Book Reviews
The Witches of Bone Hill
By Ava Morgyn
THE WITCHES OF BONE HILL captured my interest right away. When reading the synopsis, I felt that this book would be really perfect for fall. And as I read, I was correct. Cordelia Bone's life is falling apart as her marriage, business, and home is literally collapsing. When she receives a phone call from her estranged sister, Eustace, she learns that their aunt, one they did not know, has died and they must travel to a small town in Connecticut to claim a vast estate, and a mysterious house.
The first thing about this novel is that the author writes beautifully. The amount of detail she puts into the story to make it atmospheric, to really explain to the reader all aspects of the house, the Bone estate, and the supernatural events is breathtaking. It was immersive and one of the most most special things about this book.
This novel also did a great job of blending a mixing a lot of different aspects of the story to be unique and thoughtful. There's a lot going on here, but the author does not allow the book to get bogged down or overwhelmed by these elements of mystery, the supernatural, and romance. They work seamlessly together to create the story. And the way that she writes her characters was well done as well. The growth that Cordelia goes through, both internally and in her relationship with her sister, is another thing that makes this story so interesting.
The only reason I'm not giving this book a full 5 stars is because the supernatural elements, while important to the story, were a bit much. There are quite a few scenes where Cordelia is experiencing these elements and it gets repetitive after a while, especially in the beginning. However, once we as readers start learning more about the history of the Bones estate with the sisters, the book becomes more engrossing.
Overall, this book is perfect for spooky season. If you love atmospheric writing, witches, romance, mystery, the supernatural, character growth, and sisterhood, I think this is your book.
Thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Rating: 4.5/5
Honor
By Thrity Umrigar
I didn't love this book. It wasn't that it was a bad story. On the contrary, I think it handled the ideas of Islamophobia, honor killings, and misogyny with a critical eye that was also honest without being too preachy, which has happened in other books that I've read. I think the multiple perspectives were interesting and I think the author does a great job in creating a narrative that focuses on these topics.
However, this book was very slow and terribly depressing. Part of this was the subject matter and the character growth happening with the main character: Smita. But I think part of it was the writing and structure of the story itself. The first part of the book was terribly long where nothing was really happening. And additionally, the writing where Smita just constantly reflects, has a realization, ignores that realization, and then realizes it again was too much for me and took up most of the book. I think the author has beautiful prose, but it became frustrating as it was narrated through the eyes of the main character. And due to the story itself, there is never a time where the reader can decompress from the amount of trauma and difficulty the characters face throughout the book.
Overall, this is an important story, one that definitely made me think. I just think the author's writing style for this particular book was not for me.
Rating: 3.5/5
Fourth Wing
By Rebecca Yarros
This book was incredible. I loved every part of it and I am deeply upset that I've not only finished it, but that I have to wait until the sequel comes out.... which I already preordered.
This book had me hooked. It took a few chapters to get into, but then I was reading nonstop and had a book hangover once I read it. It was well done. The story was engaging. The pacing was perfect. The romance had me screaming. I loved the action and the magic system. I loved the dragons. Honestly, there's really nothing in this book I didn't love. I cannot get over this book and it is probably one of my new favorites.
I know this book is everywhere, but it is worth it. It is worth the hype. Read it and I don't think you'll be disappointed if you do. To me, this story is absolute perfection.
Rating: 5/5
Queen of Myth and Monsters
By Scarlett St. Clair
So, this was a super light read that was spicy, but I feel like it fell into the habit I’ve been seeing with romantasy novels lately. I liked reading it, but I wasn’t overly impressed.
This book really didn’t further the plot more than the first book. We see Isolde accepting herself more and some character growth, which is great. But no other extra questions were really answered and it all felt like filler.
This is the trend I’ve been seeing with this genre: the second book really doesn’t push the plot along and instead all answers are at the very last book. I think this series could be a duology. It wasn’t that this book was unenjoyable, but it just didn’t do anything for the story.
Rating: 3.5/5
Same Time Next Summer
By Annabel Monaghan
This book, once I started, was a really easy, light read. I read Nora Goes Off Script and loved it (until the middle, but that’s another long story). This book hits a different note, following Sam and Wyatt who loved each other as kids, and Wyatt broke Sam’s heart. Now she’s getting married and she ends up running into Wyatt. It was great going back and forth, and alternative POVs for a little. It hit the perfect notes for a beach read.
If I hadn’t just read Every Summer After, I would say this book hit all parts. However, I think it does lack a bit on the second chance romance front. In the flashbacks, I was looking for a bit more in understanding how much thegrew to love. I also find in some second chance romances that I don’t get as emotionally invested in their present if I don’t get enough information as to why they fell in love to begin with and vice versa. Here, I think that could have been developed more. I think it was done well, but on a personal level, I needed it to have the same development as Every Summer After, which I think really nails it narratively and organizationally on how to do second chance romance.
Overall, great summer romance if you love second chance romance, beach vibes, and some angst.
Rating: 4/5
Court of Venom
By Kristin Burchell
This was a book club pick for me, and I enjoyed it! I was worried when I saw it was only about 240 pages, but I was actually very invested in the story. This is written by an indie author who I am pretty sure this is her first published book.
And for a first book, this was a great read. I found the story intriguing, the characters were pretty well fleshed out, and I didn’t know where the story was going.
I will say that because it is the author’s first book and the length, I did have a bunch of questions about the world that I still have. I think the world building needed to be expanded upon because some parts of the plot didn’t get resolved in a way that felt I understood. I also think the ending was a bit rushed and that I didn’t fully understand some character’s motivations.
Overall, for a first book, I thought it was good. If you’re looking for an easy fantasy and don’t mind some lack of world building, I think this would be the book for you.
Rating: 4/5
The Night Swim
By Megan Goldin
It's been a minute since I read a thriller, but I found this one to be enjoyable. I definitely didn't know where this was going. The premise of a true crime podcaster covering a sexual assault trial in real time, while also investgating the death of Jenny Stills in the same town was really interesting. It had true crime, multiple POVs, and alternative timelines that kept me guessing throughout.
The writing was more efficient in style, which I appreciated since the subject matter in this one is HEAVY. While the subject matter is heavy, the author does a great job in making the reader think about the how women are treated within the criminal justice system when it comes to crimes like sexual assault and it made me think, which thrillers don't often do. I will say this is not a light read and you definitely be aware that this entire book is based around on a sexual assault case. This may be an issue to some and please do not read this book if it is a trigger for you.
I think the biggest issues for me with this one was that I wish the stories were interconnected a bit more. The author tried to connect them more at the end, but it just felt like in each of the cases, they didn't converge as much as I was hoping. It felt like the author was trying to do too much. Additionally, because of the emotional investment within this one due to the sexual assault trial, I felt that the author, while tying it up, was too brief. I wanted more information and more of a conclusion.
Overall, it was an interesting thriller and I was invested within the story, but wished the cases were connected more. Be aware that sexual assault is almost constant throughout the novel.
Rating: 4/5
Dark Corners
By Megan Goldin
Dark Corners was a great follow up to the author's previous book, The Night Swim. While I found some parts to be a bit rushed and the social media aspect of the story to be a bit preachy, it still really held my attention and made the story an engrossing read.
It picks up right where it left off (without needing to have read the first book) and does a really fabulous job of not being a repeat of the previous novel. I really loved how we get multiple perspectives here from a variety of characters, not just Rachel, the FMC. It felt like the story was new and different, instead of being too similar to the first book, introducing some new secondary characters that were important and gave Rachel more depth. Instead of being an outsider who is navigating a small town sexual assault case, I learned more about Rachel as a person removed from her identity as a podcaster, which was nice and different. I also thought the story kept me guessing and entertained, which is all anyone really wants from their thrillers!
Once again, like with The Night Swim, I felt the book wrapped up a bit too quickly, which seems to be this author's style now that this is my second book by her. If that is ok with you, then this book was great. For me, it just removed me out of the experience a bit, especially after the reveal. Additionally, the social media influencer aspect of the story, while interesting, felt a bit too preachy in some places, which isn't necessarily bad, but it just felt a bit preachy and on the nose for me.
Overall, I felt this was a really solid thriller and I really enjoyed reading it, especially as someone who hasn't read many thrillers this year!
Thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for a copy of this review in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 4.5/5
Love, Theoretically
By Ali Hazelwood
Everything about this book was pure perfection. I finished it in 8 hours and am currently experiencing a book hangover because of it. I think this is Ali Hazelwood’s best book yet.
While I thought all parts of this book were flawless, the part I liked most was the story and the characters. To me, while there were certain tropes that the author sticks to like the “MMC hates the FMC but really is obsessed with her” I felt the story was different and covered some real issues in a way her other books hadn’t. Also, that trope was cleared up earlier in the book, which mean I didn’t know where the story was going and I truly enjoyed that. Additionally, I found myself loving all of the characters and felt they were real, honest, and distinct in their own ways.
Overall, I felt this book was different from what the author usually does while still employing her characteristic charm. The story was engaging and I loved her characters. This is a must read for Hazelwood fans and a read for those who feel that maybe she repeats the same style too much. This is a favorite book of mine for the year and I will continue to hype it.
Rating: 5/5
Ravensong
By TJ Klune
Once again, TJ Klune knocked it out of the park. I adored this book. Everything about it was gorgeous: the writing, the story, the characters, the angst, the romance, the found family vibes. It was just an incredible read and really solidifies why TJ Klune is a favorite author of mine.
This story follows Gordo, the Bennett family witch, and Mark. In Wolfsong, Gordo's history with the Bennett's is alluded to, but never fully explained. His tense relationship with Mark isn't either. Here, we get that background information. Told in a mix of flashbacks that catch up to a year after the events of Wolfsong, the author does an incredible job fleshing the world out and diving deeper into events that were only hinted at in the previous book. Mixed in with the right level of character development, this story was a great addition to the series.
I feel like with a series like this, it is easy to get repetitive. However, this book does a great job at propelling the narrative forward and setting up the events for the next two books. I got the answers I needed after Wolfsong, while still looking forward to how conflicts that were set up are going to flesh themselves out in the next installments.
And, as always, TJ Klune is such a beautiful writer that makes me feel a variety of emotions. He is one of the only authors I know that can make me laugh and cry within a single chapter. His ideas about living authentically, what it means to be part of a found family, and the joys, complexities, and heartaches that mean being human are all central here, creating a perfectly crafted novel that demonstrates Klune's unique talents are a writer and his ability to make his readers think.
As per usual, I definitely recommend this book and I think you should read it, especially if you loved Wolfsong or other books by this author. This story, while more angsty and more plot driven than the last, will still hold a special place in your heart.
Thank you to Tor Books and NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Rating: 5/5
Someone Just Like You
By Meredith Schorr
To me, this book was light, fluffy, and not overly difficult to read. It is perfect for a beach or by the pool. It has childhood enemies to lovers vibes, Jewish representation, and an NYC setting. The concept for the plot was really interesting to me as well.
I will echo the other reviews I've read about this book and tell you my biggest problem for me was the immaturity of the two love interests, Molly and Jude. Them being childhood rivals was such an interesting thought, but with how the author portrayed them made me less invested in their story. I know it was meant to be fun and quirky, but as someone who is the age these individuals are, it was hard for me to read almost a third of the book about their pranking. Additionally, Molly's reaction to things, as well as any conflict in their relationship was just handled in, well, a childish way. I wasn't rooting for them by the end and I didn't really mind if they were or were not together. If it was multiple POVs or if there was significant character development within the book, I would have rated this higher because then I would have at least understood the MMC or the immaturity would have it's place within the story.
Overall, I think if you enjoy lighthearted books that are easy reads and some romance, this is your book. If you need more maturity in your romances, this would not be the book to pick up.
Thank you to Forever Publishing and NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Rating: 3.5/5
King of Pride
By Ana Huang
In writing this review, I find it hard to accurately sum up my thoughts that I haven’t already covered in other reviews of books by this author. These books, especially this series, is a fun, easy, light read. They all follow the same pattern and same ideas.
As I’ve said in previous reviews, there is a comfortable familiarity in the books by this author. And there is nothing wrong with that. Some of the most successful authors are ones that follow the same ideas and there is consistency amongst their writing and their books. For some, that’s the perfect type of book and that’s what they look forward to and that is totally ok! For me, personally, I enjoy that, with this book, it followed similar patterns. And since I read her other book in this series only a few months ago, it just seemed a bit repetitive.
I will say that I liked this book more than King of Wrath. I found Isa to be funny and have way more of a personality. I was entertained and it was perfect to read after a long, stressful week of work. But I’m general, to me, there seems to be nothing that makes this stand out to me more than the others.
King of Pride is the perfect summer pool or beach read. For those who already like this author, this is a great edition and one that will be enjoyed. For others, this book may feel familiar.
Rating: 4/5
The Summer Girl
By Elle Kennedy
THE SUMMER GIRL is my absolute favorite book of this series, hands down. From the first 25 pages, I knew I was going to inhale this book. And I did. I read it in less than 24 hours.
This is the perfect summer read and features such amazing FMC and MMC: Cassie and Tate. Watching Cassie grow as a character, as someone who was comfortable in themselves was such a great journey. And watching Tate fall for Cassie was just icing on this metaphorical cake. They are each their own, fleshed out people, while still maintaining incredible chemistry.
And the banter was just top tier. I laughed out loud in multiple places. And just like other Elle Kennedy novels, the angst was just perfect.
Honestly, this was a great, light, easy, and fun beach read for romance lovers. I highly recommend if you love:
✅ Friends to lovers
✅ Bad boy MMC and good girl FMC
✅ Entertaining banter
✅ Dual POV
✅ Spicy scenes
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Rating: 5/5
A Lady's Guide to Scandal
By Sophie Irwin
I freaking loved this book. I read it in two days and I have a book hangover. I cannot say enough good things about this book.
Every part of this book just hit different and I could not get enough. First, the character development of Eliza, our FMC, was just top tier. Watching her gain her independence and become who she was always meant to be was part of what I loved most about the book. She goes from a wallflower to an independent woman and I really enjoyed that journey. That transformation was realistic and relatable because she spent her whole life putting duty before her happiness. Seeing her embrace her own happiness was truly a delight.
I also adored the character interactions and the writing. Each one was insightful and delightful in their own way. Their relationships were twisted, complex, and full of fun. The relationship between Margaret and Eliza, one of mutual support, understanding, and love was true female friendship goals. But the interactions between all the other characters were just as wonderful and fleshed out. That had to do with the author's writing, which was flawless and banter filled. I thought she just did an incredible job throughout and this story was well written and fun.
I do have to warn people that there is a love triangle in this. And for some, that is a trope that they just cannot do. I respect that and don't read this book if you don't like the trope. However, I think love triangles are amazing, so I didn't mind it at all. I actually thought it enhanced the book. Eliza's complex feelings for Somerset, one of the MMC, and Melville, the other MMC, is what gave the book it's depth.
Overall, read this book. It is fun, it is well written, it is full of female empowerment, and it is a great romance read. I couldn't put it down. Just don't read it if you don't like love triangles.
Thank you to the publisher, Penguin Books, and NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 5/5
Hello Stranger
By Katherine Center
I've said this before in my previous reviews of Katherine Center books, but I'll say it again: her ability to write such beautiful stories full of hope, light, and optimism are what makes her a favorite author of mine. While HELLO STRANGER, OUT JULY 11 was not my favorite of her books, I still really enjoyed the story and the message it conveyed.
This book, for me, was pure escapism. I relished the concept for the story of portrait artist Sadie, our FMC, developing prosopagnosia (face blindness, an actual medical condition) while falling in love with two people, Joe and Oliver. The author did a fabulous job explaining what life is like for Sadie with this condition and how, really, those who don't have face blindness take for granted this particular function of the brain. The side characters were great here and they often made the book. Center's ability to create a story that connects individuals and makes them understand what it is to be human is such a special ability and is very much highlighted in this book.
There were a few issues with the book that I couldn't overlook that impacted my rating. The first is Sadie herself. She is not a character I relate to. I found her to be immature, obstinate, and judgmental in most of her interactions. However, I will say that the author, in creating a complex story, did a great job explaining WHY Sadie is this way. Others might see her as strong and independent, going out of her way to protect herself after her experiences, which I can see. But I just didn't vibe with her or view her this way. And, as a result, I wasn't overly invested in the romance. I also did not like the fact that the central conflict in this book veered too close to miscommunication trope.
Overall, while this book was not my favorite Katherine Center book, I think the story was enjoyable and a good read. You should read this if you like a twist ending, beautiful writing, impactful while light reads, and finding one's purpose and identity.
Thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Rating: 4/5
Yours Truly
By Abby Jimenez
I’m obsessed with this book. Everything about it was pure perfection. I didn’t think I could love a book of hers as much as I loved Part of Your World, but this is right up there. This is another favorite of mine for the year.
This book is a perfect mix of funny, witty, angsty, and heartwarming. Everything about the relationship between Brianna, the FMC, and Jacob, the MMC, was wonderful: the ups, the downs, and everything in between. I cannot gush about it enough. The author did a fabulous job of explaining what it means to be a person with flaws who ultimately just wants to find the person that is their equal and that will support them. They are relationship goals
Overall, I thought the story was engaging, the characters are fabulous and funny, the writing is well done. Read this because the hype this book is getting is well deserved.
Rating: 5/5
One True Loves
By Taylor Jenkins Reid
This book is heartbreaking, beautiful, complex, emotional, devastating, and heartfelt, all at the same time. And I loved it. This book has become a new favorite of mine.
I was initially worried about reading this because of the love triangle aspect. Emma, a widow, has moved on after her husband, Jesse, goes missing at sea and is declared dead. She has found love again with Sam, five years after her husband's disappearance and they are engaged. Jesse is found and now Emma has to choose between her true loves: the man she loved and grieved against the man who loves her now.
However, I wish I wasn't as hesitant because of the premise. I honestly deprived myself of an incredible story and I should have read it sooner. This book is about life, grief, and most importantly, love and finding yourself. It is less about the love triangle and more about how people evolve as life evolves. I have never felt as emotionally connected to a book as I do this one.
Overall, you should read this book for so many reasons. I cannot recommend it enough. Don't be a dummy like me and wait to read it.
Rating: 5/5
Wolfsong
By TJ Klune
TJ Klune, in my opinion, is an incredible storyteller and writer. And this book did not disappoint. Everything about this book was stunning, from the characters to the story itself, to the messages conveyed by it. It's been two days since I finished and I am still thinking about how astonishing this book is.
Part of what I love about Klune as an author is his ability to create a world filled with complex characters that seems unique and special in every one of his books. Wolfsong is no different. Here, we see Ox, an individual who has never felt like he belonged, come into his own when he meets Joe, who happens to belong to a pack of werewolves. The story follows these characters on a decade long adventure. These characters, every one of them, both main and side, are complex and individual. I felt for all of them and each of them has their own stories and backgrounds that are explored.
In Wolfsong, there is a perfect balance between the story, emotion, and beautiful writing. The story is well done. I often had no idea where it would take me with a perfect balance of action and character building.. Parts made me laugh out loud and then cry the next. This story made me feel a gamut of emotions: angst, happiness, sadness, hope, all one right after another. There are distinct writing styles throughout which are poetic in some places.
And, the love story between Ox and Joe is perfection. The journey we go on with both of these characters is incredible and one that I find important and honest. It, to me, is one of the best parts of this book.
Overall, this is probably one of my favorite books of the year and I think you should read it. Thank you to Tor Publishing and NetGalley for a copy of his book in exchange for an honest review.
Read if you like:
✅ Coming of age
✅ Werewolves, witches, and magic
✅ Found family
✅ Fated mates with age gap
✅ SPICE
✅ LGBTQIA+ representation
Rating: 5/5
The Prince and the Apocalypse
By Kara McDowell
I thought this book was a cute read and a definite crowd pleaser to those who enjoy YA contemporary romance. However, I struggled with the FMC and the story didn't pick up for me until the last half of the book.
I thought the concept of this book was really interesting, which drew me to this story initially. Wren, our FMC, meets Prince Theo, the MMC, and immediately after a comet is going to crash to Earth and destroy the planet, creating the apocalypse. The ideas are really solid and I thought the author did a good job portraying what would happen in that situation and how it affects people. Parts are emotional and it was fun to see how Wren and Theo learn about each other over the course of a very stressful week together.
The reason I'm rating this book the way I am is because I didn't connect with Wren until like 80% of the way through the book. I found her to be very uptight and emotionally stunted. I know she is supposed to be a young adult, and that she is not supposed to be 100% mature, but I didn't really click with her until much later in the book. And that brings up the fact that while the book was action packed, I wasn't as invested in the book until they got to their final destination. I think there was just a lot happening in the story and I wanted the pacing to be a bit slower and more fleshed out. I wanted more background and more information, I think, which I didn't get.
Overall, this is a cute, unique, YA contemporary romance. There is action, there's romance with a prince with a commoner American, and there's the apocalypse. While I didn't appreciate Wren fully as a character, I think the book is still great and definitely worth a read.
Thank you to the publisher, Wednesday Books, and NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 4/5
A Love Catastrope
By Helena Hunting
I truly wanted to love this story badly, especially because I am such a cat lady, but this is not one of my favorite reads.
The premise is cute, with Kitty, our FMC, being a social media influencer with a business called the Kitty Whisperer and Miles, the MMC, is a client due to his mom's cat needing care. I thought the side characters were great, I loved the names of the animals (I mean a Sphinx cat named Prince Francis? YES), and I did think the characters were wonderful as well, but not with the storyline and how heavy this book is, which I was not expecting.
The book deals with heavy topics, such as early onset dementia, parent loss, and loss of a sibling. This is one of the main ways the main characters relate to one another and grow a deeper bond. But they talk about these issues repeatedly, and in depth, for many pages. As a result, I felt it really impacted their chemistry because it was if they were helping each other through their grief and they found someone they could relate to and decided to try a relationship. I just didn't buy their relationship and wasn't invested. And, as a romance, that is one of the main things I am looking for in this genre.
Additionally, I found some of the situations that the main characters found themselves in to be a bit over the top. Kitty is meant to be quirky and awkward, and that's how the author prefers to write her characters. However, there are so many situations where the "quirkiness" is a plot device. While I am fine with this if done sparingly, this is one of the only ways the author pushes the plot, and, as a result, it becomes repetitive. There are only so many awkward situations one can find themselves in before it becomes overdone.
I will say that all the things I found difficult for me could be positive for some. Those who are looking for more internal connections based on heavy communication in their romance would enjoy this book. Those that want heavier topics in their books would be another group. They could also really enjoy books with characters who are not perfect or who are not as socially aware, preferring a more realistic main character. I believe those are the people who would really find this book entertaining and enjoyable.
Overall, this was not the book for me, However, if you like quirky FMC and deeper romances, this is the book for you.
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever Publishing for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Rating: 3/5
The Love Theorem
By Camilla Isley
If you are looking for a quick, fluffy, and cute romance book, this is the book for you! I read this book in a day. It was light, romantic, and very sweet, just what I was in the mood for when I was reading it.
The FMC, Lana, is a rocket scientist who meets the most famous man in Hollywood, Christian. After being stuck in a closet for an hour, the two form a connection... without Lana knowing that Christian is a world famous movie star. I really liked almost all the parts of this book. It was the perfect length for the story that was told. It was very trope filled, which is always a plus for me. The tropes of instalove, secret identity, he falls first, and rich vs. poor all were present and I really enjoyed reading about it and having them in this novel.
I will say that as someone that inhales romance novels like it's my job, there wasn't really anything that made this 100% stand out to me, which is why I am rating it the way I am. It is a very normal novel for the genre, and is well written, but there is nothing novel about the book. This isn't a bad thing! There is always a time and place for the familiar or for a really well written, engaging romance novel! But for me who reads so many of them, I was hoping for a little more overall.
This is the perfect beach read for the summer and should be read by those that love romance novels, women in STEM, tropes, and quick reads! I definitely think that you should give this book a try. Thank you to Boldwood books and NetGalley for a copy of the novel in exchange for an honest review!
Rating: 4/5
The True Love Experiment
By Christina Lauren
I adored this book! Honestly, probably one of my favorite books this year so far! I am a huge Christina Lauren fan, but I haven't been this obsessed over a book of theirs since The Unhoneymooners.
Everything about it was absolutely stunning, from beginning to end. I cannot rave about this book enough. The banter? Top tier level. The plot/premise? Amazing and well thought out. The writing? Incredible.
I also really loved how this played on the ideas of romance as a genre. As a romance reader, I get some crap from my friends and family. I'm never ashamed of my reading, but it was refreshing to see my experience as a reader written down on the page and validated. And to have done so subtly and poignantly was just another way that I loved this book.
Read this book. Immediately. You need to do yourself a favor and read it pronto. You won't regret it.
Rating: 5/5
Stinger
By Mia Sheridan
Unfortunately, this book was not the book for me. When I saw it, I was extremely excited to read it and felt this premise was right up my alley. However, my big problem with this were based on the fact that this book came out originally in 2013 and felt like it was not properly updated.
Although I wasn't a huge fan of this book, I can see how it appeals to a variety of individuals. It is a second chance romance, it's spicy, there's angst, and redemption. There is significant character growth and the romance between the two characters, Grace and Carson, is sweet. I loved how the author flipped some tropes, with Carson being a male entertainer at the beginning of the book. All of this will appeal to a variety of readers and if you enjoy these elements, then this is the book for you.
Where it fell apart for me was this was originally written and published in 2013. Society changes and evolves over time, as does the author's writing strengths and voice. I felt that as this book is being republished, it needed an overhaul to accommodate for those changes. Parts of the book left a bad taste in my mouth. The judgemental aspect toward sex workers in the beginning and the pushing of a sexual assault victim to keep her baby toward the end needed to be reworked to integrate the larger discussions that have emerged in the 10 years since this book was written. Additionally, I felt that the author has grown as a writer since the publication of this book. The dialogue, interactions between characters, parts of the plot, and descriptions felt like a draft rather than an final product.
Overall, this was not the book for me, it hits home for a large number of people, especially those that enjoy second chance and angsty romance novels. Those that love that type of romance will definitely enjoy this novel.
Thank you to Sourcebooks Bloom Books and NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Rating: 3/5
Perilous Times
By Thomas D. Lee
This book is such a hard book for me to rate because there are elements that I truly enjoyed and there were parts that I just could not get into.
I found the book to be a very interesting read due to the concept. The idea that Arthurian knights are reincarnated anytime Britain is in peril was SUPER FASCINATING to me. Set in the future, Britain is in peril due to climate change, xenophobia, racism, corporate greed, and many other issues that hit close to home. You name it, the issue is there in this dystopia. And there were fantasy elements too! AND the characters have a huge depth to them that is difficult to convey in multiple POVs, but the author did it well.
As someone who loves Arthurian legend, dystopian novels, fantasy, and character novels, this should have been a slam dunk for me. But unfortunately, it fell a little flat and I think the main reason for that is pretty simple: the pacing and length of this book. At almost 500 pages, this was a whopper of a book and not every part of the plot moved it along, making large parts drag and feel unnecessary or repetitive. And parts of the book I wanted more information on were overlooked or quickly resolved.
Overall, I found myself either extremely riveted by the story or sighing heavily to get through parts. There was no in between for me. I would recommend this book to those interested in dystopian and fantasy novels, retellings, social justice and environmental issues, and longer novels!
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group-Ballentine for a copy of the novel in exchange for an honest review!
Rating: 3.5/5
Legends and Lattes
By Travis Baldree
Legends and Lattes was an extremely adorable read. It's whole premise, an orc who wants to quit her day job as a bounty hunter and open a coffee shop is wonderfully surprising and engaging. Other reviewers have said it is like being enveloped in a big hug, and they aren't wrong. That is what makes this story so special. This book is focused on the good of individuals, found family, and how people are so much more than the roles society has ascribed to them. It is a feel good story, set in a fantasy realm, that mirrors the best parts of what it means to be alive.
I will say that some may find it a bit anticlimatic. I did not, but I can see how others can. It follows Viv on her way to open her coffee shop. It has adventure, but not the usual that is common in fantasy books. It is about the pleasures of everyday life and the magic of being surrounded by those that are in your life, who bring a positivity to your world and existence.
If you like typical fantasy novels are are expecting those same ideas, this one is not for you. But if you enjoy a ray of sunshine in your reading, are looking for a cozy story, or just want to see the bright side of things, read this book.
Rating: 5/5
Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents
By Isabel Wilkerson
Wow wow wow did I learn a great deal in this book. I think this is a must read for any individual, especially for those living in what is a caste system in America. Poignant, well researched, and well written, this book was difficult, but important, to read, as it lays out it's argument that in the United States, not all are born free and have never been so, even since the beginning of this nation's founding.
This novel argues that we have a caste system in the United States and that African Americans are at the bottom of this caste. Through exclusion, violence, and other strategic means, the United States has created a system where those at the bottom MUST stay at the bottom of a caste hierarchy or face the consequences. This is engrained in every facet of American life and has been done so in order to disenfranchise African Americans and to keep them in their caste.
This book was enlightening, if not horrifying. The author lays out EVERYTHING the United States has done in order to subjugate African Americans and the extent to which individuals have done so is disgusting and terrifying. This is not an easy read. It is uncomfortable for those who are not aware of the deep history of this subjugation. But it is necessary to understand, to relate, and to see the effects of caste within our current events and the current day.
This is an absolute must read, especially as the United States continues to see the issues of caste within the news, politics, and society. If you thought that these issues faced by Black individuals was a thing of the past, buckle up, because one cannot escape the past when it is woven into the present. However, please be aware of triggers, as part of this book can be upsetting.
Rating: 5/5
Unlikeable Female Characters
By Anna Bogutskaya
When we watch a TV show or movie or even discuss a female public figure, the conversation inevitably turns into not a discussion about the character or people themselves, but on the likeability of the female in question. This is nothing unique, but it is deeply fascinating in how art imitates life and how we, as a society cannot fathom a woman being "unlikeable" in the public sphere through positions of power all the way to our TV characters. This book is a fascinating look into why that is.
Unlikeable Female Characters, OUT MAY 9, talks about the origins of the unlikeable female character, breaking them down into 9 categories, ranging from the Mean Girl all the way to the Weirdo. And the result is absolutely stunning.
There are so many things I loved about this book. First, the way the author discusses the variety of "unlikeable" women in popular culture. She picks relevant and popular movies and TV shows to analyze the female characters within them. I knew almost every character she picked, and, if I didn't, she did a fabulous job explaining how those characters fit into our discussions of women and society's inherent need to make them likable. I also really appreciated that she takes the time to discuss female characters of color when possible. She discusses their contributions and even the traps that characters of color face within these categories. I found her writing relatable, her argument fascinating, and her passion for the subject enchanting.
I could go on and on about why I loved this book. I found it is an important cultural study and gives rise to the radical notion that women do not have to be likeable to be complex, fully realized characters. In trapping these characters in the flimsy likeability category, we are underscoring the idea that the value women have is based on their pleasantness, not their humanity. Go do yourself a favor and read this book, as it shines a light on popular culture in a way that I think many have not thought about.
Thank you to Sourcebooks, NetGalley, and the author for the ability to read this book in exchange for an honest review!
Rating: 5/5
This Delicious Death
By Kayla Cottingham
Unfortunately, I didn't love this book. I really wanted to love this book for a variety of reasons. I think the story had lots of potential and was an interesting concept. This idea of a post pandemic world where people became ghouls and ate people and now have to reintegrate into society while at a Cochella-like festival was a really promising premise. I also very much enjoyed the diversity within this novel, especially a trans love interest. These stories are important and I really loved that they are featured as character elements within this book. Honestly, it probably is the perfect YA novel for those that like horror books and sapphic characters.
While I love those elements, and I usually enjoy YA novels, this book wasn't for me and that's ok. I found that this novel was very predicable and inconsistent plot wise. I found myself questioning the characters choices and getting frustrated by them as the decisions they made did not make sense to me, were overly simplified, and rather convenient. I also disliked the way the story was structured. While it is a clever way to focus the narrative in that the audience only got bits and pieces of how the Hallowing (the pandemic) started and how it affected each of the characters, the backstory, characters, and world building suffered as a result.
Although I wasn't a huge fan of this book, I think there are so many others that will like this novel. This is the perfect YA novel for those that like horror books and sapphic characters. If you enjoy these elements, then read this book!
Thank you to Sourcebooks Fire and Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Rating: 3/5
Babel: An Arcane History
By RF Kuang
This is a tough review for me because I genuinely enjoyed this book… once it got there. The ideas it puts forth, the complexities between racism, language, and colonialism were very well done and incredibly interesting, poignant, and thought provoking. But it took FOREVER to get to that point.
But this is a 500+ page book, 21 hour audiobook. The first 300 pages almost nothing happened. I kept waiting for something to happen, and it just didn’t. I think I can understand why that is, because recognizing injustice, especially when living within it, is hard to spot. But man you really had to power through to get that understanding.
I will say this was a beautifully written story. And the author’s ability to craft such complex characters, those of whom I respected and despised, and create a story that made me feel a variety of emotions and examine my role within the systems described can’t be ignored. But I’m not sure people are willing to let these ideas flesh themselves out.
Overall, this book is thought provoking and, I think, worth a read if you’re interested in colonialism and it’s impacts, as told with a fantasy element. However, know that those insights are earned though a less than ideal book pacing.
Rating: 3.5/5
Moorewood Family Rules
By HelenKay Dimon
This book hit all the right spots for me. Dysfunctional family? Check. Wacky characters? Check. Engaging story and plotline? Check. Witty banter? Check.
Jillian Moorewood, the FMC, has just returned home to her family's home after a thirty nine month prison sentence, only to discover that family is continuing to do the one thing she clearly told them not to do: con everyone and anyone. Jillian belongs to the notorious Moorewood family, grifters and con artists who will do anything to keep finding ways to help people "misplace" family valuables such as artwork and jewelry. But Jillian is determined to make them go legitimate.
Part of what I loved so much about this book was the premise and how the author accomplishes that premise. She makes the whole book fun and funny, engaging in a way that is snarky and doesn't take itself too seriously. The characters are great, each different in their own way. She does a great job at differentiating the characters, even though there are a good chunk at first. The dysfunction is maddening, but interesting and she incorporates family drama and family dynamics without hashing out too much backstory, so the pace of the story was well done. She even manages to throw romance and mystery into the mix. The way she balances all of these ideas flawlessly, while still being funny, made me want to keep turning the page.
While genre wise this is hard to place, I will echo what other people are saying: this is not an Ocean's 8/Knives Out book and I don't think that comparison is accurate. I think it is more of a book that celebrates the tropes of character driven, family drama , but with a fun twist of them being a crime family and snarky with one another. So if you are reading this, please do not think that it is what it is not. But it is still wonderful and amazing in it's own right.
Overall, if you like wacky characters, fun banter, light reads, a tad of mystery and romance, and dysfunctional families. this is the book for you.
Thank you to Avon Books and NetGalley for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Rating: 5/5
Bewitched
By Laura Thalassa
Laura Thalassa is a favorite author of mine. When I found out that she was writing a new series, I jumped at the chance to read it. And boy did this book, BEWITCHED, OUT APRIL 18, not disappoint. It’s got romance, magic, suspense, drama, and throw in some spice and you have a winner story.
Part of what I loved most about this story is it’s newer take on the romance between Selene, the FMC who is charming, optimistic, and a lovable hot mess, and the sorcerer who she awakens from his cursed tomb, Memnon. He’s a badass villain who thinks Selene is his long lost wife who locked him in said cursed tomb. It was like the grumpy sunshine trope, but with magic and if the grump was a 2,000 year old powerful sorcerer who not only worships the ground you walk on, but also wants you to pay for that betrayal.
I think that dynamic was different than some of the other morally grey romances I’ve been reading and I was really entertained. Here is this guy who is obsessed with Selene, values her, but still seeks revenge in most places. Its a new relationship dynamic I haven’t seen often in romance, where the person who is supposed to be your ride or die, who is supposed to love you, support you, and cherish you doesn’t have a conscience and is actually the villain. I thought that was interesting and unique and that Selene is realistic in her struggles with that dynamic, even if she drove me nuts sometimes.
I will say I found some parts of the plot repetitive, but because the story flowed well, I was entertained, and I enjoyed the characters, this wasn’t a deal breaker for me or even an issue. But it might be to other readers.
Overall, I highly recommend this book and you should read it if you like:
✅ Villain, alpha MMC
✅ Witch FMC
✅ Enemies to lovers
✅ Touch her and die
✅ Amnesia/ mistaken identity
✅ Power Struggles
✅ Magic and familiars
Thank you to NetGalley and Bloom Books for this book in exchange for an honest review. And thanks Laura Thalassa for writing this fabulous book.
Rating: 5/5
In the Lives of Puppets
By TJ Klune
TJ Klune is a favorite author of mine, and will continue to be due to this absolutely stunning, hilarious, and heartwarming novel. A queer retelling of Pinocchio, I found this book to be exceptional and cannot recommend it enough.
As with all TJ Klune novels, the concept for this novel is extraordinary. What would happen if machines became sentient and what are the consequences of that? However, this is not a doom and gloom, this is the end, apocalyptic style story. Instead, it is a novel that makes the reader FEEL. I laughed. I cried, I thought, I wondered. I contemplated. It is only through Klune's unparalleled ability to craft such a world that a story about machines could feel so entirely relatable.
Klune creates a world that is familiar, yet unique. And he does this through his writing and his characters. I always think that Klune's writing and characters are sensational. But in this book, I feel both are elevated because of the ideas he conveys so effortlessly. Through his writing and through Vic, Nurse Ratched, Hap, Rambo, and Gio, he gets the reader to think about what it means to truly be human. What it means to defy expectations. What it means to love and forgive, to accept an individual for who they are in the present moment, for better or for worse. These poignant concepts, seamlessly conveyed through his writing and characters, are what makes this story so special.
Overall, the author has created a story that reminds us of the value of human connection, the possibilities of humanity, and what it means to be alive. Read this book. You won't regret it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tor Books for the ability to read this book in exchange for an honest review. And thank you to TJ Klune for writing such a remarkable story.
Rating: 5/5
Advika and the Hollywood Wives
By Kirthana Ramisetti
When I think of books about Hollywood, I think of glitz, glamor, and stardom. While this book had that, it was such an interesting concept to have the book centered around the relationship between Advika, an aspiring screenwriter and Julian, someone 41 years her senior and a very famous, very powerful Hollywood film producer. With it's blend of feminism, mystery, and drama, interspersed with a character driven plot, I cannot say enough good things about this book.
The triumph of this book truly is how the author gets the reader to understand how Advika ended up married to Julian in the first place and the power dynamics that created this relationship. What struck me is the author's ability to make me understand Advika's choices, even if I didn't agree with them. This ability to create that connection, that understanding, was what made this book so compelling and engaging.
This book also speaks to the author's ability to tell a story, especially when it came to her female characters.
Each woman was strong in their own ways, dealing with the power, control, and manipulation of their relationship and carving out a way to gain their identity, in healthy and unhealthy ways. To understand these women, to have their stories told, even fictionally, when so many of these similar stories are dismissed, was another amazing part of this story and another reason why I loved the book so much.
Overall, this was a great story filled with Hollywood intrigue, fantastic writing and storytelling, female empowerment, diversity, and mystery. This book is a must read.
Rating: 5/5
Divine Rivals
By Rebecca Ross
This was my first Rebecca Ross novel and it certainly will not be my last. I really loved this book and even though it was just published, I'm already foaming at the mouth for the second book.
The story opens with a war between two gods, who have been asleep for centuries, as mortals have overthrown them. As the war rages on the FMC, Iris, is competing with Roman, the MMC for a position as a columnist at their city's most prestigious newspaper. This newspaper is ignoring the war while Iris' brother has gone off to fight. While dealing with personal trauma, Iris finds that her letters to her brother, if slipped under her wardrobe, are disappearing. Little does she know, they are making their way to her work enemy: Roman.
The concept of this novel is pretty unique. A blend of mythology, enemies to lovers, and 1920s meets Industrial Revolution, the story molds all of these ideas seamlessly, while still keeping me engaged as a reader. The author creates a world that is full of mystery, hope, grief, and love, all while creating a mythos without actually revealing too much, since we as readers are learning along with Iris and Roman. We, like the characters, truly are brought into a situation where the answers are not given easily and that is more complicated than anyone really knows.
I loved that I was learning along with the characters. This may be something that drives other readers crazy, but I thought it was really clever and avoided the issues that plague other books that have world building, where they tell you what is happening rather than immerse you in the world.
The writing was beautiful. There were so many parts of this novel where I read a line and had to stop because the author's words made me think. And the relationship between Iris and Roman was believable and well done. I could feel their tension as they navigated their own issues while taking solace in one another.
Overall, if you love multiple POVs, enemies to lovers, magic systems, mythology, war stories, and beautiful, thoughtful writing this book is for you. And trust me, if you read it, you won't regret it. This book 100% lives up to the hype it's receiving online.
Thank you to NetGalley and Wednesday Books for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. And thank you to Rebecca Ross for writing such a great novel!
Rating: 5/5
Play the Fool
By Linda Chern
Play the Fool has a really interesting concept: what happens when a neurotypical woman who reads tarot cards gets caught up in a murder? What I thought this book would be about was mystery, mayhem, and madness. And while I did get some of that because the main character, Katie, is pretty chaotic, this was more of a character driven book, where the mystery was more a vehicle to understand our characters more. This is more about how the mystery enables character development and growth because the focus on the mystery really isn't as prevalent, or as fleshed out, as I was thinking it would be, but the characters are.
Katie was a really misunderstood and lost FMC, but she is also quite hard on herself. Because she doesn't want to achieve as much, or on the same path, as her family, she is seen as a low achiever and she embraces that, even though the author makes clear that Katie is good at things in her own right. It was actually kind of heartbreaking to read at the beginning, of a person who just wants to be seen as valuable in her own right. I found that Katie was full of potential, but she was bogged down by others, who she believed. I wouldn't call her quirky, I wouldn't call her quirky, but instead lacked confidence in herself and didn't want to continue to fail the way she is told she does by others.
When she finally starts TRULY breaking out of that narrative and starts to believe in herself, the book ends. She was fun and I loved that she could "read" situations with tarot. I wish that aspect was explored a bit more because it is clear that the author is trying to showcase her abilities as atypical from what we expect of achievement, but it just didn't get there fully.
The relationship Katie has with her brother, Owen, and the detective on the case, Jamie, was amazing. It was like both of these characters could see the best in her, which was refreshing since Katie is so hard on herself. These characters also offered more diversity in terms of the social aspect of individuals (how not everyone needs to be super outgoing and have lots and lots of friends) and neurodivergence, and I appreciated that representation.
The actual mystery part was lacking, but again, I think that is because the mystery was supposed to be secondary to the characters. For the mystery, I was trying to figure out what happened and it was an easy read. So it wasn't extremely obvious what the outcome would be and I was flying through this book. I was interested, yes, but not overly invested in needing to know what happened. It seemed like you had to suspend disbelief a bit throughout and I never felt that Katie was in any real danger. The mystery didn't seem pressing and the bad guys didn't really seem that bad. The central idea was solid, but this would have been a slam dunk if the character development AND the mystery were equal.
Overall, I think this was a really solid book if you are interested in character driven mysteries and nonstandard characters! However, you may not be as enthralled if you read mysteries for the twists and turns.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House for this book in exchange for an honest review!
Rating: 4/5
King of Wrath
By Ana Huang
King of Wrath is a good book if you love a trope filled romance. It was an easy read. I read this book in 24 hours. I wanted something that was light and that I could get lost in. That is what I got.
This book is pretty formulaic, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. There is something to be said for consistency or to read the familiar. However, I can see why some would be annoyed that there is nothing new about the story, the tropes, or the writing. I actually really enjoyed it because I knew what I was getting. But that doesn’t mean that this book is for everyone.
The big reason this isn’t a higher read for me is that I wasn’t really a big fan of Vivian, the FMC. She was kinda boring honestly. So was Dante, the MMC. They, to me, felt just… there oftentimes. I didn’t really feel the chemistry between them, it I feel I might be in the minority on this.
Read if you like:
✅ Billionaire, alpha MMC
✅ Enemies to lovers
✅ Forced proximity
✅ Arranged marriage
Rating: 4/5
Rogue
By Elle Kennedy
Reading this book gave me the answer to a vital question I didn't know I needed in my life: What happens when you put filthy rich prep school kids together with little to no supervision and add in mystery and spice? Perfection that is what.
I was, and still currently am, hooked by this book series. I started and read the first book, Misfit, in less than 24 hours. I would have done so with this book if I didn't have a job and other responsibilities like feeding myself and getting a doctor recommended 8 hours of sleep. Rogue did not disappoint and I inhaled this book.
This book focuses on the relationship that develops between Casey, the headmaster's younger daughter, and Fenn, the pretty boy rich kid who holds the answers to the mystery that has plagued Casey since a fateful accident the previous year. But there are other equally flawed and delightfully devious characters who all get their own POVs, which I really enjoyed. It helped break up the heaviness of the narrative a bit, added to the drama, and gave me insight into the other characters in a way I wouldn't have gotten if it was just focused on Casey and Fenn.
Additionally, the plot was filled with drama and angst that I really felt was well done. There were plot elements where I HAD to keep reading to figure out what was going on, and that is in part why I was so hooked by the book. It also had the beginnings and hint of a love triangle, which I am a huge fan of, a will they won't they vibe, and just the perfect amount of steam to balance out the naughtiness of the characters who are blissfully unsupervised and very very complex, complicated, and crafty.
Overall, this book ticked all my boxes and was a guilty pleasure of mine. I highly recommend if you love books with prep school drama, angst, steam, and multiple POVs.
Thank you to Elle Kennedy for writing such an incredible novel. And thank you to NetGalley and Bloom Books for an advanced copy of this book for an honest review!
Rating: 5/5
Immortality
By Dana Schwartz
I love Immortality: A Love Story even more than I loved it's predecessor, Anatomy: A Love Story. With a secret society, a love triangle I wasn't expecting, and a strong female main character, I finished this book in 24 hours and was completely engrossed in the story.
With the last book, the focus was on Hazel and her journey to proving herself as a surgeon, and to herself. Here, she has already proved that time and time again and has more confidence in her abilities and herself when it comes to what she wants and how to obtain her dreams. Now, she has become part of the royal household as private physician to Princess Charlotte after she experiences mysterious illness. I loved this different focus. It did not feel jarring, but a natural progression for a character that was stifled in her current position as an outcast in Scotland simply because she is a female surgeon. She never sacrifices herself or her ambitions for anyone or to be more agreeable to fit in. I thought the plot flowed seamlessly in this continuation of her story.
In my review of the previous book, I said the love story was really a love story between Hazel and herself, for all women who have had to juggle personal fulfillment and their ambitions with a society who tells them their value is to be what society says they should, rather than between two characters. This continues here in this book, but is more balanced with that traditional aspect, WITH a love triangle. I really did love that there were characters out there who saw how truly amazing Hazel is and appreciated her for who she is. I thought the author struck a great balance between these ideas, without sacrificing the message she previously established in Anatomy.
Overall, I really loved and enjoyed this book. Thank you so much to Dana Schwartz for writing this book, and Netgalley and Wednesday Books for the ability to read this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 5/5
Anatomy
By Dana Schwartz
Anatomy: A Love Story was a great gothic, atmospheric read if you love body parts, resurrection men, historical fiction, and kickass feminists.
At the beginning, I was expecting this book to be like Kerri Maniscalco's Jack the Ripper series, which I loved. However, as I began reading it, it had the same vibe, but different execution, which wasn't a bad thing. The author does an incredible job setting the scene for us in Edinburgh, Scotland with the Roman fever running rampant. The writing is beautiful and atmospheric and the author takes her time to ensure that we know the stakes and fears of our characters while establishing the expectations of the time period. It's bloody and imaginative and I really enjoyed it.
When I say the "love story" part of the title, I assumed it would be between our FMC and our MMC. That was an incorrect assumption on my part. I think that this love story is more between the FMC and herself and her belief in her abilities. Our FMC, Hazel, just wants to be a surgeon in a time where women are expected to be pretty and agree with the men in their lives. She is confident, capable, and intelligent, but she cannot pursue her goals. This book is a love story to her and all women who want to pursue their ambitions.
I can see why people wouldn't like this however when they are expecting a love story. And, as a result, because it is a love story toward ambition and feminism almost rather than between Hazel and Jack, the romance seems underdeveloped and rushed. The pacing of the book was also a little slow, for reasons outlined above. The ending was also seriously unsatisfying and we are left on a cliffhanger. I would've been mad if I didn't have the ARC on my kindle. So I can see why some people who rate this book lower because of these things.
Overall, this book was highly engaging. But, make sure you are not expecting this to be a traditional love story.
Rating: 4/5
Hell Bent
By Leigh Bardugo
Hell Bent is the second book in the Alex Stern series and I went into this book with high expectations. I LOVED Ninth House and really looked forward to this book.
I won’t lie, it started off very slow. I would say that the set up for this book was meticulous to the point that I was worried. Alex and Dawes trying to find a way into Hell was tedious because not much happened except for the chaotic mess that is Alex’s life. It was needed for the rest of the book, but as a reader, it wasn’t an exactly riveting portion of the book.
However, once I got past that, the book was AMAZING. Everything connected really well. The found family vibes were wonderful. The character development was great and I learned more about the side characters and not just about Alex. Alex became even more of a powerhouse and she had more emotional depth than in the previous book.
I can’t write more without it spoiling bits since there was a bunch of additional information we learned about the arcane in this world and the concept of Hell, but I think it is definitely worth reading and I truly enjoyed it! If you can get past the first 80 pages, then the book becomes absolutely incredible.
Rating: 5/5
Ninth House
By Leigh Bardugo
This is my first Leigh Bardugo book and it will not be my last. I loved this book so much, I made sure I bought the sequel BEFORE I FINISHED, so I could immediately continue to live in this world that Bardugo built.
I cannot say enough good things about this book. It took a little bit to get into, but once the story unfolds, it’s a wild ride. I found myself trying to find any opportunity I could to listen to this book. I thought the story was unique. The writing was excellent. The character development was perfection. Overall, do yourself a favor and read this book.
I will say that this book is DARK. All the trigger warnings that are in reviews should be heeded. Check them before you read.
Read if you like:
✅ Dark academia
✅ Secret societies
✅ Ghosts and magic
✅ Murder mystery
Rating: 5/5
Black Cake
By Charmaine Wilkerson
I read this book for my teacher book club and I thought this was a beautiful story. About love, loss, resilience, family, friendship, identity, and the beauty and flaws of humanity, I thought this book was poignant and thought provoking.
The beginning and first half of the novel was captivating and engaging. Even though a variety of characters are introduced, the short chapters, almost like small glimpses into the way the characters were feeling and thinking kept the me entertained. The author structures the story so that everything is supposed to come together in the end. I thought that was a really fascinating way to tell this multigenerational story.
However, will say that I don’t think the author quite gets there where everything connects at the end. I think there were too many POV toward the last half of the book. Because the big reveals are in the first half of the book, it feels like the second half needed filler, hence the large amount of POV switches and introduction of other characters.
Overall, while the story lost some of its sparkle toward the end, I still really liked this book and will be reading more from this author.
Rating: 4.5/5
Queen Among the Dead
By Lesley Livingston
QUEEN AMONG THE DEAD, out TODAY, was a fun young adult novel that gave me Sorcery of Thorns vibes throughout. There is magic, mythology, action, dual POV, some romance, and strong characters, which are all what make this book so fun.
If you've read any of my reviews by now, you know that I am a fan of strong, female protagonists. A character that is not afraid to take charge, take what she wants, and not feel bad about it is right up my alley. Neve is that protagonist. She is a powerful, axe wielding, patriarchy smashing, fight winning woman who takes no prisoners. Throughout the novel, she is often compared to her more reserved and traditionally feminine sister, but she never compromises who she is or what she wants. She fights what is expected of her as a princess. I related to that and enjoyed Neve's journey throughout the novel.
I also felt the book was well written, and it was interesting to learn about facets of Celtic mythology and how the author combined this into the fantasy world she created. I don't know much about Celtic mythology, but I found the aspects that were in there interesting. However, I will say that because I didn't know much about this particular mythology, I did get confused at times. I think the author does their best to incorporate and explain those elements without information dumping, but with world building needed and having to explain facets of the mythology to the reader, I did find myself not completely understanding the world she created at all times.
I also had a hard time with the pacing. While it starts off with lots of action, which was awesome, it becomes less action based and a bit slow. I think this is, again, because of the world building, mythology, and then character development needed between two characters AND setting up for the plot twists and big reveals later in the book. Then the action picks back up again, but at the end of the story I felt like major, big events happen fast and without much detail. The plot just felt a bit choppy to me.
Overall, I really enjoyed this novel and I think it is worth the read! It is a perfect young adult novel for most. Just make sure you brush up a little of Celtic mythology!
Thank you to @netgalley and @zandoproject for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Rating: 4/5
