Issy's bookshelf: all en-US Wed, 30 Apr 2025 18:15:18 -0700 60 Issy's bookshelf: all 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg Silver Elite 217245572 In the first book of a searing new dystopian trilogy, a young woman must conceal her psychic powers—and her attraction to her handsome, infuriating commanding officer—as she works undercover to take down a brutal government from within.

The world is divided. On the Continent, you’re either a Prime—immune to the biotoxin that nearly wiped out the Earth’s population 150 years ago—or a Modified, one who was enhanced by the toxin, developing powerful psychic gifts.

As conflict rages between the two sides, Wren Darlington lives in hiding. Occasionally running the odd op for the rebel Uprising against the Primes� oppressive rule, she must keep a low profile. After all, if the enemy finds out that she is a Mod with a staggering four psychic abilities, she won’t just be sent to the labor camps. She’ll be executed—immediately and without trial.

When a careless mistake puts Wren in the crosshairs of the Continent’s military, she is taken captive and forced to join their most elite Silver Block. Unwittingly, they’ve handed her the perfect opportunity for the Uprising to strike a devastating blow from inside their ranks. That is, if she can keep her powers hidden, survive training, and prove herself to Cross Redden, her maddeningly cocky commanding officer.

Despite the explosive chemistry between them, Cross doesn’t trust her—even as he seems determined to destroy the remaining shreds of Wren’s self-control. Yet as the war between Primes and Mods escalates, and as Wren and Cross find themselves unable to stay away from each other, they must decide how far they’re willing to go for their secrets—and how much of the Continent is worth saving.]]> 528 Dani Francis 059387546X Issy 0 currently-reading 4.41 2025 Silver Elite
author: Dani Francis
name: Issy
average rating: 4.41
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/30
shelves: currently-reading
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Raven Scholar (Eternal Path Trilogy, #1)]]> 212174157 From an electrifying new voice in epic fantasy comes The Raven Scholar, a masterfully woven and playfully inventive tale of imperial intrigue, cutthroat competition, and one scholar’s quest to uncover the truth.

Let us fly now to the empire of Orrun, where after twenty-four years of peace, Bersun the Brusque must end his reign. In the dizzying heat of mid-summer, seven contenders compete to replace him. They are exceptional warriors, thinkers, strategists—the best of the best.

Then one of them is murdered.

It falls to Neema Kraa, the emperor’s brilliant, idiosyncratic High Scholar, to find the killer before the trials end. To do so, she must untangle a web of deadly secrets that stretches back generations, all while competing against six warriors with their own dark histories and fierce ambitions. Neema believes she is alone. But we are here to help; all she has to do is let us in.

If she succeeds, she will win the throne. If she fails, death awaits her. But we won’t let that happen.

We are the Raven, and we are magnificent.]]> 656 Antonia Hodgson 152933988X Issy 0 to-read 4.47 2025 The Raven Scholar (Eternal Path Trilogy, #1)
author: Antonia Hodgson
name: Issy
average rating: 4.47
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/29
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Divine Fate (Cursed Legacies, #4)]]> 220808653
But an eternally peaceful existence as a goddess?
Hard pass.
Especially if it means I would never get to see them again.

My thoughtful, merciless fae necromancer.
My charmingly ferocious dragon shifter.
My dreamy, unhinged Nightmare Prince.
And my beautifully brutal ice elemental.

These legacies are mine, and I refuse to let them go without a fight.

Which is why I found a way to return to the mortal realm, even if I don’t remember what I did—yet. My memories of Paradise are returning slowly as I try to bring my quintet back from their twisted, broken madness.

I thought they were obsessed with me before, but now?
These cursed legacies are deliciously heartless when it comes to protecting me.
The feeling is completely mutual.

But if my quintet wants any kind of future together, I first need to fix the wreckage that I left the mortal world in.

Darkness, obsession, bloodshed, battle, divine vengeance, death�
It certainly sounds like the start of a happily ever after to me.

Intended for 18+ readers due to very strong language, graphic violence, dark themes, and explicit sex scenes, including group sex (no M/M). Please read the trigger warnings first. Book 4 of 4. No AI content here.]]> 580 Morgan B. Lee Issy 5 4.55 2025 Divine Fate (Cursed Legacies, #4)
author: Morgan B. Lee
name: Issy
average rating: 4.55
book published: 2025
rating: 5
read at: 2025/04/28
date added: 2025/04/28
shelves:
review:
this is honestly one of my favourite series of all time. this book was just the perfect conclusion to the story, though of course i wish we could have another four books of them just living happily ever after. i love how everything tied together, but the thing i loved the most was how much the characters developed and care for each other. looking back at the first book, it’s crazy how these five people who did not like each other ended up the way they did, sacrificing things and protecting each other. so so cute. everett, bael, silas, crypt, and maven will always hold a place in my heart
]]> <![CDATA[Daughter of the Moon Goddess (The Celestial Kingdom Duology #1)]]> 58666307 A captivating debut fantasy inspired by the legend of Chang'e, the Chinese moon goddess, in which a young woman’s quest to free her mother pits her against the most powerful immortal in the realm.

Growing up on the moon, Xingyin is accustomed to solitude, unaware that she is being hidden from the feared Celestial Emperor who exiled her mother for stealing his elixir of immortality. But when Xingyin’s magic flares and her existence is discovered, she is forced to flee her home, leaving her mother behind.

Alone, powerless, and afraid, she makes her way to the Celestial Kingdom, a land of wonder and secrets. Disguising her identity, she seizes an opportunity to learn alongside the emperor's son, mastering archery and magic, even as passion flames between her and the prince.

To save her mother, Xingyin embarks on a perilous quest, confronting legendary creatures and vicious enemies across the earth and skies. But when treachery looms and forbidden magic threatens the kingdom, she must challenge the ruthless Celestial Emperor for her dream—striking a dangerous bargain in which she is torn between losing all she loves or plunging the realm into chaos.

Daughter of the Moon Goddess begins an enchanting, romantic duology which weaves ancient Chinese mythology into a sweeping adventure of immortals and magic—where love vies with honor, dreams are fraught with betrayal, and hope emerges triumphant.]]> 503 Sue Lynn Tan 0008479291 Issy 0 currently-reading 4.03 2022 Daughter of the Moon Goddess (The Celestial Kingdom Duology #1)
author: Sue Lynn Tan
name: Issy
average rating: 4.03
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/23
shelves: currently-reading
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Heart of Chaos (Chaosborn Book 1)]]> 228951925
Eisa’s life is one of pain and cruelty. Living in servitude, she grapples daily with an illness for which there is no cure and abuse at the hands of the man who has owned her since she was a child. 

When Arik, the silver-eyed second-in-command of the king’s dragon-bonded warriors, makes her a deal she can’t refuse, Eisa finds herself hurtling toward a destiny she never would have chosen.

Desperate to free her loved ones, Eisa agrees to travel to the desolate wasteland in the south, to bond a dragon to her soul, and to become one of the legendary Drage.

As long as the Chaos doesn’t kill her first.

Heart of Chaos is the first book In the Chaosborn trilogy, an adult romantasy filled with dragon shifters, Norse-inspired-lore, swoony banter, and spicy romance. ]]> 399 Madeleine Eliot Issy 4 4.65 Heart of Chaos (Chaosborn Book 1)
author: Madeleine Eliot
name: Issy
average rating: 4.65
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/22
date added: 2025/04/22
shelves:
review:
ARC Review: i really whipped through this book, for good reason! this book was a viking-esque, dragon shifter romantasy, with a fast-pace, an obsessive mmc, and hilarious dragons. i thought this was a really fun book! i instantly was hooked as the action started in the very first chapter and it kept a good pace throughout the book which meant i got through it so quickly! eisa is a broken girl in a cruel world but arik slowly but surely makes her find her voice again and it’s beautiful when she does. baldur and idunn were just so funny, and i loved the world building, it wasn’t like anything i have read before which is very refreshing when it comes to dragon books. a great start to the series and i can’t wait for the next one! thank you so much for the ARC!
]]> The Deep Sky 217494834 Yume Kitasei's The Deep Sky is an enthralling sci fi thriller debut about a mission into deep space that begins with a lethal explosion that leaves the survivors questioning the loyalty of the crew.

To save humanity, they left everything behind—except their differences.

It is the eve of Earth's environmental collapse. A single ship carries humanity's last hope: eighty elite graduates of a competitive program, who will give birth to a generation of children in deep space. But halfway to a distant but livable planet, a lethal bomb kills three of the crew and knocks The Phoenix off course. Asuka, the only surviving witness, is an immediate suspect.

Asuka already felt like an impostor before the explosion. She was the last picked for the mission, she struggled during training back on Earth, and she was chosen to represent Japan, a country she only partly knows as a half-Japanese girl raised in America. But estranged from her mother back home, The Phoenix is all she has left.

With the crew turning on each other, Asuka is determined to find the culprit before they all lose faith in the mission—or worse, the bomber strikes again. Now, in order to survive, she must burn brighter than the stars that surround her.]]> 416 Yume Kitasei 0008708797 Issy 4 i really enjoyed this book, and once i got into it, i devoured it. i was so intrigued by the premise and it didn’t let me down at all; i loved exploring what happened to earth to make this mission needed, how and why all these people were chosen for it, and the ramifications of everything they had experienced culminating during the mission. it was so wild and yet so easily imagined to happen, which makes the perfect dystopian in my opinion. i loved the pacing of mainly alternating present day and past chapters, and learning about the characters both at the school and then on the ship, and the writing was so informative yet not overwhelming. a really fun, unique, and informative read that i will likely be thinking about for a long time! ]]> 4.00 2023 The Deep Sky
author: Yume Kitasei
name: Issy
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/21
date added: 2025/04/21
shelves:
review:
i chose to read this book when i did for a break in my usual genre and to read something completely different to my usual and this was that: a semi-dystopian earth sending a group of people on a space journey to a new planet, but throw in a mysterious bomb and sabotage of the mission and you have a unique and powerful story of humanity, purpose, and care.
i really enjoyed this book, and once i got into it, i devoured it. i was so intrigued by the premise and it didn’t let me down at all; i loved exploring what happened to earth to make this mission needed, how and why all these people were chosen for it, and the ramifications of everything they had experienced culminating during the mission. it was so wild and yet so easily imagined to happen, which makes the perfect dystopian in my opinion. i loved the pacing of mainly alternating present day and past chapters, and learning about the characters both at the school and then on the ship, and the writing was so informative yet not overwhelming. a really fun, unique, and informative read that i will likely be thinking about for a long time!
]]> <![CDATA[Fearless (The Powerless Trilogy, #3)]]> 221416250 Paedyn Gray and Kai Azer return to the Kingdom of Ilya...
�
And Paedyn has a life-altering choice to make. Whatever she decides will determine her fate � and the fate of those around her � forever. �
�
In the ultimate battle of love and loyalty, who wins?

Be swept away by the conclusion to the smash hit, dagger-to-the-throat romantasy trilogy.]]> 528 Lauren Roberts 1398531278 Issy 3 4.39 2025 Fearless (The Powerless Trilogy, #3)
author: Lauren Roberts
name: Issy
average rating: 4.39
book published: 2025
rating: 3
read at: 2025/04/11
date added: 2025/04/20
shelves:
review:
i feel like i need to give this time to digest before i rate it� i don’t really know how i feel about it all
]]> <![CDATA[Deeply Examined Omnibus/Completed Novel: A Dark Medical Romance]]> 229081735 She came in for a routine checkup. She left with a prescription for trouble.

Jessica never expected her annual exam to change everything. But the moment she steps into Dr. Adam West’s office, the air between them crackles with unspoken tension, awakening forbidden desires she’s never dared to explore.

He should keep his distance. She should walk away.

But when her safety is threatened, West’s protectiveness crosses a line—he demands she move into his luxurious penthouse. There’s something about him—something dark, something that calls to her in ways she doesn’t understand—that makes her agree.

Under his roof, boundaries blur and rules shatter. Late-night conversations turn into whispered confessions. Their fiery, physical connection transforms into something far more trust.

But the closer they get, the more Jessica realizes—West was never a stranger. And she was never just another patient.
Now, she’s tangled in a web of obsession and desire, where love and control blur. When West’s past and present collide, one question

Will love save them� or ruin them both?

Deeply Examined is a dark, forbidden medical romance featuring a possessive, morally gray doctor and the sunshine heroine who challenges him. Prepare for forced proximity, sharp banter, sizzling chemistry, emotional twists, and a love as dangerous as it is undeniable. If you crave grumpy vs. sunshine, touch her and ***, and high-stakes storytelling, this one’s for you. Expect spice—both in and out of the exam room. This dark romance ends with a guaranteed HEA, but be it’s not for the faint of heart and includes an extensive list of trigger warnings. Intended for mature audiences only.

Hooked. Obsessed. Deeply Examined has readers begging for more!

" This was my first dark medical romance, and I loved it!"- Nicola, 5 stars, GoodReads

"If you’re looking for a steamy, fast-paced read with amazing chemistry and sizzling spice, this book is it. Just be prepared to be obsessed, and to desperately want more by the time you’re done!"-Rkive, 5 stars, GoodReads

"Holy moly! That was incredibly good!"- Celina, 5 stars, GoodReads

"Definitely recommend to any dark romance reader!"- Emily, 5 stars, GoodReads

"A doctor/patient trope mixed in with high school crush was a massive win with me."- Amy, 5 stars, GoodReads

"Even though it's spicy, there's a plot too and boy am I hooked."- Brandi, 5 stars, GoodReads

"Every heated touch, stolen glance, and sultry conversation was fiery and electrifying."- Sadie, 5 stars, GoodReads ]]> 282 Lexi Davis Issy 3 4.15 Deeply Examined Omnibus/Completed Novel: A Dark Medical Romance
author: Lexi Davis
name: Issy
average rating: 4.15
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2025/04/19
date added: 2025/04/19
shelves:
review:
ARC Review: this was a short, spicy, and unique book! i enjoyed the development of jess and west’s relationship, and i enjoyed finding more out about why he is the way he is. this book read a little bit like a wattpad book in that it was all very quick but i needed that because i was entering a slump, and this definitely got me out of it! it centred largely around the medical kink world, which was pretty new to me but it’s nice to explore new things within the safety of a book, so if it’s something that intrigues, then definitely give it a go! thank you for the ARC!
]]> <![CDATA[Gift from the Source (Source of Elementra Book 5)]]> 222630928 Time is ticking. The end is coming. And I’m not sure if I’ll survive what’s waiting on the other side.
I’ve endured things I never deserved to, uncovered truths that’ve set me free, and with the help of my Nexus, my family, I’ve built myself up from the woman I used to be to the Primary I’m becoming.
Everything’s coming full circle—every choice, every sacrifice, and every secret.
It’s all starting to make sense.
The answers we’ve searched for all this time…They’re closer than ever, hidden within the few pages left to bind together.
But what happens when our book is finally complete?
Even Elementra isn’t exactly sure how our story ends.

Welcome back to the realm of Elementra where you'll find the conclusion of our story. There will be magic, shifters, possessive/overly protective men, bonds, answers to the all the secrets, and of course our well deserved HEA! TRUST ME!
Gift from the Source is a full-length reverse harem Romantasy novel and book 5 of 5 in the series. It may have triggers for some as it has intense flashbacks, violence, delicious angst, steamy situations, gritty language, and other adult situations. Please read content warning in the book. Intended for ages 18+.]]> 583 Willa Rae Issy 0 currently-reading 4.73 Gift from the Source (Source of Elementra Book 5)
author: Willa Rae
name: Issy
average rating: 4.73
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/17
shelves: currently-reading
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Beyond the Faerie Gate (The Fifth Nicnevin, #1)]]> 61101583 A secret kept, a queen hidden, and her warriors lost.


Afflicted by a mysterious and terrible illness that's haunted me since childhood, I’ve resigned myself to living life as a burden to my family. Until a fae knight comes to my village and tells me that everything I know is a lie.


It seems impossible, but he swears that I’m a fae queen, raised in the mortal realm for my own safety. And the time has come for me to return home to Faerie and rule.


Only my queendom isn’t what it once was. It’s fractured, divided, broken. And the men of my royal guard—a group of deadly and eccentric warriors sworn to protect me—have disappeared, scattered to the wind. I have to reunite them if I want to have any chance of surviving the war that has consumed the land, and the invaders at our gates.


This is a slow burn reverse harem novel intended for mature readers only. ]]> 418 Marie Mistry 1915066174 Issy 5 4.27 2022 Beyond the Faerie Gate (The Fifth Nicnevin, #1)
author: Marie Mistry
name: Issy
average rating: 4.27
book published: 2022
rating: 5
read at: 2025/04/08
date added: 2025/04/14
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Atop the Faerie Throne (The Fifth Nicnevin, #5)]]> 215798346 Nicnevin Rhoswyn, Fifth Beloved Daughter of Danu, High Queen of All Fae.

Elfhame has fallen. Elatha’s warriors run rampant across my city, looting and burning everything in their path. The throne of Faerie is mine by right, but the Fomorian King now reigns amidst the blood, death and chaos.

Only a Nicnevin with a fully united Guard stands a chance at reclaiming what’s been stolen. A high queen with all four courts sworn to her is our last hope for restoring peace.

I am neither of those things.

And yet, I cannot fail.

This is the final book in the Fifth Nicnevin series.]]> 488 Marie Mistry 1915066328 Issy 5 rose is one of my favourite soft characters ever, starting off naive to the world of fae and hardening massively (which we see in full force), whilst still retaining her caring and kind nature. i love that she’s a badass who can fight for herself but allows herself to be soft and doesn’t always sass back, which is refreshing. jaro was as loyal and protective as ever, and i loved seeing more of his depravity in this book. drystan is just hilarious, he’s so domineering and scary yet the softest one of them all. lore, my darling murderous, loyal, lovable psycho, never change. he is the best ‘psycho� book boyfriend i have ever read. my sweet sweet bree does so much growth and development in this book and i love him so much for powering through his trauma and not allowing it to define him. caed was just as sassy, funny, tortured, heart-breaking as always, and i really really enjoyed seeing his bond with the rest of the guard grow the ways it did in this book.
prae is such a queen, and kitarni is such a great friend to rose too. florian and the rest of rose’s brothers are just so adorable, i loved seeing them all together again. maeve, titania, and mab are such icons and i really enjoyed seeing them in their element in this book.
overall, just such an amazing series and such an amazing conclusion, i will be thinking about this series forever. thank you so so so much for the ARC!]]> 4.48 Atop the Faerie Throne (The Fifth Nicnevin, #5)
author: Marie Mistry
name: Issy
average rating: 4.48
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2025/04/15
date added: 2025/04/14
shelves:
review:
ARC Review: this series is in my top favourite series of all time ever. i am so so so obsessed with it. this book was just the perfect culmination of everything the rest of the series had been leading up to: revenge, love, battles, quests, sex. it was just amazing, i couldn’t put it down.
rose is one of my favourite soft characters ever, starting off naive to the world of fae and hardening massively (which we see in full force), whilst still retaining her caring and kind nature. i love that she’s a badass who can fight for herself but allows herself to be soft and doesn’t always sass back, which is refreshing. jaro was as loyal and protective as ever, and i loved seeing more of his depravity in this book. drystan is just hilarious, he’s so domineering and scary yet the softest one of them all. lore, my darling murderous, loyal, lovable psycho, never change. he is the best ‘psycho� book boyfriend i have ever read. my sweet sweet bree does so much growth and development in this book and i love him so much for powering through his trauma and not allowing it to define him. caed was just as sassy, funny, tortured, heart-breaking as always, and i really really enjoyed seeing his bond with the rest of the guard grow the ways it did in this book.
prae is such a queen, and kitarni is such a great friend to rose too. florian and the rest of rose’s brothers are just so adorable, i loved seeing them all together again. maeve, titania, and mab are such icons and i really enjoyed seeing them in their element in this book.
overall, just such an amazing series and such an amazing conclusion, i will be thinking about this series forever. thank you so so so much for the ARC!
]]> <![CDATA[Beneath a Shattered Sky (The Fifth Nicnevin, #4)]]> 201008531 I called, he came, and now we’ll both pay the price.

Earning the allegiance of the seelie royals was meant to be the easy part of my pilgrimage. Instead, the Spring Queen broke my Guard with her petty games, and then the Summer King imprisoned them. He tried to murder me, and would have succeeded� if not for Bram.

Now wounded, and with nowhere else to turn, I have to put my trust in the one male who’s more dangerous to me than any other—Caed. I’ll do anything to rescue my Guard, even if it means risking their anger and giving him another chance.

Even if we manage to free them, the rifts between my mates are almost as deep as the ones tearing the fae realm apart. If I can’t stop the infighting, master my magic, and claim my place as Nicnevin, then the Fomorians have already won.

Book four of five in a fantasy reverse harem series.]]> 526 Marie Mistry 1915066271 Issy 5 4.28 Beneath a Shattered Sky (The Fifth Nicnevin, #4)
author: Marie Mistry
name: Issy
average rating: 4.28
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2025/04/13
date added: 2025/04/14
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Reckless (The Powerless Trilogy, #2)]]> 183086339
After surviving the Purging Trials, Ordinary-born Paedyn Gray has killed the King, and kickstarted a Resistance throughout the land. Now she’s running from the one person she had wanted to run to.

Kai Azer is now Ilya’s Enforcer, loyal to his brother Kitt, the new King. He has vowed to find Paedyn and bring her to justice.

Across the deadly Scorches, and deep into the hostile city of Dor, Kai pursues the one person he wishes he didn’t have to. But in a city without Elites, the balance between the hunter and hunted shifts � and the battle between duty and desire is deadly.

Be swept away by this kiss-or-kill romantasy trilogy taking the world by storm.]]> 396 Lauren Roberts Issy 3 this was one of my most anticipated books this year and it did not disappoint too much. i don’t really know what i expected the plot of this book to be and what story to follow as i didn’t want to get a wrong idea into my head, but i was thoroughly pleased with the way this went (until a particular ending).
kai and paedyn’s relationship development was the real mvp of this book and what most of it centred around, and i loved it! the sewer scene! the paradise scene! the poppy field! all stunningly beautiful!!
despite not being particularly fond of the ending- i just feel it’s unnecessary and a silly way of adding tension to kai and pae’s relationship- i am eager to read the next one!! bring on fearless!]]> 4.07 2024 Reckless (The Powerless Trilogy, #2)
author: Lauren Roberts
name: Issy
average rating: 4.07
book published: 2024
rating: 3
read at: 2024/07/03
date added: 2025/04/11
shelves:
review:
3 stars.
this was one of my most anticipated books this year and it did not disappoint too much. i don’t really know what i expected the plot of this book to be and what story to follow as i didn’t want to get a wrong idea into my head, but i was thoroughly pleased with the way this went (until a particular ending).
kai and paedyn’s relationship development was the real mvp of this book and what most of it centred around, and i loved it! the sewer scene! the paradise scene! the poppy field! all stunningly beautiful!!
despite not being particularly fond of the ending- i just feel it’s unnecessary and a silly way of adding tension to kai and pae’s relationship- i am eager to read the next one!! bring on fearless!
]]> <![CDATA[Powerless (The Powerless Trilogy, #1)]]> 75513900 She is the very thing he’s spent his whole life hunting.
He is the very thing she’s spent her whole life pretending to be.

Only the extraordinary belong in the kingdom of Ilya—the exceptional, the empowered, the Elites.

The powers these Elites have possessed for decades were graciously gifted to them by the Plague, though not all were fortunate enough to both survive the sickness and reap the reward. Those born Ordinary are just that—ordinary. And when the king decreed that all Ordinaries be banished in order to preserve his Elite society, lacking an ability suddenly became a crime—making Paedyn Gray a felon by fate and a thief by necessity.

Surviving in the slums as an Ordinary is no simple task, and Paedyn knows this better than most. Having been trained by her father to be overly observant since she was a child, Paedyn poses as a Psychic in the crowded city, blending in with the Elites as best she can in order to stay alive and out of trouble. Easier said than done.

When Paeydn unsuspectingly saves one of Ilyas princes, she finds herself thrown into the Purging Trials. The brutal competition exists to showcase the Elites� powers—the very thing Paedyn lacks. If the Trials and the opponents within them don’t kill her, the prince she’s fighting feelings for certainly will if he discovers what she is—completely Ordinary.]]> 523 Lauren Roberts Issy 4 4.17 2023 Powerless (The Powerless Trilogy, #1)
author: Lauren Roberts
name: Issy
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2023/12/16
date added: 2025/04/11
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Amidst the Insidious Courts (The Fifth Nicnevin, #3)]]> 64643279 A looming fever, a Guard in exile, and whispers of treason.


I escaped from Fellgotha by the skin of my teeth, and now Elatha will do anything to get me back. My only hope lies in the pilgrimage; an ancient journey taken by Nicnevins to demand the allegiance of the minor royals.


But no one expected my own body to betray me. My fever is coming, and I crave my mates to the point of distraction. On top of that, their protective instincts are running riot. With all of us preoccupied, we might just end up handing our enemies the opportunity they need to bring about our downfall.


I need to unite all five courts if we’re to stand a chance against the Fomorian armada, which means convincing the southern courts to swear their fealty and help us break the siege of Elfhame. If I don’t, Elatha will win.]]> 442 Marie Mistry 1915066255 Issy 5 4.22 2023 Amidst the Insidious Courts (The Fifth Nicnevin, #3)
author: Marie Mistry
name: Issy
average rating: 4.22
book published: 2023
rating: 5
read at: 2025/04/11
date added: 2025/04/11
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Across an Endless Sea (The Fifth Nicnevin, #2)]]> 61383921 A city besieged, a realm divided, and a queen in peril.

My new home is in danger and I still have so much to learn. I should be grateful that I’ve finally found all five members of my Guard, but one of them is on the wrong side of the war tearing Faerie apart.

After diving in front of a killing blow intended for my brother, I’m reborn far from the safety of my palace walls. Exhausted and out of options, my only choice is to flee.

My treacherous guard will stop at nothing in his quest to catch me, but what will he do if he succeeds?

This is a slow burn reverse harem novel intended for mature readers only.]]> 435 Marie Mistry 1915066204 Issy 5 4.29 2022 Across an Endless Sea (The Fifth Nicnevin, #2)
author: Marie Mistry
name: Issy
average rating: 4.29
book published: 2022
rating: 5
read at: 2025/04/09
date added: 2025/04/09
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Wrath of the Damned (Deadly Divine #2)]]> 213087471
After meeting my long-lost father, I’m taken by the faerie king who tricked me to further his vengeful plans.

Florian is determined to heal my broken body and earn more than my forgiveness.
Even if I could forgive him, love is not what I need. I need him to finish what he started—to destroy the father who destroyed me.

But King Molkan is no longer playing the victim.

A deadly darkness is creeping across Folkyn.
To stop it, Florian will need to finally overthrow my father, and the journey provides him with ample opportunity to sink deeper than my scars.

Our mutual desire for revenge might give him the surrender he craves, but as betrayal and danger haunt our every move, vengeance might just be what divides us.

I will reclaim the freedom I once foolishly threw away—even if it means risking a love more powerful than any crown.]]> 384 Ella Fields 1399731858 Issy 3 3.62 2023 Wrath of the Damned (Deadly Divine #2)
author: Ella Fields
name: Issy
average rating: 3.62
book published: 2023
rating: 3
read at: 2025/04/06
date added: 2025/04/06
shelves:
review:
3.5 stars! a good sequel to the first book. i really enjoyed the character development in this book, both tullia and florian really grew as people and as a couple. i liked the overall plot and the ending did have me smiling widely. i do have the same criticisms as the first book, that the pacing sometimes felt a bit off but it wasn’t a huge problem for me. overall, it was a fun read!
]]> <![CDATA[Nectar of the Wicked (Deadly Divine Duet #1)]]> 213297404
To find those who discarded me at birth, I must sneak into Faerie.

But my deceased guardian left more than scars upon my heart. Debts are owed to the madam at the Lair of Lust, and I’m forced to repay them.

My first client is a faerie king who offers to give me everything I’ve always wanted. The king will take me to Faerie if I make a blood vow to marry him. A collection of sweltering meetings fool me into believing his reasons for choosing me to be his queen—a changeling without so much as a name.

For upon my arrival in his kingdom, I receive the answers I’ve craved and the truth behind his motives.

My wonder and infatuation for the king and his wintry realm are snuffed by hatred and fear. Though loathing him is futile when venomous words and spiteful games only prove to excite him. Once again, I’m trapped. This time, with an enemy I cannot hide from. One with enough heat in his eyes to melt my resolve, and enough power at his frosted fingertips to accomplish his sinister goals.

To survive all I’ve discovered, not only will I need to unearth King Florian’s dead heart—I will need to guard my own before he tricks it, too.]]> 368 Ella Fields 1399731823 Issy 3 3.68 2023 Nectar of the Wicked (Deadly Divine Duet #1)
author: Ella Fields
name: Issy
average rating: 3.68
book published: 2023
rating: 3
read at: 2025/04/02
date added: 2025/04/02
shelves:
review:
3.5 stars! i liked this book for the most part!! i felt some parts dragged and some parts were almost too quick for me to keep up, but i loved the premise and the world, and the characters. a dark, spicy, fae romance with a sweet and naive girl falling for a cruel and black-hearted king.
]]> <![CDATA[Storm of Shadows (The Firestone Academy Book 1)]]> 229070829
At least, that's what they claim. I don't believe their lies about a tragic accident.

Now I've come to face the trials myself - tests that will determine which Quarter I'll serve for the rest of my days. But I have other plans.

Behind these ancient walls, dark magic pulses through every stone, and three elite shadow weavers rule absolute - The Princes:

Beaufort Lincoln commands shadows like breathing, his charm masking deadly intent.

Dray Eros weaves darkness into deadly art, violence wrapped in seductive smiles.

Thorne Cadieux's silent power makes even teachers tremble.

They've marked me as theirs, offering protection through the brutal trials in exchange for complete submission. Students break here, crushed by the trials. Most return changed. Others never return at all.

The Princes may control these halls, but they don't know one thing: I'm not here to find my Quarter, play their games, or surrender to their seduction.

I'm here to expose the academy's secrets.

I'm here for my sister.

And I'll burn their empire to the ground to find the truth.

*First in a dark academy romance series where vengeance meets seduction, and deadly trials determine your fate.*

Storm of Shadows is the first book in the Firestone Academy series. This story will not complete in book one and contains some scenes that readers may find challenging.]]> 421 Hannah Haze Issy 4 ARC Review: i really really enjoyed this book! i thought the setting of the world was really cool and pretty well-done for the level of knowledge we have in the book. i thought briony was a very nuanced character, she obviously had a lot of hard ups and secrets that she was aiming to keep, and i thought the purpose for her resistance made sense which was nice as this doesn’t always happen (no shade lol). i liked the guys as much as i think you can at this stage. they’re obviously incredibly arrogant, chauvinistic, belittling, yet do have a certain charm to them. i loved how they all chased briony in their own ways, and the addition of the sexy teacher who has his own agendas and secrets ]]> 4.20 2025 Storm of Shadows (The Firestone Academy Book 1)
author: Hannah Haze
name: Issy
average rating: 4.20
book published: 2025
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/01
date added: 2025/04/01
shelves:
review:
4 stars!
ARC Review: i really really enjoyed this book! i thought the setting of the world was really cool and pretty well-done for the level of knowledge we have in the book. i thought briony was a very nuanced character, she obviously had a lot of hard ups and secrets that she was aiming to keep, and i thought the purpose for her resistance made sense which was nice as this doesn’t always happen (no shade lol). i liked the guys as much as i think you can at this stage. they’re obviously incredibly arrogant, chauvinistic, belittling, yet do have a certain charm to them. i loved how they all chased briony in their own ways, and the addition of the sexy teacher who has his own agendas and secrets
]]> Our Infinite Fates 210395729 They've loved each other in a thousand lifetimes. They've killed each other in every one.

Evelyn remembers all her past lives. She also remembers that in every single one, she’s been murdered before her eighteenth birthday by Arden, a supernatural being whose soul―and survival―is tethered to hers.

The problem is that she’s quite fond of the life she’s in now, and her little sister needs her for bone marrow transplants in order to stay alive. If Evelyn wants to save her sister, she’ll have to:

1. Find the centuries-old devil who hunts her through each life―before they find her first.
2. Figure out why she’s being hunted and finally break their curse.
3. Try not to fall in love.

The Invisible Life of Addie La Rue meets This is How You Lose The Time War in this fantastical love story that defies death as two souls reincarnate through the centuries.]]> 352 Laura Steven 1250333881 Issy 0 to-read 3.76 2025 Our Infinite Fates
author: Laura Steven
name: Issy
average rating: 3.76
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/29
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The God and the Gwisin (Fate's Thread, #2)]]> 218662681
But when the red thread of fate leads Seokga to a cruise down the river of the dead, the woman he finds isn't Hani . . . she's Yoo Kisa, and she has no memory of him whatsoever - with seemingly no interest in regaining it either.

But when the Heavenly Emperor of Okhwang is murdered, Seokga and Kisa must solve the crime before the cruise ends. And as the mystery draws them closer, they will have to decide what they truly mean to each other.

There's something bigger at play aboard the ship, something that holds the key to their fated connection - and the very fate of the world.]]> 416 Sophie Kim 0593599683 Issy 0 to-read 4.49 2025 The God and the Gwisin (Fate's Thread, #2)
author: Sophie Kim
name: Issy
average rating: 4.49
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/29
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Last Wish of Bristol Keats (The Courting of Bristol Keats, #2)]]> 220937059 Discover the stunning second book in the Courting of Bristol Keats fantasy duology, from New York Times bestselling author Mary E. Pearson.]]> Mary E. Pearson 1035054272 Issy 0 to-read 4.60 2025 The Last Wish of Bristol Keats (The Courting of Bristol Keats, #2)
author: Mary E. Pearson
name: Issy
average rating: 4.60
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/29
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Fable For the End of the World]]> 222053644 The Last of Us meets The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes in this stand-alone dystopian romance about survival, sacrifice, and love that risks everything.

By encouraging massive accumulations of debt from its underclass, a single corporation, Caerus, controls all aspects of society.

Inesa lives with her brother in a half-sunken town where they scrape by running a taxidermy shop. Unbeknownst to Inesa, their cruel and indolent mother has accrued an enormous debt—enough to qualify one of her children for Caerus’s livestreamed assassination spectacle: the Lamb’s Gauntlet.

Melinoë is a Caerus assassin, trained to track and kill the sacrificial Lambs. The product of neural reconditioning and physiological alteration, she is a living weapon, known for her cold brutality and deadly beauty. She has never failed to assassinate one of her marks.

When Inesa learns that her mother has offered her as a sacrifice, at first she despairs—the Gauntlet is always a bloodbath for the impoverished debtors. But she’s had years of practice surviving in the apocalyptic wastes, and with the help of her hunter brother, she might stand a chance of staying alive.

For Melinoë, this is a game she can’t afford to lose. Despite her reputation for mercilessness, she is haunted by painful flashbacks. After her last Gauntlet, where she broke down on livestream, she desperately needs redemption.

As Mel pursues Inesa across the wasteland, both girls begin to question everything: Inesa wonders if there’s more to life than survival, while Mel wonders if she’s capable of more than killing.

And both wonder if, against all odds, they might be falling in love.]]> 384 Ava Reid 1529948304 Issy 5 this book was a perfect blend of everything i love in a dystopian: a distant world of segregation, misogyny, control that we can somehow relate to our own; socioeconomic and environmental disasters which are oh so probable; the commodification of women and dehumanisation of those who don’t fit within the perfect model; and a world of brutality and bleakness, yet characters who inspire hope, ambition, and love. i fell headfirst into this world of an indentured society, and i fell even more into the story as the characters came to life.
inesa is so strong, so powerful, so sweet. melinoë is harsh, unyielding, yet desperate for love and freedom, and i really really felt for her and the life she was thrust into.
i could definitely see the similarities to past dystopian works, mainly the hunger games, but in no way was this book a copy or an obvious rewrite of the series. it payed homage to the compelling aspects of that series whilst showing something unique through the gauntlet: that there is no power unless society grants it. i loved the ways inesa, luka, and melinoë used their power to create better lives for themselves, and i honestly could read a whole series about them.
another masterpiece by ava reid, and a beautiful book all young (and old) girls and queer people should hold close to their hearts to show why they should never give up hope.]]> 3.85 2025 Fable For the End of the World
author: Ava Reid
name: Issy
average rating: 3.85
book published: 2025
rating: 5
read at: 2025/03/28
date added: 2025/03/28
shelves:
review:
wow. ava reid once again reminds me why dystopian books are some of my ultimate favourites. this is a YA sapphic dystopian romance and it was just amazing.
this book was a perfect blend of everything i love in a dystopian: a distant world of segregation, misogyny, control that we can somehow relate to our own; socioeconomic and environmental disasters which are oh so probable; the commodification of women and dehumanisation of those who don’t fit within the perfect model; and a world of brutality and bleakness, yet characters who inspire hope, ambition, and love. i fell headfirst into this world of an indentured society, and i fell even more into the story as the characters came to life.
inesa is so strong, so powerful, so sweet. melinoë is harsh, unyielding, yet desperate for love and freedom, and i really really felt for her and the life she was thrust into.
i could definitely see the similarities to past dystopian works, mainly the hunger games, but in no way was this book a copy or an obvious rewrite of the series. it payed homage to the compelling aspects of that series whilst showing something unique through the gauntlet: that there is no power unless society grants it. i loved the ways inesa, luka, and melinoë used their power to create better lives for themselves, and i honestly could read a whole series about them.
another masterpiece by ava reid, and a beautiful book all young (and old) girls and queer people should hold close to their hearts to show why they should never give up hope.
]]> <![CDATA[A Theory of Dreaming (A Study in Drowning, #2)]]> 221228045
All stories come to an end.

Effy learned that when she defeated the Fairy King. Even though she may never know exactly what happened at Hiraeth, she is free of her nightmares and is able to pen a thesis with Preston on the beloved national fairy tale Angharad. She has finally earned a spot at the literature college, making her the first woman in history to enroll.

But some dreams are dangerous, especially when they come true. The entire university—and soon the entire nation—is waiting for her to fail. With the Fairy King defeated and Myrddin’s legacy exposed, Effy can no longer escape into fantasy. Who is she without her stories?

With Effy under threat, Preston is surprised to discover a rage simmering inside him, ringing in his ears like bells. He begins to dream of a palace under the sea, a world where he is king—visions that start to follow him even in waking.

As the war between Llyr and Argant explodes, Effy and Preston find themselves caught in the crossfire: Effy losing her dreams and Preston losing himself in his.

Are dreams ever truly just dreams?]]> 416 Ava Reid 0063421674 Issy 0 to-read 3.93 2025 A Theory of Dreaming (A Study in Drowning, #2)
author: Ava Reid
name: Issy
average rating: 3.93
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/27
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Lady Macbeth 217217688 From #1 New York Times bestselling author Ava Reid comes a reimagining of Lady Macbeth, Shakespeare’s most famous villainess, giving her a voice, a past, and a power that transforms the story men have written for her.

The Lady knows the stories: how her eyes induce madness in men. 

The Lady knows she will be wed to the Scottish brute, who does not leave his warrior ways behind when he comes to the marriage bed.  

The Lady knows his hostile, suspicious court will be a game of strategy, requiring all of her wiles and hidden witchcraft to survive. 

But the Lady does not know her husband has occult secrets of his own. She does not know that prophecy girds him like armor. She does not know that her magic is greater and more dangerous, and that it will threaten the order of the world. 

She does not know this yet. But she will.]]> 320 Ava Reid 152991048X Issy 0 to-read 3.40 2024 Lady Macbeth
author: Ava Reid
name: Issy
average rating: 3.40
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/27
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Juniper & Thorn 59049476 320 Ava Reid 1529100771 Issy 0 to-read 3.55 2022 Juniper & Thorn
author: Ava Reid
name: Issy
average rating: 3.55
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/27
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> The Wolf and the Woodsman 58369676
But when monsters attack the Woodsmen and their captive en route, slaughtering everyone but Évike and the cold, one-eyed captain, they have no choice but to rely on each other. Except he’s no ordinary Woodsman—he’s the disgraced prince, Gáspár Bárány, whose father needs pagan magic to consolidate his power. Gáspár fears that his cruelly zealous brother plans to seize the throne and instigate a violent reign that would damn the pagans and the Yehuli alike. As the son of a reviled foreign queen, Gáspár understands what it’s like to be an outcast, and he and Évike make a tenuous pact to stop his brother.

As their mission takes them from the bitter northern tundra to the smog-choked capital, their mutual loathing slowly turns to affection, bound by a shared history of alienation and oppression. However, trust can easily turn to betrayal, and as Évike reconnects with her estranged father and discovers her own hidden magic, she and Gáspár need to decide whose side they’re on, and what they’re willing to give up for a nation that never cared for them at all. ]]> 432 Ava Reid 1529100755 Issy 0 to-read 3.46 2021 The Wolf and the Woodsman
author: Ava Reid
name: Issy
average rating: 3.46
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/27
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Knight Forsaken (Black Veil University #3)]]> 216948057
I came to Black Veil for a new start. A chance to find myself again, and maybe learn how to control my unruly magic.

Instead, I've somehow bonded myself to three amazing men, found out I'm mated to my childhood best friend, and my magic grows more unstable by the day.

Danger lurks around every corner and death lingers in the air. Secrets are uncovered, questions answered, but I'm not entirely sure I'm prepared to face the truths that they bring.

Knight Forsaken is book 3 of 5 in the Black Veil University. This is a university-aged, Paranormal RH romance which means there will be no choosing between love interest at the end of the story.

This series has darker elements that readers should be aware of such as, strong language, PTSD from kidnapping, assault, and violence.]]> 384 B.M. Clemton Issy 3 4.33 Knight Forsaken (Black Veil University #3)
author: B.M. Clemton
name: Issy
average rating: 4.33
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2025/03/26
date added: 2025/03/26
shelves:
review:

]]> Yellowface 59357120
So what if June edits Athena’s novel and sends it to her agent as her own work? So what if she lets her new publisher rebrand her as Juniper Song—complete with an ambiguously ethnic author photo? This piece of history deserve to be told, whoever the teller. That is what June believes, and The New York Times bestseller list agrees.

But June cannot escape Athena’s shadow, and emerging evidence threatens her stolen success. As she races to protect her secret she discovers exactly how far she will go to keep what she thinks she deserves.]]> 329 R.F. Kuang Issy 4 3.84 2023 Yellowface
author: R.F. Kuang
name: Issy
average rating: 3.84
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/24
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves:
review:
this was such a cool and interesting book, i didn’t put it down!! it explored the complexities of publishing, authorship, and diversity through such a unique lens. june was such a bitch but i loved reading her perspectives because she was just so unhinged, so ironic, so angry at the world for her hardships. it was funny, crazy, emotional, and i loved it!
]]> <![CDATA[Knight Revelations (Black Veil University, #2)]]> 216948141 I'm sorry, Dani.
Those three words echo through my mind and tug at the broken strings of my heart.

Bonds, magic, and lies seem to make up my world right now as it crashes around me.
All I wanted was a normal life, to go to college and try to put the shadows of my past behind me. Instead, my world has been turned upside down, and my bright future at Black Veil University is suddenly looking dim.
The shadows are closing in, putting those I love most at risk, and they will stop at nothing to get what they want.

Knight Revelations is book 2 in the Black Veil University Series which DOES end in a cliffhanger. This is university-aged slow burn/slow build Rever Harem romance which means there will be no choosing between love interests by the end of the book.
*Trigger Warnings*
This book has darker elements that readers should be aware of such as, stronger language, PTSD from kidnapping, assault, and violence.]]> 319 B.M. Clemton Issy 3 4.31 2021 Knight Revelations (Black Veil University, #2)
author: B.M. Clemton
name: Issy
average rating: 4.31
book published: 2021
rating: 3
read at: 2025/03/22
date added: 2025/03/22
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Knight Ascending (Black Veil University, #1)]]> 216948246
Trust no one. Is the singular phrase my mother had whispered to me when she abandoned me in a small hospital at the young age of eight. It was the only memory I could remember before I came to live with my Aunt and Uncles here in the largest wolf pack in North America. After graduating High School and having been accepted into one of the most prestigious Paranormal Universities in North America. Black Veil University.

Everything is finally going as planned. Or so I thought before four insanely hot men crash their way into my life. Each with a unique connection to me, whether they want it or not. We are tied together. Lives are turned upside down, hearts are torn and shattered and those deep dark secrets that I have held hostage start to slip. But when the dark shadows of my past come knocking, I may need every little bit of help I can get.

Knight Ascending is book 1 of 5 in the Black Veil University Series which DOES end on a cliffhanger. This is a university-aged, slow burn, slow build Paranormal RH romance which means there will be no choosing between love interest at the end of the story.
This series has darker elements that readers should be aware of such as, strong language, PTSD from kidnapping, assault, and violence.]]> 274 B.M. Clemton Issy 3 4.27 2021 Knight Ascending (Black Veil University, #1)
author: B.M. Clemton
name: Issy
average rating: 4.27
book published: 2021
rating: 3
read at: 2025/03/21
date added: 2025/03/21
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Sunrise on the Reaping (The Hunger Games, #0.5)]]> 220623940 When you’ve been set up to lose everything you love, what is there left to fight for?

As the day dawns on the fiftieth annual Hunger Games, fear grips the districts of Panem. This year, in honor of the Quarter Quell, twice as many tributes will be taken from their homes.

Back in District 12, Haymitch Abernathy is trying not to think too hard about his chances. All he cares about is making it through the day and being with the girl he loves.

When Haymitch’s name is called, he can feel all his dreams break. He’s torn from his family and his love, shuttled to the Capitol with the three other District 12 tributes: a young friend who’s nearly a sister to him, a compulsive oddsmaker, and the most stuck-up girl in town. As the Games begin, Haymitch understands he’s been set up to fail. But there’s something in him that wants to fight . . . and have that fight reverberate far beyond the deadly arena.]]> 382 Suzanne Collins 070234057X Issy 5 whilst i have seen criticism that the subtlety of some of the messages of the original trilogy isn’t present in this book, i didn’t feel it to be an overt problem when reading. yes, it was a lot more ‘in your face�, but i also think this allows for the purpose and point suzanne collins was trying to emphasise with this book to be explicitly there.
an amazing book, one which made me laugh, sob, and loathe, and one that i will remember forever. thank you suzanne collins for writing this tragedy.]]> 4.66 2025 Sunrise on the Reaping (The Hunger Games, #0.5)
author: Suzanne Collins
name: Issy
average rating: 4.66
book published: 2025
rating: 5
read at: 2025/03/19
date added: 2025/03/19
shelves:
review:
this book was just stunning. haymitch was always one of my favourite characters from the original trilogy and i’m so glad this book was made to explore not only his games, but his character, motivations, and actions, and boy is it heartbreaking. he’s so strong, determined, and i completely feel for him knowing everything he’s gone through, everything he’s done, has been rewritten to completely change the narrative and he’s the only one left who knows the real truth. i can’t imagine the pain that would cause, but the descriptions definitely did a great job at portraying a lot of the pain haymitch feels. despite knowing the ultimate outcome of this book, i fell so deeply for all of the characters we met and my heart broke for all of them and how their lives and deaths were all used to uphold a regime which celebrates the complete slaughter of children. i was so happy to see some familiar faces in this book, it just adds to the impact of their characters in the trilogy, and it just made my heart break for them all over again.
whilst i have seen criticism that the subtlety of some of the messages of the original trilogy isn’t present in this book, i didn’t feel it to be an overt problem when reading. yes, it was a lot more ‘in your face�, but i also think this allows for the purpose and point suzanne collins was trying to emphasise with this book to be explicitly there.
an amazing book, one which made me laugh, sob, and loathe, and one that i will remember forever. thank you suzanne collins for writing this tragedy.
]]> <![CDATA[Heavenly Bodies (Heavenly Bodies, #1)]]> 214507851 You know the most dangerous kind of villain? A woman with nothing left to lose.

In a world ruled by the Stars, cruel and merciless gods, Elara has been cursed by fate.

A prophecy promises she will fall for a Star, but that it will kill them both.

Yet when the Star of Wrath and War descends to hunt Elara, the neighbouring kingdom sees an opportunity to take her from her home, the Kingdom of Night, to Helios, Kingdom of Light. Where she strides straight into the arms of an enemy prince.

There, Elara is forced to either let Prince Lorenzo train her into a weapon worthy of battling against the tyrannical reign of the Stars, or to accept her fate.

But there are shadows even within the Kingdom of Light � and they threaten to reveal the darkness in Lorenzo’s past and the ancient magic that slumbers in Elara’s veins.

And with it all, the undeniable, star-crossed pull between them . . .]]> 512 Imani Erriu 024174055X Issy 5 i really loved this book!! it was just what i needed to read, with a beautiful blend of yearning, romance, fantasy, and love. elara was a very interesting character, i really enjoyed delving into her psyche as the book went on and we found out more about why she’s the way she is. enzo was even more interesting to me, a shameless flirt, arrogant, broodish, funny, yet tortured, pained, and desperate for love. the love story between elara and enzo is just beautiful, written in the stars, one could say. ariete and the stars are incredibly complex characters, they were always entertaining to read! at times, i felt the pacing was slightly off which is why i didn’t give a full five stars, but it was very good. it did lean heavier on the romance side than the fantasy side to me but i really didn’t mind that because i wasn’t expecting anything else. overall, a great book and i am very excited for the next one!!]]> 4.04 2022 Heavenly Bodies (Heavenly Bodies, #1)
author: Imani Erriu
name: Issy
average rating: 4.04
book published: 2022
rating: 5
read at: 2025/03/17
date added: 2025/03/17
shelves:
review:
4.5 stars!
i really loved this book!! it was just what i needed to read, with a beautiful blend of yearning, romance, fantasy, and love. elara was a very interesting character, i really enjoyed delving into her psyche as the book went on and we found out more about why she’s the way she is. enzo was even more interesting to me, a shameless flirt, arrogant, broodish, funny, yet tortured, pained, and desperate for love. the love story between elara and enzo is just beautiful, written in the stars, one could say. ariete and the stars are incredibly complex characters, they were always entertaining to read! at times, i felt the pacing was slightly off which is why i didn’t give a full five stars, but it was very good. it did lean heavier on the romance side than the fantasy side to me but i really didn’t mind that because i wasn’t expecting anything else. overall, a great book and i am very excited for the next one!!
]]> <![CDATA[Her Tortured Beasts (Her Vicious Beasts Book 4)]]> 218266327
This is Book 4 of an MFMMMM WhyChoose series that must be read in order.]]> 555 E.P. Bali 1923159208 Issy 5 ARC Review: jeez, what to say about this book without spoiling it.
the character development of the main characters was just so heartbreaking yet so meaningful, they all went through pure hell yet came out so strong. some of the characters i still haven’t forgiven for their actions, and don’t know if i would be able to forgive them, but i’m sure by the last book i’ll have done so through the mastery of the writing and how much it makes me feel. i have never felt things like this when reading a book; i felt the love, the pain, the humiliation, the savagery, the care, all of the emotions of the characters i responded to in kind.
i just want aurelia, savage, lyle, and scythe to be happy and safe and loved and protected but i feel it’s still a way off for our core four (i REFUSE to allow the others in there yet- pricks), but i know they’ll be there to protect, fight for,, care for, and help each other through their pains and traumas to their hopefully happy ever after.
xander had a lot of growing to do on me due to his past actions and his actions in this book, and for the majority of this book i hated him more than i’ve ever hated an mmc, and i’m very very conflicted on how to feel about him now. i did enjoy understanding more of his childhood and why he’s so prickly, nasty, and cruel. it didn’t excuse his behaviour but it did make him a tad more empathetic.
this book was pain, a lot of pain, heart and soul breaking. i’m not one who gets overly effected by triggers but this book was rough to read at times, so please check the warnings and protect yourself. the world of this book is so developed but so painful and nasty to certain people, and so many of the characters are just evil incarnate.
another incredible read in this series and i just hope and pray that they are all able to make it out the other side happy, safe, in love, and together. thank you so much for the ARC, this series is one of my favourites (but i also hate it because of the pain) and i cannot wait for the last book! ]]> 4.43 2025 Her Tortured Beasts (Her Vicious Beasts Book 4)
author: E.P. Bali
name: Issy
average rating: 4.43
book published: 2025
rating: 5
read at: 2025/03/17
date added: 2025/03/17
shelves:
review:
4.5 stars- docked .5 for the PAIN
ARC Review: jeez, what to say about this book without spoiling it.
the character development of the main characters was just so heartbreaking yet so meaningful, they all went through pure hell yet came out so strong. some of the characters i still haven’t forgiven for their actions, and don’t know if i would be able to forgive them, but i’m sure by the last book i’ll have done so through the mastery of the writing and how much it makes me feel. i have never felt things like this when reading a book; i felt the love, the pain, the humiliation, the savagery, the care, all of the emotions of the characters i responded to in kind.
i just want aurelia, savage, lyle, and scythe to be happy and safe and loved and protected but i feel it’s still a way off for our core four (i REFUSE to allow the others in there yet- pricks), but i know they’ll be there to protect, fight for,, care for, and help each other through their pains and traumas to their hopefully happy ever after.
xander had a lot of growing to do on me due to his past actions and his actions in this book, and for the majority of this book i hated him more than i’ve ever hated an mmc, and i’m very very conflicted on how to feel about him now. i did enjoy understanding more of his childhood and why he’s so prickly, nasty, and cruel. it didn’t excuse his behaviour but it did make him a tad more empathetic.
this book was pain, a lot of pain, heart and soul breaking. i’m not one who gets overly effected by triggers but this book was rough to read at times, so please check the warnings and protect yourself. the world of this book is so developed but so painful and nasty to certain people, and so many of the characters are just evil incarnate.
another incredible read in this series and i just hope and pray that they are all able to make it out the other side happy, safe, in love, and together. thank you so much for the ARC, this series is one of my favourites (but i also hate it because of the pain) and i cannot wait for the last book!
]]> <![CDATA[Shadows of Ruin (The Broken Prophecy, #2)]]> 218185531
When Kade Blackthorn kidnapped me in the middle of the siege, he sealed his fate. I will never trust his lies again.

With the marriage trials interrupted and my father dead, the throne is at risk of falling into the hands of his duplicitous royal advisor. But being hundreds of miles from home, there’s nothing I can do until I find a way to escape the arrogant man who stole my heart. No matter the cost.

Trapped in a kingdom that shouldn’t exist, brutality, betrayal, and a tyrannical king are just a few obstacles standing in my way of returning home. Now Kade has a prophecy of his own. One that seems too connected to my own to be a mere coincidence. Falling for him made me vulnerable once before, and it's a mistake I won’t make again.

The fate of Brookmere is at stake, so I will bury my feelings, escape my possessive captor, and return to those I left behind.

Even if doing so breaks my heart all over again.

Shadows of Ruin is the second book of The Broken Prophecy Series, a slow burn, NA / adult romantasy. Readers are encouraged to review the list of content notes inside before diving into this enemies-to-lovers, shadow daddy romance.]]> 456 Anna Applegate Issy 4 ARC Review: i really enjoyed this book! the world building had developed massively, the characters had lots of growth, the villains became more hateful, and it was overall pretty great! the found family in this series is just so sweet and lovely to see, the incredibly close friendship bonds between characters is some of the best, and the love is just beautiful. lana massively improved for me, her will became a lot stronger and she stopped allowing people to decide things for her. kade is just such a beautiful tortured soul and i really feel for him, he’s been through so much. an amazing addition to the series and i can’t wait for the next! thank you for the ARC!]]> 4.36 Shadows of Ruin (The Broken Prophecy, #2)
author: Anna Applegate
name: Issy
average rating: 4.36
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/16
date added: 2025/03/16
shelves:
review:
4.5 stars
ARC Review: i really enjoyed this book! the world building had developed massively, the characters had lots of growth, the villains became more hateful, and it was overall pretty great! the found family in this series is just so sweet and lovely to see, the incredibly close friendship bonds between characters is some of the best, and the love is just beautiful. lana massively improved for me, her will became a lot stronger and she stopped allowing people to decide things for her. kade is just such a beautiful tortured soul and i really feel for him, he’s been through so much. an amazing addition to the series and i can’t wait for the next! thank you for the ARC!
]]> <![CDATA[Blooms of Darkness (The Broken Prophecy, #1)]]> 215636743
Eight Fae fight for my hand in marriage. They’re willing to kill for it. But if they discover my secret, my future husband might kill me too.

The King of Brookmere has decreed his daughter is to marry—which means, despite my protests, he’s enacted an archaic tradition, summoning powerful Fae from across the land to compete for my hand in marriage. And more importantly, the throne.

Eight fae will fight in the deadly trials, braving formidable magic and each other to prove themselves worthy of the crown. Including the arrogant, shadow-wielding Kade Blackthorn, who arrived out of nowhere and appears to have far more abilities than he should. In truth, all I’ve ever wanted is for someone to love me for who I am, despite my secrets. An ally. An equal.

While one of the contenders might become my husband, a trusted friend is the last title any of them can win. These men are willing to do anything for power. If they discover my secret, that I’m an heir with no magic, then we’re all doomed.

Blooms of Darkness is the first book of the Broken Prophecy Series, a slow burn, NA / adult romantasy. Readers are encouraged to review the list of content notes inside before diving into this enemies-to-lovers, shadow daddy romance.]]> 434 Anna Applegate Issy 4 4.10 Blooms of Darkness (The Broken Prophecy, #1)
author: Anna Applegate
name: Issy
average rating: 4.10
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/14
date added: 2025/03/14
shelves:
review:
i really really enjoyed this! i enjoyed the premise, plot, and the world was nice! the characters were fun to read, the writing flowed well, and it was well paced! i was addicted by the third chapter and it only grew the more we discovered about this world and the characters. i liked lana a lot, i did find her a bit naïve and slightlyyy doormatty, but that was part of her character that she grew past. kade was very interesting, an arrogant, secretive shadow fae with obvious secrets, and though i knew he had some plan i couldn’t help but love him like lana did. he was so sensual, cocky, yet lovable. a great start to the series!!
]]> <![CDATA[The Charlie Method (Campus Diaries, #3)]]> 212688557 The third in the steamy, hilarious Campus Diaries series by New York Times bestselling author Elle Kennedy, set in the same world as Off Campus and Briar U.

College senior Charlotte Kingston is living two lives―and she's nailing both of them. By day, she's the perfect sorority girl, a STEM student in biomedical engineering, and the adopted daughter of an overachiever family. At night, she's Charlie: a risk-taking daredevil looking for fun who finds herself chatting on a dating app with two anonymous hotties.

Will Larsen may seem like the breezy boy next door, but his congressman father is a constant thorn in his side. After a scandal hits another Division 1 hockey program, Will's dad is determined to distance his son from it, hiring a journalist to prove how squeaky-clean Will and his team are. Which means the last thing Will wants is for anyone to find out he and his best friend Beckett Dunne―a laidback Aussie shielding secret heartache―sometimes share girls in the bedroom.

When Charlie finally meets them in person and realizes she's been chatting with two gorgeous Briar U hockey players, things get steamy―fast. But all their messy secrets are piling up, and real life soon threatens to shatter the fantasy. With Charlie, Will, and Beckett all coming to terms with what they want and what others want for them, difficult decisions will need to be made.

Especially when lust starts to look a lot like love.]]> 528 Elle Kennedy 1464219354 Issy 4 3.47 2025 The Charlie Method (Campus Diaries, #3)
author: Elle Kennedy
name: Issy
average rating: 3.47
book published: 2025
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/12
date added: 2025/03/12
shelves:
review:
i was eagerly anticipating this book when i realised it would be both beckett and will’s book, and i did really love it! i liked will’s character the most i think, i loved watching his growth and development into his own person and not just his fathers son. beckett i loved reading, but i felt like i wished there was slightly more from him. he was the funny, chill guy and whilst there was a bit of tension as to why he’s the way he is, i think i would’ve preferred slightly� more, if that’s the right word. charlie i really liked, i liked her ‘two sides�, trying to learn more about her birth family, and her struggles with her newly developed relationship, but she just didn’t click with me as much as the other fmcs from the series did. overall, a really fun and another great addition to the series!
]]> <![CDATA[The Mist Thief (The Ever Seas, #3)]]> 199327328 She tried to kill him, so he made her his wife.

Skadi first met her husband-to-be with blades in hand on the opposite side of a battle. She lost, and he claimed his prize.

To her horror, the king of the shadow elven agrees to marry her off to Jonas, a prince in the fae realms, as a way to unite their kingdoms against a shared enemy—the light elves. Skadi knows the marriage is nothing but a political game. Feelings won’t come into play.

Except her new husband makes not falling in love . . . challenging.

When new threats arise, Skadi must decide to either love her enemy, or keep him alive by betraying him to another.

Welcome to another installment in the Ever Seas world where pirates, fae, and elves collide with Vikings in a dark fantasy romance between a morally gray cinnamon roll and the broken princess who steals his heart.

*This book is a standalone with a guaranteed HEA, and can be read before The Ever King/Queen, but to see the full impact of their story, it’s recommended to read that duet first. This series is set in the same world as the bestselling Broken Kingdoms series, but can be read independently, and readers are encouraged to read the list of triggers inside.*]]> 454 L.J. Andrews Issy 5 4.38 2024 The Mist Thief (The Ever Seas, #3)
author: L.J. Andrews
name: Issy
average rating: 4.38
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2025/03/10
date added: 2025/03/10
shelves:
review:
this series is just so magical! i was on the fence about how much i liked skadi in the duology, but in this book she really really grew on me! i loved how we saw her strength and inner-fire grow as jonas helped build her confidence and position in the world. jonas was just hilarious and sexy, the perfect combination in my opinion, and i really loved his growth as he slowly opened his heart to love. the world building continued to be strong and i also loved exploring different types of magic in this book, with the alver and elven powers being unique and fun to read about. the characters are just so lovable and you can’t help but fall for them.
]]> <![CDATA[The Ever Queen (The Ever Seas, #2)]]> 157596797 The Songbird:
Captive. Challenger. Queen.

Enemies took her from the man who holds her heart. They might see her as weak, as a pawn in wicked games, but they’re no match for the first Ever Queen.

Let them think they’ve won. Her heart belongs to a beautiful monster, and she will never stop fighting until she’s back in his arms.

The Serpent:
Captor. Villain. King.

His enemies stole the woman who claimed his soul. They betrayed him out of greed and desire for the crown, but they won't die for that betrayal. No.

They’ll die for touching her.

His heart belongs to a stunning little bird. He will never stop searching for her light across the skies. Not until the blood of his enemies spills at her feet, and his queen wears their bones around her neck.

Welcome back to the world of the Ever Kingdom where pirates collide with Vikings in passionate romance, brutal battles, and an unforgettable dark fantasy world. This book concludes the love story between Erik and Livia, but new, standalone romances with other favorite characters will continue to build the world. Readers are encouraged to check the TW inside the book for their reading comfort.]]> 452 L.J. Andrews Issy 5 4.12 2024 The Ever Queen (The Ever Seas, #2)
author: L.J. Andrews
name: Issy
average rating: 4.12
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2025/03/05
date added: 2025/03/05
shelves:
review:
i absolutely adored this book and duology as a whole. erik and livia are just such strong characters and fit so perfectly together. i love how livia accepts erik’s viciousness and even embraces it, whilst erik takes on livia’s love and care for people. a beautiful ending to their story, and a great way to set up for the next book in this incredible series!
]]> The Dixon Rule 203238488 The second in the steamy, hilarious Campus Diaries series by New York Times bestselling author Elle Kennedy, set in the same world as Off Campus and Briar U.

'I told them I had a girlfriend.'
I start to laugh. 'This is the greatest day of my life.'
'Oh, it gets better, Dixon. I told them it was you.'

Diana Dixon has a lot going on this summer. She's rehearsing for a ballroom dance competition, juggling two jobs, and dealing with an ex-boyfriend who can't take the hint it's over. Yet despite all that, she still has plenty of time and energy to tell Shane Lindley to screw off.

Shane just moved into her apartment building and seems dedicated to sleeping his way through her entire cheerleading squad. Sure, he's a tall, gorgeous hockey player, but he's messing with her turf. This calls for some ground no parties in her apartment, leave her teammates alone, and - most importantly - leave her alone.

What Diana doesn't realize is that Shane's sick of hook-ups and tired of being on the rebound after his long-term girlfriend called it quits. He wants a relationship. And when his ex comes back into the picture, he pretends he has one to make her jealous . . . and who better to play the girlfriend role than his sassy new neighbour?

Despite Diana's reluctance to break her rule, a fake relationship is the perfect solution for her own ex issues, and soon she can't deny something is sizzling between her and Shane. Something hot and completely unexpected.
And it might just be getting a little too real.]]> 496 Elle Kennedy 0349439516 Issy 5 4.31 2024 The Dixon Rule
author: Elle Kennedy
name: Issy
average rating: 4.31
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2025/03/05
date added: 2025/03/05
shelves:
review:
i think this might be one of my favourite elle kennedy books ever! i was OBSESSED with diana, i think she’s my favourite fmc ive read in these hockey series, she’s so sassy, spunky, fun, i love her and her energy. shane was so so cute too, he was so funny and sweet and i really really loved their whole relationship. this book made me laugh out loud, cry, scream, and honestly i didn’t want anything more- except for a longer epilogue, as always!
]]> <![CDATA[The Rebel Witch (The Crimson Moth, #2)]]> 215955975 The highly anticipated sequel to The Crimson Moth.

A WITCH�

Rune Winters is on the run. Ever since the boy she loved, Gideon Sharpe, revealed who she was and delivered her into enemy hands, everyone wants her dead. If Rune hopes to survive, she must ally herself with the cruel and dangerous Cressida Roseblood, who’s planning to take back the Republic and reinstate a Reign of Witches―something Cressida needs Rune to accomplish.

A WITCH HUNTER�

Apparently it wasn’t enough for Rune to deceive Gideon; she’s now betrayed him by allying herself with Cressida―the witch who made his life a living hell. Gideon won’t allow the Republic to fall to the witches and be plunged back into the nightmares of the past. In order to protect this new world he fought for, every last witch must die―especially Rune Winters.

AN IMPOSSIBLE CHOICE�

When Rune makes Gideon an offer he can’t refuse, the two must pair up to accomplish dangerous goals. The more they’re forced into each other’s company, the more Gideon realizes the feelings he had for Rune aren’t as dead and buried as he thought. And now he’s faced with a terrible choice: sacrifice the girl he loves to stop a monster taking back power, or let Rune live and watch the world he fought so hard for burn.

In Kristen Ciccarelli’s The Rebel Witch, the exciting conclusion to The Crimson Moth duology, love has never been so deadly.]]> 458 Kristen Ciccarelli 0008650616 Issy 4 4.26 2025 The Rebel Witch (The Crimson Moth, #2)
author: Kristen Ciccarelli
name: Issy
average rating: 4.26
book published: 2025
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/01
date added: 2025/03/01
shelves:
review:
i don’t really know what to say about this book. it was very predictable, parts of it felt very rushed, but i was obsessed with it. i wish the ending had been longer and we had more of an epilogue because they were definitely my favourite parts of the book, seeing as the rest was mainly filled with miscommunication and distrust, both of which i understand the context for but still annoyed me slightly. but again, i loved the pure longing both rune and gideon have for each other, yet their reluctance to trust the person who represents everything they hate. it really is a beautiful and world-changing romance, and i did enjoy seeing how everything came together in the end!
]]> <![CDATA[The Ever King (The Ever Seas, #1)]]> 75384035 They stole his crown, so he stole their daughter�

For years Erik, the scarred king of the Ever Kingdom, has thought of nothing but vengeance against the man who killed his father and trapped him beneath the waves, making him a prisoner in his own realm.

Until his enemy’s daughter unintentionally breaks the chains on the Ever, and Erik makes her the unwitting pawn in his vicious game of revenge.

She’s innocent. He’s vicious. But he will take back what he lost, no matter the price.

Unless she steals his heart first.

Welcome to the passionate world of the Ever Kingdom where pirates, sirens, and fae collide with Vikings in a dark fantasy romance between a villain and the innocent princess who holds his heart.

*Please note: This series is set in the same world as the bestselling Broken Kingdoms series, but can be read independently, and readers are encouraged to read the list of triggers inside*]]> 408 L.J. Andrews Issy 5 4.14 2023 The Ever King (The Ever Seas, #1)
author: L.J. Andrews
name: Issy
average rating: 4.14
book published: 2023
rating: 5
read at: 2025/02/27
date added: 2025/02/27
shelves:
review:
i had very high hopes for this book but bloody hell, did it surpass everything!! i was obsessed!!! the world was so developed, the characters were amazing, and the plot was very compelling. i loved the different types of magics we got to see in the ever kingdom, and exploring how those powers work was very interesting. the characters were just incredible, and i found when i put the book down, i was going about my day thinking about what livia and erik were going to do next! a beautiful enemies to lovers romance and i’ve already started the next book because i couldn’t leave it with that ending!!
]]> <![CDATA[The Graham Effect (Campus Diaries, #1)]]> 123233861
Ryder is six-foot five, built, opinionated, rude…and sexy as hell. But he's still the enemy.

Briar's new hockey co-captain has his reasons, though. The men's team just merged with a rival program, leaving Ryder with an angry roster where everyone hates one another's guts. To make matters worse, the summer coaching spot he's angling for with the legendary Garrett Graham is out of reach after he makes the worst possible first impression on his hero. So, really, this compromise with Gigi is win-win. He helps her make the national team, she puts in a good word with her dad.

The only potential snag? This bone-deep, body-numbing, mind-spinning chemistry they're trying to ignore. It's a dangerous game they're playing, but the risks just might be worth it.]]> 496 Elle Kennedy 1728283272 Issy 5 4.28 2023 The Graham Effect (Campus Diaries, #1)
author: Elle Kennedy
name: Issy
average rating: 4.28
book published: 2023
rating: 5
read at: 2025/02/25
date added: 2025/02/25
shelves:
review:
elle kennedy just doesn’t disappoint! i loved this book so so so much more than i thought i would!! i loved gigi, she did annoy me tad at parts but she later rectified that so that’s irrelevant, and it’s the same with ryder. they’re such a developed couple and i loved seeing their journey of expression with each other! plus (tiny spoiler) no third act breakup!! such a slay!
]]> Demon Reform Academy Term 3 213574253 Lyra Winters Issy 4 4.35 Demon Reform Academy Term 3
author: Lyra Winters
name: Issy
average rating: 4.35
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/18
date added: 2025/02/24
shelves:
review:
ARC Review: another amazing book in this series! every book i get more and more invested not only in the characters but the plot lines and world too (but also mainly the characters). i enjoyed the pacing of this book a lot and i actually had to force myself to slow down with reading it to make it last a bit longer because i knew there would be another cliffy (wasn’t wrong). the character development in this book is just incredible, and like pandora, i grew to love the guys as they changed and became better for her. their devotion, love, adoration for pandora is just so cute, and im glad she’s giving them all the chances they grovelled to earn from her! such a fun read and i cannot wait for the next and final book in this series, thank you for the ARC!
]]> <![CDATA[Emily Wilde's Compendium of Lost Tales (Emily Wilde, #3)]]> 208841368 Encyclopaedia of Faeries. Now she is about to embark on her most dangerous academic project studying the inner workings of a faerie realm-as its queen.

Along with her former academic rival-now fiancé-the dashing and mercurial Wendell Bambleby, Emily is immediately thrust into the deadly intrigues of Faerie as the two of them seize the throne of Wendell's long-lost kingdom, which Emily finds a beautiful nightmare, filled with scholarly treasures.

Emily has been obsessed with faerie stories her entire life, but at first she feels as ill-suited to Faerie as she did to the mortal world-how could an unassuming scholar like herself pass for a queen? Yet there is little time to settle in-Wendell's murderous stepmother has placed a deadly curse upon the land before vanishing without a trace. It will take all of Wendell's magic-and Emily's knowledge of stories-to unravel the mystery before they lose everything they hold dear.
]]> 368 Heather Fawcett 0356519198 Issy 5 once again, the characters and fae creatures were the main drawing point in this book. emily and wendell are just the perfect example of grumpy/sunshine, with emily’s grumpiness yet dedication and love towards wendell being so adorable, and wendell’s protectiveness and obsession with making emily happy being the cutest. he is 100% in my top ten book boyfriends of all time! i also loved how old characters were brought back in different ways, it was lovely to see some familiar faces. overall, an absolutely amazing book to conclude (i think?) the series, and one i will definitely read again! ]]> 4.14 2025 Emily Wilde's Compendium of Lost Tales (Emily Wilde, #3)
author: Heather Fawcett
name: Issy
average rating: 4.14
book published: 2025
rating: 5
read at: 2025/02/22
date added: 2025/02/22
shelves:
review:
i didn’t think i could love this book more than i loved the first two but boy was i wrong! this book was just amazing, i loved every single page. where i felt the first two had quite slow starts, this book threw you right in where the second ended and it was kept at a high pace throughout. i loved the setting of finally being in wendell’s realm and seeing how they dealt with the problems that arose.
once again, the characters and fae creatures were the main drawing point in this book. emily and wendell are just the perfect example of grumpy/sunshine, with emily’s grumpiness yet dedication and love towards wendell being so adorable, and wendell’s protectiveness and obsession with making emily happy being the cutest. he is 100% in my top ten book boyfriends of all time! i also loved how old characters were brought back in different ways, it was lovely to see some familiar faces. overall, an absolutely amazing book to conclude (i think?) the series, and one i will definitely read again!
]]> <![CDATA[Scythe & Sparrow (The Ruinous Love Trilogy, #3)]]> 214310631
But then the Silveria Circus finds him.

Motorcycle performer Rose Evans has spent a decade on the road with Silveria, and it suits her just fine, especially when she has the urge to indulge in a little murder and mayhem when she’s not in the spotlight. But when a kill goes awry and she ends up with a broken leg, she finds herself stuck in Nebraska at the home of the adorably nerdy town doctor.

The problem is, not every broken heart can be sewn back together.

. . . And the longer you stay in one place, the more likely your ghosts are to catch up.]]> 390 Brynne Weaver 163893181X Issy 4 4.20 2025 Scythe & Sparrow (The Ruinous Love Trilogy, #3)
author: Brynne Weaver
name: Issy
average rating: 4.20
book published: 2025
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/17
date added: 2025/02/17
shelves:
review:
i loved this book just as much as i loved the first two! i really loved rose and fionn as characters and their story was just so so cute. i devoured this book in two sittings because i just couldn’t put it down, it was so much fun to read. it was just as crazy and weird as the first two, and i enjoyed how we saw scenes from both b&b and l&l from fionn and rose’s perspectives too. overall, a really great end to a really fun series!
]]> <![CDATA[A Conjuring of Light (Shades of Magic, #3)]]> 32200595
Meanwhile, the disgraced Captain Alucard Emery and the Night Spire crew are attempting a race against time to acquire the impossible, as an ancient enemy returns to claim a crown and a fallen hero is desperate to save a decaying world...]]> 666 Victoria E. Schwab Issy 5 4.41 2017 A Conjuring of Light (Shades of Magic, #3)
author: Victoria E. Schwab
name: Issy
average rating: 4.41
book published: 2017
rating: 5
read at: 2025/02/15
date added: 2025/02/15
shelves:
review:
wow, what to say about this book. it was daunting to be sure, and parts of it were slower than others, but i was ultimately addicted. this series is just so well written and beautiful that i couldn’t help but fall for everything about this book. the world is so unique, the characters are so realistic, the magic is so interesting, and the plot was addictive. i must say, holland might be one of my favourite book characters ever, i’m absolutely obsessed with him and i just don’t know why but i can’t stop it. schwab really knows how to write a tragic character whom you just can’t help but feel for even though they’re not perfect, and holland really struck a chord in me. i loved kell, rhy, alucard, and lila really grew on me in this book too. what a beautiful end (partially, with the new series releasing) to a beautiful series.
]]> Blood Over Bright Haven 208430658 Magic has made the city of Tiran an industrial utopia, but magic has a cost—and the collectors have come calling.

An orphan since the age of four, Sciona has always had more to prove than her fellow students. For twenty years, she has devoted every waking moment to the study of magic, fueled by a mad desire to achieve the impossible: to be the first woman ever admitted to the High Magistry. When she finally claws her way up the ranks to become a highmage, however, she finds that her challenges have just begun. Her new colleagues will stop at nothing to let her know she is unwelcome, beginning with giving her a janitor instead of a qualified lab assistant.

What neither Sciona nor her peers realize is that her taciturn assistant was once more than a janitor; before he mopped floors for the mages, Thomil was a nomadic hunter from beyond Tiran’s magical barrier. Ten years have passed since he survived the perilous crossing that killed his family. But working for a highmage, he sees the opportunity to finally understand the forces that decimated his tribe, drove him from his homeland, and keep the Tiranish in power.

Through their fractious relationship, mage and outsider uncover an ancient secret that could change the course of magic forever—if it doesn’t get them killed first. Sciona has defined her life by the pursuit of truth, but how much is one truth worth with the fate of civilization in the balance?

A standalone dark academia brimming with mystery, tragedy, and the damning echoes of the past. For fans of Leigh Bardugo, V. E. Schwab, and Fullmetal Alchemist.

(Content warnings for gore, sexual assault, and suicidal ideation)]]> 430 M.L. Wang 0593873351 Issy 0 to-read 4.40 2023 Blood Over Bright Haven
author: M.L. Wang
name: Issy
average rating: 4.40
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/12
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Long Live Evil (Time of Iron #1)]]> 201626991
She wakes in a castle on the edge of a hellish chasm, in a kingdom on the brink of war. Home to dangerous monsters, scheming courtiers and her favourite fictional character: the Once and Forever Emperor. He’s impossibly alluring, as only fiction can be. And in this fantasy world, she discovers she's not the heroine, but the villainess in the Emperor's tale.

So be it. The wicked are better dressed, with better one-liners, even if they're doomed to bad ends. She assembles the wildly disparate villains of the story under her evil leadership, plotting to change their fate. But as the body count rises and the Emperor's fury increases, it seems Rae and her allies may not survive to see the final page.

This adult epic fantasy debut from Sarah Rees Brennan puts the reader in the villain's shoes, for an adventure that is both 'brilliant' (Holly Black) and 'supremely satisfying' (Leigh Bardugo). Expect a rogue's gallery of villains including an axe wielding maid, a shining knight with dark moods, a homicidal bodyguard, and a playboy spymaster with a golden heart and a filthy reputation.]]> 435 Sarah Rees Brennan 0316568716 Issy 0 to-read 3.87 2024 Long Live Evil (Time of Iron #1)
author: Sarah Rees Brennan
name: Issy
average rating: 3.87
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/12
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Blood So Brutal (Golden City, #2)]]> 204798225 Huntyr knew better than to trust anyone.

She made it into The Golden City, only to find out that everything she dreamed of is gone. There is no safety, no luxury, no elite society. There's only the evil archangel and his dark, twisted plans to use her for power.

Those plans include marrying Huntyr and Wolf, even though she'd rather die than be wed to him.

Huntyr is forced to learn about her real heritage and her untapped magic while she's paraded around The Golden City as the archangel's new favorite weapon. Wolf can do nothing but watch as she's manipulated and toyed with, but one thing hasn't changed: He'll never let anyone else lay a hand on what's his. Even if she despises him.

Betrayal runs deep, but blood runs deeper. Huntyr and Wolf navigate tests of loyalty and new truths as they're faced with the downfall of one power and the rise of another. Families break. Friendships rise. Do they have what it takes to survive? And are they strong enough to right the wrongs from decades ago?

Blood So Brutal is book 2 of the Huntyr x Wolf duet in the Golden City series. After inflicting two books of trauma onto these characters, there will be a happy ending.]]> 426 Emily Blackwood Issy 4 3.76 Blood So Brutal (Golden City, #2)
author: Emily Blackwood
name: Issy
average rating: 3.76
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/12
date added: 2025/02/12
shelves:
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]]> <![CDATA[A Gathering of Shadows (Shades of Magic, #2)]]> 26236443
Now Kell is visited by dreams of ominous magical events, waking only to think of Lila. And as Red London prepares for the Element Games--an internationalcompetition of magic--a certain pirate ship draws closer. But another London is coming back to life. The balance of magic is perilous, and for one city to flourish, another must fall...]]> 511 Victoria E. Schwab 1783295422 Issy 4 it took me a bit longer to get into this book compared to the first, until the competition properly got started. but once it did, i was once again hooked! i just love kell and rhy so much, they’re so cute. lila is like a swing for me, sometimes i love her but other times she infuriates me so much i can’t stand her, which makes me like her more because she’s so complex! i enjoyed seeing more of red london and finding out about magic more, and the last 50 pages or so really brought this book up from a 4 to 4.5 stars! ]]> 4.22 2016 A Gathering of Shadows (Shades of Magic, #2)
author: Victoria E. Schwab
name: Issy
average rating: 4.22
book published: 2016
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/09
date added: 2025/02/09
shelves:
review:
4.5 stars
it took me a bit longer to get into this book compared to the first, until the competition properly got started. but once it did, i was once again hooked! i just love kell and rhy so much, they’re so cute. lila is like a swing for me, sometimes i love her but other times she infuriates me so much i can’t stand her, which makes me like her more because she’s so complex! i enjoyed seeing more of red london and finding out about magic more, and the last 50 pages or so really brought this book up from a 4 to 4.5 stars!
]]> <![CDATA[A ​Court of Silver Flames (A Court of Thorns and Roses, #4)]]> 31050237 Sarah J. Maas's sexy, richly imagined Court of Thorns and Roses series continues with the journey of Feyre's fiery sister, Nesta.

Nesta Archeron has always been prickly � proud, swift to anger and slow to forgive. And since the war � since being made High Fae against her will � she's struggled to forget the horrors she endured and find a place for herself within the strange and deadly Night Court.

The person who ignites her temper more than any other is Cassian, the battle-scarred, winged warrior who is there at Nesta's every turn. But her temper isn't the only thing Cassian ignites. And when they are forced to train in battle together, sparks become flame.

As the threat of war casts its shadow over them once again, Nesta and Cassian must fight monsters from within and without if they are to stand a chance of halting the enemies of their court. But the ultimate risk will be searching for acceptance � and healing � in each other's arms.]]> 757 Sarah J. Maas 1526602318 Issy 3 4.38 2021 A ​Court of Silver Flames (A Court of Thorns and Roses, #4)
author: Sarah J. Maas
name: Issy
average rating: 4.38
book published: 2021
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2025/02/08
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[A Court of Frost and Starlight (A Court of Thorns and Roses, #3.5)]]> 31076583 229 Sarah J. Maas 168119631X Issy 3 3.77 2019 A Court of Frost and Starlight (A Court of Thorns and Roses, #3.5)
author: Sarah J. Maas
name: Issy
average rating: 3.77
book published: 2019
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2025/02/08
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]]> <![CDATA[A Court of Wings and Ruin (A Court of Thorns and Roses, #3)]]> 23766634
She has left the Night Court - and her High Lord - and is playing a deadly game of deceit. In the Spring Court, Tamlin is making deals with the invading king threatening to bring Prythian to its knees, and Feyre is determined to uncover his plans. But to do so she must weave a web of lies, and one slip may spell doom not only for Feyre, but for her world as well.

As mighty armies grapple for power, Feyre must decide who to trust amongst the dazzling and lethal High Lords - and hunt for allies in unexpected places.

BUT WHILE WAR RAGES, IT IS HER HEART THAT WILL FACE THE GREATEST BATTLE.

THE THRILLING THIRD BOOK IN #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING FANTASY SERIES FROM SARAH J. MAAS.]]> 705 Sarah J. Maas 1408857901 Issy 3 4.41 2017 A Court of Wings and Ruin (A Court of Thorns and Roses, #3)
author: Sarah J. Maas
name: Issy
average rating: 4.41
book published: 2017
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2025/02/08
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review:

]]> <![CDATA[A Court of Mist and Fury (A Court of Thorns and Roses, #2)]]> 17927395
Nor has Feyre forgotten her bargain with Rhysand, High Lord of the feared Night Court. As Feyre navigates its dark web of politics, passion, and dazzling power, a greater evil looms—and she might be key to stopping it. But only if she can harness her harrowing gifts, heal her fractured soul, and decide how she wishes to shape her future—and the future of a world cleaved in two.

With more than a million copies sold of her beloved Throne of Glass series, Sarah J. Maas's masterful storytelling brings this second book in her seductive and action-packed series to new heights.]]> 626 Sarah J. Maas Issy 4 4.60 2016 A Court of Mist and Fury (A Court of Thorns and Roses, #2)
author: Sarah J. Maas
name: Issy
average rating: 4.60
book published: 2016
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2025/02/08
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[A Court of Thorns and Roses (A Court of Thorns and Roses, #1)]]> 16096824
Dragged to a magical kingdom for the murder of a faerie, Feyre discovers that her captor, his face obscured by a jewelled mask, is hiding far more than his piercing green eyes would suggest. Feyre's presence at the court is closely guarded, and as she begins to learn why, her feelings for him turn from hostility to passion and the faerie lands become an even more dangerous place. Feyre must fight to break an ancient curse, or she will lose him forever.]]> 419 Sarah J. Maas 1619634449 Issy 3 4.17 2015 A Court of Thorns and Roses (A Court of Thorns and Roses, #1)
author: Sarah J. Maas
name: Issy
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2015
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2025/02/08
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Wings So Wicked (Golden City, #1)]]> 203325526 Fourth Wing meets The Serpent and the Wings of Night in this dark, alluring fantasy romance filled with tension, combat, magic, fae, fallen angels, vampyres, and two stubborn rivals.

Huntyr has fought for survival her entire life. Raised under Lord, the master of assassins in Midgrave, she has spent over twenty years learning to kill the blood-hungry, depraved vampyres that lurk in the darkness. Huntyr is the most lethal fae in the kingdom, which is why Lord chooses her to complete the next mission.

Huntyr must survive Moira Seminary and make it into The Golden City—the mysterious elite society of the few remaining angels and the magic fae who live in luxury with no crime, no poverty, and certainly no vampyres.

Only when she arrives at the academy, she’s forced to room with Wolf—the terrifying fallen angel who happens to know her assassin identity.

Determined to keep her head down in Moira, Huntyr tries her best to ignore Wolf. Over time, though, he not only becomes the only person she can lean on, but the one who might keep her alive through the life-threatening tests to get into The Golden City.

A wolf and his huntress. An academy designed to break them.

Huntyr will do anything to please the assassin master, but Wolf begins to test her in ways she never imagined. Is she strong enough to stick to the mission? Or will new truths—and alliances—put everything at risk?

Wings So Wicked is a new adult fantasy romance with fae, vampyres, fallen angels, magical trials, fierce main characters, dark themes, forced proximity, 'who did this to you' moments, possessive males, rivals to lovers, elite societies, hidden identities, and so much more. Readers who love academy settings, main characters riddled with darkness, angst, and slow burn romances will devour this story!]]> 381 Emily Blackwood Issy 4 3.74 Wings So Wicked (Golden City, #1)
author: Emily Blackwood
name: Issy
average rating: 3.74
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/08
date added: 2025/02/08
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]]> Deep End 212808709 A competitive diver and an ace swimmer jump into forbidden waters in this steamy college romance from the New York Times bestselling author of The Love Hypothesis.

Scarlett Vandermeer is swimming upstream. A Junior at Stanford and a student-athlete who specializes in platform diving, Scarlett prefers to keep her head down, concentrating on getting into med school and on recovering from the injury that almost ended her career. She has no time for relationships—at least, that’s what she tells herself.

Swim captain, world champion, all-around aquatics golden boy, Lukas Blomqvist thrives on discipline. It’s how he wins gold medals and breaks records: complete focus, with every stroke. On the surface, Lukas and Scarlett have nothing in common. Until a well-guarded secret slips out, and everything changes.

So they start an arrangement. And as the pressure leading to the Olympics heats up, so does their relationship. It was supposed to be just a temporary, mutually satisfying fling. But when staying away from Lukas becomes impossible, Scarlett realizes that her heart might be treading into dangerous water...]]> 464 Ali Hazelwood Issy 4 3.93 2025 Deep End
author: Ali Hazelwood
name: Issy
average rating: 3.93
book published: 2025
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/07
date added: 2025/02/07
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]]> Fahrenheit 451 17470674
Guy Montag is a fireman. His job is to burn books, which are forbidden, being the source of all discord and unhappiness. Even so, Montag is unhappy; there is discord in his marriage. Are books hidden in his house? The Mechanical Hound of the Fire Department, armed with a lethal hypodermic, escorted by helicopters, is ready to track down those dissidents who defy society to preserve and read books.

The classic dystopian novel of a post-literate future, Fahrenheit 451 stands alongside Orwell’s 1984 and Huxley’s Brave New World as a prophetic account of Western civilization’s enslavement by the media, drugs and conformity.

Bradbury’s powerful and poetic prose combines with uncanny insight into the potential of technology to create a novel which, decades on from first publication, still has the power to dazzle and shock.

--back cover]]> 227 Ray Bradbury 0007491565 Issy 0 to-read 4.01 1953 Fahrenheit 451
author: Ray Bradbury
name: Issy
average rating: 4.01
book published: 1953
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/04
shelves: to-read
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]]> <![CDATA[A Darker Shade of Magic (Shades of Magic, #1)]]> 23403402 Librarian note: Older cover of 9781783295401.

Kell is one of the last Antari—magicians with a rare, coveted ability to travel between parallel Londons; Red, Grey, White, and, once upon a time, Black.

Kell was raised in Arnes—Red London—and officially serves the Maresh Empire as an ambassador, traveling between the frequent bloody regime changes in White London and the court of George III in the dullest of Londons, the one without any magic left to see.

Unofficially, Kell is a smuggler, servicing people willing to pay for even the smallest glimpses of a world they'll never see. It's a defiant hobby with dangerous consequences, which Kell is now seeing firsthand.

After an exchange goes awry, Kell escapes to Grey London and runs into Delilah Bard, a cut-purse with lofty aspirations. She first robs him, then saves him from a deadly enemy, and finally forces Kell to spirit her to another world for a proper adventure.

Now perilous magic is afoot, and treachery lurks at every turn. To save all of the worlds, they'll first need to stay alive.

Shades of Magic series
1. A Darker Shade of Magic
2. A Gathering of Shadows
3. A Conjuring of Light ]]> 384 Victoria E. Schwab Issy 5 4.11 2015 A Darker Shade of Magic (Shades of Magic, #1)
author: Victoria E. Schwab
name: Issy
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2015
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/31
date added: 2025/01/31
shelves:
review:
i was initially scared to read this book because i love all of schwab’s other books and i didn’t want to be disappointed, but this was a really fun and unique read so i don’t know why i doubted!! i devoured this book, as i always do with schwab’s books, because i find them to be so digestible. the characters are always so interesting, flawed yet lovable, and her writing is always able to make me feel so strongly for the characters, even the minor ones we hardly see yet have tragic stories. i loved the magic system in this book too, and the worlds were so interesting! can’t wait to start the next one!
]]> <![CDATA[Wicked Beasts (Moretti Academy)]]> 217014991
Date will be moved forward into June.]]> 392 Allie Santos 1965300049 Issy 4 3.00 Wicked Beasts (Moretti Academy)
author: Allie Santos
name: Issy
average rating: 3.00
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/31
date added: 2025/01/31
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]]> Onyx Storm (The Empyrean, #3) 209439446
Now Violet must journey beyond the failing Aretian wards to seek allies from unfamiliar lands to stand with Navarre. The trip will test every bit of her wit, luck, and strength, but she will do anything to save what she loves—her dragons, her family, her home, and him.

Even if it means keeping a secret so big, it could destroy everything. They need an army. They need power. They need magic. And they need the one thing only Violet can find—the truth. But a storm is coming...and not everyone can survive its wrath.]]> 527 Rebecca Yarros 1649374186 Issy 5 4.17 2025 Onyx Storm (The Empyrean, #3)
author: Rebecca Yarros
name: Issy
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2025
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/26
date added: 2025/01/26
shelves:
review:
4.5 stars. favourite of the series so far! i really enjoyed this book, the plots, characters, and the developments and discoveries we found out! some of the world building just wasn’t 100% which is why i knocked off half a star.
]]> <![CDATA[Fourth Wing (The Empyrean, #1)]]> 61431922 Enter the brutal and elite world of a war college for dragon riders...

Twenty-year-old Violet Sorrengail was supposed to enter the Scribe Quadrant, living a quiet life among books and history. Now, the commanding general—also known as her tough-as-talons mother—has ordered Violet to join the hundreds of candidates striving to become the elite of Navarre: dragon riders.

But when you’re smaller than everyone else and your body is brittle, death is only a heartbeat away...because dragons don’t bond to “fragile� humans. They incinerate them.

With fewer dragons willing to bond than cadets, most would kill Violet to better their own chances of success. The rest would kill her just for being her mother’s daughter—like Xaden Riorson, the most powerful and ruthless wingleader in the Riders Quadrant.

She’ll need every edge her wits can give her just to see the next sunrise.

Yet, with every day that passes, the war outside grows more deadly, the kingdom's protective wards are failing, and the death toll continues to rise. Even worse, Violet begins to suspect leadership is hiding a terrible secret.

Friends, enemies, lovers. Everyone at Basgiath War College has an agenda—because once you enter, there are only two ways out: graduate or die]]> 528 Rebecca Yarros 1649374046 Issy 5 4.56 2023 Fourth Wing (The Empyrean, #1)
author: Rebecca Yarros
name: Issy
average rating: 4.56
book published: 2023
rating: 5
read at: 2023/05/25
date added: 2025/01/26
shelves:
review:
i have no words for how this book made me feel
]]> <![CDATA[Ruined Beasts (Moretti Academy #4)]]> 209568663
Evil spilled into every facet of my life, but I could do nothing to stop it after they’d taken my Enzo. Each day at the whim of my enemies chipped at my sanity but I had to play along with their little power games.

I wished that was my only battle, yet I couldn’t stop dwelling on the past. I never had the opportunity to face the devastating memories of my mates� betrayals and I feared I’d never forgive.

Despite that. . . I would do anything for them, even trade my life for their freedom.

Cruelty and I were becoming closely enmeshed and I began to like it—I was a monster and it was time I embraced it, even if it meant breaking my ruined beasts.

RUINED BEASTS is a why choose paranormal romance with enemy-to-lovers/love-hate themes. Please read the Content Warnings page of the book for more in-depth descriptions. They are also available on my website.]]> 326 Allie Santos Issy 4 4.13 Ruined Beasts (Moretti Academy #4)
author: Allie Santos
name: Issy
average rating: 4.13
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/26
date added: 2025/01/26
shelves:
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]]> <![CDATA[Captured Beasts (Moretti Academy)]]> 216804587
A monster had me cornered, threatening everyone I loved, and I had no choice but to bend to his whims alongside the Unnaturals refusing to leave my side. But fighting was pointless when the most important people in my life were being used against me.

I’d do anything possible to protect everyone, even at my expense, but I was way out of my element. We were all captured beasts, and there was no other option but to follow orders even as the guys mercilessly shielded me from the evils confining us.

Worst of all? I didn’t know what I was, yet I feared I was the most horrifying beast of all.

CAPTURED BEASTS is a 103,000 word paranormal romance with love-hate themes. This is an RH novel, meaning the main character will end up with more than one love interest by the end of the series. This is book THREE in the series. Read CW page inside the ebook.]]> 440 Allie Santos 1965300022 Issy 4 3.78 2022 Captured Beasts (Moretti Academy)
author: Allie Santos
name: Issy
average rating: 3.78
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/25
date added: 2025/01/25
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Poisonous Beasts (Moretti Academy)]]> 216705574
The fae lied, the dragon played games, and the two-faced wolf stabbed me in the back.

They all chipped at my sanity by betraying my trust. They were no better than the dirt beneath my shoes—or so I tried to convince myself. The hurt seeped to my bones, but I couldn’t stop the game of cat and mouse. They’d pull me in, then pushed me away in the same breath. It was driving me crazy.

If only they were the sole problem.

Something mysterious was happening at Moretti Academy. Unnaturals were falling ill, which was impossible considering they're impervious to sickness.

I wanted to stay out of the secretive behavior revolving the poisonous beasts, yet they continued to entangle me, and I was on the verge of breaking.

POISONOUS BEASTS is a 90,000 word paranormal romance with enemy-to-lovers/love-hate themes. This is a REVERSE HAREM novel, meaning the main character will end up with more than one love interest by the end of the series. This is book TWO in the series. Triggers: Contains foul language, sexual scenes, bullying, cliffhanger, dub-con and jealous/possessive themes.]]> 378 Allie Santos 1965300014 Issy 4 3.70 2021 Poisonous Beasts (Moretti Academy)
author: Allie Santos
name: Issy
average rating: 3.70
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/24
date added: 2025/01/24
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]]> Cruel Beasts 216705354
All I wanted was to experience life without my every move monitored, and Moretti Academy was my chance at freedom.

They had other ideas.

The werewolf I grew up with, the cold fae sleeping with school staff, and a dragon with psychotic tendencies set their sights on me—and not in a good way.

The university was supposed to save my life by bringing out my dragon, but the cruel beasts tormenting me may kill me before I get the chance to live.

CRUEL BEASTS is a 96,000 word paranormal romance with enemy-to-lovers/love-hate themes. This is a REVERSE HAREM novel, meaning the main character will end up with more than one love interest by the end of the series. This is book ONE in the series. Triggers: Contains foul language, sexual scenes, heavy bullying, cliffhanger, and jealous/possessive themes.]]> 354 Allie Santos 1965300006 Issy 4 3.85 2021 Cruel Beasts
author: Allie Santos
name: Issy
average rating: 3.85
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/23
date added: 2025/01/23
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[A River Enchanted (Elements of Cadence, #1)]]> 58132544
As Jack and Adaira reluctantly work together, they find they make better allies than rivals as their partnership turns into something more. But with each passing song, it becomes apparent the trouble with the spirits is far more sinister than they first expected, and an older, darker secret about Cadence lurks beneath the surface, threatening to undo them all.]]> 480 Rebecca Ross 0063055988 Issy 0 to-read 4.06 2022 A River Enchanted (Elements of Cadence, #1)
author: Rebecca Ross
name: Issy
average rating: 4.06
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/21
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> The Examiner 62713408 Six Students. One Murder. Your Time Starts Now...

The students of Royal Hastings University's new Multimedia Art course have been trouble from day one. Acclaimed artist Alyson wants the department to revolve around her. Ludya struggles to balance her family and the workload. Jonathan has management experience but zero talent for art. Lovely Patrick can barely operate his mobile phone, let alone professional design software. Meanwhile blustering Cameron tries to juggle the course with his job in the City and does neither very well. Then there's Jem. A gifted young sculptor, she's a promising student... but cross her at your peril.

The year-long course is blighted by accusations of theft, students setting fire to one another's artwork, a rumoured extra-marital affair and a disastrous road trip. But finally they are given their last assignment: to build an interactive art installation for a local manufacturer. With six students who have nothing in common except their clashing personal agendas, what could possibly go wrong?

The answer is: murder. When the external examiner arrives to assess the students' essays and coursework, he becomes convinced that a student was killed on the course and that the others covered it up. But is he right? And if so, who is dead, why were they killed, and who is the murderer? Only a close examination of the evidence will reveal the truth. Your time starts now...]]> 480 Janice Hallett 1800810458 Issy 5 3.99 2024 The Examiner
author: Janice Hallett
name: Issy
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/21
date added: 2025/01/21
shelves:
review:
oh wow, what a rollercoaster of a book, with twists, turns, and chaos. i absolutely loved it. despite never meeting the characters except through their phone correspondence, they are all so detailed and developed. the plot is just crazy in the best way, and i was kept surprised the whole time. another 10/10 book by janice hallett.
]]> The Killer Question 219542052 Get ready for the sudden-death round...

Mal and Sue Eastwood were once the kindly landlords of a local village pub, The Case is Altered. They ran a weekly pub quiz and were well liked by their customers and colleagues alike, always happy to lend a helping hand. But now The Case stands empty, its windows boarded up. What could have happened to Mal and Sue?

Did The Case close because it was failing? Was it because of the body pulled from the nearby river? Or perhaps it had something to do with the quiz? It had always been a quiet affair, five teams of locals battling it out for a small prize pot. Until one day a mysterious new team of outsiders arrived, and started winning every round...

Only by sifting through the quiz sheets, the WhatsApps, and Mal and Sue's hidden past may the truth be revealed. Someone's not playing fair, so get the drinks in and see if you can get a perfect score.]]> Janice Hallett Issy 0 to-read 4.83 2025 The Killer Question
author: Janice Hallett
name: Issy
average rating: 4.83
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/21
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Iron Flame (The Empyrean, #2) 90202302 “The first year is when some of us lose our lives. The second year is when the rest of us lose our humanity.� —Xaden Riorson

Everyone expected Violet Sorrengail to die during her first year at Basgiath War College—Violet included. But Threshing was only the first impossible test meant to weed out the weak-willed, the unworthy, and the unlucky.

Now the real training begins, and Violet’s already wondering how she’ll get through. It’s not just that it’s grueling and maliciously brutal, or even that it’s designed to stretch the riders� capacity for pain beyond endurance. It’s the new vice commandant, who’s made it his personal mission to teach Violet exactly how powerless she is–unless she betrays the man she loves.

Although Violet’s body might be weaker and frailer than everyone else’s, she still has her wits—and a will of iron. And leadership is forgetting the most important lesson Basgiath has taught her: Dragon riders make their own rules.

But a determination to survive won’t be enough this year.

Because Violet knows the real secret hidden for centuries at Basgiath War College—and nothing, not even dragon fire, may be enough to save them in the end.]]> 623 Rebecca Yarros 1649374178 Issy 4 4.33 2023 Iron Flame (The Empyrean, #2)
author: Rebecca Yarros
name: Issy
average rating: 4.33
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2023/11/11
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Fixation of the Mind (Ambros Brothers Duet, #2)]]> 214839522

As I pulled back the layers of Ambros triplets' life, secrets became revealed, dark obsessions exposed, and a new sinister world has forced me to take center stage.


The boys tried to shield me from it, but now they can't. It's been made very clear that if they want to keep me, unharmed, they need to acclimate me into their world, and fast. Foedus was no joke and not to be messed with.


At first, I stayed for survival, but the longer I spent with them the more they proved over and over how true their love and devotion was. How could a girl like me resist?


All I know is the more I sink deeper into this dangerous world, the more my mind becomes fixated on one thing�

They are mine.


This is a dark romance where the good guys and bad guys are blurred, nothing is quite as it seems, and its hard who to know who you can trust. This is a romance where the FMC doesn't have to choose between love interests. Make sure to check authors website for warnings.]]> 483 Kira Stanley Issy 3 4.09 Fixation of the Mind (Ambros Brothers Duet, #2)
author: Kira Stanley
name: Issy
average rating: 4.09
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2025/01/20
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Obsessions of the Heart (Ambros Brothers Duet, #1)]]> 211135602 I've had a hard life. Orphaned at birth and living in a small broke town, one that believes I'm a cursed child. The bringer of bad luck.


I tried to escape the stigma, to create something better for myself. It all came crashing down one night and my world shattered.

While dealing with the aftermath, an unbelievable opportunity landed in my lap. A scholarship to attend an exclusive university far away. This was my chance to start fresh.

With nothing left to lose, I take it.

I didn’t expect to run into a blast from my past. The Ambros triplets. My only friends at the orphanage until they were adopted, and I never saw them again. These boys are now grown and everything about them calls to me.

They want to make good on their promises all those years ago. They want to protect me. Take care of me.

The longer I’m around them the more I see their wants bleed into something dark, something obsessive.


I know it's wrong, but why does it feel so good?

This is a dark romance where the good guys and bad guys are blurred, nothing is quite as it seems, and its hard who to know who you can trust. This is a romance where the FMC doesn't have to choose between love interests. Make sure to check authors website for warnings. ]]> 459 Kira Stanley Issy 3 3.97 Obsessions of the Heart (Ambros Brothers Duet, #1)
author: Kira Stanley
name: Issy
average rating: 3.97
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2025/01/15
date added: 2025/01/15
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Jade Legacy (The Green Bone Saga, #3)]]> 51057191
The Kauls have been battered by war and tragedy. They are plagued by resentments and old wounds as their adversaries are on the ascent and their country is riven by dangerous factions and foreign interference that could destroy the Green Bone way of life altogether. As a new generation arises, the clan’s growing empire is in danger of coming apart.

The clan must discern allies from enemies, set aside bloody rivalries, and make terrible sacrifices� but even the unbreakable bonds of blood and loyalty may not be enough to ensure the survival of the Green Bone clans and the nation they are sworn to protect.]]> 713 Fonda Lee 035651059X Issy 0 to-read 4.62 2021 Jade Legacy (The Green Bone Saga, #3)
author: Fonda Lee
name: Issy
average rating: 4.62
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/14
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Her Majesty's Royal Coven (Her Majesty's Royal Coven, #1)]]> 59088433
At the dawn of their adolescence, on the eve of the summer solstice, four young girls--Helena, Leonie, Niamh and Elle--took the oath to join Her Majesty's Royal Coven, established by Queen Elizabeth I as a covert government department. Now, decades later, the witch community is still reeling from a civil war and Helena is now the reigning High Priestess of the organization. Yet Helena is the only one of her friend group still enmeshed in the stale bureaucracy of HMRC. Elle is trying to pretend she's a normal housewife, and Niamh has become a country vet, using her powers to heal sick animals. In what Helena perceives as the deepest betrayal, Leonie has defected to start her own more inclusive and intersectional coven, Diaspora. And now Helena has a bigger problem. A young warlock of extraordinary capabilities has been captured by authorities and seems to threaten the very existence of HMRC. With conflicting beliefs over the best course of action, the four friends must decide where their loyalties lie: with preserving tradition, or doing what is right.

Juno Dawson explores gender and the corrupting nature of power in a delightful and provocative story of magic and matriarchy, friendship and feminism. Dealing with all the aspects of contemporary womanhood, as well as being phenomenally powerful witches, Niamh, Helena, Leonie and Elle may have grown apart but they will always be bound by the sisterhood of the coven.]]> 448 Juno Dawson 014313714X Issy 0 to-read 3.79 2022 Her Majesty's Royal Coven (Her Majesty's Royal Coven, #1)
author: Juno Dawson
name: Issy
average rating: 3.79
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/14
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Immortal Longings (Flesh and False Gods, #1)]]> 62919356
Princess Calla Tuoleimi lurks in hiding. Five years ago, a massacre killed her parents and left the palace of Er empty…and she was the one who did it. Before King Kasa’s forces in San can catch her, she plans to finish the job and bring down the monarchy. Her reclusive uncle always greets the victor of the games, so if she wins, she gets her opportunity at last to kill him.

Enter Anton Makusa, an exiled aristocrat. His childhood love has lain in a coma since they were both ousted from the palace, and he’s deep in debt trying to keep her alive. Thankfully, he’s one of the best jumpers in the kingdom, flitting from body to body at will. His last chance at saving her is entering the games and winning.

Calla finds both an unexpected alliance with Anton and help from King Kasa’s adopted son, August, who wants to mend Talin’s ills. But the three of them have very different goals, even as Calla and Anton’s partnership spirals into something all-consuming. Before the games close, Calla must decide what she’s playing for—her lover or her kingdom.]]> 372 Chloe Gong 1668000229 Issy 0 to-read 3.52 2023 Immortal Longings (Flesh and False Gods, #1)
author: Chloe Gong
name: Issy
average rating: 3.52
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/14
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Fragile Threads of Power (Threads of Power, #1)]]> 111673828 From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue, and set in the world of A Darker Shade of Magic, V. E. Schwab opens a new door into perilous adventure and tangled schemes with The Fragile Threads of Power.

Once, there were four worlds, nestled like pages in a book, each pulsing with fantastical power, and connected by a single city: London. Until the magic grew too fast, and forced the worlds to seal the doors between them in a desperate gamble to protect their own. The few magicians who could still open the doors grew more rare as time passed and now, only three Antari are known in recent memory―Kell Maresh of Red London, Delilah Bard of Grey London, and Holland Vosijk, of White London.

But barely a glimpse of them have been seen in the last seven years―and a new Antari named Kosika has appeared in White London, taking the throne in Holland's absence. The young queen is willing to feed her city with blood, including her own―but her growing religious fervor has the potential to drown them instead.

And back in Red London, King Rhy Maresh is threatened by a rising rebellion, one determined to correct the balance of power by razing the throne entirely.

Amidst this tapestry of old friends and new enemies, a girl with an unusual magical ability comes into possession of a device that could change the fate of all four worlds.

Her name is Tes, and she's the only one who can bring them together―or unravel it all.]]> 648 Victoria E. Schwab 0765387492 Issy 0 to-read 4.25 2023 The Fragile Threads of Power (Threads of Power, #1)
author: Victoria E. Schwab
name: Issy
average rating: 4.25
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/14
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> The Book Eaters 58724745
Devon is part of The Family, an old and reclusive clan of book eaters. Her brothers grow up feasting on stories of valor and adventure, and Devon—like all other book eater women—is raised on a carefully curated diet of fairy tales and cautionary stories.

But real life doesn't always come with happy endings, as Devon learns when her son is born with a rare and darker kind of hunger—not for books, but for human minds.]]> 298 Sunyi Dean 1250810183 Issy 0 to-read 3.60 2022 The Book Eaters
author: Sunyi Dean
name: Issy
average rating: 3.60
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/14
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Last Graduate (The Scholomance, #2)]]> 55559887 A budding dark sorceress determined not to use her formidable powers uncovers yet more secrets about the workings of her world in the stunning sequel to A Deadly Education, the start of Naomi Novik’s groundbreaking crossover series.

At the Scholomance, El, Orion, and the other students are faced with their final year—and the looming specter of graduation, a deadly ritual that leaves few students alive in its wake. El is determined that her chosen group will survive, but it is a prospect that is looking harder by the day as the savagery of the school ramps up. Until El realizes that sometimes winning the game means throwing out all the rules . . .]]> 388 Naomi Novik 0593128869 Issy 0 to-read 4.20 2021 The Last Graduate (The Scholomance, #2)
author: Naomi Novik
name: Issy
average rating: 4.20
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/14
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Mexican Gothic 53152636
Noemí is also an unlikely rescuer: She’s a glamorous debutante, and her chic gowns and perfect red lipstick are more suited for cocktail parties than amateur sleuthing. But she’s also tough and smart, with an indomitable will, and she is not afraid: Not of her cousin’s new husband, who is both menacing and alluring; not of his father, the ancient patriarch who seems to be fascinated by Noemí; and not even of the house itself, which begins to invade Noemi’s dreams with visions of blood and doom.

Her only ally in this inhospitable abode is the family’s youngest son. Shy and gentle, he seems to want to help Noemí, but might also be hiding dark knowledge of his family’s past. For there are many secrets behind the walls of High Place. The family’s once colossal wealth and faded mining empire kept them from prying eyes, but as Noemí digs deeper she unearths stories of violence and madness.

And Noemí, mesmerized by the terrifying yet seductive world of High Place, may soon find it impossible to ever leave this enigmatic house behind.]]> 320 Silvia Moreno-Garcia 0525620788 Issy 0 to-read 3.66 2020 Mexican Gothic
author: Silvia Moreno-Garcia
name: Issy
average rating: 3.66
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/14
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Starling House 65213595 A grim and gothic new tale from author Alix E. Harrow about a small town haunted by secrets that can't stay buried and the sinister house that sits at the crossroads of it all.

Eden, Kentucky, is just another dying, bad-luck town, known only for the legend of E. Starling, the reclusive nineteenth-century author and illustrator who wrote The Underland--and disappeared. Before she vanished, Starling House appeared. But everyone agrees that it’s best to let the uncanny house―and its last lonely heir, Arthur Starling―go to rot.

Opal knows better than to mess with haunted houses or brooding men, but an unexpected job offer might be a chance to get her brother out of Eden. Too quickly, though, Starling House starts to feel dangerously like something she’s never had: a home.

As sinister forces converge on Starling House, Opal and Arthur are going to have to make a dire choice to dig up the buried secrets of the past and confront their own fears, or let Eden be taken over by literal nightmares.

If Opal wants a home, she’ll have to fight for it.]]> 320 Alix E. Harrow 1250799058 Issy 0 to-read 3.77 2023 Starling House
author: Alix E. Harrow
name: Issy
average rating: 3.77
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/14
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Gift from the Wing: Source of Elementra Book 4]]> 222647259 I thought regaining my memories would make this journey easier—for all of us.

I was wrong.

My path is paved in blood, and each choice I make shapes not only my future but the future of everyone I care about. Every decision has a consequence, and the weight of it grows heavier with every secret that’s revealed.
As the tangled web of mysteries surrounding us begins to unravel, we’re faced with truths none of us saw coming. Truths that could change everything.
I know what’s at stake, but the real question who or what will I lose if I make the wrong choice?

Elementra knows, but she doesn’t tell me.

Welcome back to the realm of Elementra where you'll find, magic, shifters, possessive/overly protective men, bonds, secrets, and so much more! Gift from the Wing is a full-length reverse harem Romantasy novel and book 4 of 5 in the ongoing series, so expect a cliffhanger of some degree. It may have triggers for some as it has intense flashbacks, real time mental and physical abuse, violence, delicious angst, steamy situations, gritty language, and other adult situations. Please read content warning in the book. Intended for ages 18+.]]> 541 Willa Rae Issy 4 3.80 Gift from the Wing: Source of Elementra Book 4
author: Willa Rae
name: Issy
average rating: 3.80
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/14
date added: 2025/01/14
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Temptation of Magic (Empyreal, #1)]]> 206009960
Like they did her mother.

Securing an undergraduate research role to study the collection, Nicole discovers her greatest enemy—one of The Wake’s Empyreals. Kyan McCarter is their best hunter, stationed at the manor to track and kill a deadly creature, but when they realise a painting’s been stolen by his prey, Nicole and Kyan are forced to work together to find it.

As the creature threatens to expose Nicole’s power, her tenuous alliance with Kyan threatens her heart. If Kyan finds out what she is, he’ll hunt her next—or risk execution. No one disobeys The Wake and survives. Especially not when the art they’re seeking holds the key to a conspiracy that could get them both killed, and change the lives of creatures, and humans, forever.

SERPENT AND DOVE meets A DISCOVERY OF WITCHES, in this luxurious, forbidden romance.]]> 384 Megan Scott 1335006958 Issy 4 3.82 2024 The Temptation of Magic (Empyreal, #1)
author: Megan Scott
name: Issy
average rating: 3.82
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/13
date added: 2025/01/13
shelves:
review:
a fun and really strong debut!! i loved the themes of this book, the artwork, the history, the evil society, it was so much fun. i loved the different supernatural creatures encountered in this book and im sure we’ll encounter many more in the next book! i really enjoyed the characters too, even the side characters were very strong which i really enjoyed reading. the plot was a tad slow in the start to build up to the main storyline but once i got to the 20% mark, i was enthralled, and that only grew the more i read. a really really unique and good read, and im eagerly waiting the next book!
]]> The Hobbit 13414569
Along the way, the company faces trolls, goblins, giant spiders, and worse. But as they journey from the wonders of Rivendell to the terrors of Mirkwood and beyond, Bilbo will find that there is more to him than anyone--himself included--ever dreamed. Unexpected qualities of courage and cunning, and a love of adventure, propel Bilbo toward his great destiny...a destiny that waits in the dark caverns beneath the Misty Mountains, where a twisted creature known as Gollum jealously guards a precious magic ring.]]> 306 J.R.R. Tolkien 0345534832 Issy 5 4.29 1937 The Hobbit
author: J.R.R. Tolkien
name: Issy
average rating: 4.29
book published: 1937
rating: 5
read at: 2018/01/20
date added: 2025/01/11
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Gift from the Nexus (Source of Elementra, #3)]]> 214958551 Unfortunately, he’s not the only nightmare here that’s ready to take a piece out of me.
As enemies make themselves known and unexpected allies join the fight, I’m left standing at multiple crossroads.
I laid a path for my men and my family to follow so they could find me. But I never would have guessed that a path was being laid for me to find myself.
When the past sheds some light on which way to go, I can’t help but wonder, what new secrets will I have to keep? Which ones can I let be known?
Elementra knows. Past, present, and future. She’ll show me.


Welcome back to the realm of Elementra where you'll find, magic, shifters, possessive/overly protective men, bonds, secrets, and so much more! Gift from the Nexus is a full-length reverse harem Romantasy novel and book 3 of the ongoing series, so expect a cliffhanger of some degree. It may have triggers for some as it has intense, flashback and real time mental and physical abuse to our FMC (not from our MMC’s), violence, delicious angst, steamy situations, gritty language, and other adult situations. Please read content warning in the book. Intended for ages 18+.]]> 621 Willa Rae Issy 5 4.51 Gift from the Nexus (Source of Elementra, #3)
author: Willa Rae
name: Issy
average rating: 4.51
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/04
date added: 2025/01/04
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Gift from the Stone (Source of Elementra, #2)]]> 212416752 I’m the True Primary to the strongest Nexus in Elementra. I wield not one but two of the four elements, and the powerful Memoria stone around my neck still has my memories locked away.
But we have bigger problems heading our way.
They’re here. My living nightmares.
In Elementra.
When it becomes clear that the evil of this realm is one I’m all too familiar with, my new reality comes crashing down. But I refuse to let them take what’s mine.
What will I have to sacrifice to protect my new home, my new life, my men?
Only Elementra knows, and this time, she doesn’t hesitate to tell me.

Jump into the realm of Elementra where you'll find, magic, shifters, possessive/overly protective men, bonds, secrets, and so much more! Gift from the Stone is a full-length, reverse harem Romantasy novel and book 2 of the series, so expect a cliffy. It may have triggers for some as it has intense, dark scenes/flashbacks of abuse to our FMC (not from our MMC’s), violence, delicious angst, steamy situations, gritty language, and other adult content. Please read content warning in the book. Intended for ages 18+.]]> 607 Willa Rae Issy 4 4.33 Gift from the Stone (Source of Elementra, #2)
author: Willa Rae
name: Issy
average rating: 4.33
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/12/31
date added: 2024/12/31
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[A Monsoon Rising (The Hurricane Wars #2)]]> 217379334 Two hearts circle each other in the eye of the storm in this highly-anticipated follow-up to The Hurricane Wars—prepare for more enemies-to-lovers romance, magical adventures, and political schemes in this Southeast Asian-inspired world.

After a lifetime of war, Alaric and Talasyn were thrust into an alliance between their homelands that was supposed to end the fighting; however, being married to their sworn foe feels far from peaceful. Now Talasyn must play the part of Alaric’s willing empress while her allies secretly plot to overthrow his reign. But the longer the couple are forced together, the harder it becomes to deny the feelings crackling like lightning between them. When the time comes to act, can she trust him, or must she ignore her heart for the sake of so many others?

As the master of the Shadowforged Legion, Alaric has trained for battle all his life, but marrying a Lightweaver might be his most dangerous challenge yet. With tensions between nations churning, he needs to focus on the greater threat—the Moonless Dark, a cataclysmic magical event that could devour everything. Only he and Talasyn can stop it, with a powerful merging of light and shadow that they alone can create together. But saving their world from this disaster is a mere preface to his father’s more sinister schemes, and his wife is a burning flame in the darkness, tempting both his loyalties and his desires.

The Hurricane Wars aren’t over. It’s time to choose what—and who—to fight for. The world holds its breath amidst a whirlwind of new magic and old secrets that could change everything.]]> 400 Thea Guanzon 0008555885 Issy 5 this book is just the perfect forbidden romance story and i absolutely love it!! considering it took me quite a while to get into the hurricane wars, this book gripped me instantly and i loved it! i loved the plot lines (though i didn’t like some of the actions of some characters iykyk) and i ADORED the romance. talasyn grew on me so much more in this book, i really enjoyed reading her perspectives and watching her growth. alaric stole the show for me in this book though. i said in my review of the hurricane wars that i struggled with a colonising love interest who was essentially committing a genocide, but we explored more into alaric psyche and it helped to understand him and his motives more whilst not disregarding what he did. the ways in which their relationship grew in this book almost brought me to tears, i just wish they could admit how they feel and be together without all of the war and politics and people pulling them apart, but i was so so glad that we did get to see them grow together despite this. i absolutely devoured this book and i cannot wait for the next one because i need answers!!! ]]> 4.11 2024 A Monsoon Rising (The Hurricane Wars #2)
author: Thea Guanzon
name: Issy
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2024/12/29
date added: 2024/12/29
shelves:
review:
4.5 stars
this book is just the perfect forbidden romance story and i absolutely love it!! considering it took me quite a while to get into the hurricane wars, this book gripped me instantly and i loved it! i loved the plot lines (though i didn’t like some of the actions of some characters iykyk) and i ADORED the romance. talasyn grew on me so much more in this book, i really enjoyed reading her perspectives and watching her growth. alaric stole the show for me in this book though. i said in my review of the hurricane wars that i struggled with a colonising love interest who was essentially committing a genocide, but we explored more into alaric psyche and it helped to understand him and his motives more whilst not disregarding what he did. the ways in which their relationship grew in this book almost brought me to tears, i just wish they could admit how they feel and be together without all of the war and politics and people pulling them apart, but i was so so glad that we did get to see them grow together despite this. i absolutely devoured this book and i cannot wait for the next one because i need answers!!!
]]> <![CDATA[Gift from the Tree (Source of Elementra, #1)]]> 205059589 What I didn’t expect was to receive a life-changing gift from a stranger.
Or for my body to be offered up as a rite of passage for my husband’s initiation into a sick and twisted cult.
When powers I never knew existed burst from within me, my husband’s study is left in ruin, with one man dead at my feet, and me passed out tied to a desk.
After the chaos, I’m whisked away to my new home.
Home to Elementra. To them.
The Vito Nexus.
When secrets are revealed and my memories start to unlock, what does it mean for us?
Only Elementra knows, and she only tells me when she sees fit.

Jump into the realm of Elementra where you'll find, magic, shifters, possessive/overly protective men, bonds, secrets, and so much more! Gift from the Tree is a full-length slow-mid burn reverse harem Romantasy novel and book 1 of the series, so expect a small cliffy. It may have triggers for some as it has intense, dark scenes/flashbacks of abuse to our FMC (not from our MMC’s), violence, delicious angst, steamy situations, and gritty language. Please read content warning in the book. Intended for ages 18+.]]> 471 Willa Rae Issy 4 4.21 Gift from the Tree (Source of Elementra, #1)
author: Willa Rae
name: Issy
average rating: 4.21
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/12/29
date added: 2024/12/29
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Dawn of Flames (Dragons of Ember Hollow, #3)]]> 204257019
Because I’m in the clutches of someone who only wants one thing� power. Power that only I can give them. And I’m a second away from breaking.

But my captor is revealing secrets. Ones that have the potential to bring my world crumbling down. And not just mine but the entire dragon species�, too.

Now, we’re racing against the clock to keep those secrets buried and me safe. But our enemies are circling. And sometimes the deadliest are the ones you least expect…]]> 262 Tessa Hale Issy 3 3.95 2024 Dawn of Flames (Dragons of Ember Hollow, #3)
author: Tessa Hale
name: Issy
average rating: 3.95
book published: 2024
rating: 3
read at: 2024/12/26
date added: 2024/12/26
shelves:
review:

]]> Spectacular (Caraval, #3.5) 203578793 Welcome, welcome back to the mysteriously enchanting world of CARAVAL! Return to the legendary magic and the whimsical wonder with this beautifully illustrated holiday novella.

Snowflakes are falling.
Invitations are arriving.
And holiday magic is swirling in the capital city of the Meridian Empire.

It’s Great Holiday Eve Eve. Scarlett Dragna is planning a spectacular Holiday celebration for the city. Donatella is searching for the perfect gift. Julian is looking ridiculously handsome in green. And Legend . . .

Well, sadly Legend is not fond of the Great Holiday. Tella is hoping her perfect gift will change his mind. Unfortunately, she hasn’t found this perfect gift just yet. But it is Great Holiday Eve Eve . . . surely there’s some holiday magic swirling around.

Welcome, welcome back to the world of Caraval, where even holidays are not as they seem.

Set after Stephanie Garber's #1 NEW YORK TIMES bestselling Caraval series, this delightful novella will take readers on the ultimate holiday adventure full of clockwork boys, poisoned candy, impish snow globes, merriment, and―if Tella gets her way―love.

Gorgeously illustrated by Rosie Thorns, SPECTACULAR is the perfect edition for collectors, readers, dreamers, and lovers of holiday magic.]]> 207 Stephanie Garber 1250893402 Issy 4 3.71 2024 Spectacular (Caraval, #3.5)
author: Stephanie Garber
name: Issy
average rating: 3.71
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2024/12/25
date added: 2024/12/25
shelves:
review:
a cute, fun, and festive book to read during the holidays!
]]> <![CDATA[Midnight of Ashes (Dragons of Ember Hollow, #2)]]> 204252767
Knox, Cáel, and Cillian treat me like I’ll break at any moment, while Maddox keeps a careful distance. And Easton won’t look at me at all.

We’re supposed to be fated by the stars, but we’re falling apart. Enemies still lurk around every corner, but the guys vow we’ll be ready when they come.

But evil has a way of striking when you least expect it. And none of us are ready for who might be pulling the strings…]]> 252 Tessa Hale Issy 3 4.01 2024 Midnight of Ashes (Dragons of Ember Hollow, #2)
author: Tessa Hale
name: Issy
average rating: 4.01
book published: 2024
rating: 3
read at: 2024/12/24
date added: 2024/12/25
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Twilight of Embers (Dragons of Ember Hollow, #1)]]> 195592817 Getting a scholarship to Evergreen University and majoring in premed means I need to keep my head down and focus on my studies. But campus is full of distractions�
The football god with his golden retriever charm. The tortured one with his vicious tongue. The broken boy with his determined protectiveness. The merciless billionaire with a penchant for spoiling me. And the genius professor with his brilliant mind.
They make me feel like I belong for the first time since my parents were murdered. And when they touch me, my whole world sparks to flame.
But they have enemies. Those who would give anything to harm what they hold dear. And while they’ll do whatever it takes to keep me safe, sometimes falling in love will put you right in the line of fire…]]> 256 Tessa Hale Issy 3 4.07 2024 Twilight of Embers (Dragons of Ember Hollow, #1)
author: Tessa Hale
name: Issy
average rating: 4.07
book published: 2024
rating: 3
read at: 2024/12/24
date added: 2024/12/23
shelves:
review:

]]> Liminal (The Arcanaeum, #1) 220330963 In a world where knowledge is power, the library is the greatest weapon of them all.

My necromancy-practising murderers never expected me to rise again.

I was just the latest in a long line of gullible sacrifices to ensure their continued control over the Arcanaeum, so it shocked everyone when I woke up as a ghost and kicked them out.

For centuries now, I’ve faithfully carried out my self-appointed duties as the Librarian. I keep the vast halls of magical knowledge organised, fight the mad whims of the sentient—and interfering—building, and deal with the incessant demands of our patrons.

I have all the books and solitude I could ever want, the ability to redecorate whenever I get bored, and I can banish arcanists who refuse to follow my rules.

But the Arcanaeum has started acting out, especially when it comes to six particular patrons, all of whom want something from me.

Jasper and Dakari need my protection, but Pierce isn’t above threatening me ensure I give them both up. There’s no rule Galileo and North won’t break to get into the secret vault. And then there’s Lambert, who seems to exist for no reason other than to vex me with his smiles and... hugging.

Inconvenient, given that every time they touch me, my ghostly body cracks and breaks like glass.

To keep the Arcanaeum safe, I might just have to put my trust in all of them, but what if the cost of the building’s safety is my destruction?

Liminal is the first book in a new paranormal why choose/ reverse harem series intended for readers aged 18 years and over. There is no MM or FF in this series.

Inside the book you'll find:

A grumpy ghostly librarian
A meddling magical library
One golden retriever
Steamy slow-burn tension]]> 410 Marie Mistry 1915066344 Issy 5 i was absolutely obsessed with this book and really really enjoyed it. marie just writes reverse harems so well and even though it barely even started in this book, im already hooked and addicted. i cannot wait for the next one!! ]]> 4.65 Liminal (The Arcanaeum, #1)
author: Marie Mistry
name: Issy
average rating: 4.65
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2024/12/22
date added: 2024/12/22
shelves:
review:
4.5 stars
i was absolutely obsessed with this book and really really enjoyed it. marie just writes reverse harems so well and even though it barely even started in this book, im already hooked and addicted. i cannot wait for the next one!!
]]> <![CDATA[A Merry Little Meet Cute (A Christmas Notch, #1)]]> 60121411 Cowritten by #1 New York Times bestselling author Julie Murphy and USA Today bestselling author Sierra Simone—a steamy plus-size holiday rom-com about an adult film star who is semi-accidentally cast as a lead in a family-friendly Christmas movie, and the former bad-boy pop star she falls in love with.

Bee Hobbes (aka Bianca Von Honey) has a successful career as a plus-size adult film star. With a huge following and two supportive moms, Bee couldn’t ask for more. But when Bee’s favorite producer casts her to star in a Christmas movie he’s making for the squeaky-clean Hope Channel, Bee’s career is about to take a more family-friendly direction.

Forced to keep her work as Bianca under wraps, Bee quickly learns this is a task a lot easier said than done. Though it all becomes worthwhile when she discovers her co-star is none other than childhood crush Nolan Shaw, an ex-boy band member in desperate need of career rehab. Nolan’s promised his bulldog manager to keep it zipped up on set, and he will if it means he’ll be able to provide a more stable living situation for his sister and mom.

But things heat up quickly in Christmas Notch, Vermont, when Nolan recognizes his new co-star from her ClosedDoors account (oh yeah, he’s a member). Now Bee and Nolan are sneaking off for quickies on set, keeping their new relationship a secret from the Hope Channel’s execs. Things only get trickier when the reporter who torpedoed Nolan’s singing career comes snooping around—and takes an instant interest in mysterious newcomer Bee.

And if Bee and Nolan can’t keep their off-camera romance behind the scenes, then this merry little meet cute might end up on the cutting room floor.]]> 418 Julie Murphy 0063222574 Issy 3 3.31 2022 A Merry Little Meet Cute (A Christmas Notch, #1)
author: Julie Murphy
name: Issy
average rating: 3.31
book published: 2022
rating: 3
read at: 2024/12/20
date added: 2024/12/20
shelves:
review:
a fun and enjoyable book, a cute christmas read with funnily enough not as much spice as you would think!
]]> <![CDATA[Glisser (Ironside Academy, #5)]]> 213828738
If you aren’t a player � you’re being played.

Isobel knows it. The Alphas know it. Yet every time they make a move, Ironside counters with two, always one step ahead, outsmarting them at every turn. Just when they grasp a lifeline, Ironside threatens to hang them with it.

They have only one choice: play the game—the real game, exactly as it was designed. With new contracts pulling them deeper into the service of the Stone Dahlia and yet another settlement tour looming on the horizon, they must execute their roles flawlessly.

It’s time to dim the lights, switch on the cameras, and get down to business.

Beware the pretty players, because this social media game just levelled up.]]> 471 Jane Washington Issy 5 4.51 2024 Glisser (Ironside Academy, #5)
author: Jane Washington
name: Issy
average rating: 4.51
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2024/12/19
date added: 2024/12/18
shelves:
review:
i am utterly obsessed with this series, and i think this book might’ve been my favourite one so far! i love how the relationships between isobel and the boys deepened and developed and i just loved every single page. i am eagerly awaiting the next book because this series is just everything to me and more!
]]> <![CDATA[Fear the Flames (Fear the Flames, #1)]]> 212315038 Elowen Atarah, Princess of Imirath, came into the world like a firestorm made flesh. A princess with a link to five dragons should have been a blessing to her kingdom, but her blessing became her curse. The little girl in shackles became a knife wielding woman with a thirst for retaliation.
Now, Queen of Aestilian, a secret kingdom she forged through strength and survival, Elowen needs a way to feed her rising population. She never thought she would have the force to take on Imirath, but when the snarky Commander Cayden Veles of Vareveth, her father’s enemy kingdom, offers her a deal she’s been dreaming of for years, how can she not take it? Even if he ignites her temper like no other, nothing unites two begrudging allies more than a common enemy.
The pair of them, along with three accomplices, will navigate their partnership, politics, and attempt to pull off the greatest heist their world has ever known. Five people, all united through revenge, will have to transcend the odds stacked against them and infiltrate “The Impenetrable Castle� if they want to reap their rewards before someone reaps their souls. Putting aside their differences to accomplish a common goal because everyone knows…vengeance is a promise signed in blood.]]> 384 Olivia Rose Darling 180418795X Issy 4 3.66 2022 Fear the Flames (Fear the Flames, #1)
author: Olivia Rose Darling
name: Issy
average rating: 3.66
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2024/12/16
date added: 2024/12/16
shelves:
review:
a fun and exciting romantasy read which involved one of my favourite things: dragons. i loved the dragons in this book, almost as much as the romance, which was the stand out for me. i was obsessed with how obsessed cayden was with elowen and it was so fun to watch him sinking deeper into his feelings for her. i thought the plot was good, but some of the pacing was a bit off at parts and other bits felt a bit like they jumped around too much. i really liked the side characters, and found this book to be spicy and enjoyable!
]]> <![CDATA[Relever (Ironside Academy, #4)]]> 222024385 All that glimmers is not gold, but nothing glows quite like the gilded cage of Ironside Academy.


The Ironside Show is back. Bigger than ever, and shinier, too.


To the audience, it’s a glorious spectacle, but to Isobel Carter and the Alphas of Dorm A, it’s a trap. A maze. The further they venture, the darker their path becomes, until all the tarnish has flaked away and only the bare metal bars remain.


Every choice has a consequence. Sometimes, they are awarded pretty bribes in pretty packages. Other times, there is only pain. Whatever awaits them, they will have no choice but to forge ahead, each decision leading them deeper into a labyrinth of manipulation and danger.


Their goal: fame, at all costs.


Unfortunately, with fame comes scrutiny, and there’s one secret they can’t afford to reveal.


One beautiful, brutal secret that could bring it all crashing down.


Beware those that climb.


Beware those that fall.


Beware the pretty pretenders, because this social media game just got deadly serious.

]]> 440 Jane Washington Issy 5 4.32 2024 Relever (Ironside Academy, #4)
author: Jane Washington
name: Issy
average rating: 4.32
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2024/12/16
date added: 2024/12/16
shelves:
review:
i’m too obsessed with this series to wait until december for the next book. i love all the characters, and i can’t wait to see how everything develops in the next one.
]]> A Study in Drowning 123209297
Effy has always believed in fairy tales. She's had no choice. Since childhood, she's been haunted by visions of the Fairy King. She's found solace only in the pages of Angharad - a beloved epic about a mortal girl who falls in love with the Fairy King, and then destroys him.

Effy's tattered copy is all that's keeping her afloat through her stifling first term her prestigious architecture college. So when the late author's family announces a contest to design his house, Effy fells certain this is her destiny.

But Hiraeth Manor is an impossible a musty, decrepit estate on the brink of crumbling into a hungry sea. And when Effy arrives, she finds she isn't the only one who's made a temporary home there. Preston Héloury, a stodgy young literature scholar, is studying Myrddin's papers and is determined to prove her favourite author is a fraud.

As the two rival students investigate the reclusive author's legacy, piecing together clues through his letters, books, and diaries, they discover that the house's foundation isn't the only thing that can't be trusted. There are dark forces, both mortal and magical, conspiring against them - and the truth may bring them both to ruin.]]> 384 Ava Reid Issy 4 21st 3.93 2023 A Study in Drowning
author: Ava Reid
name: Issy
average rating: 3.93
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2024/12/03
date added: 2024/12/16
shelves: 21st
review:
this book was so different from what i expected in all the best ways. it was a book full of mystery, literature, romance, female power, and such a beautiful prose. this was such a well-written book, and once the plot really started i was absolutely hooked to finding out the story behind angharad. i loved effy as a character, she was strong but not in the typical strong fmc way, and her growth was so inspiring. i loved preston too, he was so cute and i fell head over heels for him, even with his pretentious snobbiness. the setting was a perfect autumn and winter read in my opinion, a dark and damp house on the top of a cliff in a place where folklore runs wild. the magic and folklore in this book was really well-written too, i loved the myth of the fairy king and the drowning and the sleepers, it was really interesting. a new favourite book of mine and i am now definitely putting ava reid on my must-buy author list.
]]> Sauter (Ironside Academy, #3) 222024364
A pretty little prison.

She may have been reduced to a puppet behind a screen, but at least the Alphas of Dorm A are there to heighten her performances, quicken her breath, and flood her face with colour for the cameras.

Maybe they will even catch her when she falls.

Or maybe they have been pulling the strings all along.

The bars of her prison may be gilded, but survival is a messy game, and what do Sigmas do when they can’t keep their hands clean?

They get filthy.

Beware the pretty monsters, because this social media game just got brutal.]]> 578 Jane Washington Issy 5 4.30 2023 Sauter (Ironside Academy, #3)
author: Jane Washington
name: Issy
average rating: 4.30
book published: 2023
rating: 5
read at: 2024/12/14
date added: 2024/12/16
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Night Ends with Fire (The Night Ends with Fire, #1)]]> 201129898 Infused with magic and romance, this sweeping fantasy adventure inspired by the legend of Mulan follows a young woman determined to choose her own destiny—even if that means going against everyone she loves.

The Three Kingdoms are at war, but Meilin’s father refuses to answer the imperial draft. Trapped by his opium addiction, he plans to sell Meilin for her dowry. But when Meilin discovers her husband-to-be is another violent, ill-tempered man, she realizes that nothing will change for her unless she takes matters into her own hands.

The very next day, she disguises herself as a boy and enlists in her father’s place.

In the army, Meilin's relentless hard work brings her recognition, friendship—and a growing closeness with Sky, a prince turned training partner. But has she simply exchanged one prison for another? As her kingdom barrels toward destruction, Meilin begins to have visions of a sea dragon spirit that offers her true power and freedom, but with a deadly price.

With the future of the Three Kingdoms hanging in the balance, Meilin will need to decide whom to trust—Sky, who inspires her loyalty and love; the sea dragon spirit, who has his own murky agenda; or an infuriating enemy prince who makes her question everything she once knew—about her kingdom and about her own heart.]]> 432 K.X. Song 0593815726 Issy 0 to-read 3.80 2024 The Night Ends with Fire (The Night Ends with Fire, #1)
author: K.X. Song
name: Issy
average rating: 3.80
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/12/13
shelves: to-read
review:

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