“If only real life bullies could be hot, brooding men with dark back stories who worked through their inner demons for the sake of true love.�
T4 stars
“If only real life bullies could be hot, brooding men with dark back stories who worked through their inner demons for the sake of true love.�
This is a retelling of The Awakening through the Zodiac boys� perspective, and I must say, it made me see them in a completely different light. I appreciate that the authors revisited The Awakening from the perspectives of the Heirs and Lance. It gave me a deeper understanding of how much they denied and even hated what they were doing to the twins when they first arrived at Zodiac Academy. This book provided a much-needed glimpse into their lives, showing the immense pressure they were under as future members of the Council of Solaria.
Գ’s chapters were the best. This man was so down bad for Darcy that he couldn’t resist making her his blood source, even when he convinced himself she was luring him in with her siren powers. He’s dumb and adorable in this book, always pining and obsessing over Blue. I just love how he tried so hard to stay away from Darcy, only to end up falling for her first, and harder for her.
“One day, Professor, I’m going to be strong enough to fight you off,� she said, her voice ringing with power for a moment and making me pause. Oh fuck, why is that so hot? “I know,� I said, enjoying this game. “But until that day, you’re mine, Blue.�
Darius, the tortured and grumpy dragon who genuinely thought Tory was a siren or something because of how drawn he was to her, this man is just so dumb. I hate how his father is trying to remold him into a more toxic and aggressive version of himself when he deserves so much better.
“Fuck, if her hate makes me this savage, one drop of her love would corrupt me to my core.�
Seth was completely unhinged, funny, and adorable, always obsessing over vampires and Darcy Vega. Caleb had only one obsession, and her name was Tory, and it was hilarious to watch him try to make Darius jealous. Max was just Max. I never have much to say about him.
Lance and Darius’s friendship was so adorable here. These two support each other through everything, and their let’s cuddle in bed friendship was both hilarious and wholesome.
He held me there for a moment and his hand slid up my chest. “Fuck me, you’re forward tonight, baby,� I teased him. “Oh you know me, big boy, any excuse to cop a feel. But you might have to keep that Dragon dick tucked away for now because it doesn't look like this one had it.�
Seeing the boys and their friendship together warmed my heart; it was reassuring to know that they always had each other’s backs. I’m glad I didn’t read it right after The Awakening because I would have sympathized more with the Heirs due to what they were going through and what they were forced to do.
I still hate, and will always hate, the Heirs for what they did to the Vegas at the start, but they’ve redeemed themselves and proven their loyalty and support for each other in the next books. And honestly, that’s all I ever wanted from these giant dumbs....more
“I find it interesting that any time a girl is unusual, or dare I say, unique, she’s deemed evil, or cursed.�
Anathema marked my first adventure4 stars
“I find it interesting that any time a girl is unusual, or dare I say, unique, she’s deemed evil, or cursed.�
Anathema marked my first adventure into dark gothic fantasy, and I absolutely loved it. The dark, intense, mysterious, haunting atmosphere was so vividly crafted, and Keri’s descriptions were incredible, though a bit repetitive at times. The world-building had so much depth, and Keri’s writing is beautifully haunting and whimsically poetic. Keri uses a lot of complex vocabulary, which is not usually my preference in fantasy, but I actually loved it because it added a rich, textured, and poetic quality to the story.
“Some women are fire in your veins and hell between your teeth.�
This book has one of the most unique world-building and lore I’ve encountered in dark gothic fantasy. The mysterious, haunting atmosphere was executed so well, and Keri’s explanations were woven beautifully into the story. The way she foreshadowed and built up the intertwined mysteries of Zavender and Maveth was brilliant. The entire world was hauntingly beautiful, and while some parts were disturbing, I loved how Keri blended elements of horror with dark fantasy to enrich the narrative.
Zavender Rydainn, the Scorpion of Nyxteros, is dangerous, lethal, and a formidable hunter in their world, with fire in his veins that can destroy anything. His broken past immediately reminded me of Rhysand from ACOTAR, the grumpy, cold-hearted, and ruthless type of man I always love. His uncontrollable urges when he was with Mayveth were so compelling, and how he tried to despise her yet still saved her every time she needed him. The push and pull, the undeniable attraction, the reluctant yet inevitable way he kept helping her despite wanting to hate her, pure perfection. Zavender’s past and complexities made him one of the most intriguing characters, and I desperately want to know more about how he became this ruthless hunter. I really hope the author does justice to his backstory in the next books.
“You are mine, moon witch. For all eternity and whatever lies beyond it. No soul has ever been more intricately woven into mine than yours.�
Mayveth was an interesting character. She was not a badass heroine from the start, but she knew when to fight for herself and her loved ones. Her curiosity about everything made her stand out, yet she also held herself back because of how people in her world treated her like a curse. What I loved most was how she fully embraced herself in Zavender’s world, how she trained, learned, and discovered more about her powers. Her bond with Rykaia was absolutely beautiful. Their friendship was special, two strong women leaning on each other in hard times, supporting one another in ways no one else could. I adored every moment of their connection and how genuine their relationship felt.
“I’d learned at too early an age that the sound of a girl’s scream drew nothing more than apathy.�
Mayveth and Zavender’s love story was complex yet utterly impressive. The slow-burn romance was so well done, and I loved how Keri carefully unraveled the intimacy between them. They are perfect for each other, yet their intertwined past made it almost impossible for them to be together. The push and pull was hilarious and agonizing, and watching them push each other away while secretly yearning for one another was so satisfying yet so painful at the same time. Their training lessons were my absolute favorite, the tension, the lingering touches, the unspoken emotions between them in those scenes were everything. They are slowly trying to understand each other, and I cannot wait to see them fully realize their true feelings in the next books.
“I want to show you the way you make me feel.� Keeping his eyes on me, he turned just enough to kiss my palm. “A man should not long for madness with such enthusiasm as I feel right now.�
The last few chapters were packed with action, which I enjoyed, but something about the third part of the book felt a bit off, maybe the pacing or certain plot developments that didn’t land as strongly as the rest of the book. And that cliffhanger at the end was absolutely illegal. I need book two right now! And knowing this is going to be a trilogy just makes me so happy because I want more of this dark, gothic world Keri has created.
~~~~~~~
that cliffhanger was absolutely illegal!! Rtc...
buddy reading this beauty with bestie giuls ...more
This wasn't a Scarlett and Julian novella because it focused solely on Tella and her thrilling kidnapping adventures with Legend. Scarlett a3.75 stars
This wasn't a Scarlett and Julian novella because it focused solely on Tella and her thrilling kidnapping adventures with Legend. Scarlett and Julian have all my heart, and I wish there had been more of them here. I missed them so much, and seeing them so in love with each other was everything.
“You look quite dashing, my love.� She pressed a kiss to his cheek as she reached him. But Julian turned quickly enough that her lips found his instead. “You look devastating, Crimson.� Scarlett smiled wider.
I never liked Tella in previous books, so I’m surprised by how much I actually enjoyed reading this sweet little holiday novella about her and Legend. Maybe it's the perfect Christmas vibes, the magic of their world, or the beautiful illustrations, but I enjoyed this little treat from Stephanie Garber.
“Does this mean you actually love the Great Holiday after all?� Legend’s perfect smile appeared again. “No, Donatella. I just love you.�
Also, do yourself a favor and listen to the audiobook while reading this novella. The narrator did an amazing job, and the background sounds with the Christmas ambiance make it even more addictive....more
“Never ever make any deals with a Devil. Not unless you wanted to lose your soul.�
A gothic mansion of wild fantasies and haunting illusions, 4.5 stars
“Never ever make any deals with a Devil. Not unless you wanted to lose your soul.�
A gothic mansion of wild fantasies and haunting illusions, a deadly game, a necromancer and a hot and forbidden ghost—one rule: don’t fall in love in Phantasma.
This book is deliciously and eerily captivating. The plot is intriguing, and Kaylie's lush description of an eerie and gothic atmosphere created the enchanting, hypnotizing, and adventurous experience in Phantasma. Kaylie's narrative beautifully and intricately blended the fantasy elements and romance together, while dynamics between Ophelia and Blackwell unfolds with careful complexity. The grueling levels of Phantasma were unique, and I had a terrific time reading every level.
“Soft hearts don’t survive here.� “What kinds of hearts do?� He leaned down until their eyes were level. “Hearts with teeth.�
Ophelia, the eldest Grimm daughter, is bound to her legacy as the necromancer of New Orleans and Grimm Mansion—a destiny she’s known her whole life. But she’s haunted by shadows in her mind, fearful of failing this one task and disappointing the Grimm legacy. I love how the author explored OCD, subtly weaved it into Ophelia’s character to build a fierce, strong yet a soft-hearted female lead with realistic traits. Through her journey in Phantasma, and with Blackwell’s help, Ophelia discovers pieces of herself. She finds strength, bravery, and self-assuredness, and I enjoyed watching her growth throughout the book.
“I may never be rid of my inner demons, but for this single sliver of time, whenever we were together, you made them quiet. I was able to hear myself for once.�
Blackwell, the sexy and mysterious ghost aka the phantom. With gaps in his memory and a penchant for insidious bargains, Blackwell is charming, funny, and cocky in the best way. I was captivated by him instantly; there’s something undeniably attractive about his character that’s impossible to resist. From his words to his actions, everything about him had me swooning. His enigmatic past and centuries-long entrapment in Phantasma made him even more intriguing. I loved his devotion to Ophelia, especially in how he helped her recognize her own strength and self-worth. He is a green flag through and through.
“In all the darkness, in all the loneliness, you have been my one source of light,� he lamented as she began to come undone. “My soul will go to its grave with your name echoing in my mind.�
Blackwell and Ophelia are a perfect match. While their connection begins with insta-lust, I loved how their feelings deepened as they spent more time together. Their witty banter and forced proximity heightened the palpable tension, magnifying the electric chemistry between a necromancer and a phantom. Their dynamics were captivating, especially in how they were eager to help one another. Blackwell guiding Ophelia in discovering her new abilities, while she did everything in her power to free him from Devil's Manor. Their relationship encompasses not only physical attraction but also a profound emotional and soulful connection.
She buried her face into the crook of his throat. “You came.� “You called,� he answered.
“I will carry the memories of this time with you forevermore. The matter of my soul will always have your name etched into it.�
The ending was perfectly crafted. However, I wished for more of Ophelia and Blackwell in the epilogue. I was able to predict most of the plot twists, but they were still great, even with their predictability. I'm excited for Genevieve's story and relieved that she did not tried to pull Donatella in the end.
If you enjoyed Caraval and are in the mood for some gothic, haunted vibes this spooky season, Phantasma is the perfect read!
So someone flagged my review of this book for plagiarism and gr removed the review as well as the book from 'read' shelf, when in reality i had spent So someone flagged my review of this book for plagiarism and gr removed the review as well as the book from 'read' shelf, when in reality i had spent an hour writing my own review? And it does nothing when it comes to people plagiarising my reviews?...more
“Hope matters most, I say fiercely. Hope isn’t the sickness. It’s the cure.�
Gods and Monsters delivered a satisfying conclusion to what has 3.75 stars
“Hope matters most, I say fiercely. Hope isn’t the sickness. It’s the cure.�
Gods and Monsters delivered a satisfying conclusion to what has been a spellbinding and roller-coaster trilogy. After my disappointment with book two, I had lowered my expectations, but this final installment reignited my love for the Serpent & Dove series. The story was not only magical and mesmerizing but also beautifully atmospheric, thanks to Shelby’s exquisite, detailed narrative. I loved the riddles and clues, the thrilling action sequences, and the group’s strategic planning to finally defeat the main villain. While the book did have some filler content due to its length, and the plot occasionally felt repetitive, the strength of the characters more than made up for it.
“Fear was inevitable. We all made our choices, and we all suffered our consequences. We all felt fear. The trick was learning to live with that fear, to continue forward in spite of it.�
The found family in this book is so precious—Lou, Reid, Coco, Beau, Celie, and even Jean Luc. They fought together against the evil, had each other's back. They all built something beautiful and hopeful together amidst the mayhem and chaos of their world, as friends and family.
Lou is one of my favourite fantasy female character. She is the embodiment of fire, and I love how she is soft-hearted yet fierce and protective. She is perfection. Reid had me swooning again in this book. The amnesia trope hurt a lot, but I loved seeing how he was falling for Lou again for the second time, how he couldn't resist the inevitable pull towards her —how he tried to hate her for being a witch but couldn’t help falling in love with her through the re-exploration of their relationship. Reid and Lou's love faced new trials in this book, but they both recontructed their relationship from the foundation of love and trust, and this time it's even stronger than before.
“I stared at her tearstained face, chest aching. She didn’t need to convince me. I’d do anything she asked. If kissing her would stop another tear from falling, I’d kiss her a thousand times. If we survived the night, I’d kiss away every tear for the rest of her life.�
Beau is another reason I loved this book. He was really charming, equally sweet, thoughtful, and hilarious, with just the right amout of possessiveness when it came to Coco. I wish we got his own book in this series or a novella for his and Coco's story. Coco is the ultimate best friend. I love how she protects, supports, and loves Lou. She is ready to burn down the world for Lou, and that’s true queen behavior. I also adored Coco and Beau's emotional and angsty love story. It was heartbreaking to see them deny their feelings while clearly longing for each other, but knowing they ultimately found happiness together was all I wanted since the first book.
“Just do it,� she said. “Hurry up.� He grimaced at the words but took a small step forward, lowering his voice. “If I remember correctly, Cosette, you don’t like it hurried.� Another step. Coco’s fingers still trembled. She fisted them in her skirt. “Not with me.� “I don’t like anything with you.� “Liar,� he whispered. Then he lowered his lips to hers.
The final battle scene was spectacular, expertly crafted with intense emotion and action. And the epilogue? A masterpiece. It was easily the highlight of the book. I am happy for Ansel, though my heart will never stop hurting for him. Reid and Lou got their happy forever after, and it was perfect.
“What you are now is not what you’ve always been, nor is it what you always will be. You are a snake. Shed your skin if it no longer serves you. Trans
“What you are now is not what you’ve always been, nor is it what you always will be. You are a snake. Shed your skin if it no longer serves you. Transform into something different. Something better.�
This book was never needed. It would have been better had it was just a bridging novella because this book added nothing to the main plot. The villain is still very much alive, the characters only became irritating, too many complicated relationships, the romance was dead until the very end, and the only character I truly loved in this book is dead. What I truly liked was the deeper exploration of magic and witchcraft.
“I wish we could live here forever. But the longer we stay, the more it’s like—like we’re stealing moments of happiness. Like these moments aren’t ours at all.�
Serpent and Dove should have been a duology in my opinion. I liker the starting, it was intriguing with how they were planning to kill Morgan, how they planned to forge an alliance with other people who wanted her dead, but the implementation of strategies was not for me. It was boring and prolonged to the very end for no reason at all. There were so many useless filler scenes that did nothing for me, though the second half was likable.
� Lou: I don't know where her fierceness vanished in this book. She is still one of the badass characters and I loved her in this book too. Her choices and decisions were understandable even though she always seems to make the wrong one. She just wanted save everyone and she didn't care what it cost her, and that infuriated Reid and he could've tried to understand her better but he chose to sulk in his brooding way.
He leaned low to whisper, “You shouldn’t have done that for me.� “I would do far worse for you.�
� Reid: As much as I liked his stubborness and determination in previous book, I hated him for the same reasons in this book. I get why he loathed the very idea of magic in their world, he was made that way by Archbishop and it's hard for him to accept himself as one. He hated himself for the death of Archbishop, for how he betrayed his brothers, but he also hated Lou for her magic. He was so hell bent on not using his magic, fighting everyone over it, even Lou. It was frustrating and it took him a whole book to finally come to his senses.
“I’ll follow you into that darkness, and I’ll bring you back. Do you hear me? Where you go, I will go.�
: ̗̀� The romance was not what I was expecting. The conflicts and challenges Reid and Lou faced in this book tested their love for each other and forced them to confront their own personal demons. The angst and longing was there, but others things in Reid and Lou's relationship felt flat. They wanted the other person to change into someone they could love and accept and that got in their way a lot. They had lots of misscommunications and they need to work on themselves and as well on their marriage in next book because they can never move forward this way.
“Sometimes when I look at you, I can’t breathe.� My hand moved to his belt. “I can’t think. I can’t function until you look back. And when you give me this smile”—I brushed my knuckle against his dimple—“it’s like a secret just for the two of us. I don’t think I ever love you more than when you smile at me.�
� Ansel: The best character in this book. The most reasonable, intelligent and sane man in this book. He deserved so much better and I will never forgive the author for that ending. He's so precious and I hated how everyone just made him feel like he was worthless. He just needed someone who could love him for who he was. He loved the wrong person and nobody deserves this precious man. I loved his friendship with Lou so much and she is the only one who truly supported him, loved him and cared for him.
� Beau: Another character I liked in this book. He added so much to this story with his strength and unwavering belief in his friends and their cause.
� Coco: As a Lou's friend, she is amazing, but she broke Ansel's heart so I really don't like her that much.
The ending was anticlimactic and the worst ending ever possible. I was not expecting that and I can never get over it. Not in this lifetime and not until Shelby brings him back alive in next book.
“Love may be messy, but it is always worth fighting for.�
—ĔĔĔĔ� The average rating and the reviews are scary ...more
“You may not be a goddess, but nor am I a god. Despite our mundane lives, perhaps we make our own magic with words.�
Iris and Roman will forever live i
“You may not be a goddess, but nor am I a god. Despite our mundane lives, perhaps we make our own magic with words.�
Iris and Roman will forever live in my heart and in my mind rent free. Divine Rivals struck a chord in my heart and made me fall in love with Iris and Roman's beautiful and enchanting story and it's always going to be a special one for me.
Divine Rivals followed Iris and Roman and how their love story blossomed from being rivals to writing letters of enchantment to finally confessing their feelings. Ruthless Vows's narrative centered more on the world building of the magical world Iris and Roman lived in, and Rebecca explored the history behind the rivalry between the gods � how Enva's need for freedom and Dacre's animosity and hunger for power laid the foundations for the war. I was waiting for more of world building after reading DR because that book lacked that aspect of a fantasy book and Rebecca finally gave us all the insights and depth in this book. Rebecca's writing? Exquisite and divine just like this series.
“Their souls weren’t mirrors but complements, constellations that burned side by side.�
� Iris Winnow
She is one the fierceless character I have ever read about. One thing I admire the most about her is that she is emotional and vulnerable but she always know how to held her ground, she knows how to use that vulnerability and pain and to turn it into strength and love. Her compassionate side only wants to help and make their world a better place and she fought till her very last breath to do that.
“Let me be your secret, then. Tuck my words into your pocket. Let them be your armor.�
� Roman Kitt
I fell for him even more in this book. Roman is perfect but we finally saw a different side of his personage. He was held captive and fought for himself and the past he couldn't remember anymore. He is still loyal to his humanity and his beliefs and he fought the battle against Dacre while being a part of his army and that was the hardest thing he had to. My heart broke for him, for the pain and trauma he experienced and how he wanted nothing more than to be with Iris after regaining his memories, but couldn't. I will never forgive Rebecca for putting him through hell in this book when all he ever wanted was to be with his wife.
“Your words have moved me, deeply. I also hunger for them, for you, and feel as if I could devour tomes of your writing and never be satiated.�
╰┈� Iris & Roman
Iris and Roman didn't had many moments together in this book but the few they had have all my heart. The first time they met again was heartbreaking and full of agony on both character's part. One remembered everything and the other didn't and the longing on Iris's face and the confusion on Roman's face, it was too much. The romance was full of pain, angst, longing and mutual pining. I loved that they still exchanged the enchanted letters and it helped them know each other again. But mostly I loved how it felt, like something that was familiar but also new in the same sense, sending letters as strangers and then as lovers who yearned to be with each other. It was hopeful and beautiful to see how they made promises to each other for the life they wanted to build together after the war was over and also kept those promises. Their few stolen moments, reunions, face to face interactions, those promises and letters and their happy ending healed my broken heart.
“You believed I had come to the Bluff to outshine you. And I would speak this word back to you now, but only because I would love to see you burn with splendor. I would love to see your words catch fire with mine.�
� The side characters?
I liked Attie and Tobias together. They were adorable and I wish we got more of them in this book. I even liked Forest in this book. I still hate him for what he did in DR but I understand where he was coming from and he just wanted to save his sister, his only living family.
� The gods?
They were a joke. Enva's presence did nothing in this book and you are telling me she knew how to kill Dacre for years and she still waited years to do it? She let soldiers after soldiers die for her for no reason other than to wait and see how low can Dacre go to win this war? And people had sides in this war when both the gods were as horrible as the others in the graves? The whole thing about gods and their hunger for power was so frustrating.
I was eagerly waiting for Iris and Roman and how they'll meet again, and tackle the situation regarding Roman forgetting his memories. I wanted to fight them together side by side but Dacre had to ruin it for them. He held Roman captive because his only two brain cells couldn't write an article on his own.
The ending chapters were terrifying and I couldn't stop crying. The war scenes were raw, intense, hopeful yet so hopeless at times. I liked how Rebecca wrote those chapters in mutiple povs and gave us insight about all the sides of war zone. The ending broke my heart a little and it was bittersweet and Iris didn't deserve that in the end. But atleast Iris and Roman are happy and finally living in a cute cottage and writing letters and books for each other. We atleast deserve a few bonus scenes after the emotional turmoil they have been through.
I loved this book which I definitely wasn't expecting after reading some reviews, but maybe I had lower expectations or maybe I just simply loved it. Though I still feel like Rebecca robbed us all of Iris and Roman's angsty and wholesome moments in this book.
“Write me a story where there is no ending, Kitt. Write to me and fill my empty spaces.�
—ĔĔĔĔĔ� pre-read review: i am so scared to read this book bcs of the mixed reviews but i need to woman up and finish this duet so here we go.......more
“Nothing in this realm compared, no Elements, no power, no crowns, or thrones. Just us. Family. And a love that would never die.�
Two years, 4.25 stars
“Nothing in this realm compared, no Elements, no power, no crowns, or thrones. Just us. Family. And a love that would never die.�
Two years, twelve novels, three novellas, and eight characters—a million little feelings and all my damn heart. Finishing the final book has left me feeling nostalgic and emotional, but I’m glad I finally picked it up after ignoring it for months. This series and the Core Eight will always have a special place in my heart. I’ve lost count of the hours I spent reading and devouring these books, the months I spent obsessing over the characters and their love stories, the tears I shed through every painful, heartbreaking moment, and the smiles and laughter that came with all the crazy, chaotic things they did. This series took over my life for three years, and reading the final chapter of these characters� lives was everything—emotional, heartwarming, and unforgettable.
The Twisted Sisters gave us the conclusion we deserved to this epic and unforgettable series. I honestly wasn’t expecting to love this book after my experience with Sorrows and Starlight, and I had very little faith in this book or the Twisted Sisters� writing, but they seriously surprised me this time. The scheming, the planning, the action scenes, the mysteries behind the Guild Stones and curses, the final battle, the friendships, the romances—everything was written so well.
bluelance
I beg the stars every day and every minute to bless me with a love like theirs. It’s so pure, gentle, sweet and everything. Bluelance rule my heart. They had some of the best moments in this book. The way they support and love each other is so endearing. The library scene. The fighting scene that led to Lance tangled in vines and Blue in a dominant position. Lance asking everyone to add their love for them in Darcy’s proposal ring. The proposal scene was as perfect as my Bluelance. The wedding scene. My heart is overflowing with love for them.
“I wanted her like nothing else in this world, her body a temple I would worship at every day of my fucking life with all the fervour I possessed.�
“Once upon a time, I was a girl afraid to be burned by the world, now I’m a queen who rules the fire. I will win this war for you, Lance, and I swear to the stars I will meet you at the altar.�
torydarius
They won the Great War, and I have never been this happy in my life as I was seeing them finally together, happy, in love, and at peace. They have been through the worst in this series, so witnessing them as husband and wife, without any earth-shattering consequences looming over them, healed me. I love my protective and possessive dragon and his fierce, badass wife.
“I wanted her like nothing else in this world, her body a temple I would worship at every day of my fucking life with all the fervour I possessed.�
“You own my heart, Darius.� I pressed my palm to his chest where his pulse sounded in time with mine. “Not like this, but in the purest and most vital way any one person can.�
sethcaleb
My favourite dumb boys finally got their mating moment! They realised just how much they love each other, confessed it, and I have never been more proud and happy. Caleb’s love confession was perfect, so romantic, so him, and seeing Seth finally receive the love he deserves made my heart so full.
“You are in my head morning, noon and night, your presence invigorates me and your absence leaves me aching. I dream of you whenever I sleep and burn for you whenever you are near. I can’t hide it anymore. I won’t hide it anymore. I want you to be mine, Seth, I fucking need you to be mine.�
“Our clock doesn’t tick, Caleb Altair. There’s no seconds, minutes or hours, it has no day or night. It just is. Forever.�
vega twins
Tory and Darcy are two of my all-time favourite girls. I love both sisters equally, though Darcy is my special Vega twin. Seeing how far they’ve come, everything they endured, survived, and fought for, to win this war and finally take their rightful place on the throne of Solaria as the true queens of their world� it was everything. Their bond, the infinite love they have for each other is so special and beautiful.
“In a way we would always be two halves of a whole. So different, yet so the same.�
“We had been two lost girls adrift in the mortal realm, but here, in this wilderness of magic and endless love, we had found ourselves at home.�
seth and lance
My moon besties were back in full force! Lance finally accepted this friendship, even though he denied it throughout the entire series, acting like he doesn’t love Seth when everyone knows he has a soft spot for his favourite mutt.
“You called me your moon friend,� Seth said on a gasp. “I don’t think so,� I said, pushing to my feet and pulling him after me. “You did! I heard it,� he said, bouncing upright and hugging me. I hugged him back, letting him nuzzle me too because fuck it was a relief to know he was alive.
lance and darius
My cuddle bros. My favourite bromance. Just seeing them hug healed half my broken heart. It was so good to see them bicker and flirt, just like in the beginning.
Lance clapped me on the arm, and I growled at him briefly before tossing the platter aside and drawing him into my arms. “I’m glad you’re okay,� I said to him. “You’re the greatest treasure here, you know.� “I think I might have to get that tattooed on me somewhere,� Lance taunted. “� Darius’s greatest treasure� would look great across my chest.�
lance and caleb
Who knew Lance, the grumpiest professor, would end up making so many friends? Honestly, at this point, nothing he does surprises me. But this friendship? Sanguis frater, aka nemesis turned coven brothers? It was unexpected but also delightful.
maxgeraldine
I’m shocked by how little the Twisted Sisters focused on this couple. It felt like they forgot they were in a romantic relationship, which was sad because I love them together, no matter how crazy and annoying Geraldine can be with her words. They deserved their perfect moments in this book, and I will not forgive the authors for robbing us of our salmon and his tuna.
The final battle scene was perfect. I loved reading those chapters and seeing how everything unfolded. The Twisted Sisters did justice to that moment, even though they killed off so many characters who deserved better. I loved how they all fought together, suffered losses together, grieved together, and supported each other. They’re a big, freaking, wholesome found family, and I adore every single one of them with all my heart.
The epilogues? Perfect. I got everything I wanted for the characters I wished to see happy. Watching them all become one big, crazy, but lovely family healed the trauma and heartache this series had put me through for months. Every tear, every smile, every heartbreak, it was all worth it for the love they found together in the end.
“It was too perfect, all of this. The life we’d forged together and made our own. This was where living really happened. Between the layers of havoc and sweetness of all the love we shared. And I couldn’t have imagined up any better dream for myself, than this. Simply, purely, this.�
~~~~~~~~~~
12 novels and 3 novellas later and i am still not over core eight ❤️�...more
Hawke placed a hand on the hilt of his broadsword and bowed slightly, his gaze never once leaving mine. “With my sword and with my life, I vow
4 stars
Hawke placed a hand on the hilt of his broadsword and bowed slightly, his gaze never once leaving mine. “With my sword and with my life, I vow to keep you safe, Penellaphe. From this moment until the last moment, I am yours.�
I love nothing more than loving a book that manages to surpass each and every one of my expectations. This is my first experience with JLA’s writing, but I’m already so obsessed with this series: the epic world-building with gods, Ascended, monsters, and a rich mythos. It’s so good—a perfectly entertaining blend of high fantasy, forbidden romance, action, with so many twists and betrayals. The world-building is chaotic and all over the place, with lots of unexplained elements and intense foreshadowing that are later revealed in the last few chapters, and I understand why.
Granted, the first half was boring, and we were just going round and round the topics like Ascension, Poppy being a virgin Maiden, her being attacked, and the abomination that is the Craven—but it picks up in the second half. The second half was perfect, addictive, and unputdownable! The plot twists and betrayals kept coming one after another. Some of them were predictable, some totally unexpected (jaw on the floor type), and some I’d already spoiled for myself by looking at fanart on Pinterest (I will never learn from my mistakes).
“Nothing is ever simple. And when it is, it’s rarely ever worth it.�
Poppy is strong, curious about adventures and the world, and rebellious even though she’s caged, veiled, and imprisoned in a virgin Maiden-meets-Chosen-One role. She is torn between her duty as the Maiden and her desire to just be Poppy. Her fierceness, resilience, and outspoken nature make her a perfect badass queen. Poppy is always expected to be demure, unseen, and amicable, and she blends herself into what’s expected of her—but she’s also always finding ways to reclaim her life in small, significant steps, and that brings so much realness to her character. She is such a badass—and the way she killed and dismembered those who hurt her? She’s a queen, and I support her rights and wrongs. Poppy’s character is multifaceted, layered with several emotional dimensions, and I really loved how it was explored in this book.
“And your scars? They are a testament to your fortitude. They are proof of what you survived. They are evidence of why you are here when so many twice your age wouldn’t be. They’re not ugly. Far from it. They’re beautiful, Poppy.�
Hawke is a brooding, charming guard with secrets and mysteries that only add to his appeal. He is literally one of those kill-her-and-you-die types. This man and his mouth had me melting on the floor like ice cream because he’s just so hot. He’s flirtatious and always teasing Poppy and her boundaries, taunting her with his “iԲDZٱ� jokes and nicknames—and I understand why Poppy fell for him, because I would too. Hawke has a dangerous and deadly allure that makes him irresistible, and he hides so many things behind his flirty nature. But one thing that always felt real about him was how much he cared for Poppy, how much he wanted to save her. I know his past is going to break me. We only got to know a few things in this book and it already hurts.
“You’re an absolutely stunning, murderous little creature.�
“I was wrong earlier when I said you looked lovely,� he said. “W?� “You look absolutely exquisite, Poppy. Beautiful,� he said, giving a little shake of his head. “I just� I needed to tell you that.�
“You are so incredibly violent.� He dipped his chin and whispered, “It still turns me on.�
I was drooling all over myself every time he opened his damn mouth ...more
“I looked into her green eyes, trying to show her what she was to me, what she had been. My salvation.�
The authors are just destroying this series
“I looked into her green eyes, trying to show her what she was to me, what she had been. My salvation.�
The authors are just destroying this series for money. Zodiac Academy is one of my favourite series and it's breaking my heart how these authors are busy writing these useless novellas instead of writing the final book that we all deserve. This is my lowest rating for any book in this series and right now I have no hope in this series. I just want it to be over in April.
Beyond the Veil is the most useless and boring book in this series. The authors are calling it the so called bridging novella, in which we will get more answers and clues about the finale, but in reality, it's just the repetition of what happened in Sorrows and Starlight from the dead people's pov. Darius' pov saved this book for me.
I hated all the dead people in this book except Darius of course. I did not needed to know how they were living and meddling and helping with the lives of living people. I did not wanted to know about their dead drama because I already have a lot on my plate with the living world of Solaria.
╰┈� What I liked in this book:
� I liked knowing about how Darius was missing, grieving, helping and loving from beyond the veil. How he was so jealous everytime anyone says anything about her. All the MY WIFE moments. How he desperately wanted to reunite with her in the living world. He was a mess ...more
“Nothing extraordinary is ever done out of reason or logic, but because it’s the only way for your soul to breathe.�
This book was a perfect enchanting“Nothing extraordinary is ever done out of reason or logic, but because it’s the only way for your soul to breathe.�
This book was a perfect enchanting and whimsical escape. This gave me major studio ghibli vibes and spirited away vibes! The girl who fell beneath the sea is a feminist retelling of a Korean folk tale “The Tale of Shim Cheong�.
“I am the maker of my own destiny.�
The story started when Mina sacrificed herself in place of Shim Cheong the chosen bride for the Sea God to help her villagers who are tortured for over a century because of Sea God's wrath. She then swept away into the Spirit Realm of gods and mythical beats and dragons with the only motive to break Sea God's curse.
“Then there are the girls like my sister, who want to be the Sea God’s bride because it hurts too much to be themselves.�
This is one of best fantasy standalone I have ever read and the pacing was fast which only made me read more and more. The imagery is wonderful and an enchanting experience with the beautiful and exquisite world building which is easy to understand.
“I wonder if it happens in a day, for your fate to change. Or if it takes longer for your life to be stolen from you.�
I also loved reading about different houses in their magical world of fog and storms and how the gods worked and dealt in their world, what happens after death, about the red string of fate, the beauty and mysteries of their world and the way Mina breaks the curse. I also loved the found family trope in this and how they all teased and protected each other. Everything was just perfect.
“Sometimes you don’t find family in your own blood, but elsewhere.�
The romance between Shin and Mina was sweet and beautiful and there were times I was absolutely swooning because Shin and Mina were so endearing. Their first meet was a catastrophic disaster with Shin stealing the most important thing from her. They went from hating each other and fated soulmates to loving and choosing each other. The way they both cared for each other was so precious and I wish we got more of them in this book because it was not enough.
“I was angry, but not at you. I was angry at the fate I’d been given. Because I realized that in order for you to have what you want, I’d have to lose the only thing I’ve ever wanted.�
� Mina: The girl who's kind, selfless and incredibly fierce and loved her family and her people enough to sacrifice herself to the raging storm as a Sea God's bride. Her determination made me realise that you can do anything as long as you believe in yourself and her courage to see through the hard times and to truly appreciate the good times in your life. I loved how she was so down to earth with all her mythical stories that her grandmother taught her.
� Shin: The grumpy assassin who's loyal, kind and giving and is always ready to protect Sea God with his life. He's just amazing even though he's grumpy and cold most of the times. I loved how he helped Mina even though he never believed in Gods or curse. The way he protected her and opened up to her about his feelings was beatiful.
� Kirin: I NEED his book! Even with his usual "You don't wanna mess with me" personality he can be sweet and caring when he wants to.
� Namgi: He is funny and caring and loves his brothers—Shin and Kirin with all his life. He's so precious!
� Dai & Miki: The cutest duo! I hate kids but Miki is the most adorable kid and the way Dai protected her everytime and loved her was so endearing.
“Do you know how much I love you, Miki?� Dai whispers softly. “Even I don’t know. My love for you is endless. Deep and endless, like the sea.�
� Mask: I liked her and the way she and Dai and Miki guided Mina to her journey while also helping her to break the curse.
The ending was a bit rushed in my opinion. The plot twist was shocking and I never expected that! And I also want Shiki the death god and Hyeri's book! Their little crumbs in this book everything and I NEED their book!
Overall, this book was a wonderful experience and I would highly recommend it to anyone who just wants a fast paced fantasy standalone!
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