. I was so saddened when I finished the trilogy that I devoured the appendixes. What a wonderful world.
So excited for Beartown 3!!! Looking forward to Patreon buddy read of 1 & 2 before the Winners comes out!
It's great, I liked it more than Us Against Them personally!
@Rum Ham no
I’m about halfway through “The Winners” and I’m really enjoying it so far :))
@@FreyaFJ omg I'm so jealous. I wish I could start the winners!
I struggle a lot with reading books with only text, as i have Aphantasia and cant see images in my head, but given your feelings on one piece lining up so well with my own, it makes me want to give these other series a try. The way you break down series with so much passion is so refreshing that even if i havent read most of these series i can still understand what makes them great.
I have aphantasia too, and yet I enjoy books with a lot of description (Tolkien, typically), as long as the prose is good enough.
Im not much of a book person but im going to support the channel in all that comes to manga/anime because i love your reviews so much.
THANK YOU FOR GIVING ODA THE PRAISE HE DESERVES❤❤
I’ve been thinking about reading Malazan for a little while, but I’ve been reluctant to do it because of the mixed reviews. It’s nice to hear that I can enjoy the series without understanding it. I might pick it up sometime.
Honestly, 3 of those would easily make it to my top 5 and I didn't know of the Gentlemen Bastards but your pitch totally sold it to me.
After you finish Hitchhiker's, if you're looking for more stuff from Douglas Adams, I really enjoyed the Dirk Gently series
Discworld would 100% be my favorite series of all time. If you have not read anything from Terry Pratchett, I'm sure you'll love him, from how you talk about enjoying theme writing, and diving into human nature. Pratchett had a great understanding of humankind, I learnt a lot by reading him. Also, he's absolutely hilarious when he wants to.
Just wanted to thank you for recommending Locke Lamora again and again. You got me to read them and I loved them. Needed some time to adjust to the humor but now I consider it one of the best I've ever read. So thanks
I’ve had gentleman bastards on my radar for quite a while…I’ve been catching up with One Piece 😆♥️ looking forward to reading!
Thanks merphy you're the one who introduced me to the world of books i just got my very first book today i decided it's gonna be mistborn 60 pages in im already very intrigued by the world also im planning on reading atleast one of your favorite authors book
I've read the way of the kings as well in my cellphone and god it's so amazing especially the characters everytime jasnah and shallan have conversations together im just head over heels loving it there's a lot of thing I'd like to say about reasons why i loved it so much but since this video is not even related to the way of the kings I'll refrain myself
Definitely finish the Mistborn trilogy before starting anything else. The books are great, but the ending is peak fiction
@@SamVimes27 that's great to hear really looking forward reading it onward
Maybe weird to say, but One Piece and Malazan are my favorites in their respective genre, and somehow a lot of the same reasons. Look at the exploration of theme, the layers upon layers of world building and mystery, the quirky humor, the variety of awesome characters, the completely bonkers and unique magic, the author's authentic compassion and love for humanity, etc.,etc.
Just discovered your channel and I’m hooked. Locke Lamora is next up on my listening list. (I have vision issues so depend mostly on audiobooks.) I read the Tolkien books, oh maybe 50-something years ago and have been thinking lately that I needed to revisit them. I have a “42” tee shirt and I try to keep up with my towel.
My favorite series list would have to include The Chronicles of St. Mary’s (“don’t call it time travel!”) and Louise Penny’s Inspector Gamache series.
Just discovered your channel from a Reddit thread (I've never been on booktube before!) and I'm so happy to see that the Gentleman Bastards series is one of your fave series! I think our book tastes match a lot so you're the first booktuber I'm following! Can't wait for more great recommendations :)
OMG, You're doing the Malazan series, don't even know what you're gonna say about it yet because I paused it in excitement. It's my favorite so far, hope you enjoy it!
Hi, Merphy. I'm from Costa Rica. Glad You'll be coming here. We have really nice beaches. I recommend Tamarindo for the best waves and black sand, Manuel Antonio if you don't like waves and prefer white sand and Tambor for the best hotel experience as well as having a nice journey through a boat in order to get there. The beach you take the boat in order to get there is really awful though.
All the reasons you state for loving Backman, there are many of his prime examples of in The Winners. It does not disappoint. Not going to spoil anything, but I personally liked it more than Us Against Them. The first book is still the hardest hitting one story-wise, though this third one I think he shines more in his writing and his prose. Definitely my favorite Swedish author.
So yeah, well deserved of being on the list.
Finished the Lies of Locke Lamora last month. Loved the book and was satisfied with the end of the novel (ignoring the last appearance of the Bondsmage, that chapter made me really uncomfortable). I wish I could find Red Seas under Red Skies in any of my local bookstores, but it seems like I'll have to order it online unfortunately.
Also, the cuts in this video that basically start with books falling over is pretty fun. Enjoyed the books falling over at the word "chaos".
Oh, didn't realize that I had the first book for the Malazan series on my shelf for years. Bought it and then stopped by the 1st page because the names were overly complex. I'll get to it eventually.
"They're basically on the same level." Wow, the dude that got you to read one piece must feel so proud if you like it as much as gentleman bastards lol
Lord of the rings will be my favourite series 4ever🖤 thanks for the recommendations, I'll definitely gonna check out some of those! My top 5 atm are probably:
1. Lord of the Rings
2. Dark Tower series
3. A song of ice and fire
4. Dune series
5. The secrets of the immortal Nicholas flamel
I think the Empire trilogy is still my favorite series of all time, and it has been so for 30 or so years. I just love how Mara starts out as the teenaged sole survivor of her family, which a mere 37 warriors at her command and wolves at the door. And through her own cunning and machinations, incrementally, she claws her way back from the brink, turning the Acoma into one of the most powerful houses in the Empire. And her own personal transformation that takes place during the books, and the effect that change has on her society's culture as a whole is quite a great read.
Omg same! And no one ever talks about the series I read it when I was like 13 for the first time and it really shaped my reading taste in so many ways.
@@laetitiarose7796 Us Empire lovers have to stick together.
16:45 Can we take a moment to appreciate the perfect timing? Just as she says chaos too...
I’m an op fan for so long now, and lord of the rings is one of the stories I love as well and now I’m so interested in reading the gentleman bastard to thanks to you! Gotta add it to my list to read very soon and I can’t wait to do so.
Can't tell how much I appreciate this. Have been having pretty rough time lately, being away from home for the 1st time n' having my life upside down, just like that.
Thanku merph for the comforting home like vid.
My list
1)asoiaf
2) vagabond
3) berserk
4) one piece
5) 20th century boys
you blended the manga with the books and both sides have many new fans !!! amazing!!! one piece changed my life.
I got Beartown and Us Against You audiobooks for christmas when they came out, we were going on a skiing trip, and were going to spend a lot of time in the car. I was nine by then, and only read My Grandma Asked Me To Tell You She's Sorry, a book explaining adoult struggles to a seven year old. So when the rape scene came on she let it be because she thought it'd be explained in a family friendly manner. It wasn't. I remember thinkig they were just messing around, like a couple, and he just got to full of himself (I didn't understand the concept of rape at the time). But when I got the townfolk's reaction compared to how she felt, I could see myself fitting nicely right between all of them, too blind to see how devastating it was, even being there with them when he did it. I couldn't ski properly that day and ever since I try to think about how not to hurt others or ignore them, even if it is unintentional. Truly a book that changed my life.
also sorry if the grammar is unreadable, English isn't my first language :/
I was surprised there was no Stormlight Archives in this list! But got some great recommendations, I love your videos! 🥰
Me too! It's my number 1, then malazan
As a long time stan of One Piece and Hitchhiker's Guide series, I couldn't be happier about your list, and it makes me want to check out the Gentleman series.
I just wanted to say that I started reading The Lies of Locke Lamora today because of how often you have brought it up in your suggestions!
As a huge one piece fan and LOTR fan I‘m in love right now 😂. Love your takes and I came across this video just as I was looking for book recommendations
Great list! Definitely want to read Gentleman Bastard and some Backman soon, mainly cause you're hyping them up so much. Also looks like we share two favorites now.
My top 5:
1. Discworld
2. One Piece
3. Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy
4. Zamonia
5. Goodnight Punpun
Just ordered the first installment of The Gentleman Bastard. ☺️ Your video was my first introduction to the series and it piqued my interest since then. Can't wait to start it!
Omg, i'm so happy you are visiting Costa Rica! Unfortunately i'm not the type of person to visit many places so i can't suggest much but wherever you'll go I bet you will like it! Something you will notice we say a lot is pura vida, the meaning can change a bit depending on the context but it generally means good vibes, have a nice day or that everything is alright/good
Thank you for the list! I enjoyed the books collapsing in the background too. Whoever says the Hitchhiker series drops off is wrong. The books are different, not worse, and thoroughly enjoyable.
My head was blown when you said you were planning a trip to Costa Rica. Well, here you have a costarican subscriber. You gonna love it here :D!
Don't worry about not speaking Spanish, it's very unlikely that you'll need it here! You'll probably be disappointed about not being able to use what you've learned. But it never hurts to learn "baño", "agua", "cerveza por favor". If you don't have a set itinerary yet, I'd recommend going to Manuel Antonio (beach+forest+cute animals) for a few days, Poás volcano + la paz waterfall gardens as a day trip (volcano+waterfalls+animal sanctuary), and either a few days in La Fortuna for hot springs or in Monteverde for rainforest exploration! There's tons of other stuff but those are definitely some of the best places! Hope you enjoy the trip :)
Basically, thanks to you (plus a few others) I started reading the Malazan series and I can't thank you enough. I have the first book almost finished and up to a half, I was terribly confused but now I'm getting more used to the book and I love it!
As of right now Malazan might be my favourite Fantasy series. I go back and forth between it, ASOIAF and R Scott Bakker's Second Apocalypse. First Law isn't far behind. Though lately Dresden Files has been climbing higher and higher up the ranks.
Malazan is also my favourite.
Just finished Best Served Cold. And about 1/2 through Fool Moon. Looks like our tastes overlap 👍
Imho Fool Moon is the worst book in the series, and it’s still pretty darn good. A lot of people seem to think Blood Rites is the worst (book 5 I think) but I personally enjoyed it.
Anyways, everyone pretty much agrees 6 is one of the best and the series really hits its stride from there, there is not a sub par book after that. 12 is just…. A must.
I like your taste! I don't find many people who have read the Second Apocalypse books.
As a Costa Rican/American duel citizen who has lived in both countries brought to you by One Piece and stuck around for great book recommendations. Have fun in your trip to my other beautiful country
Honestly keen to check out the honourable mention 🍃 Can't wait to see it kick my ass too
I enjoyed this video. I did expect this to be strictly fantasy because these types of videos usually are, but I still enjoyed it. Your passion for Gentleman Bastards and LOTR makes me want to read both.
I don't have a top 5 series list unless we specifically talk about manga. First Law Trilogy I've read. I've started Realm of the Elderlings. I am reading Red Rising Series too. On Golden Son currently. Looking forward to the stand-alone video.
I don't know if you have any room on your TBR but I would like to suggest the books of Jonathan Stroud. Specifically I have read 2 full series of his, the Bartemaus trilogy and the Lockwood and Co. series. Bartemaus is an interesting magical society where demons and other dimensional beings exist and we follow one of those beings and the 11 year old boy who summoned him for a dangerous mission.
More highly recommended though is the Lockwood and Co. series about paranormal detectives in an alternate England where the dead have begun returning to the earth for the past 50 years and each book is unveiling a little bit more about the "Problem" as it is called and leads to many thrilling ghost encounters and fun mysteries.
I would just be curious to hear your thoughts on either series, and in particular Lockwood and Co. has been adapted for Netflix and is set to be released later in the year.
I have put so much time watching your One Piece playlist, I am almost caught up. I am catching some of these other videos and HxH too, so glad to find your channel and I was glad to see your love for OP blossom during your early reviews
Good luck with the rest of The Malazan Book of the Fallen! It is far and away one of my favorite series, I've read it in its entirety 3 times. Book 5 is probably my favorite and I really hope you make it there! I also adore The Gentleman Bastards! So glad to see these two series make it into your favorites list. Have a wonderful day!
I'm not much of a series reader.. so I'm excited for the "my favorite standalones" video
I’m pretty sure you held up the right book for the chairs!
My partner gave me the Dirk Gently books by Douglas Adams for my birthday because I turned 42 and you have to have some adams to celebrate that, but we already owned Hitchhikers Guide so…
I just finished the Republic of Thieves! Thank you for making these :) Love your videos!
Alright, I'm convinced. I read The Hobbit when I was younger and enjoyed it quite a bit. I have tried a few times to get into Fellowship and I just keep bouncing off it. I'm going to buckle down and power through. I really want to be able to say that I have read the whole Lord of the Rings series as it is quintessential classic fantasy. And I have heard you talk about the Gentleman Bastard series a few times now so that's on my list.
I love Locke and Jean (and Sabetha) 100% on board with you about the Gentlemen Bastards. So excited for Thorn when it finally arrived
I wonder how Merphy feels about light novel series now that she is reading manga. I read so many light novel books this summer. Over 300 hours! Danmachi, overlord, sword oratoria. Danmachi is my favorite series so far, but I’m trying to look for new series to read.
8:35 one of the reasons I have huge respect for Douglas Adams is that he managed to not only have me invested in a three page long rant on how to make a single sandwich, but I was also cracking down in laughter
Will be looking forward to see what you think of Malazan. I read the first 3 books and have had to take a break for a while. I do want to read the rest as well as the other books Erikson and Esslemont have written in that world, but they are just heavy books that drained me. I am committed to getting through all of them though as I am just fascinated by this world that they built together first as RPG gamers and then as writers.
Need to reread Hitchhikers- has been ages since first read. Also need to read Adams other popular series Dirk Gently which I have owned for 15 years, but have never started.
Agree with your 1-5, but scared to start your honorable mention.
I haven't read hitchhikers yet, but Dirk Gently is AMAZING!!!
Hitchhiker's was the series that really made me a reader, back in my early teens, but the first Dirk Gently book is my favorite Adams book today.
merphy, berserk is a must read, its considered the greatest manga for a reason, I hope you give it a shot
she did and didn’t liked it
Really excited to see your thoughts after you finish Menories of Ice. It's one of my favorite novels of all time full stop.
Just got Hitchhiker's Guide thanks to your recent recommendation fot it! I can't wait to read it.
The harpist in the wind, it’s a series/book that i have reread constantly over the years
End of book 4 of Malazan put me on a hiatus from fantasy for some months. I know it didn't hit like the end of deadhouse gates for some but I loved the characters involved and man did that hurt.
At the very least I’m convinced we have similar taste in books. Also, you’re hilarious and I enjoy your enthusiasm. Subscribed & I’ll be adding these to my tbr! ♥️
Merphy, I picked up my first Backman book about a year ago based on your recommendation, and am so grateful for the idea. I mainly read fantasy, but wanted to branch out. I had no clue where to start, and now Backman is one of my favorite authors. I loved Beartown, and will be reading Us Against You this month. Also, very excited for book 3 this year.
I tried reading Gentleman Bastards in years ago, but wasn't feeling it. You've convinced me to give it another go! I love thievery tales.
My best friend and I are reading Malazan too! We're gonna start book 4 in the next 2 weeks!(:
Considering Hitchhiker, One Piece and LotR are also among my favourite series, I now feel obligated to read the other two of your favourites... :D
I’m glad to hear you are enjoying Malazan. When I read it I became obsessed and read it four times in the same year. I was determined to figure everything out and it took me four times (plus help from the internet) to do so. But you can enjoy it without figuring everything out. You can keep reading for the characters.
Also, have you read Terry Pratchett’s Discworld series yet? If you like Douglas Adams you should like Pratchett.
My top five:
1. The Malazan Book of the Fallen
2. The Hobbit / The Lord of the Rings / The Silmarillion
3. The Wheel of Time
4. Discworld
5. The Deed of Paksenarrion
Thanks so much for your videos. Since I was a child, loooong time ago, I was mainly into Classics, which I still love. Fantasy, and I mean mainly high-fantasy, was not even on my radar. Thanks to you and other fantastic booktubers I have opened my mind to fantasy, so far the toughest I have read is American Gods, and I am now curious on so many of these fantasy recommendations. I think that fantasy puts the mind into a different mode, scarce things to relate to reality and that must be helpful for the mind, brain and soul, trying different and challenging things. So thanks again also for your great enthusiasm which is contagious. Saludos desde México !
Malazan is a fantastic series. I'm anxious to see your review of Memories of Ice.
Seeing The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy on these lists always makes me happy :D . Absolute masterpiece.
PS Don't forget to bring your towel :P
Will never forget you for introducing me to Locke and Jean❤️ Calo Galdo and chains too of course!
Bear Town is AMAZING! It was my first by him and I cried. I wasn't even finished with the book and wanted to reread it. The way he explores the characters and their challenges is incredible.
I haven't read Gardens of the Moon yet, but I feel like I would be the same way reading it. I will definitely have to be okay not understanding everything.
The Lies of Locke Lamora has been on my TBR since 2020 because of one of your videos. I think it's about time I get to it.
Oh and the last two books of The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy are not that bad.
I love how the first few are constant but as we go down the list it changes!
Ayo off topic from the video but have fun in Costa Rica! Took a vacation there a couple years back and it was the friendliest place I had ever been to. Absolutely loved it.
The lies of Locke Lamora is an excellent series and an excellent choice.
I'm glad you're loving Hitchhiker's and plan on finishing it. I hate when people try to deter people from forming their own opinions on anything.
Finally got around to the second Gentleman Bastards book and I loved it. Book 3 soon(ish).
Mucho ánimo con las clases de español Merphy!
I’ve seen a few booktubers do like “my top 50 favorite books” and some of them do just standalones, some of them include like their favorite in a series but I would love to see your spin on that
The plethora of videos that you've made with great passion on One Piece make your choice very unsurprising, Merph. It's just one of the greatest stories ever told.
The Culture by Iain M Banks is my Sci-fi favourite book series hands down, followed Dan Simmons' Hyperion Cantos and Pierce Brown's Red Rising. In terms of Historical-Fiction, Bernard Cornwell's Warlord Chronicles which is an Arthurian retelling.
YES I feel like the Hitchhiker's series is criminally underrated on Booktube!!
If you love Hitchhiker's Guide you should try more by Douglas Adams, including watching his Doctor Who stories from the 4th Doctor (Tom Baker) era. His stories are : The Pirate Planet, City of Death (one of the best of all Dr. Who), and Shada. Douglas likes to recycle his plots so both Dr. Gently's Holistic Detective Agency and Long Dark Tea Time of the Soul are basically Dr. Who stories rewritten without the Doctor in them cuz copyright. But no matter which way you experience them, Douglas is a great writer. I also highly recommend listening to the audio drama of Hitchhiker's Guide which is considered a classic. (I only made it through book three of the series myself, but I remember some people saying book 4 was a step up from 3 if only for the dolphins. But book one is so good I just usually reread that one over and over. Book one is one of my favorite sci-fi novels of all time!)
And thanks for mentioning Leverage. I love that show!
Hi Merphy! I have a new book suggestion for you. Saving Savannah by Patti Calahan is a historical fiction novel following a modern day museum currator unraveling the mystery of two women who experienced the Pulaski shipwreck. I read this book right before we went to Tybee Island and Savannah and it made me appreciate the trip even more. Have a great day!
After reading some of the comments I really hope that the next manga you read is Haikyu. It’s a manga about boys volleyball and I went in with such low expectations and it blew me out of the water. Its themes are so good and the characters are all handled perfectly and a few of them are my very high in my favorite characters in fiction- one being in my top 5. Plus the ending is actually perfect. Hope you can check it out when you have time!