The Charlie Method by Elle Kennedy centres on Charlotte Kingston, a college senior who leads a double life—an accomplished sorority girl and 3 stars
The Charlie Method by Elle Kennedy centres on Charlotte Kingston, a college senior who leads a double life—an accomplished sorority girl and biomedical engineering student by day, and a daring, anonymous risk-taker named Charlie by night, engaging with two mysterious guys on a dating app. Will Larsen, the laid-back son of a politician, and Beckett Dunne, a carefree Aussie, each have their own secrets, including sharing romantic interests. When Charlotte meets them in person, their intense chemistry is undeniable, but their hidden truths add complexity to their growing bond. What begins as a physical attraction slowly transforms into something deeper and more meaningful.
� This book was a fun surprise, blending romance, humour, and emotional depth. While I wasn’t expecting to be so invested in the characters, the dynamic between the leads kept me engaged. I don’t usually gravitate toward MFM romance, and I didn’t love Elle Kennedy’s Off-Campus series (though I did enjoy Briar U), but I’m really liking this Campus Diaries series, and this book reinforced that.
I loved °ä³ó²¹°ù±ô¾±±ð’s character. She’s confident, knows what she wants, and is unapologetically herself. At the same time, she’s dealing with more complex struggles, particularly around her identity as a Korean-American and adopted child. Her journey to figure out who she truly is, especially as she searches for her biological roots, added a poignant layer to the story that I really appreciated.
°ä³ó²¹°ù±ô¾±±ð’s character is also relatable, especially for anyone who’s ever felt the pressure to be a people pleaser. She often bends to the expectations of others, constantly shifting her personality to fit the roles people want her to play. Watching her realise this and understand that it’s not sustainable was a meaningful part of the story. I think a lot of readers will see themselves in Charlie as she starts embracing her true self.
Beckett—He has such golden retriever energy. At first, he comes across as the carefree, fun-loving guy who’s always joking around. But as the story unfolds, we realise there’s so much more to him. Beckett is carrying some heavy emotional baggage, especially from a past heartbreak. This added depth to his character, making him even more endearing. The way he struggles to open up emotionally only makes you root for him even more. On the surface, he may seem laid-back, but underneath, he’s dealing with real pain and trauma.
Will is quiet and reserved, with a calm, controlled exterior that conceals a lot of complexity, particularly regarding his family. His father, a politician, places heavy expectations on him, which creates tension between them. I loved how Will served as the emotional anchor of the group. He’s the calm in the storm, and while he’s reserved, there are moments where his strength and decisiveness truly shine. He’s the glue that holds the trio together.
One of the things that stood out to me in this book was the theme of identity. Each of the main characters is wrestling with their own sense of self. °ä³ó²¹°ù±ô¾±±ð’s quest to find her biological parents leads to an emotional journey. Alongside °ä³ó²¹°ù±ô¾±±ð’s story, Beckett’s struggles with opening up about his past and Will’s relationship with his father added further layers to their emotional journeys. I loved how this book shows how everyone is shaped by their past and their family, and how difficult it can be to find your own identity amidst all of that.
The romance—The chemistry between Charlie, Will, and Beckett is undeniably spicy—and I’m not just talking about the heat between them, although that’s definitely present. What made the romance stand out to me was how it evolved emotionally. The trio doesn’t just dive straight into physical passion; they each work through their personal issues and growth before they can fully come together. The intimacy that develops isn’t just about lust; it’s about learning how to be vulnerable and trust one another. And while the romance is certainly steamy, it’s the emotional journey of all three characters that made it feel authentic and meaningful.
That said, I didn’t give this a higher rating because the pacing didn’t always work for me. Some sections dragged, and I found myself getting a little bored at times—the writing didn’t always keep me fully engaged, and certain moments felt flat. And while this is a long book, the ending still felt rushed. After all the buildup, I wanted a more satisfying resolution, but everything wrapped up a little too quickly for my liking.
Overall, I didn’t think this was perfect, but I had a lot of fun! This book balances spice, humour, and emotional depth in a way that kept me interested from start to finish. It’s not just about the romance (though the spice is definitely there), but also about personal growth, identity, and navigating the complexities of relationships. The Graham Effect is still my favourite in this series, but this was a solid addition. Elle Kennedy is great at delivering fun, bingeable reads, and while this one didn’t fully hit the mark for me, I still enjoyed the experience.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Select for the ARC....more
“Success is only meant to be rented out, borrowed in small doses at a time, never to be owned completely, no matter what price you're w
3.75 stars
“Success is only meant to be rented out, borrowed in small doses at a time, never to be owned completely, no matter what price you're willing to pay for it.�
I Am Not Jessica Chen follows 17-year-old Jenna Chen, who, after failing to meet her parents' expectations, wishes to become her perfect cousin, Jessica. When the wish is granted, Jenna finds herself living Jessica's life but soon realises that the pressure of perfection comes with a cost. As her own identity fades and others begin to forget who she is, Jenna must decide if fitting in is worth losing herself. The story explores identity, family expectations, and the dangers of striving for perfection.
� I picked up this book because something about the synopsis hit a little too close to home. It felt like it was going to be a book that would resonate with me deeply—and I was right. By about 10% into the story, I found myself tearing up. It was like reading my own thoughts, and I felt so seen in ways I didn’t expect.
Honestly, this book brought back some memories of my high school days, which were probably one of the most stressful periods of my life. Even though I’m now a full-time uni student (and trust me, that brings its own set of stress), high school was a different kind of trauma. The pressure to be perfect, to constantly achieve, and to meet everyone’s expectations is something that sticks with you long after the years have passed. This book captures that perfectly—it really makes you feel what it’s like to always feel like you’re failing or never doing enough, no matter how hard you try.
This book isn’t just for people who have struggled with academic validation. I think anyone who has ever felt like they weren’t enough, or who has beaten themselves up over not meeting their family’s or society’s expectations, will be able to relate to this book. The constant pressure of striving for perfection and still not getting the result you wanted hurts more than we realise. It’s a feeling that a lot of us have been through. But what I love about this book is how it shows the universal nature of that struggle. We often look at others and envy their seemingly perfect lives, but the truth is, we have no idea what they might be going through behind the scenes. This book really helped me realise that, and honestly, it was an emotional wake-up call.
One of the biggest takeaways for me was the reminder not to compare your life to anyone else’s. It’s so easy to get caught up in the comparison game, but this book drives home how harmful that can be. Everyone’s journey is different, and we can never fully understand what someone else is going through, no matter how “perfect� their life might seem on the outside.
“It's my life,� I think with amazement, “and it's beautiful, and I can paint it any colour I want to.�
Jenna, the main character, is someone I really connected with. She’s an overachiever, completely burnt out from trying to meet everyone’s expectations, but underneath all that, she has a passion for art that gets buried under the pressure to succeed. After being rejected by an Ivy League school she applied to, Jenna feels like a failure—like she’s not good enough for anyone, especially herself. And it’s heartbreaking because she’s constantly comparing herself to her cousin Jessica. Jessica is everything Jenna wishes she could be: perfect, successful, and loved by everyone, including their parents. But when Jenna wakes up one day in Jessica’s body, she quickly realises that what seemed like the perfect life isn’t so perfect after all. As the days go by, Jenna starts to fade away, and everyone around her begins to forget who she truly is. It’s a haunting reminder of how easy it is to lose yourself when you’re constantly trying to be someone else.
“We turn pain into a story, because then it has a purpose. Then, we reason, there was a point to it all along. But sometimes pain is just pain, and there’s nothing particularly noble about clinging to it.�
Jessica, the cousin everyone admires, is the definition of an “academic weapon.� She’s the ideal daughter—smart, successful, accepted into Harvard, and loved by everyone. But as Jenna uncovers, Jessica’s life isn’t as flawless as it seems. Beneath her perfect exterior, Jessica has secrets and struggles of her own, ones that no one knows about. As someone who has always been at the top of her class, Jessica’s story is all about the crushing pressure of perfection. It’s this constant fear of disappointing others and always being expected to be the best. I found Jessica’s character really relatable too, because once you become that “perfect� student, it’s like everyone expects you to be perfect in everything. The weight of those expectations can be suffocating, and this book does a great job of showing how the glory of being the “top� student fades away when the pressure starts to break you down.
That said, I do think the book missed an opportunity to dive deeper into Jessica’s character. While her struggles are subtly hinted at, I really felt there was so much more to her story that could have been explored. There are moments when her internal conflict surfaces, but I wish the author had spent more time delving into her thoughts and emotions, especially as she navigates the weight of those high expectations.
As for the romance subplot, I thought it was really sweet. Aaron was the kind of person you’d want by your side—supportive, understanding, and always ready to have your back. His appreciation for Jenna felt incredibly genuine, and it was refreshing to see a character who saw Jenna for who she truly was. Their chemistry was really natural, which made their relationship feel authentic and comforting.
Overall, this book is a powerful, emotional story about identity, the pressures of perfection, and the damage that comparison can do. It doesn’t just focus on academic struggles—it digs into the deeper emotional toll that comes with always feeling like you’re not enough. It’s a great reminder to stop comparing ourselves to others and to embrace who we are, flaws and all. This book really made me feel understood, and for that, I’m grateful....more
“If this was weakness, he wanted to be weak. If this was sin, let him be damned to hell.�
I found myself enjoying Rebel Witch more than 3.75 stars
“If this was weakness, he wanted to be weak. If this was sin, let him be damned to hell.�
I found myself enjoying Rebel Witch more than I expected, even more than Heartless Hunter! While the plot was fairly predictable, it kept me entertained and fully engaged throughout. The pacing was quick, and there was enough excitement to make the reading experience fun, even if I could often guess what was coming next.
The characters were definitely the highlight of this book. They were so well-developed and layered that I quickly became invested in their emotional journeys. Their motivations, struggles, and growth felt incredibly authentic, and every interaction carried emotional weight, making the stakes feel high throughout.
The romance was, without a doubt, my favourite part of this duology. The tension between Rune and Gideon was executed flawlessly, with each moment between them feeling earned and rewarding. The chemistry between them was electric, and their connection was filled with complexity—torn between love, loyalty, and conflicting desires. This added a unique emotional depth to the story, blending fantasy and romance in a refreshing way. Their forbidden love was made even more intense by the high-stakes plot, making every moment between them feel even more significant.
The pacing of the story was spot-on I really don’t think there was ever a dull moment. Each twist and turn in the plot flowed seamlessly, keeping me hooked until the very end. I found myself eager to turn the pages to see what would happen next.
While the conclusion of the duology was solid, I didn’t love it as much as I had hoped. The major plot twist was a bit predictable (which I had anticipated), which dulled some of the impact for me. I also found myself feeling a bit restless during the first half of the book, though the strong character dynamics and atmosphere kept me engaged!
Despite these minor issues, I would still recommend this duology it’s a highly entertaining ride, and the romance alone makes it worth the read!...more
“You can only forgive yourself for the mistakes you made in the past once you know you’ll never make them again."
Maybe in Another Life 3 stars
“You can only forgive yourself for the mistakes you made in the past once you know you’ll never make them again."
Maybe in Another Life by Taylor Jenkins Reid follows 29-year-old Hannah Martin, who’s back in Los Angeles with no real direction. After years of bouncing between cities and jobs, she moves in with her best friend Gabby. One night, she runs into her high school boyfriend, Ethan, and faces a simple yet life-altering choice: go home with Gabby or stay with Ethan. The book splits into two parallel timelines, exploring how this one decision changes her life and raising questions about fate, love, and whether things are truly meant to be.
� I was initially drawn in by the premise—this idea that a single moment can lead to two entirely different lives. TJR does a great job of making both timelines feel plausible, and I appreciated how the book subtly suggests that there’s no one right path, just different ones. The themes of fate and timing are compelling, and I loved the message that happiness doesn’t come from a single perfect outcome but from how we choose to move forward.
But for all its potential, the execution fell a little flat. The book raises big questions like Is true love real? Do our choices define us, or does life just happen? but it never fully explores them. The narrative feels like it’s skimming the surface rather than digging into the emotional weight of these ideas. It left me wishing for more depth, more reflection, more moments that truly lingered.
My biggest struggle was with Hannah herself. Her indecision is central to the story, but instead of making her feel complex, it made her feel passive. She drifts through both timelines without much growth, making the parallel lives feel more repetitive than revealing. I wanted to root for her, to see her evolve, but by the end, she still felt like she was waiting for life to happen to her rather than actively shaping her own future.
The writing, while engaging, also lacked the emotional depth that makes TJR’s other books so impactful. The pacing was uneven—just when a scene seemed like it was about to tap into something profound, it would shift away too quickly. There were glimpses of something powerful, but they never fully landed. It wasn’t a bad read, but it left me feeling more indifferent than moved.
One thing I did truly love was the portrayal of Hannah and Gabby’s friendship. No matter how the timelines unfold, Gabby is a constant. That small but meaningful detail felt like the heart of the book�a reminder that while love and fate can be uncertain, deep, steady friendships can anchor us through life’s twists and turns. That part of the story resonated with me more than anything else.
This book had a beautiful message but didn’t quite hit the emotional depth I was hoping for. The concept was compelling, but the characters felt underdeveloped, and the exploration of fate and choice didn’t go as deep as it could have. It’s a book with a thoughtful premise and moments of warmth, but it never fully delivers on its promise. A solid read, but not one that will stay with me the way I wanted it to.
“Three words, large enough to tip the world. I remember you.�
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue follows Addie, a young woman in 1714 France3.5 stars
“Three words, large enough to tip the world. I remember you.�
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue follows Addie, a young woman in 1714 France, who makes a desperate deal to live forever—but with a twist: she’s cursed to be forgotten by everyone she meets. For nearly 300 years, she drifts through life, leaving no mark on the world and unable to form lasting connections. But everything changes when she meets a man in a bookstore who remembers her name. This sparks a new chapter in her long, lonely existence, as Addie navigates love, art, and the high cost of immortality. It's a poignant, magical tale about trying to make a mark on the world—and finding meaning even in the most isolating circumstances.
� I’m honestly so conflicted about this book, and it’s not often that I feel this torn after finishing a novel. On one hand, the writing is absolutely beautiful—V.E. Schwab’s prose is mesmerising, making it impossible to put the book down. On the other hand, I didn’t have the emotional reaction I thought I would, and that’s what ultimately held me back from loving this book as much as many others did.
Let’s start with what I loved, because there’s so much to appreciate. The writing is exceptional. V.E. Schwab crafts immersive, lyrical prose that hooks you right from the start. It's one of those books where you can feel the weight of the words, the beauty of the sentences, and the emotional depth she’s trying to convey. Honestly, the writing alone makes this book worth reading, and I completely understand why so many readers were moved by it. The way the story explores themes like time, memory, and the fleeting nature of life is hauntingly beautiful.
The premise of Addie’s curse—living for centuries but being forgotten by everyone she meets is both heartbreaking and fascinating. It’s such a unique concept that it really drew me in, and I loved how the book delves into the consequences of such a fate. Addie’s journey through history, her attempts to leave a mark on the world, and the way she’s forced to navigate a life without being truly seen set up what should have been a deeply emotional experience.
Now, onto the negatives of this book. Minor spoilers ahead!!
Here’s the thing: I just couldn’t connect with Addie. I get that she’s meant to be a character who, by design, is forgettable—someone who blends into the background of her own life—but that made it hard for me to care about her. She often feels like a blank slate, and while I understand that this is intentional, it created an emotional distance between us. Without that connection, I couldn’t feel the weight of her struggles in the way I wanted to. The book tried to evoke sadness at certain points, but for some reason, it just didn’t resonate with me. I cry easily over books, but with this one? Not a single tear. And that’s especially surprising considering how many others have said they were moved to tears.
Addie has lived for 300 years, but I couldn’t help wishing we saw more of her during pivotal historical moments or through different revolutions—anything that would demonstrate how her long life influenced the world around her. Instead, most of the story follows her wandering through cities, wallowing in self-pity, and stealing things. Whenever she meets someone, they’re inexplicably drawn to her—whether by sketching her, composing songs about her, or finding some profound inspiration in her presence. But WHY? She has seven freckles that supposedly look like stars, ...more
This is the tale of how a chosen one falls. She does it screaming, clawing for her old life with broken fingernails. She does it slowly, over
3 stars
This is the tale of how a chosen one falls. She does it screaming, clawing for her old life with broken fingernails. She does it slowly, over the course of decades. And in the end, she takes the whole forsaken world with her.
This book follows Mische, a vampire who lost everything when she was turned, including her humanity and faith in the sun god she once worshipped. Facing execution for killing the vampire prince who made her, Mische is saved by Asar, the scarred prince of the House of Shadow. Together, they embark on a dangerous mission to the underworld to resurrect the god of death. However, Mische’s sun god commands her to betray Asar by killing the god she’s working to resurrect, offering her a chance at redemption. As they navigate perilous trials and face their pasts, Mische and Asar grow closer, but their bond puts them at risk of angering the gods. Mische must ultimately choose between fulfilling her god’s will for redemption or embracing the darkness and love that could destroy them both.
� I’m honestly kind of disappointed with how this book turned out....more
"Thank God for girlfriends. In this crazy, chaotic, divided world that was run by men, you could count on the women."
The Women follows F 3.5 stars
"Thank God for girlfriends. In this crazy, chaotic, divided world that was run by men, you could count on the women."
The Women follows Frankie McGrath, a twenty-year-old nursing student in 1965, who steps out of her sheltered life in Southern California to join the Army Nurse Corps during the Vietnam War. Inspired by the changing world around her and her brother’s military service, she’s eager to find her own purpose. However, once she arrives in Vietnam, the brutal chaos of war quickly overwhelms her. She struggles not only to survive, but to hold on to her humanity in the face of unimaginable loss. As the war rages on, Frankie forms deep bonds with her fellow nurses and soldiers, all of whom are grappling with their own sense of fear, pain, and loss. The story doesn’t end with the war—Frankie’s real challenge begins when she returns home to a country that refuses to remember Vietnam or appreciate the people who served.
The book is more than just a war story—it’s a tribute to the women who served, sacrificed, and too often went unrecognised. Frankie’s journey is one of navigating deep friendship, confronting loss, and grappling with her sense of identity—both during the war and in the years following her return to a divided America. The Women shines a much-needed light on these unsung heroes of the Vietnam War, offering a glimpse into their strength, resilience, and untold stories.
� This isn’t a bad rating by any means. I think this book does what it set out to do, particularly in highlighting the powerful stories of women whose experiences in the war deserve to be shared, remembered, and respected. The themes it tackles are clear, important, and undeniably impactful. I especially appreciated the way the novel honours the unsung contributions of female veterans. However, I also felt like something was missing for me. The book didn’t have the emotional punch I expected. I’ve read two other Kristin Hannah books that left a lasting emotional impression, so I came into this one with high hopes and sky-high expectations. Given how much praise this book has received and the many five-star reviews, I couldn’t help but feel a little let down when I didn’t connect with it on the same deep emotional level.
What I did love about the book was the way it explored Frankie’s 20-year journey, split into two distinct phases of her life. The first half immerses us in her experiences as a nurse in Vietnam, grappling with the shock of war and the constant cycle of life and death. You really feel the weight of her struggle—not just to survive, but to hold on to her humanity amidst the brutality of war. The second half of the story shifts to Frankie’s life back in the States, where she faces the painful reality that, despite her sacrifices, she’s not regarded as a hero. The men who fought in combat are hailed as warriors, while Frankie’s service is dismissed and forgotten. Her family, too, treats her like something to be ashamed of, and their lack of support only makes her feel more alienated.
During the day, she’s compelled to blend back into normal life, trying to resume the version of herself that existed before the war. But at night, she battles nightmares and struggles with PTSD, haunted by memories of what she’s lost. She slowly comes to terms with the painful truth—that the idealised girl her family once wanted her to be; unscathed, proud, and perfect no longer exists. No matter how hard she tries, she can’t go back to being that person. Eventually, she surrenders to the truth of who she is now—scarred but undeniably strong. This internal conflict is one of the most powerful aspects of the story, and Frankie’s emotional journey is portrayed with raw honesty.
Frankie’s path is one of profound loss, addiction, and deep anger toward those who have betrayed or dismissed her. The portrayal of her emotions is vivid, and you can truly feel the weight of what she’s carrying—the rage, the sorrow, the frustration, and the quiet moments of self-reflection. She’s a deeply flawed character, but she’s also incredibly brave, and her story is one that should be remembered. She represents so many women from the war whose contributions went unnoticed or unappreciated.The Women is a reminder that the stories of these women deserve to be told, cherished, and honoured.
Now, moving on to what I didn’t enjoy as much about the book—namely, Frankie’s point of view. While I understand the need for a deep, personal perspective, I didn’t always find Frankie to be a particularly likeable character. She’s complex, for sure, but there were times when her decisions and mindset felt frustrating or hard to connect with. One of the biggest issues I had was with the romantic subplots. Throughout the book, Frankie gets involved in a number of messy, often ill-advised relationships—especially with married men. Her “boy-crazy� behaviour felt excessive at times, and it detracted from the more serious aspects of her journey. I didn’t care much about these romantic entanglements, and every time one of them came up, it pulled me out of the story’s more powerful moments.
Given the weight of the war, the trauma, and the emotional struggles Frankie faces, these romantic subplots often felt unnecessary and distracting. Instead of focusing on her healing process or the complexities of returning home to a divided America, these relationships took the narrative in a different direction that didn’t feel as meaningful. It was especially frustrating to see the story’s emotional momentum get sidetracked by love affairs that didn’t add much to Frankie’s character development or the overall themes of the book. These moments didn’t ruin the story, but they definitely diminished the emotional intensity.
Overall, I think this book is an important and solid read, it didn’t fully meet my expectations. The themes of sacrifice, strength, and healing are incredibly powerful, and I appreciated the light it shines on women veterans—something that’s often missing in war stories. However, the distracting romantic subplots and some of Frankie’s decisions kept me from fully connecting with the book on an emotional level. It’s still a worthwhile read, but it didn’t leave the lasting impact I was hoping for. Even so, it’s an important story, and the women whose lives it represents deserve to be remembered.
__________________ Already ditching my January tbr for this KH book because I just got it and couldn't resist ...more
“Plenty of humans were monstrous, and plenty of monsters knew how to play at being human.�
V. E. Schwab’s Vicious is a dark, engaging d 3.75 stars
“Plenty of humans were monstrous, and plenty of monsters knew how to play at being human.�
V. E. Schwab’s Vicious is a dark, engaging dive into the world of antiheroes, power, and revenge, and it’s easy to see why so many readers adore it. The premise is compelling: superpowers resulting from near-death experiences. The characters are morally complex, and there’s a gritty, comic-book-like feel to the world Schwab creates. However, despite all of this, I couldn’t help but feel that something was missing for me. I don’t fully connect with Schwab’s writing style, and that made this book not quite hit the high marks I expected it to. I felt the same way about my first V. E. Schwab book too, The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue. There’s a certain something about Schwab's storytelling that doesn’t fully land with me, though I’m not entirely sure what it is.
The story follows Victor Vale and Eli Cardale, two brilliant college friends whose shared research into ExtraOrdinaries (EOs) and near-death experiences ultimately leads to a tragic split. Ten years later, Victor escapes prison and is determined to exact revenge on Eli, now a self-declared "hero" with his own moral agenda. Along the way, Victor teams up with Sydney, a young girl with powers of her own, and their uneasy alliance drives much of the plot.
The concept behind Vicious is fascinating—superpowers tied to near-death experiences? That’s an idea I was immediately drawn to. And the characters? Victor, with his obsession with revenge, and Eli, whose delusional sense of righteousness makes him believe he’s on a divine mission—are both compelling, though neither is particularly likable. But what keeps the reader engaged is how Schwab crafts their motivations and how their relationship evolves from friendship to bitter rivalry. It’s their psychological complexity that’s at the heart of the book.
The found family dynamic between Victor, Sydney, Mitch, and Dol adds an interesting layer to the narrative. Each character is broken in their own way, but together, they form an unlikely and often messy bond. This relationship is one of the more intriguing aspects of the story, and it’s clear that Schwab excels at creating nuanced, flawed characters.
“All Eli had to do was smile. All Victor had to do was lie. Both proved frighteningly effective.�
The writing itself, though, is where I struggle. Schwab’s prose is clean, but for some reason, I don’t quite feel immersed in her worlds. While the story is solid, the narrative style didn’t pull me in the way I hoped it would. I’m not sure exactly what it is about her writing, but I found myself unable to fully connect with the characters or their motivations. Perhaps it’s a matter of personal preference—Schwab’s style doesn’t evoke the kind of engagement I typically look for in a book, but I can definitely understand why it works for many others.
There were moments where I found myself longing for more depth in the story, more surprises, or just something to push it past what felt like a good but not exceptional experience. While I appreciate the complexity of the characters and the moral gray areas explored, there were times when the plot felt a bit familiar or predictable. It’s not that this book was bad—it just didn’t quite stand out in the way I anticipated.
“The absence of pain led to an absence of fear, and the absence of fear led to a disregard for consequence.�
The central message of Vicious revolves around the dangerous pursuit of power and the blurred lines between heroism and villainy. Schwab shows how ambition can lead people down a dark path, with characters like Victor and Eli using their extraordinary abilities as an excuse to justify their actions. Vicious explores how personal motives, often rooted in pain and betrayal, can warp someone’s sense of right and wrong. It also delves into the idea that sometimes, those who are labeled "villains" are simply people who have been hurt by the world, making them dangerous, but also human. Ultimately, this book raises questions about how far we’re willing to go for power, revenge, and redemption—and whether the end justifies the means.
Overall, I think Vicious is an interesting, well-written book with some compelling characters and a unique premise, but Schwab’s writing just doesn’t fully resonate with me. I can see why this book has a huge following, but it didn’t have the impact I was hoping for. Despite this, I’m still curious to see where the story goes in the sequel. Schwab’s world and characters are intriguing enough that I’ll give the next book a shot, hoping it connects with me in a way this one didn’t....more
“For ten years I thought I was preparing to destroy you, when really I was preparing to love you.�
I Hope This Doesn’t Find You follows 3.5 stars
“For ten years I thought I was preparing to destroy you, when really I was preparing to love you.�
I Hope This Doesn’t Find You follows Sadie Wen, a high school overachiever who vents her frustrations in private email drafts—especially about her annoying co captain, Julius Gong. When these drafts are accidentally sent out, Sadie’s perfect life unravels as everyone finds out exactly what she thinks of them. Amid the chaos, Julius starts to see the real Sadie, and she begins to rethink her feelings about him. It’s a witty, heartfelt story about the pressure to be perfect, the messiness of being real, and the unexpected connections that come when we let our guard down.
� This book was soo adorable and fun! I had a great time reading it! My first Ann Liang was a total success for me. While it’s not perfect, it was exactly what I needed to get me out of my bad luck streak with books. It had me giggling and genuinely smiling throughout. If you’re looking for something quick and bingeable, this is the perfect read. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who’s feeling stuck in a reading rut.
“Fix this. It's what I've always done, or tried to do. Fix the gap in my family, the holes in my life, patch everything up, smooth everything over.�
Sadie Wen is a character who will resonate with anyone who’s ever felt the pressure to be perfect or sought validation from others. Her drive to excel in everything always striving for more, even at the expense of her mental health was something I really connected with. It’s like she believes that if she just gets everything right, she can fix the messiness of life. I admired her determination, but what struck me most was how that desire for perfection starts to consume her. We’ve all heard that inner voice telling us that we need to keep going, that we have to measure up to this unreachable ideal. Watching Sadie slowly realise that her self-worth isn’t tied to other people’s approval was deeply moving. Her fear of disappointing others, especially her family, felt so familiar. It was almost painful to watch her constantly try to be perfect when she was clearly struggling. Beneath her stubbornness, though, Sadie has this deep compassion, always putting her family’s needs before her own. She carries a lot of weight, and it was heartbreaking to see how much she believed it was all her responsibility. I just wanted to reach through the pages to tell her that she’s enough as she is. Her growth throughout the book, as she lets go of the idea of perfection and starts to accept herself for who she is, flaws and all was such a rewarding arc.
“Why is it me? Why do you always single me out?" "Because," he says quietly. "You're the only person worth paying attention to.
Julius Gong, on the other hand, is initially the picture of confidence. He knows what he wants and has no problem showing it. But as the story unfolds, we see that there’s more beneath the surface. Julius� growth was just as compelling as Sadie’s. His shift from being her academic rival to someone who quietly cares for her is heartwarming. The way he hides his feelings while still supporting her spoke volumes about his character. What made me fall for him was how vulnerable he was despite his seemingly perfect exterior. His emotional journey is shaped by his ongoing comparison to a sibling whose brilliance always made Julius feel like he didn’t measure up. This sense of inadequacy leads him into a cycle of self-sabotage, where he questions whether he deserves love or happiness. It was heartbreaking to see him struggle with this, especially when it was clear that he did deserve both. Watching him eventually open up and start to believe he was worthy of affection was one of the most touching aspects of the story.
“You were right, Sadie Wen. I am completely, helplessly obsessed with you.�
The romance between Sadie and Julius is absolutely one of the highlights of the book. They start off as academic rivals, and there’s so much tension between them from the very beginning. It’s obvious they like each other, but neither is willing to admit it. They argue, defend each other, get jealous—each of them subtly caring for the other while pretending it’s no big deal. Their playful bickering and competitive nature create a lot of tension that made the eventual shift from rivalry to romance so satisfying. There are plenty of sweet moments sprinkled throughout, as well as some fiery exchanges that added a layer of depth to their relationship. Watching them figure out their feelings while denying it to themselves made their eventual confession all the more rewarding.
That said, while I thoroughly enjoyed this book, I did have a few issues:
At first, I found Sadie kind of irritating. She seemed overly confident in a way that came across as arrogant. It took me a while to warm up to her because, early on, her perfectionism felt more grating than relatable. But once I got to understand her motivations and struggles more deeply, I really started to root for her. I think my initial frustration stemmed from how disjointed the pacing felt at times. The narrative moved quickly, but certain emotional beats didn’t always land as smoothly as I hoped. The same goes for Julius—he felt pretty bland in the beginning. But, like Sadie, he eventually grew on me as I got to know him better.
Another issue I had was how easily most of the conflicts were resolved. The apologies and forgiveness happened almost too quickly, which felt a bit rushed. I get that this is a YA book, but I personally prefer a bit more tension in my stories. The characters seemed to resolve their issues in a way that felt a little too neat, considering the emotional stakes involved. I also found that at times, the characters acted younger than their age. They were supposed to be in their last year of high school, but sometimes their actions and dialogue felt too immature.
Once Sadie and Julius got together, I was hoping for more moments of them together I guess I wanted to see more of their relationship as a couple. The book ended pretty quickly after their romance blossomed, and while their connection was cute, I just expected more development in that area. But, honestly, that’s a small nitpick, and it didn’t detract too much from my enjoyment of the story.
Overall, this was a really cute, heartwarming read. Thank you to Ann Liang for ending my bad luck streak!
_____________ My first Ann Liang! Please get me out of this bad luck streak ...more
“Maybe the king always knew that his greatest love would be his ruination. Maybe he knew it the moment he met her.�
Oraya’s world has� 3.5 stars
“Maybe the king always knew that his greatest love would be his ruination. Maybe he knew it the moment he met her.�
Oraya’s world has been turned upside down after the Kejari, leaving her feeling like a prisoner in her own kingdom. She’s lost her family and is reeling from a betrayal that shakes her to her core. Trust is a rare commodity, especially when it comes to Raihn, a former slave turned king, whose own nobles are ready to revolt. As the House of Blood schemes to rip the kingdom apart, Raihn proposes a secret alliance that could help Oraya reclaim her throne and get revenge on her traitorous lover. To pull it off, she’ll need to tap into an ancient power linked to her father's dark secrets. But with enemies lurking everywhere, Oraya faces tough choices: go for the ruthless power she craves or risk everything for a love that might just lead to her undoing.
� I loved this so much! It was seriously amazing, and I honestly think it reaches the same greatness as the first book! At first, I had a few doubts because the pacing was a bit slow, and some storylines felt a little redundant. But it totally addressed my main issue with the first book—I wanted more background on the world, the conflict, and the characters, especially Vincent. He was such a mystery before, and this time we really got to dive into his character! I was also hoping Raihn would grovel, begging on his knees for forgiveness after what happened in the last book, and oh man, did he deliver! The plot is incredible, and I was completely immersed in the whole world. Carissa Broadbent really knocked it out of the park with her writing. I love her style so much; it flows so beautifully and effortlessly. And I have to mention the flashbacks and interludes—they were written so stunningly! Everything just came together perfectly!
“Oraya didn’t need to be saved. She just needed a soul beside her on the dark walk to her own potential.�
Oraya I absolutely love this badass queen! She never backs down, even when life throws her heartache after heartache. Her incredible strength to save herself is truly inspiring and sets her apart. I couldn’t wait to see her navigate the complex emotions and confront the challenges that carried over from the previous book, and I wasn’t disappointed at all in how she handled everything. She faces each obstacle head-on and refuses to give up, showing resilience that’s so admirable. Watching her grow as a person is incredibly rewarding it’s like you’re on this journey with her, rooting for her every step of the way. Oraya is definitely the most powerful character in the book, and what’s so amazing is that she doesn’t need anyone to rescue her. She just needed someone by her side who believed in her potential and that someone is Raihn. I felt everything Oraya experienced: her grief, her anger, her pain, and her confusion. It’s such a raw and relatable portrayal and it really draws you into her story.
“I like a little fight,� he murmured. “Besides, she’s ruined me for all others. My own fucking fault, though. I knew it from the beginning.�
Raihn Raihn’s growth and fierce loyalty to the people he loves are seriously impressive. His backstory and vulnerability really hit home, adding so much depth to his character. In this book, he’s juggling two distinct roles that shape his journey. As a leader, he has to make tough calls and keep up a strong, unyielding front, which can be a pretty heavy burden. He often has to maintain that tough exterior, even when it’s overwhelming. But he’s also a husband to the woman he loves, and he’s working hard to mend their relationship and close the gap that’s formed between them. What I really admired was how well he balanced these two sides. He’s not just a tough ruler, he’s also deeply emotional and vulnerable when it comes to Oraya. You can totally see how infatuated he is with her, and that affection shines through in everything he does. Whether it’s the little gestures that show he cares or the lengths he goes to win her back, his love for her adds such a rich layer to his character. This mix of strength and vulnerability makes him really compelling.
“You have nothing but me", I said. "And yet, you'd let me go?"
"I have nothing but you,' he murmured. "So I am letting you go.�
Oraya & Raihn The romance in this book was just chef's kiss that was full of angst and a slow burn that completely swept me off my feet. Raihn and Oraya are such a perfect match their chemistry is absolutely off the charts! Every moment they shared had me feeling all sorts of giddy, and the spice between them was undeniably hot, adding an exciting edge to their interactions. Their slow-burn romance felt like the sweetest kind of torture, keeping me on the edge of my seat with every look and touch. I found myself totally pining for them, eagerly waiting for the next moment they’d connect. I just couldn't get enough of their dynamic it felt so real and layered, making their journey all the more captivating. Honestly, I love their relationship so much that I’m genuinely sad to see their story come to an end. It’s hard to let go of such a beautifully crafted romance that had me feeling every emotion along the way!
I’m already more afraid than I ever have been. Afraid of you and what you could do to me. Afraid of the world that could kill you so easily. Afraid of myself, gifted with another fragile heart that I know I cannot keep. But, my little serpent, it is the most wonderful fear. Every minute with you is, even if I already regret all the mistakes I know I will make.�
Vincent This man was such a total enigma in the first book, and I’m genuinely excited that we finally got a deeper glimpse into his backstory. He’s easily the most intricate character in the story, with layers that really make him stand out. He’s left a real mess behind, especially for Oraya, swinging between being a harsh ruler and having an undeniable soft spot for her. The revelations we get about him in this book are intense and add so much depth to his character. Not everything he did was right or justifiable, but you can truly see his efforts to make amends with Oraya. That struggle adds an interesting complexity, revealing that he’s not purely evil but rather a flawed individual trying to navigate his way through his mistakes. His storyline is one of the most emotionally complex and beautifully crafted arcs I’ve encountered in a fantasy romance. His love for Oraya, though undeniably flawed and imperfect, feels incredibly genuine. He wrestles with the challenge of reconciling his true nature with the love he feels for his daughter, and that’s where the heartbreaking tragedy lies. This internal conflict makes him a deeply compelling character.
“There she is� I know I already ranted about Raihn’s endless “There she is� in my last review, but I can’t help but mention it again! He says it so much that it’s beyond annoying it seriously drives me up the wall. Honestly, at this point, it could totally be a drinking game. ...more
“You were looking at her like you were in love with her!�
“Jesus Christ, woman, I look at you like I’m in love with you!�
� This novella 3 stars
“You were looking at her like you were in love with her!�
“Jesus Christ, woman, I look at you like I’m in love with you!�
� This novella wasn’t half bad! I went in expecting something like the previous Kenji pov that just felt like it was filled with nothing, but this one actually had some substance.
Since it’s told in the present after the last book, it didn’t feel repetitive, which was a nice change. It did a great job building up to the next book, and getting more of Kenji and Nazeera was a fun bonus.
“It’s not the pain that’s unendurable. It’s the hopelessness. It’s the hopelessness that makes you reckless.�
➸I really appreciated gettin 3 stars
“It’s not the pain that’s unendurable. It’s the hopelessness. It’s the hopelessness that makes you reckless.�
➸I really appreciated getting Kenji's perspective because he’s such an awesome character. It was great to dive into his thoughts and see how his relationship with Nazeera evolves.
I enjoyed his inner monologues where he expresses gratitude for everyone and everything in his life. It’s refreshing to see such positivity especially given the tough times he’s faced. His ability to appreciate the little things highlights his resilience. Beneath his cheerful exterior you can sense his desire for someone to lean on, someone who truly understands him.
Despite those highlights, I can’t help but feel that this book was unnecessary. It felt like there was a whole lot of ✨nothing� happening and it came off as quite repetitive from Restore Me, leaving me with the impression that I didn’t really gain any new insights.
I’m giving it three stars, mainly because it’s Kenji.... that’s pretty much the only reason.
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