October Wrap-Up: Books, K-Dramas, and Films
I’ve decided it would be fun to do a “wrap-up” at the end of every month for all the books, K-dramas, and films I watched or read. I’ll be ranking the films and books from least recommended to most.
This has been the first month of my blog, and posting here has felt both thrilling and nerve-racking. It’s given me a chance to be brave and honest about what I’ve chosen to read or watch—and that kind of vulnerability can be intimidating sometimes. I want to say thank you to all of you who have read my posts and reached out with encouragement; it means so much to me!
Despite some health struggles and my part-time online statistics course, I’ve managed to watch and read quite a bit—even writing two essays: one on a K-drama and one on a book!
I hope to keep posting consistently in the future, every Saturday and Monday. My purpose for this blog is that God would somehow use it, even though I’m not entirely sure how yet. Because of certain health issues, I’m not able to be out in public or involved in a community as much as I’d like, so I hope this blog can be a space for me to express my thoughts—and share truth—in a meaningful, public way.
Table of Contents
Wuthering Heights by — 2.5 stars
By far my least favourite read of this month was Wuthering Heights, which I rated 2.5 stars. The only thing I really liked about it was the author’s descriptive language, especially when describing the vivid Yorkshire moors, the crumbling cottages, and the relentless weather. The setting was the most engaging aspect for me; it’s what carried me to the end more than the plot itself.
Overall, I thought the book was just okay, and I don’t see myself re-reading it. Nevertheless, I understand why it resonates with others, as there’s a heavy, persistent eeriness that makes the story unsettling.
Read my full review of Wuthering Heights here.
The Dragon’s Promise by Elizabeth Lim — 3 stars
Next up is The Dragon’s Promise, which I rated 3 stars. I really enjoyed Lim’s world-building, and the novel was decent overall. It became stronger toward the end, but the beginning felt slow, so the stakes didn’t feel as high—even though the fate of the world was at risk.
The fantasy system was fascinating, drawing heavily from Southeast Asian myths. However, I felt the story lost focus when the author tried to humanize the demons. Even if they come from another mythology or worldview, portraying inherently chaotic beings in a sympathetic light can be tricky. That said, this is fantasy inspired by myths outside the Judeo-Christian tradition, so creative liberties are expected.
Despite its flaws, I’m glad I kept reading. I appreciated how the author handled heavy themes in an approachable way, and the ending was genuinely moving—it even made me cry. I would recommend this book to some readers, but with discernment, especially regarding its supernatural themes.
Read my full review of The Dragon’s Promise here.
An Enchantment of Ravens by Margaret Rogerson — 4 stars
I gave An Enchantment of Ravens 4 stars. I really enjoyed this book—it felt magical through its descriptions alone. Overall, it’s great fun. It might not be the deepest book ever written, but it carries meaningful messages and offers a satisfying standalone fantasy for readers who don’t want to commit to a full series.
The book includes a few romantic moments and introspective reflections on identity and attraction. While I appreciated the story overall and even the majority of the romantic elements, some of the internal dialogue slightly lessened my enjoyment, which is reflected in my rating.
Read my full review of An Enchantment of Ravens here.
Six Crimson Cranes by Elizabeth Lim — 4 stars
Six Crimson Cranes by Elizabeth Lim was a phenomenal first book in a duology and a wonderful debut in YA literature. Despite slight pacing issues, it’s a refreshing and engaging read with valuable messages. It’s perfect for older teens and fans of YA fantasy. While it is the first book in a duology, reading the second book is not necessary—Six Crimson Cranes can be enjoyed as a standalone. It draws inspiration from Southeast Asian mythology as well as the classic fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen, The Six Swans. The author also provides rich detail in descriptions of food. If you’re a foodie, you’re bound to love the vivid writing that beautifully enhances the world-building! I highly recommend it!
Read my full review of Six Crimson Cranes here.
My Country: The New Age (K-Drama) — 4 stars
My Country: The New Age is an excellent K-drama that explores relationships, brotherhood, and the complexities of human behaviour under pressure. It accurately portrays how oppression can corrupt individuals, relationships, and even entire civilizations, while also offering compelling examples of virtue and moral courage that are inspiring.
The series is action-packed, with numerous battle scenes and combat sequences. This may be appealing to some viewers or off-putting to others, depending on personal preferences. If you are uncomfortable with depictions of war or sword fighting, this series might not be for you.
Overall, I highly recommend My Country: The New Age for fans of historical dramas or those interested in exploring human virtue in challenging circumstances.
Read my full review of My Country: The New Age here.
Fantastic Mr. Fox by Roald Dahl — 4.5 stars
This story was a wonderful experience. The children’s book includes complex themes, along with opportunities to critically reflect on what is right or wrong in the main character’s actions. I also found that having a strong father figure as the protagonist was unique and refreshing, as most children’s books are told from the perspective of a younger character. The audiobook version, in particular, was delightful—even as an adult listener, I found it a joy to hear and laughed out loud multiple times. I would recommend this audiobook to anyone who enjoys a narrator capable of performing “all the voices.”
Read my full review of Fantastic Mr. Fox here.
Adam and the Genome by Scot McKnight & Dennis R. Venema — 5 stars
Adam and the Genome by Scot McKnight & Dennis R. Venema is a unique book in terms of the topics the authors are willing to tackle. Evolution is often a “red button” topic within the church, and this book helps to dispel misunderstandings, prejudices, and dishonesty surrounding such a sensitive subject. I’m deeply impressed by the authors’ commitment to truthfulness and compassion. While I’m still thinking through some of these ideas myself, I am convinced that this book is important in many ways for Christians to read, and I am grateful to the authors for bravely sharing their insights.
I highly recommend Adam and the Genome to everyone, not only to serious students of science.
Read my full review of Adam and the Genome here.
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald — 5 stars
The Great Gatsby is one of my favourite books, and I know I’ll take pleasure in re-reading it for many years to come. I loved how the author didn’t shy away from difficult topics and used mature themes to illustrate the consequences of a life lived without moral grounding. The book also offers great value in prompting readers to reflect on what the “good life” truly is—and what it might look like. The eloquence in Fitzgerald’s writing is immaculate and delightful, with many quotable lines that stick in your head and feel relatable. Overall, this is the book I would recommend most out of every book or K-drama I read in October.
Read my full review of The Great Gatsby here.
That's all folks! If you’re planning to read or watch anything from my October wrap-up list, feel free to comment below!❤❤❤
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