✨Jܱ�'s bookshelf: all en-US Fri, 04 Apr 2025 16:35:13 -0700 60 ✨Jܱ�'s bookshelf: all 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg Phantasma (Wicked Games, #1) 209813409 Welcome to Phantasma.

There are only two rules to the game. Stay alive. And don’t fall in love.

When Ophelia’s sister disappears, there is only one way to save her. Ophelia must enter Phantasma, a deadly contest inside a haunted mansion, and claim its prize�a single wish.

Phantasma is a maze of twisting corridors and lavish ballrooms, of demons and temptations. Ophelia will face nine challenges, each more dangerous than the last. There can only be one winner, and the other contestants will stop at nothing to eliminate their rivals.

Every day the house creates new monsters. But just as Ophelia’s fears threaten to overwhelm her, a mysterious stranger offers her a bargain.

Charming, arrogant and infuriatingly attractive, Blackwell claims he can guide her through the lethal trials ahead. All he asks in return is ten years of her life.

Ophelia knows she shouldn’t trust him. Blackwell doesn’t seem dangerous, but appearances can be deceptive. Worse still, she feels a dark and irresistible attraction drawing them closer and closer.

Her life is on the line. But in Phantasma, the only thing deadlier than losing the game is losing your heart�

A Court of Thorns and Roses meets Caraval in this seductive fantasy adventure. With steamy romance, a sexy morally gray love interest, OCD rep and jaw-dropping twists, Phantasma is perfect for fans of Rebecca Yarros, Nisha J. Tuli and Carissa Broadbent.]]> 428 Kaylie Smith 1835251412 ✨Jܱ� 0 currently-reading 4.15 2024 Phantasma (Wicked Games, #1)
author: Kaylie Smith
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.15
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/04
shelves: currently-reading
review:
Stepping out of my comfort zone with this one� I hate horror and I’m rarely a fan of dark romance, but I’m caving to the hype. Y’all better not be lying!
]]> Us in Ruins 199531937 Margot is on the quest to uncover and reassemble an ancient—and cursed—vase, with the help of a boy who went missing in 1932, because it's the only way to put back together her broken heart in this stand-alone adventure rom-com, perfect for fans of What the River Knows and The Lost City.

The mythical Vase of Venus Aurelia hasn’t been seen since 1932, but Margot Rhodes is determined to change that.

Drawn by the vase’s supposed magical properties, Margot embarks on her school’s archaeological trip to Pompeii. Sure, it’s her first time holding a shovel, but s’s got something no one else does: lost teenage explorer Van Keane’s journal.

Poring over the poetic entries that serve as a map to the vase’s missing shards, Margot finds herself falling in love with the boy who wrote it a century ago. S’s shocked when her search leads her to a statue that looks exactly like Van, and then the statue comes to life.

Catapulted into the present, Van is nothing like the wordsmith Margot imagined. He’s all sharp edges, intent on retrieving the relic for all the wrong reasons. But it takes two to survive Venus’s death-defying challenges, and, together, Margot and Van must excavate the treasure—and their buried pasts—before their story ends in ruins.

With a blend of humor, magic, and love, Rachel Moore crafts another stand-alone adventure rom-com full of double- and triple-crosses, hilarious shenanigans, and frustration-fueled banter, where the best treasure is true love.]]> 368 Rachel Moore 0063284685 ✨Jܱ� 2
What to Expect:
� Hate-to-Love
� Reluctant Allies
� Opposites Attract
� Slow Burn
� Forced Proximity
� Adventure Rom-Com
� Stand-alone
� The Mummy Vibes
� Ancient Curse
� Third Person POV

With a few changes, I think I could have loved this, but there were some issues I just couldn’t get past. My biggest hang up was the FMC. After following the clues left in his journal, Margot discovers that the MMC (Van) was turned to stone nearly a hundred years ago and she is miraculously able to bring him back to life. This would be an absolutely amazing and terrifying event to witness for her, but can you imagine how traumatic it would have been for him? Any normal person would treat him with kindness and explain what happened to him with care. Not Margot, she immediately starts arguing with him about unimportant things and unceremoniously reveals to him that he had been a statue for 100 years without an ounce of empathy.

She is laser focus on her desire to find the shards and put together the vase and seems unconcerned by what that could mean for Van (you will see that it means a lot). At the very least you would think they would both be concerned about being turned into a statue for good, but I’m not sure that thought ever even crossed their minds. At one point during a discussion/argument she tells him something along the lines of “at least everyone who hated you is dead.� I was shocked by this line. Honestly, how inconsiderate and unfeeling can a person be?

I guess it’s really just the FMC that needed some tweaks. I think the author was trying too hard to make this enemies-to-lovers. Yes, we love that trope, but not everything needs to be enemies-to-lovers and I think this is a good example of that. I would have much rather she have shown him empathy and support as the only person in the world who knew what he had been through. This had so much potential! I really wish I had loved it more!

✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　�

Pre-read: Whoever is doing this author’s cover art deserves a raise. ]]> 3.58 2024 Us in Ruins
author: Rachel Moore
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.58
book published: 2024
rating: 2
read at: 2025/03/31
date added: 2025/04/03
shelves:
review:
� 2.5 stars �

What to Expect:
� Hate-to-Love
� Reluctant Allies
� Opposites Attract
� Slow Burn
� Forced Proximity
� Adventure Rom-Com
� Stand-alone
� The Mummy Vibes
� Ancient Curse
� Third Person POV

With a few changes, I think I could have loved this, but there were some issues I just couldn’t get past. My biggest hang up was the FMC. After following the clues left in his journal, Margot discovers that the MMC (Van) was turned to stone nearly a hundred years ago and she is miraculously able to bring him back to life. This would be an absolutely amazing and terrifying event to witness for her, but can you imagine how traumatic it would have been for him? Any normal person would treat him with kindness and explain what happened to him with care. Not Margot, she immediately starts arguing with him about unimportant things and unceremoniously reveals to him that he had been a statue for 100 years without an ounce of empathy.

She is laser focus on her desire to find the shards and put together the vase and seems unconcerned by what that could mean for Van (you will see that it means a lot). At the very least you would think they would both be concerned about being turned into a statue for good, but I’m not sure that thought ever even crossed their minds. At one point during a discussion/argument she tells him something along the lines of “at least everyone who hated you is dead.� I was shocked by this line. Honestly, how inconsiderate and unfeeling can a person be?

I guess it’s really just the FMC that needed some tweaks. I think the author was trying too hard to make this enemies-to-lovers. Yes, we love that trope, but not everything needs to be enemies-to-lovers and I think this is a good example of that. I would have much rather she have shown him empathy and support as the only person in the world who knew what he had been through. This had so much potential! I really wish I had loved it more!

✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　�

Pre-read: Whoever is doing this author’s cover art deserves a raise.
]]> Say You'll Remember Me 216437557 From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Just for the Summer comes a new playful yet deeply emotional contemporary romance.

There might be no such a thing as a perfect guy, but Xavier Rush comes disastrously close. A gorgeous veterinarian giving Greek god vibes—all while cuddling a tiny kitten? Immediately yes. That is until Xavier opens his mouth and proves that even sculpted gods can say the absolute wrong thing. Like, really wrong. Of course, there’s nothing Samantha loves more than proving an asshole wrong�

. . . unless, of course, he can admit he made a mistake. But after one incredible and seemingly endless date—possibly the best in living history—Samantha is forced to admit the truth, that her family is in crisis and any kind of relationship would be impossible. Samantha begs Xavier to forget her. To remember their night together as a perfect moment, as crushing as that may be.

Only no amount of distance or time is nearly enough to forget that something between them. And the only thing better than one single perfect memory is to make a life—and even a love—worth remembering.]]> 416 Abby Jimenez 0349442827 ✨Jܱ� 0 currently-reading 4.39 2025 Say You'll Remember Me
author: Abby Jimenez
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.39
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/03
shelves: currently-reading
review:
Update: This was maybe the 5th tornado warning in 24 hours, but thankfully I am safe and in an area free of flooding. Still on a watch at the moment and it’s looking like it might be another long night. Hopefully it will all pass safely soon.
]]> James 173754979 A brilliant reimagining of Adventures of Huckleberry Finn—both harrowing and satirical—told from the enslaved Jim's point of view

When Jim overhears that he is about to be sold to a man in New Orleans, separated from his wife and daughter forever, he runs away until he can formulate a plan. Meanwhile, Huck has faked his own death to escape his violent father. As all readers of American literature know, thus begins the dangerous and transcendent journey by raft down the Mississippi River toward the elusive and unreliable promise of the Free States and beyond.

Brimming with nuanced humor and lacerating observations that have made Everett a literary icon, this brilliant and tender novel radically illuminates Jim's agency, intelligence, and compassion as never before. James is destined to be a major publishing event and a cornerstone of twenty-first-century American literature.

Alternate cover edition of ISBN 9780385550369.]]> 303 Percival Everett ✨Jܱ� 5
What to Expect:
� Winner of the 2024 National Book Award
� Explores themes of Race & Racism
� Reclaiming Identity (choosing James, rejecting Jim)
� Reimagining of a Classic (Huckleberry Finn)
� First Person POV

“At that moment the power of reading made itself clear and real to me. If I could see the words, then no one could control them or what I got from them. They couldn’t even know if I was merely seeing them or reading them, sounding them out or comprehending them. It was a completely private affair and completely free and, therefore, completely subversive.�

This was such a phenomenal read! I honestly do regret not rereading Huckleberry Finn first though. If you wanted to pick this up without ever reading Huck Finn, you could do so without difficulty or confusion, but I personally would have liked to make a more detailed comparison in my mind of what was altered as I read.

I wish I could say I was surprised that this book was added to the banned book list, but I imagine some of these lines caused some pretty severe white discomfort. ]]> 4.47 2024 James
author: Percival Everett
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.47
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2025/03/23
date added: 2025/04/03
shelves:
review:
� 5 stars �

What to Expect:
� Winner of the 2024 National Book Award
� Explores themes of Race & Racism
� Reclaiming Identity (choosing James, rejecting Jim)
� Reimagining of a Classic (Huckleberry Finn)
� First Person POV

“At that moment the power of reading made itself clear and real to me. If I could see the words, then no one could control them or what I got from them. They couldn’t even know if I was merely seeing them or reading them, sounding them out or comprehending them. It was a completely private affair and completely free and, therefore, completely subversive.�

This was such a phenomenal read! I honestly do regret not rereading Huckleberry Finn first though. If you wanted to pick this up without ever reading Huck Finn, you could do so without difficulty or confusion, but I personally would have liked to make a more detailed comparison in my mind of what was altered as I read.

I wish I could say I was surprised that this book was added to the banned book list, but I imagine some of these lines caused some pretty severe white discomfort.
]]> <![CDATA[Song of the Dark Wood (Fable Song, #1)]]> 219335705
Ripped from her family as a young girl, Rowan Cleary has been forced into a cloistered life learning to please the wolf and wield her spirit-enchanting voice. Though none of the previous maidens have survived their five-year term, Rowan is determined to beat the odds and protect the women who have become family to her.

When a deathly blight breaks out in the Dark Wood, and the acting maiden is murdered, Rowan vows to strike a new bargain with the god of death to ensure her survival. The Wolf has always been someone to fear—even more so now that the townspeople blame him for the blight—but ’s far from the vengeful death god she expects.

To unravel the mystery, Rowan must seduce the Wolf. Soon, the attraction between them grows into a relentless magical force, threatening to shatter the delicate balance between realms and unleash a darkness eager to swallow their world.

SONG OF THE DARK WOOD is the first in a series of interconnected standalone gothic fairy tale fantasy romances. SONG blends a fractured Red Riding Hood retelling with a hint of Hades and Persephone. This "coming of rage" character-driven romance follows Rowan Cleary as she tries to free herself from an oppressive religion and seduce the grumpy god of death Wolf. SONG is a spicy, dark romantasy perfect for fans of feminine rage, strong female friendships, unique magic systems, angsty romance, and ominous mysteries. This book will appeal to readers who enjoyed Rachel Gillig's ONE DARK WINDOW, Rebecca Ross's A RIVER ENCHANTED, and Hannah Whitten's FOXGLOVE KING.]]> 400 Sheila Masterson 1960416138 ✨Jܱ� 2
What to Expect:
� She Ferries Ghosts
� He’s the God of Death
� Music Based Magic
� He Falls First
� Touch Her & Die
� Haunted Forest
� Mystery
� Feminine Rage
� Dark Red Riding Hood Retelling
� Hades & Persephone Inspired
� Dual Narration
� Dual Third Person POV

A dark and atmospheric Red Riding Hood retelling with nods to Hades & Persephone. Reader’s familiar with JLA’s work, will also notice many similarities to From Blood & Ash.

Because of her magical singing voice, Rowan must serve a 5 year term ferrying the dead through the Dark Wood to the God of Death. She spent her childhood training to “please� the God of Death and was expected to maintain her virginity to offer to him and eventually serve as a sacrifice to protect the rest of her people. The virgin sacrifice bit did not need to be included and frankly didn’t make a lot of sense. How did she “train� to please him if she must remain pure? Don’t answer that. ]]> 3.63 Song of the Dark Wood (Fable Song, #1)
author: Sheila Masterson
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.63
book published:
rating: 2
read at: 2025/04/03
date added: 2025/04/03
shelves:
review:
� 2.25 stars �

What to Expect:
� She Ferries Ghosts
� He’s the God of Death
� Music Based Magic
� He Falls First
� Touch Her & Die
� Haunted Forest
� Mystery
� Feminine Rage
� Dark Red Riding Hood Retelling
� Hades & Persephone Inspired
� Dual Narration
� Dual Third Person POV

A dark and atmospheric Red Riding Hood retelling with nods to Hades & Persephone. Reader’s familiar with JLA’s work, will also notice many similarities to From Blood & Ash.

Because of her magical singing voice, Rowan must serve a 5 year term ferrying the dead through the Dark Wood to the God of Death. She spent her childhood training to “please� the God of Death and was expected to maintain her virginity to offer to him and eventually serve as a sacrifice to protect the rest of her people. The virgin sacrifice bit did not need to be included and frankly didn’t make a lot of sense. How did she “train� to please him if she must remain pure? Don’t answer that.
]]> <![CDATA[I Got Abducted by Aliens and Now I'm Trapped in a Rom-Com (Cosmic Chaos, #1)]]> 213618276 A hilarious and sexy romance about a woman who gets dropped on a strange planet only to fall for not one, but two, aliens, from the author of I Got Drunk and Yeeted a Love Potion at a Werewolf.

Dorothy Valentine is close to getting her PhD in wildlife biology when s’s attacked by a lion. On the bright side, s’s saved! On the not-so-bright side, it’s because they’re abducted by aliens. In her scramble to escape, Dory and the lion commandeer an escape pod and crash-land on an alien planet that has...dinosaurs?

Dory and her new lion bestie, Toto, are saved in the nick of time by a mysterious and sexy alien, Sol. On their new adventure, they team up with the equally hot, equally dangerous Lok, who may or may not be a war criminal. Whether it be trauma, fate, or intrigue, Dory can’t resist the attraction that’s developing in their trio....

As this ragtag group of misfits explore their new planet, Dory learns more about how and why they’ve all ended up together, battles more prehistoric creatures than she imagined (she imagined...zero), and questions if she even wants to go back home to Earth in this hilarious and steamy alien romance adventure comedy romp.]]> 287 Kimberly Lemming 0593818636 ✨Jܱ� 2
What to Expect:
� Humor
� Alien Abduction
� Alien Breeding Program
� Talking Animals & Prehistoric Creatures
� Forced Mate Bound
� Fantasy Rom-Com
� First Person POV

S’s on another planet with pink T-Rex’s, talking animals and literal aliens, but she crashes out over a big frog? Homegirl seriously needs to straighten out her priorities. ]]> 3.72 2025 I Got Abducted by Aliens and Now I'm Trapped in a Rom-Com (Cosmic Chaos, #1)
author: Kimberly Lemming
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.72
book published: 2025
rating: 2
read at: 2025/04/01
date added: 2025/04/01
shelves:
review:
� 2.45 stars �

What to Expect:
� Humor
� Alien Abduction
� Alien Breeding Program
� Talking Animals & Prehistoric Creatures
� Forced Mate Bound
� Fantasy Rom-Com
� First Person POV

S’s on another planet with pink T-Rex’s, talking animals and literal aliens, but she crashes out over a big frog? Homegirl seriously needs to straighten out her priorities.
]]> The Co-op 62801928 By that logic, hate and construction may as well be condemned.

LaRynn Lavigne and Deacon Leeds had one short and contentious summer fling when they were teens.
Certainly nothing to build a foundation on.
But a decade later, when their grandmothers have left them with shared ownership of their dilapidated Santa Cruz building, they're thrust back together and have to figure out how to brace up the pieces.
LaRynn has the money, but to access her trust, she has to be married.
Deacon has the construction expertise, but lacks the funds.
A deal is struck: Marry for however long it takes to fix up the property, collect a profit, and cut ties.
Thrust into a home without walls, they quickly learn that it's easy to hide behind emotional ones, even in a marriage. But, with all the exposure and pitfalls that come with living with the opposite sex (and none of the perks) they'll also have to learn what it means to truly co-operate as a team.

The Co-op is a steamy story about restoration and renovation, and uncovering all the things that build character within ourselves. It's about the never-ending construction project that partnership is, and finding enjoyment at every stage.]]> 364 Tarah DeWitt ✨Jܱ� 1
“I like to keep people where I understand them. I typically choose to do that through charm. Keep them happy with you, but keep it surface level. Keep them just far enough so they stay in focus and I can see every move before it comes. Too close and they blur, too many things are easy to miss. When someone’s arms are wrapped around you it’s easy to miss the knife in their hands.�

What to Expect:
� Marriage of Convenience
� Forced Proximity
� Second Chance Romance
� Enemies-to-Lovers
� Dual POV

Y’all� I did not like the main character AT ALL. Her backstory described a weak willed, self centered human being who did not show up for her loved ones in their time of need. She seems very entitled when she shows up and demands her half of the house despite not seeing her grandma for years. The MC’s get married with almost no supporting reason and they aren’t even forced to showcase their relationship in public to add sexual tension, etc. This was a major plot point and I’m not understanding why either of them would have agreed to it.

Also, I felt like the main character was always crying and the book would just graze over it and the characters wouldn’t talk about it at all. The author basically says “and then she cried� and then cuts to the next scene. It was completely bizarre.

Maybe I shouldn’t hold this against the book, but the voice actor who did the male portion of the book put on a very hokey accent that really grated on me. It might have been better to have physically read this one but I honestly don’t think I would have made it all the way through if I had. ]]> 3.79 2022 The Co-op
author: Tarah DeWitt
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.79
book published: 2022
rating: 1
read at: 2023/05/24
date added: 2025/04/01
shelves:
review:
� 1 star �

“I like to keep people where I understand them. I typically choose to do that through charm. Keep them happy with you, but keep it surface level. Keep them just far enough so they stay in focus and I can see every move before it comes. Too close and they blur, too many things are easy to miss. When someone’s arms are wrapped around you it’s easy to miss the knife in their hands.�

What to Expect:
� Marriage of Convenience
� Forced Proximity
� Second Chance Romance
� Enemies-to-Lovers
� Dual POV

Y’all� I did not like the main character AT ALL. Her backstory described a weak willed, self centered human being who did not show up for her loved ones in their time of need. She seems very entitled when she shows up and demands her half of the house despite not seeing her grandma for years. The MC’s get married with almost no supporting reason and they aren’t even forced to showcase their relationship in public to add sexual tension, etc. This was a major plot point and I’m not understanding why either of them would have agreed to it.

Also, I felt like the main character was always crying and the book would just graze over it and the characters wouldn’t talk about it at all. The author basically says “and then she cried� and then cuts to the next scene. It was completely bizarre.

Maybe I shouldn’t hold this against the book, but the voice actor who did the male portion of the book put on a very hokey accent that really grated on me. It might have been better to have physically read this one but I honestly don’t think I would have made it all the way through if I had.
]]> <![CDATA[Quicksilver (Fae & Alchemy, #1)]]> 212127083
In the land of the unforgiving desert, there isn't much a girl wouldn't do for a glass of water.

Twenty-four-year-old Saeris Fane is good at keeping secrets. No one knows about the strange powers she possesses, or the fact that she has been picking pockets and stealing from the Undying Queen's reservoirs for as long as she can remember.

But a secret is like a knot. Sooner or later, it is bound to come undone.

When Saeris comes face-to-face with Death himself, she inadvertently re-opens a gateway between realms and is transported to a land of ice and snow. The Fae have always been the stuff of myth, of legend, of nightmares... but it turns out they're real, and Saeris has landed herself in the middle of a centuries-long conflict that might just get her killed.

The first of her kind to tread the frozen mountains of Yvelia in over a thousand years, Saeris mistakenly binds herself to Kingfisher, a handsome Fae warrior, who has secrets and nefarious agendas of his own. He will use her Alchemist's magic to protect his people, no matter what it costs him . . . or her.

Death has a name. It is Kingfisher of the Ajun Gate. His past is murky. His attitude stinks. And he's the only way Saeris is going to make it home.]]> 588 Callie Hart ✨Jܱ� 5
What to Expect:
� Forced Proximity
� Enemies-to-Lovers
� Morally Grey MMC
� Fated Mates
� Fae, Vampires & Witches
� Animal Side Kick
� First Person POV

I had SO many people message me when I started reading this book. Half of the messages were from fans who were excited for me to read it and the other half were from people who didn’t get the hype. I’ve spent plenty of time in the second camp, so I totally understand where they’re coming from, but this time around, I’m so happy to be in the fan camp! Go ahead and give me a foam finger - number one Quicksilver hype girl here! ]]> 4.35 2024 Quicksilver (Fae & Alchemy, #1)
author: Callie Hart
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.35
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2025/03/31
date added: 2025/03/31
shelves:
review:
� 4.75 stars �

What to Expect:
� Forced Proximity
� Enemies-to-Lovers
� Morally Grey MMC
� Fated Mates
� Fae, Vampires & Witches
� Animal Side Kick
� First Person POV

I had SO many people message me when I started reading this book. Half of the messages were from fans who were excited for me to read it and the other half were from people who didn’t get the hype. I’ve spent plenty of time in the second camp, so I totally understand where they’re coming from, but this time around, I’m so happy to be in the fan camp! Go ahead and give me a foam finger - number one Quicksilver hype girl here!
]]> <![CDATA[And Now, Back to You (Heartstrings, #2)]]> 217513554 B.K. Borison ✨Jܱ� 0 to-read 4.50 2026 And Now, Back to You (Heartstrings, #2)
author: B.K. Borison
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.50
book published: 2026
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/31
shelves: to-read
review:
I’d do unspeakable things to get my hands on this ARC.
]]> <![CDATA[Shadows Lost (Remnant Archives, #1)]]> 207677585 A curse that drove a queen mad.
The heroine that failed to stop her.
A shifter that refuses to give up.
A world that needs them both again.

One hundred years after the Queen of Faerie sacrificed her own people in the name of salvation, the fae are on the verge of extinction and a suspicious power is on the rise. Remnant Ezra Solaire Dark, the once legendary war general, is the last of the shadow fae. Living in exile, only she holds the power to save the kingdom of Faerie. Enter Emon, a tempting shifter fae they call The Golden One who has been hunting for Remnant for the past century. When an unnatural power comes for them both, they must join together to reset the wrongs of the past in order to heal the future, not only for the world of Faerie but also for themselves.

Be warned. Remnant and Emon will journey through desolate lands long abandoned, to the shadowy underworld of the ocean, and into the dangerous kingdom of the shifters. This is no innocent adventure story. This is the world of the fae—power, vengeance, and half truths are the laws of the land. And the worst monsters are the ones hidden within.]]> 571 B.K. Cavaleri ✨Jܱ� 0 to-read 4.58 Shadows Lost (Remnant Archives, #1)
author: B.K. Cavaleri
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.58
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/30
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> A Language of Dragons 211096516 EVERY ACT OF TRANSLATION REQUIRES SACRIFICE

Welcome to Bletchley Park� with dragons.

London, 1923. Dragons soar through the skies and protests erupt on the streets, but Vivian Featherswallow isn’t worried. S’s going to follow the rules, get an internship studying dragon languages, and make sure her little sister never has to risk growing up Third Class. By midnight, Viv has started a civil war.

With her parents arrested and her sister missing, all the safety Viv has worked for is collapsing around her. So when a lifeline is offered in the form of a mysterious ‘job�, she grabs it. Arriving at Bletchley Park, Viv discovers that she has been recruited as a codebreaker helping the war effort � if she succeeds, she and her family can all go home again. If she doesn’t, they’ll all die.

At first Viv believes that her challenge, of discovering the secrets of a hidden dragon language, is doable. But the more she learns, the more she realises that the bubble s’s grown up in isn’t as safe as she thought, and eventually Viv must What war is she really fighting?

An epic, sweeping fantasy with an incredible Dark Academia setting, a clandestine, slow-burn enemies-to-lovers romance, and an unputdownable story, filled with twists and turns, betrayals and secret identities, A Language of Dragons is the unmissable debut of 2025, from an extraordinary new voice.]]> 432 S.F. Williamson 0063353849 ✨Jܱ� 3
What to Expect:
� Morally Grey FMC
� Dragons x Humans
� Romance sub plot
� Set in Alternate 1920s London
� Debut YA Fantasy
� Political Intrigue
� Historical Fiction
� First Person POV

This book made me realize how similar real life in The U.S. is to a fantasy novel right now and I gotta say, it’s not nearly as fun as I always imagined. ]]> 3.84 2025 A Language of Dragons
author: S.F. Williamson
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.84
book published: 2025
rating: 3
read at: 2025/03/29
date added: 2025/03/30
shelves:
review:
� 3.25 stars �

What to Expect:
� Morally Grey FMC
� Dragons x Humans
� Romance sub plot
� Set in Alternate 1920s London
� Debut YA Fantasy
� Political Intrigue
� Historical Fiction
� First Person POV

This book made me realize how similar real life in The U.S. is to a fantasy novel right now and I gotta say, it’s not nearly as fun as I always imagined.
]]> <![CDATA[Dream Girl Drama (Big Shots, #3)]]> 214283601 A steamy chance encounter between a professional hockey player and the manic pixie dream girl he just can’t seem to forget takes a turn when the pair realize that their parents are engaged—in an all-new rom-com by #1New York Timesbestselling author Tessa Bailey.

When professional hockey player Sig Gauthier’s car breaks down and his phone dies, he treks into a posh private country club to call a tow truck, where he encounters the alluring Chloe Clifford, the manic pixie dream girl who captivates him immediately with her sense of adventure and penchant for stealing champagne.

Sparks fly during a moonlight kiss and the enamored pair can’t wait to see each other again, but when Sig finally arrives to meet his dad’s new girlfriend over dinner, Chloe is confusingly also there. Turns out the girlfriend is Chloe’s mother. Oh, and they’re engaged.

Sig’s dream girl is his future stepsister.

Though the pair is now wary of being involved romantically, Chloe, a sheltered harp prodigy, yearns to escape her controlling mother. Sig promises to teach her the ins and outs of independence in Boston—but not inside his bedroom. They both know there can never be more than friendship between a famous hockey player and his high-society, soon-to-be stepsister. But keeping their relationship platonic grows harder amid the developing family drama, especially knowing they were meant for so much more�


]]> 320 Tessa Bailey 0063380781 ✨Jܱ� 0 currently-reading 3.48 2025 Dream Girl Drama (Big Shots, #3)
author: Tessa Bailey
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.48
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/30
shelves: currently-reading
review:
Hated book two, but some part of me still hopes this will be good. Worst case scenario, at least Teddy Hamilton will read it to me.
]]> <![CDATA[Witches Get Stitches (Stay a Spell, #3)]]> 55345190
Nico Cruz has a secret. A motive, rather. To subtly stalk and seduce Violet until she finally recognizes they are fated to be together. Ever since their heated encounter in Austin on New Year’s Eve two years earlier, ’s been dying to get his hands—and his tongue—back on her body. He knows a woman like Violet can’t be courted in the usual way. Luckily, Nico has no scruples about misbehaving to get what he wants.

But when his former pack roams into town, and an old friend is far too interested in Violet, his focus shifts to the threat venturing into his territory. Nico may come across as the quiet, broody one, but the intruders are about to regret stepping foot in New Orleans. And when Violet goes missing, no charm or spell can keep Nico’s wolf at bay. ]]> 390 Juliette Cross ✨Jܱ� 0 currently-reading 4.13 2021 Witches Get Stitches (Stay a Spell, #3)
author: Juliette Cross
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.13
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/27
shelves: currently-reading
review:
I decided to pregame Firebird with another book by Cross! I really enjoyed the first two books and have been meaning to pick this series back up for a while. Excited to dive back into this world!
]]> The Rose Bargain 211742041 The Cruel Prince meets The Selection in this captivating duology opener brimming with heart-pounding romance, vicious competition, and beautiful, cruel fae, from the New York Times bestselling author of The Witch Haven, Sasha Peyton Smith.

Every citizen of England is granted one bargain from their immortal fae queen.

High society girls are expected to bargain for qualities that will win them suitors: a rare talent for piano in exchange for one’s happiest childhood memory. A perfect smile for one’s ability to taste.

But Ivy Benton’s debut season arrives with a shocking twist: a competition to secure the heart of the Queen’s fae son, Prince Bram. A prize that could save Ivy’s family from ruin� and free her sister from the bargain that destroyed her.

Yet every glittering fae deal has a rotting heart—and at the center of this contest is a dark plot that could destroy everything Ivy knows.

Sweepingly romantic and deceptively enchanting, this alternate history romantasy will enthrall readers of Holly Black, Stephanie Garber, and Adalyn Grace.]]> 400 Sasha Peyton Smith 0063372525 ✨Jܱ� 3
What to Expect:
� Faerie Bargains
� Forbidden Love
� Marriage Competition
� Dangerous Trials
� Kissing for Practice
� Love Triangle
� Only One Bed
� Alternate History (1848 England)
� Immortal Fae Queen ruling England
� Unexpected Twists
� First Person Multi POV

This is a stunning book (I own the Fairyloot edition) that had a very intriguing premise that unfortunately I won’t be recommending.

The author had me hooked at the beginning but from there my interest started to wane. I struggled to connect with the FMC (Ivy) and I couldn’t muster up much interest for either MMC. (Also hate a love triangle. ]]> 3.97 2025 The Rose Bargain
author: Sasha Peyton Smith
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.97
book published: 2025
rating: 3
read at: 2025/03/25
date added: 2025/03/26
shelves:
review:
� 3 stars �

What to Expect:
� Faerie Bargains
� Forbidden Love
� Marriage Competition
� Dangerous Trials
� Kissing for Practice
� Love Triangle
� Only One Bed
� Alternate History (1848 England)
� Immortal Fae Queen ruling England
� Unexpected Twists
� First Person Multi POV

This is a stunning book (I own the Fairyloot edition) that had a very intriguing premise that unfortunately I won’t be recommending.

The author had me hooked at the beginning but from there my interest started to wane. I struggled to connect with the FMC (Ivy) and I couldn’t muster up much interest for either MMC. (Also hate a love triangle.
]]> The Lost Bookshop 65137920 The Keeper of Stories meets The Lost Apothecary in this evocative and charming novel full of mystery and secrets.

‘The thing about books,� she said ‘is that they help you to imagine a life bigger and better than you could ever dream of.�

On a quiet street in Dublin, a lost bookshop is waiting to be found�

For too long, Opaline, Martha and Henry have been the side characters in their own lives.

But when a vanishing bookshop casts its spell, these three unsuspecting strangers will discover that their own stories are every bit as extraordinary as the ones found in the pages of their beloved books. And by unlocking the secrets of the shelves, they find themselves transported to a world of wonder� where nothing is as it seems.]]> 432 Evie Woods 0008609209 ✨Jܱ� 3
I get that the bookshop was magical, but there were too many things left unexplained and the parts the author did explain felt a little too far fetched to me. Especially the part about the tattoo. I really still don’t get that at all. And the author just casually drops that the MC can read minds?? Maybe the author just rushed her revelations a bit at the end and I missed something? It all somehow felt both too convenient and nonsensical. Maybe if the magical history or purpose of the book shop was more established? She pretty much only told the reader that it was reconstructed there and that people used to think it was haunted. How does it exist? What is its purpose? And who was the lady she worked for? Was that supposed to be like a ghostly Opaline? If so, why was she so cranky? I’m so lost. Oh well, on to the next book.

� � � � �

Connect with me on ]]> 4.04 2023 The Lost Bookshop
author: Evie Woods
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.04
book published: 2023
rating: 3
read at: 2023/10/19
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves:
review:
Maybe spoilers?

I get that the bookshop was magical, but there were too many things left unexplained and the parts the author did explain felt a little too far fetched to me. Especially the part about the tattoo. I really still don’t get that at all. And the author just casually drops that the MC can read minds?? Maybe the author just rushed her revelations a bit at the end and I missed something? It all somehow felt both too convenient and nonsensical. Maybe if the magical history or purpose of the book shop was more established? She pretty much only told the reader that it was reconstructed there and that people used to think it was haunted. How does it exist? What is its purpose? And who was the lady she worked for? Was that supposed to be like a ghostly Opaline? If so, why was she so cranky? I’m so lost. Oh well, on to the next book.

� � � � �

Connect with me on
]]> <![CDATA[A Tempest of Tea (Blood and Tea, #1)]]> 59406549 Why save the world when you can have tea?

On the streets of White Roaring, Arthie Casimir is a criminal mastermind and collector of secrets. Her prestigious tearoom transforms into an illegal bloodhouse by dark, catering to the vampires feared by society. But when her establishment is threatened, Arthie is forced to strike an unlikely deal with an alluring adversary to save it—and she can’t do the job alone.

Calling on some of the city's most skilled outcasts, Arthie hatches a plan to infiltrate the sinister, glittering vampire society known as the Athereum. But not everyone in her ragtag crew is on her side, and as the truth behind the heist unfolds, Arthie finds herself in the midst of a conspiracy that will threaten the world as she knows it.

From the New York Times—bestselling author of We Hunt the Flame comes the first book in a hotly anticipated fantasy duology teeming with romance and revenge, led by an orphan girl willing to do whatever it takes to save her self-made kingdom. Dark, action-packed, and swoonworthy, this is Hafsah Faizal better than ever.]]> 338 Hafsah Faizal 0374389403 ✨Jܱ� 1
This was one of the worst “popular� books I have ever read and I was truly so relieved when it ended. If this were written in first person perspective it might have been alright, but there were too many characters with completely undifferentiated character voices. I was so confused about who was who and who was speaking and even how many characters I was dealing with and none of them hooked me enough to care about their plight. I’ll be honest, I also hated We Hunt The Flame, so perhaps this author just isn’t my cup of tea. Pun intended. ]]> 3.50 2024 A Tempest of Tea (Blood and Tea, #1)
author: Hafsah Faizal
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.50
book published: 2024
rating: 1
read at: 2024/04/27
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves:
review:
Based on the premise, I was anticipating an action packed fast paced novel. I most definitely did not expect to read this absolute snooze fest of a book. With all the inane planning sessions and talk talking, you would think I would have an extremely comprehensive grasp on the plot, but she somehow lost me along the way. Now I’m not even really sure what the point was? Did they ever pull off the heist? I think I must have blacked out or disassociated at the end there and all I can say is that it was necessary for my mental health.

This was one of the worst “popular� books I have ever read and I was truly so relieved when it ended. If this were written in first person perspective it might have been alright, but there were too many characters with completely undifferentiated character voices. I was so confused about who was who and who was speaking and even how many characters I was dealing with and none of them hooked me enough to care about their plight. I’ll be honest, I also hated We Hunt The Flame, so perhaps this author just isn’t my cup of tea. Pun intended.
]]> <![CDATA[Metal Slinger (Fire & Metal, #1)]]> 213309864
Neither is the encounter with an enemy soldier.

Returning home to Alaha, s’s confronted with the aftermath of the day’s events. The future is uncertain as the threat of hunger looms over the people. With rumors of a growing rebellion, Brynn and her closest friends promise to stick together.

When an unexpected visitor arrives, Brynn’s loyalty will be tested as she learns of a world of magic and treachery. Once her enemy, always her enemy, right? But the dark, knowing eyes of a stranger make her question everything�

…including her heart.]]> 497 Rachel Schneider ✨Jܱ� 0 to-read 4.29 Metal Slinger (Fire & Metal, #1)
author: Rachel Schneider
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.29
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/23
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 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 ✨Jܱ� 0 to-read 4.41 2023 Blood Over Bright Haven
author: M.L. Wang
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.41
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/23
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Ashes & the Star-Cursed King (Crowns of Nyaxia, #2)]]> 62335396 Love is a sacrifice at the altar of power.

In the wake of the Kejari, everything Oraya once thought to be true has been destroyed. A prisoner in her own kingdom, grieving the only family she ever had, and reeling from a gutting betrayal, she no longer even knows the truth of her own blood. S’s left only with one certainty: she cannot trust anyone, least of all Raihn.

The House of Night, too, is surrounded by enemies. Raihn’s own nobles are none too eager to accept a Turned king, especially one who was once a slave. And the House of Blood digs their claws into the kingdom, threatening to tear it apart from the inside.

When Raihn offers Oraya a secret alliance, taking the deal is her only chance at reclaiming her kingdom–and gaining her vengeance against the lover who betrayed her. But to do so, she’ll need to harness a devastating ancient power, intertwined with her father’s greatest secrets.

But with enemies closing in on all sides, nothing is as it seems. As she unravels her past and faces her future, Oraya finds herself forced to choose between the bloody reality of seizing power � and the devastating love that could be her downfall.]]> 626 Carissa Broadbent ✨Jܱ� 4
What to Expect:
� Enemies-to-Lovers
� Prisoner in Her Own Kingdom
� Political Intrigue
� Warring Kingdoms
� Betrayal & Redemption
� Slow Burn
� Forced Marriage
� Vampires
� Fantasy Romance
� Duet Narration
� Dual First Person POV

This wasn’t five stars for me like the first book, but it was still a great read! The reviews for this have been very mixed and I now feel like I understand why. Simply put, this was a completely different book from book one. People who loved the trials and back-to-back action of The Serpent & the Wings of Night were likely disappointed by the plot of book two, which was much more character driven and slower paced. There was also a lot of focus on her father and unearthing the secrets he kept from her and discovering his motivations for hiding those things from her. I honestly thought this thread of the plot was bery moving and I really enjoyed the way it was written, but I imagine there was probably a large group of people who weren’t as interested in reading this portion of the plot.

Since this is a Duology and I just finished Rebel Witch, (the conclusion to another very popular enemies-to-lovers fantasy romance) I couldn’t help but compare the two. I gotta say that Kristen Ciccarelli did a much better job with the slow burn aspect of her novels. It’s a fair argument that Oraya was grieving and therefore not as focused on romance, but as a reader, much of this book felt more like a healing journey for Oraya than a romance which is maybe just not what a lot of people were hoping for.

Anyway, it probably doesn’t sound like it, but I really did like this, just playing Devil’s advocate for why it may not have been everyone’s cup of tea. I did feel like the ending was a little abrupt, so I’m glad there are other books already written in this world that I can pick up at a later date to hopefully get a little more closure. I know Oraya and Raihn won’t be the main characters, but after everything they went through, it would be nice to get a glimpse into what they’re able to accomplish together. A little nervous about what fresh Hell Carissa Broadbent might dream up to keep the series going, but we won’t think too hard on that now. ]]> 4.10 2023 The Ashes & the Star-Cursed King (Crowns of Nyaxia, #2)
author: Carissa Broadbent
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.10
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/23
date added: 2025/03/23
shelves:
review:
� 4 stars �

What to Expect:
� Enemies-to-Lovers
� Prisoner in Her Own Kingdom
� Political Intrigue
� Warring Kingdoms
� Betrayal & Redemption
� Slow Burn
� Forced Marriage
� Vampires
� Fantasy Romance
� Duet Narration
� Dual First Person POV

This wasn’t five stars for me like the first book, but it was still a great read! The reviews for this have been very mixed and I now feel like I understand why. Simply put, this was a completely different book from book one. People who loved the trials and back-to-back action of The Serpent & the Wings of Night were likely disappointed by the plot of book two, which was much more character driven and slower paced. There was also a lot of focus on her father and unearthing the secrets he kept from her and discovering his motivations for hiding those things from her. I honestly thought this thread of the plot was bery moving and I really enjoyed the way it was written, but I imagine there was probably a large group of people who weren’t as interested in reading this portion of the plot.

Since this is a Duology and I just finished Rebel Witch, (the conclusion to another very popular enemies-to-lovers fantasy romance) I couldn’t help but compare the two. I gotta say that Kristen Ciccarelli did a much better job with the slow burn aspect of her novels. It’s a fair argument that Oraya was grieving and therefore not as focused on romance, but as a reader, much of this book felt more like a healing journey for Oraya than a romance which is maybe just not what a lot of people were hoping for.

Anyway, it probably doesn’t sound like it, but I really did like this, just playing Devil’s advocate for why it may not have been everyone’s cup of tea. I did feel like the ending was a little abrupt, so I’m glad there are other books already written in this world that I can pick up at a later date to hopefully get a little more closure. I know Oraya and Raihn won’t be the main characters, but after everything they went through, it would be nice to get a glimpse into what they’re able to accomplish together. A little nervous about what fresh Hell Carissa Broadbent might dream up to keep the series going, but we won’t think too hard on that now.
]]> The Heartbreak Hotel 213015262 A bed-and-breakfast for the brokenhearted might hold the key to another chance at love in this achingly hopeful debut romance.

Louisa Walsh emerged from a tumultuous childhood with a degree in counseling, a wealthy boyfriend, and her sunny outlook on life mostly intact. But that optimism is tested when s’s dumped and left unable to afford rent on their gorgeous house in the mountains of Colorado. Even with her life in disarray, Lou knows losing the one stable place s’s ever called home is not an option.

Her plan: ask her reclusive landlord, Henry Rhodes, to let her stay for free in exchange for renting out the house’s many rooms as a bed-and-breakfast. S’s shocked when he agrees to her terms, and even more surprised to discover Henry is a handsome thirtysomething veterinarian with silver at his temples and sadness in his eyes. One who does not take it well when Lou starts marketing her B and B as a retreat for the recently heartbroken.

But as the Comeback Inn opens its doors to its weary, hopeful guests, Lou and Henry find themselves dancing around both their undeniable connection and the closely held secrets that threaten to topple this fragile new start. A chance at love, here, could be too close to home…or it could be exactly where their hearts finally heal.]]> Ellen O'Clover ✨Jܱ� 0 to-read 4.59 2025 The Heartbreak Hotel
author: Ellen O'Clover
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.59
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/20
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Eclipse of the Crown (Villains & Virtues, #3)]]> 84944828
Damien and Amma have landed themselves in the midst of Yvlcon, the preeminent congregation of the vilest and most unscrupulous villains in existence. Once again amongst his peers, Damien’s moral growth is threatened just when ’s learning to be slightly less evil. Consequently, Amma finds her own virtue in peril when faced with so much temptation, namely in the form of a domineering blood mage she can’t—or doesn’t want—to say no to.

But a burgeoning romance is doused in the coldest of baths when the Grand Order of Dread commands Damien to once again face the swirling vortex of entropy that’s been hunting them all over the realm. The coming eclipse points to devastation and destruction, and there seems to be no avoiding annihilation, prophecy being, well, prophecy, after all.

But there’s an entire fortnight before the world is supposed to end, and surely that’s enough time to find some way around it, or to at least confess one’s devotion to the other before it all burns down around them.]]> 464 A.K. Caggiano ✨Jܱ� 4
What to Expect:
� Slow Burn
� Mutual Pining
� Human x Half Demon Mage
� Magical Quest
� Opposites Attract
� Forced Proximity
� Paranormal Creatures
� Fantasy Rom-Com
� Third & Final Book
� Duet Narration
� Dual Third Person POV

This series was so fun from start to finish! The first book was probably my favorite, but not by much! Amma is meant to be the “good� one out of the two MC’s, but Damien is such a softy for Amma. It’s adorable and so endearing! ]]> 4.37 2023 Eclipse of the Crown (Villains & Virtues, #3)
author: A.K. Caggiano
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.37
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/20
date added: 2025/03/20
shelves:
review:
� 4 stars �

What to Expect:
� Slow Burn
� Mutual Pining
� Human x Half Demon Mage
� Magical Quest
� Opposites Attract
� Forced Proximity
� Paranormal Creatures
� Fantasy Rom-Com
� Third & Final Book
� Duet Narration
� Dual Third Person POV

This series was so fun from start to finish! The first book was probably my favorite, but not by much! Amma is meant to be the “good� one out of the two MC’s, but Damien is such a softy for Amma. It’s adorable and so endearing!
]]> Unsteady (The Undone, #1) 198853583
During last year’s Frozen Four, the Waterfell University hockey captain, and NHL legacy, took a brutal hit that left him with a concussion and a new discomfort on the ice. Plagued by nightmares and panic attacks every time he attempt to skate, Rhys wonders if he’ll ever play again � if he’ll ever want to.

Sadie Brown is staying focused this semester � no matter what.

Currently drowning in debt, custody hearings for her younger brothers and skating practices, she's just trying to make it to the next day. A spitfire figure skater known for her bad attitude and frequent disappearing acts, she has a reputation on campus. And it’s not a pretty one.

When she accidentally witnesses one of the golden boy hockey captain’s panic attacks and attempts to help him, a strange sort of understanding strikes up between them.

No questions asked. Just comfort.

But Rhys finds himself drawn to Sadie. Where he feels empty, a shell of the man and player he was before, Sadie is so full of everything it bursts from her; every emotion she feels seems like it’s blasted at max. Rhys is desperate to feel anything, Sadie wants to stop feeling so much.

But healing doesn’t mix with secrets, and they’re both skating a thin line, unsteady .]]> 384 Peyton Corinne ✨Jܱ� 3
What to Expect:
� He Falls First
� Hockey Player x Figure Skater
� Black Cat x Golden Retriever
� Found Family
� Alcoholic Father/Absent Mother
� Mental Health Rep
� College Romance
� Sports Romance
� Duet Narration
� Duel First Person POV

I’ve been really struggling with this review. I would describe this book as having high readability and I flew through it as a result, but there were some key details that just weren’t quite right. I liked their initial meeting, but from there, the way their relationship developed felt very rushed and left me feeling like there were deleted scenes. They spent a decent amount of time together on the ice, but it read like they were just in the same place at the same time and not really interacting or doing anything that would grow their relationship. They jumped rather abruptly into a benefits only relationship, but there is a long stretch of time where they don’t have sex so they felt pretty much like a couple from the start.

The FMC has an alcoholic father and an absentee mother, which leaves the care of her two younger brothers to her. She has an abusive coach who overtrains her and threatens repeatedly to have her removed from the team. Since this would result in the loss of her scholarship, she is desperately trying to keep it all together in the hopes that she will one day be able to formally adopt her siblings. It’s no easy task as she juggles her grades, her training schedule, and works to earn enough money to support them while also bearing the sole responsibility as caregiver for her siblings. Some of her actions were kind of frustrating, but as an oldest girl who’s practically incapable of asking for him, I can relate. ]]> 3.82 2023 Unsteady (The Undone, #1)
author: Peyton Corinne
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.82
book published: 2023
rating: 3
read at: 2025/03/18
date added: 2025/03/20
shelves:
review:
� 3 stars �

What to Expect:
� He Falls First
� Hockey Player x Figure Skater
� Black Cat x Golden Retriever
� Found Family
� Alcoholic Father/Absent Mother
� Mental Health Rep
� College Romance
� Sports Romance
� Duet Narration
� Duel First Person POV

I’ve been really struggling with this review. I would describe this book as having high readability and I flew through it as a result, but there were some key details that just weren’t quite right. I liked their initial meeting, but from there, the way their relationship developed felt very rushed and left me feeling like there were deleted scenes. They spent a decent amount of time together on the ice, but it read like they were just in the same place at the same time and not really interacting or doing anything that would grow their relationship. They jumped rather abruptly into a benefits only relationship, but there is a long stretch of time where they don’t have sex so they felt pretty much like a couple from the start.

The FMC has an alcoholic father and an absentee mother, which leaves the care of her two younger brothers to her. She has an abusive coach who overtrains her and threatens repeatedly to have her removed from the team. Since this would result in the loss of her scholarship, she is desperately trying to keep it all together in the hopes that she will one day be able to formally adopt her siblings. It’s no easy task as she juggles her grades, her training schedule, and works to earn enough money to support them while also bearing the sole responsibility as caregiver for her siblings. Some of her actions were kind of frustrating, but as an oldest girl who’s practically incapable of asking for him, I can relate.
]]> <![CDATA[Princess of Blood (The Shards of Magic, #2)]]> 218460284 Once a servant, now a princess, a young woman thrust into power challenges everything about the underground Fae realm in the next installment of Sarah Hawley's new romantasy series.

Kenna Heron is still reeling from her lover's betrayal and the threat of an impending war. With only her two closest--and most powerless--friends by her side, she must navigate the treacherous politics of Mistei while coming to terms with her new identity as not just Fae, but princess of her own house.

With the king dead, three candidates are vying for the right to wear the crown next. A princess who claims the throne as her birthright and two rebel princes, both of whom are depending on the support of Blood House to break the stalemate between them. Old loyalties fray as new, dangerous alliances form, and Kenna finds herself caught in a web of violence, deceit, and unexpected passion.

Kenna has the power to shape Mistei's future... but someone's willing to kill to make sure she never gets the chance.]]> 512 Sarah Hawley 0593818385 ✨Jܱ� 0 to-read And we have our cover!! 4.89 2025 Princess of Blood (The Shards of Magic, #2)
author: Sarah Hawley
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.89
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/19
shelves: to-read
review:
And we have our cover!!
]]> <![CDATA[The Return of the King (The Lord of the Rings, #3)]]> 61215384
The inspiration for the upcoming original series on Prime Video, The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power.

The Return of the King is the third part of J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic adventure The Lord of the Rings.

One Ring to rule them all, One Ring to find them, One Ring to bring them all and in the darkness bind them.

The Dark Lord has risen, and as he unleashes hordes of Orcs to conquer all Middle-earth, Frodo and Sam struggle deep into his realm in Mordor.

To defeat Sauron, the One Ring must be destroyed in the fires of Mount Doom. But the way is impossibly hard, and Frodo is weakening. The Ring corrupts all who bear it and Frodo’s time is running out.

Will Sam and Frodo succeed, or will the Dark Lord rule Middle-earth once more?]]> 432 J.R.R. Tolkien ✨Jܱ� 3
What to Expect:
� Love, Loyalty, & Sacrifice
� Final Book in the Trilogy
� High Fantasy
� Classic Literature
� Third Person POV

We all agree that Sam is the real hero of this story, right? Frodo schmodo. ]]> 4.67 1955 The Return of the King (The Lord of the Rings, #3)
author: J.R.R. Tolkien
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.67
book published: 1955
rating: 3
read at: 2025/03/19
date added: 2025/03/19
shelves:
review:
� 3 stars �

What to Expect:
� Love, Loyalty, & Sacrifice
� Final Book in the Trilogy
� High Fantasy
� Classic Literature
� Third Person POV

We all agree that Sam is the real hero of this story, right? Frodo schmodo.
]]> Archer's Voice 32822135
Archer's Voice is the story of a woman chained to the memory of one horrifying night and the man whose love is the key to her freedom. It is the story of a silent man who lives with an excruciating wound and the woman who helps him find his voice. It is the story of suffering, fate, and the transformative power of love.]]> 377 Mia Sheridan 1538727374 ✨Jܱ� 2
� � � � �

Connect with me on ]]> 4.14 2014 Archer's Voice
author: Mia Sheridan
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.14
book published: 2014
rating: 2
read at: 2023/04/21
date added: 2025/03/17
shelves:
review:
Solid 2 star book. Mind boggling that this book seems to be so universally loved. Storyline was somewhat original but highly predictable and the writing was mediocre at best. I can’t believe how many times she wrote the words “this man� or “my tummy.� Was this book a tik tok sensation or something? Baffled once again by the preferences of the majority.

� � � � �

Connect with me on
]]> 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 ✨Jܱ� 3
“From the very start, you had all the power. From the very start, I was in the palm of your hand.�

What to Expect:
� Diver x Swimmer
� College Sports Romance
� Swedish MMC
� Slow Burn
� Her Friend/Captain’s Ex
� He Falls First
� STEM
� Light BDSM
� Secret Romance
� Duet Narration
� First Person POV

Before diving in (pun intended), I saw quite a few negative reviews for this. I know I know, I shouldn’t have read them, but I did, and I actually think they may have improved my overall reading experience.

This book was marketed as being more on the kinky side and if you went in expecting/hoping for that, I think you would likely be disappointed. This was definitely a slow burn and it took quite a while for the characters to work out the guidelines for their sexual relationship. They each made a list of the kinks they wanted to explore, but the intimate scenes on the page felt pretty similar to every other romance I’ve read. Yes, he was in charge so it’s technically BDSM, but that’s pretty much how every alpha male in a Romantasy talks so� ]]> 3.97 2025 Deep End
author: Ali Hazelwood
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.97
book published: 2025
rating: 3
read at: 2025/03/16
date added: 2025/03/16
shelves:
review:
� 3.5 stars �

“From the very start, you had all the power. From the very start, I was in the palm of your hand.�

What to Expect:
� Diver x Swimmer
� College Sports Romance
� Swedish MMC
� Slow Burn
� Her Friend/Captain’s Ex
� He Falls First
� STEM
� Light BDSM
� Secret Romance
� Duet Narration
� First Person POV

Before diving in (pun intended), I saw quite a few negative reviews for this. I know I know, I shouldn’t have read them, but I did, and I actually think they may have improved my overall reading experience.

This book was marketed as being more on the kinky side and if you went in expecting/hoping for that, I think you would likely be disappointed. This was definitely a slow burn and it took quite a while for the characters to work out the guidelines for their sexual relationship. They each made a list of the kinks they wanted to explore, but the intimate scenes on the page felt pretty similar to every other romance I’ve read. Yes, he was in charge so it’s technically BDSM, but that’s pretty much how every alpha male in a Romantasy talks so�
]]> <![CDATA[Rebel Witch (The Crimson Moth, #2)]]> 60217777 The stakes are even higher in this epic, romantic conclusion to the New York Times bestselling Crimson Moth duology.

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; s’s now betrayed him by allying herself with 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. Now ’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 Rebel Witch, the exciting conclusion to The Crimson Moth duology, love has never been so deadly.]]> 464 Kristen Ciccarelli ✨Jܱ� 5
What to Expect:
� Enemies-to-Lovers
� Forced Proximity
� One Bed
� Witch x Witch Hunter
� Magic
� Reluctant Allies
� Slow Burn
� Mutual Pining
� Miscommunication
� Who did this to you?
� Hidden Identity
� Third Person POV

It’s official, I’m obsessed with this duology! I personally want to thank Kristen Ciccarelli for writing two amazing books and not dragging this series out with extra books or hundreds of unnecessary pages which seems to be the norm these days. I LOVED book one, but Rebel Witch was even better! This is easily my favorite witch series of all time, it’s just perfection!

This series is a true example of enemies-to-lovers, but it’s written in a way that still made Gideon Sharpe completely swoon worthy even as he repeatedly tried to unalive Rune. Every bit of the story was well plotted and made logical sense, and both of their motivations felt completely justified based on their worldview and personal experiences. I’m always nervous to read the second book in a series because they so often suffer from the syndrome, but K.C. really rose to the occasion and wrote a phenomenal book! Did I mention I love this book? ]]> 4.25 2025 Rebel Witch (The Crimson Moth, #2)
author: Kristen Ciccarelli
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.25
book published: 2025
rating: 5
read at: 2025/03/11
date added: 2025/03/16
shelves:
review:
� 4.75 stars �

What to Expect:
� Enemies-to-Lovers
� Forced Proximity
� One Bed
� Witch x Witch Hunter
� Magic
� Reluctant Allies
� Slow Burn
� Mutual Pining
� Miscommunication
� Who did this to you?
� Hidden Identity
� Third Person POV

It’s official, I’m obsessed with this duology! I personally want to thank Kristen Ciccarelli for writing two amazing books and not dragging this series out with extra books or hundreds of unnecessary pages which seems to be the norm these days. I LOVED book one, but Rebel Witch was even better! This is easily my favorite witch series of all time, it’s just perfection!

This series is a true example of enemies-to-lovers, but it’s written in a way that still made Gideon Sharpe completely swoon worthy even as he repeatedly tried to unalive Rune. Every bit of the story was well plotted and made logical sense, and both of their motivations felt completely justified based on their worldview and personal experiences. I’m always nervous to read the second book in a series because they so often suffer from the syndrome, but K.C. really rose to the occasion and wrote a phenomenal book! Did I mention I love this book?
]]> <![CDATA[Wings of Starlight (Disney Fairies)]]> 212808316 Brimming with magic and romance, a young fairy queen must form an unlikely alliance or risk an unspeakable danger destroying all she holds dear in this standalone YA novel from New York Times bestselling author Allison Saft.

It’s been centuries since a warm-season fairy in Pixie Hollow has crossed into the Winter Woods, and while most fear the legends of monsters lurking in the frozen lands, Clarion, can’t help being intrigued by Winter’s stoic beauty. But under the watchful eyes of the current monarch and the court's seasonal ministers, Clarion has little time to dwell on daydreams while the days to her coronation dwindle away.

That is, until reports of a monster crossing from Winter into Spring make their way to the palace. Clarion sees defeating this threat as an opportunity to prove that she is worthy of her new role. But instead of finding a monster at the edge of Winter, she finds Milori, a young guardian of the Winter Woods. Together, they form an unlikely bond as they race to save their lands.

But as their alliance warms to something more, they will discover there is a reason a warm-season fairy and a winter fairy must not be together. And the cost could be just as deadly as the monsters that prowl the Winter Woods.

Discover the origin of the sweeping, star-crossed romance between the queen of Pixie Hollow and the lord of the Winter Woods.]]> 400 Allison Saft 1368098452 ✨Jܱ� 4
What to Expect:
� Star-crossed Lovers
� Coming-of-Age
� Pixie Magic/Pixie Hollow
� Forbidden Love
� Self-discovery
� Invading Monsters
� Mystery/Hidden Truths
� Adventure
� Sacrifice
� Yearning
� Third Person POV

Tell me there’s a part two. ]]> 4.27 2025 Wings of Starlight (Disney Fairies)
author: Allison Saft
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.27
book published: 2025
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/12
date added: 2025/03/16
shelves:
review:
� 4.25 stars �

What to Expect:
� Star-crossed Lovers
� Coming-of-Age
� Pixie Magic/Pixie Hollow
� Forbidden Love
� Self-discovery
� Invading Monsters
� Mystery/Hidden Truths
� Adventure
� Sacrifice
� Yearning
� Third Person POV

Tell me there’s a part two.
]]> The Library of Shadows 64627957
Not literally, of course. She doesn’t believe in ghosts. Going to her dad’s school just seems like her best hope at figuring out who he was.

But then Este meets Mateo, who is maybe—probably—definitely—a real ghost. And an annoying one at that.

When Mateo frames Este for the theft of a rare book from the library’s secret spire and then vanishes, Este will have to track him down or risk being expelled and leaving Radcliffe early just like her father did.

Except following her father’s footsteps might be more dangerous than Este ever anticipated. As she investigates the library with its secret passageways, hidden tunnels, and haunted halls, she learns that the student disappearances aren’t just myth. And if she isn’t careful, she’ll be next.]]> 366 Rachel Moore ✨Jܱ� 4
What to Expect:
� Boarding School
� Haunted Library
� Century-Old Mystery
� Paranormal
� YA Romance
� Third Person POV

I thought this had a similar vibe to the show Wednesday except it was a little moodier. I honestly found the plot to be a little predictable, but I still enjoyed the ride as the mystery unfolded. I didn’t initially realize this was a YA novel so I had to recalibrate my expectations a bit in the middle. I’m mostly glad there wasn’t any ghostly intimate scenes included, but I think I might have liked a little spice at the end, and maybe Mateo’s POV?

I also think the plot would have felt a little more realistic if the school had been a college rather than a boarding school and that her dad should have played a larger role in the story. The author could easily have included more clues left by him to give the mystery a bit more complexity. Overall I really enjoyed this, but I think it could have been a bit more compelling.

I originally read this book because I saw someone reading the second book in the series, Us in Ruins, so I’m excited to start that one soon! Her cover artist is killing it!

✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　�

Pre-read: Currently crushing my reading goals! Staying caught up on reviews? Eh� not so much. ]]> 3.56 2023 The Library of Shadows
author: Rachel Moore
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.56
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/13
date added: 2025/03/16
shelves:
review:
� 3.75 stars � l

What to Expect:
� Boarding School
� Haunted Library
� Century-Old Mystery
� Paranormal
� YA Romance
� Third Person POV

I thought this had a similar vibe to the show Wednesday except it was a little moodier. I honestly found the plot to be a little predictable, but I still enjoyed the ride as the mystery unfolded. I didn’t initially realize this was a YA novel so I had to recalibrate my expectations a bit in the middle. I’m mostly glad there wasn’t any ghostly intimate scenes included, but I think I might have liked a little spice at the end, and maybe Mateo’s POV?

I also think the plot would have felt a little more realistic if the school had been a college rather than a boarding school and that her dad should have played a larger role in the story. The author could easily have included more clues left by him to give the mystery a bit more complexity. Overall I really enjoyed this, but I think it could have been a bit more compelling.

I originally read this book because I saw someone reading the second book in the series, Us in Ruins, so I’m excited to start that one soon! Her cover artist is killing it!

✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　�

Pre-read: Currently crushing my reading goals! Staying caught up on reviews? Eh� not so much.
]]> Unearthly (Unearthly, #1) 7488244 Clara Gardner has recently learned that she's part angel. Having angel blood run through her veins not only makes her smarter, stronger, and faster than humans (a word, she realizes, that no longer applies to her), but it means she has a purpose, something she was put on this earth to do. Figuring out what that is, though, isn't easy.

Her visions of a raging forest fire and an alluring stranger lead her to a new school in a new town. When she meets Christian, who turns out to be the boy of her dreams (literally), everything seems to fall into place and out of place at the same time. Because there's another guy, Tucker, who appeals to Clara's less angelic side.

As Clara tries to find her way in a world she no longer understands, she encounters unseen dangers and choices she never thought she'd have to make between honesty and deceit, love and duty, good and evil. When the fire from her vision finally ignites, will Clara be ready to face her destiny?

Unearthly is a moving tale of love and fate, and the struggle between following the rules and following your heart.]]> 435 Cynthia Hand 0061996165 ✨Jܱ� 2
What to Expect:
� Nephilim and Humans
� Love Triangle
� Secrets
� Visions
� First Love
� Fulfilling Her Purpose
� Paranormal
� YA Romance
� First Person POV

Sigh* Score one for my bank account. I guess I’ll be saving my money on this series after all. I knew going in that this was YA, but the characters and storyline were extremely juvenile in a way that just didn’t work for me. I thought a lot about whether or not I would give this a higher rating if I had been a teen when I read it, but I still think the answer would be no. It honestly felt like an older person trying hard to write from a young person perspective and missing the mark. All the name calling in particular felt very lame and annoying to me. The FMC comes to a new school and everyone calls her things like bozo/hot bozo, dork/dorkina (really?), or my favorite, “carrots,� which we as the reader are meant to find endearing (I didn’t). Most of these names were in reference to her temporarily orange hair which played a far too prominent role in the story. IYKYK.

The main thread of the plot is that the FMC is part angel and has been having visions that indicate she will soon need to fulfill her one true purpose on earth. These visions lead her and her family to pack up and move to a new state. Her mom is half angel and tells her almost nothing about her heritage so there is still a lot that could be revealed in later books, but this whole idea of “one true purpose� really bugged me because it’s just nonsensical. Her mom is over a hundred years old, but her only reason for living was to save one person? Seems like a waste of heavenly resources to me. Even if I was to buy into that, there’s nothing inherently romantic about saving someone so it seemed odd that all the characters kept pushing it as a romantic connection between Christian and the FMC. I get that the visions were somewhat romantic in nature, but she’d be expected to save him not marry him, right?

The word “love� was thrown around between two characters and I had to just roll my eyes. I wouldn’t call it insta love, but it still felt very sudden and as I said earlier, very juvenile. These were high school crushes, not true love. And no, I’m not saying an epic love story isn’t possible between high schoolers, I’m just saying that this most certainly was not that.

My final gripe was the audio. This was simply the wrong narrator choice for Clara. The voice and inflection was all wrong and didn’t sound remotely like a teenager which really threw me off. This was a flop all around honesty, but I’m awarding it an extra star simply because it’s YA and I’m not the target audience.

If you want to read bad YA Angel lit, pick up Fallen or Hush Hush, not this.

If you want to read YA Angel lit that I might even reread by choice, read White Hot Kiss or Sweet Evil. ]]> 4.01 2011 Unearthly (Unearthly, #1)
author: Cynthia Hand
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.01
book published: 2011
rating: 2
read at: 2025/03/14
date added: 2025/03/16
shelves:
review:
� 1.75 stars �

What to Expect:
� Nephilim and Humans
� Love Triangle
� Secrets
� Visions
� First Love
� Fulfilling Her Purpose
� Paranormal
� YA Romance
� First Person POV

Sigh* Score one for my bank account. I guess I’ll be saving my money on this series after all. I knew going in that this was YA, but the characters and storyline were extremely juvenile in a way that just didn’t work for me. I thought a lot about whether or not I would give this a higher rating if I had been a teen when I read it, but I still think the answer would be no. It honestly felt like an older person trying hard to write from a young person perspective and missing the mark. All the name calling in particular felt very lame and annoying to me. The FMC comes to a new school and everyone calls her things like bozo/hot bozo, dork/dorkina (really?), or my favorite, “carrots,� which we as the reader are meant to find endearing (I didn’t). Most of these names were in reference to her temporarily orange hair which played a far too prominent role in the story. IYKYK.

The main thread of the plot is that the FMC is part angel and has been having visions that indicate she will soon need to fulfill her one true purpose on earth. These visions lead her and her family to pack up and move to a new state. Her mom is half angel and tells her almost nothing about her heritage so there is still a lot that could be revealed in later books, but this whole idea of “one true purpose� really bugged me because it’s just nonsensical. Her mom is over a hundred years old, but her only reason for living was to save one person? Seems like a waste of heavenly resources to me. Even if I was to buy into that, there’s nothing inherently romantic about saving someone so it seemed odd that all the characters kept pushing it as a romantic connection between Christian and the FMC. I get that the visions were somewhat romantic in nature, but she’d be expected to save him not marry him, right?

The word “love� was thrown around between two characters and I had to just roll my eyes. I wouldn’t call it insta love, but it still felt very sudden and as I said earlier, very juvenile. These were high school crushes, not true love. And no, I’m not saying an epic love story isn’t possible between high schoolers, I’m just saying that this most certainly was not that.

My final gripe was the audio. This was simply the wrong narrator choice for Clara. The voice and inflection was all wrong and didn’t sound remotely like a teenager which really threw me off. This was a flop all around honesty, but I’m awarding it an extra star simply because it’s YA and I’m not the target audience.

If you want to read bad YA Angel lit, pick up Fallen or Hush Hush, not this.

If you want to read YA Angel lit that I might even reread by choice, read White Hot Kiss or Sweet Evil.
]]> Freeing Luka (Clecanian, #2) 54217084
It’s just Alice’s luck that when she finally begins to get her life on track, s’s kidnapped by reptilian creatures and forced into a cell with a fierce incoherent alien for some kind of breeding experiment.

Even though they aren’t able to communicate, Alice and Luka find solace in each other’s company. As the days drag on, it becomes harder to keep her heart locked away, until she can’t help but wonder what a life with Luka might look like outside their dark prison. When an opportunity to free herself, Luka, and the other human prisoners presents itself, Alice takes it.

Once free, can Alice and Luka’s tenuous relationship survive on this planet? Will the evil men that held them prisoner ever see justice? And can they play a part in the rescue of the other women being held captive around this strange new world? Alice knows only one thing for certain—her life will never be the same again.]]> 368 Victoria Aveline ✨Jܱ� 4
The story lines are cheesy as hell and I can’t claim that the writing is particularly good, but I am eating these up. The only explanation I can give is that the author has tapped into some secret fantasy I didn’t even know I had. These grumpy men are bizarrely perfect and apparently I am fully on board with someone acting like a possessive caveman if it means they’re obsessed with me. (obviously I’m always the main character ]]> 3.78 2020 Freeing Luka (Clecanian, #2)
author: Victoria Aveline
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.78
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2024/05/29
date added: 2025/03/16
shelves:
review:
My love for this series transcends all reason.

The story lines are cheesy as hell and I can’t claim that the writing is particularly good, but I am eating these up. The only explanation I can give is that the author has tapped into some secret fantasy I didn’t even know I had. These grumpy men are bizarrely perfect and apparently I am fully on board with someone acting like a possessive caveman if it means they’re obsessed with me. (obviously I’m always the main character
]]> The Book Swap 203800257 “A love letter to books and reading. This debut is catnip for any book geek. I just loved it.� —Cesca Major, author of Maybe Next Time, a Reese’s Book Club Pick

A story of second chances and new beginnings, this is a love letter to books—and a love letter to life

Still reeling from a recent tragedy, Erin Connolly knows she needs to start living, but has no idea how. When she accidentally donates her favorite book—a heavily annotated copy of To Kill a Mockingbird containing a memento she can’t be without—to a local little community library, s’s devastated. But then the book turns up a week later, back in the library with fresh notes in the margins, along with an invitation in a copy of Great Expectations to meet her newfound pen pal.

A life-changing conversation, written only in the margins of beloved classic books, begins between Erin and her Mystery Man. Following each other through the pages of their favorite novels as the book exchange continues, they both begin to open up, falling into a friendship…and maybe something more.

But Erin and her pen pal have a shared history that neither of them has guessed. Faced with painful reminders of the past—and the one person she swore never to forgive—Erin finds herself at a crossroads. One that could change her life forever.

A book-lovers dream! References to the following classics can be found in The Book Swap:
� TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD
� GREAT EXPECTATIONS
� WUTHERING HEIGHTS
� MANSFIELD PARK
� THE GREAT GATSBY
� MIDDLEMARCH
� BELOVED
� ON THE ROAD
� THE BELL JAR]]> 336 Tessa Bickers 1525836706 ✨Jܱ� 2
What to Expect:
� Second Chance
� Personal Growth & Self-Discovery
� Complex Family Dynamics
� Flashbacks/Ghostly Visions
� Trauma from Childhood Bullying
� Familial Guilt
� Grief & Loss
� Terminal Illness
� Mental Illness
� Romance Subplot
� Duet Audio
� Dual First Person POV

My biggest issue with this book is that the cover does not match the book. At face value, I was expecting a cute rom-com for book lovers and what I got instead was a never ending stream of heavy topics with a side of romance. The sheer number of difficult topics frankly made my head spin and the writing felt disjointed as the author jumped from one to the next.

The timeline isn’t completely linear and there are some flashbacks included, but there are also portions of the book where the FMC had conversations with her deceased best friend in the present as if she was still alive and sitting next to her in her flat. I often struggled to understand if a given scene was in the past or present in these instances. Her delusions are so complete that she can physically see her sitting in the chair beside her. This bothered me a bit because the MMC’s mother had some pretty severe mental health issues so you would think the author would have at least included therapy for the FMC along with all of her other serious topics, but she chose to write her visions like magical realism instead.

The whole time I was reading I wondered what in the world the MMC could have done that would have been so bad, but yea that was pretty bad. Somewhat understandable, but bad. The made for tv bullies in this book are awful, but still, that would be hard to forgive especially because that decision would have had a long lasting impact on her life and her family. As far as his guilt over his dad’s career choice goes? That logic was pretty thin in my opinion. If his mom had bullied him and blamed him for being born all his life, I guess it’s possible he would feel that way, but it seems excessive.

Maybe I would have had a better time with this if I had a more realistic idea of what to expect going in, but then again, maybe I wouldn’t have picked it up at all. ]]> 3.57 2024 The Book Swap
author: Tessa Bickers
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.57
book published: 2024
rating: 2
read at: 2025/03/15
date added: 2025/03/16
shelves:
review:
� 2.5 stars �

What to Expect:
� Second Chance
� Personal Growth & Self-Discovery
� Complex Family Dynamics
� Flashbacks/Ghostly Visions
� Trauma from Childhood Bullying
� Familial Guilt
� Grief & Loss
� Terminal Illness
� Mental Illness
� Romance Subplot
� Duet Audio
� Dual First Person POV

My biggest issue with this book is that the cover does not match the book. At face value, I was expecting a cute rom-com for book lovers and what I got instead was a never ending stream of heavy topics with a side of romance. The sheer number of difficult topics frankly made my head spin and the writing felt disjointed as the author jumped from one to the next.

The timeline isn’t completely linear and there are some flashbacks included, but there are also portions of the book where the FMC had conversations with her deceased best friend in the present as if she was still alive and sitting next to her in her flat. I often struggled to understand if a given scene was in the past or present in these instances. Her delusions are so complete that she can physically see her sitting in the chair beside her. This bothered me a bit because the MMC’s mother had some pretty severe mental health issues so you would think the author would have at least included therapy for the FMC along with all of her other serious topics, but she chose to write her visions like magical realism instead.

The whole time I was reading I wondered what in the world the MMC could have done that would have been so bad, but yea that was pretty bad. Somewhat understandable, but bad. The made for tv bullies in this book are awful, but still, that would be hard to forgive especially because that decision would have had a long lasting impact on her life and her family. As far as his guilt over his dad’s career choice goes? That logic was pretty thin in my opinion. If his mom had bullied him and blamed him for being born all his life, I guess it’s possible he would feel that way, but it seems excessive.

Maybe I would have had a better time with this if I had a more realistic idea of what to expect going in, but then again, maybe I wouldn’t have picked it up at all.
]]> <![CDATA[Smoke and Scar (Shattered Crown, #1)]]> 221866459 Birthed in shadow. Forged in fire.

A Splintered Kingdom

An ancient grudge has kept humans and the magical races of Arcanis at odds for centuries. The Arcane Crucible, a legendary series of trials that occurs every 25 years, offers a chance for peace.

A Haunted Warrior

Elyria Lightbreaker, once a celebrated fae war hero, is a shadow of her former self. Drowning in grief after losing the man she loved to the previous Crucible, now she must rise to stop his sister from falling to the same fate.

A Vengeful Knight

Hardened by loss and fueled by hate, Cedric Thorne’s lifelong goal to conquer the Crucible on humanity’s behalf is finally within reach. The only problem? Getting through the trials alive means working with Elyria—the very fae he blames for his parents� deaths.

An Unwinnable Challenge

With alliances fragile as spun glass and betrayal lurking at every turn, Elyria and Cedric must navigate deadly trials that test their strength, spirit, and magic� as well as their increasingly complex feelings for each other.

This is the Arcane Crucible.]]> 466 Gretchen Powell Fox 0988468921 ✨Jܱ� 0 to-read 4.55 Smoke and Scar (Shattered Crown, #1)
author: Gretchen Powell Fox
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.55
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/15
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Nine Month Contract (Mountain Men Matchmaker, #1)]]> 219655872 “A hilariously fresh and spicy rom-com that I couldn’t put down!� -Meghan Quinn, USA Today Bestselling Author

Help Wanted: Grumpy mountain man seeks baby momma. Job is an incubator position only. Surrogate must be impervious to grunting as the form of communication and nosy brotherly neighbors. Rustic mountain range housing available upon request.

I wanted to pummel my irritating brothers when they posted their own version of a wanted ad to help me with my life.

But I can’t fault the results once the right woman lands in my lap.

Becoming a single father is not a decision I made lightly. In fact, it’s the biggest decision of my entire life.

Which is why when I interview Trista, I know s’s perfect.

S’s wild, s’s opinionated, she wears cowboy boots. Even my pet goat loves her�

S’s the exact type of person I was holding out for.

And to my great horror, I realize on our first night of attempting this baby-making dance—when the lights are low, the cheap wine is flowing and the home-insemination supplies are laid out on the kitchen counter—I want to do a lot more than just make her my surrogate.

I want to make her mine.

Perfect for fans of:
� Grumpy/Sunshine
� Small Town Romance
� Age Gap
� Curvy FMC
� Meghan Quinn and Tessa Bailey]]> 358 Amy Daws ✨Jܱ� 0 to-read 3.94 2024 Nine Month Contract (Mountain Men Matchmaker, #1)
author: Amy Daws
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.94
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/14
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Is She Really Going Out with Him?]]> 208894884
Columnist Anna Appleby has left her love life behind after a painful divorce. Who needs a man when she has two kids, a cat, and uncontested control of the TV remote? Besides, she’d rather be single than subject herself to the hell of online dating. But her office rival is vying for her column, and no column means no stable source of income. In a desperate attempt to keep her job, Anna finds herself pitching a unique angle: seven dates, all found offline, chosen by her children.

From awkward encounters to unexpected connections, Anna gamely begins to put herself out there, asking out waiters, the mailman, and even her celebrity crush. But when a romantic connection appears where she least expected it, will she be brave enough to take another chance on love?]]> 368 Sophie Cousens 0593718909 ✨Jܱ� 0 to-read 4.12 2024 Is She Really Going Out with Him?
author: Sophie Cousens
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.12
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/13
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Wedding Dashers 212294464 After a case of mistaken identity and an almost one-night stand, two stranded wedding guests have to find their way to their final destination together, in this riotously fun debut romance.

Ada’s little sister is getting married. Which should be a happy thought, right? But the once close sisters have been in a year long fight, the wedding is all the way in Ireland, and Ada is so broke that she just barely managed to get a ticket on a budget airline. And as if things couldn’t get worse, said airline just cancelled her connection. Which means Ada is stuck in London with no way to make it to the wedding.

Surely s’s hit rock bottom?

So, there’s no reason for her not to spill her heart out about the over-the-top wedding, her sister’s worryingly quick engagement, and the womanizing best man s’s dreading meeting to a handsome also-stranded stranger at the bar. Until she realizes the stranger is headed to the same wedding. Oh, and ’s the infamous best man.

Now, Jack and Ada must put their simmering attraction behind them to make it to Belfast before they miss the nuptials. But between flat tires, missed trains, and suspect hostels, Jack and Ada start to question whether their feelings are worth going the distance, or just a distracting detour along the way.]]> 400 Heather McBreen 0593817621 ✨Jܱ� 0 to-read 3.92 2025 Wedding Dashers
author: Heather McBreen
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.92
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/13
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Unfortunate Side Effects of Heartbreak and Magic]]> 75532088 For fans of Practical Magic and Gilmore Girls, The Unfortunate Side Effects of Heartbreak and Magic is a debut novel that explores the shields we build around our hearts to retain our own magic.

Sadie Revelare has always believed that the curse of four heartbreaks that accompanies her magic would be worth the price. But when her grandmother is diagnosed with cancer with only weeks to live, and her first heartbreak, Jake McNealy, returns to town after a decade, her carefully structured life begins to unravel.

With the news of their grandmother's impending death, Sadie's estranged twin brother Seth returns to town, bringing with him deeply buried family secrets that threaten to tear Sadie's world apart. Their grandmother has been the backbone of the family for generations, and with her death, Sadie isn't sure she'll have the strength to keep the family, and her magic, together.

As feelings for Jake begin to rekindle, and her grandmother growing sicker by the day, Sadie faces the last of her heartbreaks, and she has to decide: is love more important than magic?

Readers who love the magic of The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake and the sense of community found in The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches will enjoy this warm, witchy novel.]]> 322 Breanne Randall 1639105735 ✨Jܱ� 1 3.16 2023 The Unfortunate Side Effects of Heartbreak and Magic
author: Breanne Randall
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.16
book published: 2023
rating: 1
read at: 2023/11/29
date added: 2025/03/12
shelves:
review:
This book somehow managed to do way too much and not enough in equal measure. If you want an author who quotes frozen lyrics non ironically and thinks collectible spoons are peak romance, this is the book for you.
]]> <![CDATA[Summoned to the Wilds (Villains & Virtues, #2)]]> 63852823
Lady Ammalie Avington, Baroness of Faebarrow, has discovered the truth, and it should not come as a surprise: the blood mage who threatened, spellbound, and abducted her intends to bring ruin to the realm--the very one she is sworn to serve. It's just a terribly inconvenient fact to learn because, well...he's rather cute.

But it's not safe to pine after the son of a demon, especially not whilst locked up in a tower surrounded by infernal beings and a rival for your affection, nor trapped below ground in a den of beguiling vampires, nor even in the heart of a wild jungle under the tutelage of esoteric witches. Amma just can't help herself around Damien Maleficus Bloodthorne, danger be damned, but, truly, what danger is there? Damien's heart, the one he swears to not have, has been softening right before her eyes. Nevermind the weird smoke that sometimes unwittingly emanates from his hands or that faraway look he gets to his eyes, and a voice she can't hear telling him that he's meant to be a vessel? Surely it's all just a bad dream.

After finally tasting freedom and learning that Amma may have ancient, innate magical powers of her own, why not use them to do exactly as she pleases?]]> 428 A.K. Caggiano ✨Jܱ� 4
What to Expect:
� Slow Burn
� Mutual Pining
� Human x Half Demon Mage
� Magical Quest
� Opposites Attract
� Forced Proximity
� Vampires, Fae, etc.
� Fantasy Rom-Com
� Third Person Multi POV

I love Damien and Amma! I enjoyed this one almost as much as the first, but the first half felt a little dry. In this genre, the comedy ratio is so important and the beginning felt a little too serious which had me worried that this might be headed for a lower rating. Thankfully it picked up and the second half mostly made up for it. Her teaching the Fae how to have fun in the snow was my personal favorite. ]]> 4.31 Summoned to the Wilds (Villains & Virtues, #2)
author: A.K. Caggiano
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.31
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/09
date added: 2025/03/09
shelves:
review:
� 3.85 stars �

What to Expect:
� Slow Burn
� Mutual Pining
� Human x Half Demon Mage
� Magical Quest
� Opposites Attract
� Forced Proximity
� Vampires, Fae, etc.
� Fantasy Rom-Com
� Third Person Multi POV

I love Damien and Amma! I enjoyed this one almost as much as the first, but the first half felt a little dry. In this genre, the comedy ratio is so important and the beginning felt a little too serious which had me worried that this might be headed for a lower rating. Thankfully it picked up and the second half mostly made up for it. Her teaching the Fae how to have fun in the snow was my personal favorite.
]]> Out of the Woods 209220944
But Sarah has begun to wonder... Who is she without her other half?

When she decides to take on a project of her own, a fundraising gala in memoriam of her late mother, Sarah wants nothing more than to prove to herself—and to everyone else—that she doesn’t need Caleb’s help to succeed. S’s still her mother’s daughter, after all. Independent and capable.

That is until the event fails and Caleb uninvitedly steps in to save the day.

The rift that follows unearths a decade of grievances between them and doubts begin to grow. Are they truly the same people they were when they got married at nineteen? Are they supposed to be?

In a desperate attempt to fix what they fear is near breaking, Sarah and Caleb make the spontaneous decision to join a grueling hiking trip intended to guide couples through rough patches.

What follows is a life-affirming comedy of errors as two nature-averse people fight their way out of the woods in order to find their way back to their roots.]]> 336 Hannah Bonam-Young 0593871863 ✨Jܱ� 3
What to Expect:
� Marital Rut
� High School Sweethearts
� Wilderness Retreat
� Grief
� Self Discovery
� Forced Proximity
� Dual Timeline
� Interconnected Standalone
� First Person POV

“If you give me the space to grow, I’ll plant myself next to you. Always.�

I adore HBY and will sing her praises forever, but I honestly didn’t love this as much as I hoped I would. I really struggled with the FMC and felt that her whole vibe was pretty ungrateful, especially at the beginning. Oh� so your trust fund baby husband who loves you unconditionally and would do anything for you wrote a check to help you save face and protect you from failure? Poor you. She has every right to want to grow and change, but I was really bothered that she even insinuated that this event could be grounds for divorce when she had nothing but good things to say about him otherwise. He was clearly a very supportive cinnamon roll of a man who I’m frankly not sure she even deserves.

Maybe it was the single girl in me that caused such a strong reaction, but she should be counting her blessings every single day to have someone like Caleb in her corner. Why would it bother her for him to refer to the event as theirs vs. hers? Are they not partners in all things as husband and wife? Just a really weird basis for a “marital rut� that kind of spoiled the rest of the story for me. Caleb was perfect and all the stars are for him. I did also enjoy their easy banter that can only be the result of knowing and loving someone for so many years. It was kind of fun to read about a married couple for a change, but the plot needed some major tweaks to truly win me over.

“I can’t feel my legs.�
Caleb leans in close.� What do you want me to do about it? Roll you?�
“Roll me to our tent?� I scoff. “You thought of rolling me before carrying me?�
“Carrying you would be a little obvious,� he says, shrugging. “If you don’t want people to notice.�
“But rolling me wouldn’t?!�

✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　�

Pre-read: should I just go ahead and rate this 5 stars? Or�

Another HBY?! Heck ya!! Take my money ]]> 4.02 2025 Out of the Woods
author: Hannah Bonam-Young
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.02
book published: 2025
rating: 3
read at: 2025/02/28
date added: 2025/03/09
shelves:
review:
� 3 stars �

What to Expect:
� Marital Rut
� High School Sweethearts
� Wilderness Retreat
� Grief
� Self Discovery
� Forced Proximity
� Dual Timeline
� Interconnected Standalone
� First Person POV

“If you give me the space to grow, I’ll plant myself next to you. Always.�

I adore HBY and will sing her praises forever, but I honestly didn’t love this as much as I hoped I would. I really struggled with the FMC and felt that her whole vibe was pretty ungrateful, especially at the beginning. Oh� so your trust fund baby husband who loves you unconditionally and would do anything for you wrote a check to help you save face and protect you from failure? Poor you. She has every right to want to grow and change, but I was really bothered that she even insinuated that this event could be grounds for divorce when she had nothing but good things to say about him otherwise. He was clearly a very supportive cinnamon roll of a man who I’m frankly not sure she even deserves.

Maybe it was the single girl in me that caused such a strong reaction, but she should be counting her blessings every single day to have someone like Caleb in her corner. Why would it bother her for him to refer to the event as theirs vs. hers? Are they not partners in all things as husband and wife? Just a really weird basis for a “marital rut� that kind of spoiled the rest of the story for me. Caleb was perfect and all the stars are for him. I did also enjoy their easy banter that can only be the result of knowing and loving someone for so many years. It was kind of fun to read about a married couple for a change, but the plot needed some major tweaks to truly win me over.

“I can’t feel my legs.�
Caleb leans in close.� What do you want me to do about it? Roll you?�
“Roll me to our tent?� I scoff. “You thought of rolling me before carrying me?�
“Carrying you would be a little obvious,� he says, shrugging. “If you don’t want people to notice.�
“But rolling me wouldn’t?!�

✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　�

Pre-read: should I just go ahead and rate this 5 stars? Or�

Another HBY?! Heck ya!! Take my money
]]> <![CDATA[Something Wicked (Idle Reputations, #1)]]> 223854848 From the beloved USA Today bestselling author Falon Ballard comes a seductive romantasy that blends Macbeth and Moulin Rouge! into a hypnotic saga of sex, love, and murder.

The country of Avon is in deep turmoil. The Uprising has overthrown Avon's monarchial rulers, and a decree has been issued. Candidates for the first presidential election will be selected by the completion of a special to kill the former monarch of their home province.

Callum, the son of the recently dethroned king, is determined to be in the running. But to do so, he must come to terms with killing his father, the key to which lies in the hands of Lady Caterine, a Gifted courtesan at La Puissance, Avon’s premiere sex club.

Lady Caterine has always had the magical ability to manipulate the emotions of anyone who experiences an orgasm in her presence. If Callum can only open up to Cate, he will be able to commit the newly fated murder without suffering the guilt and take his place as the rightful candidate from his province. But Callum has a deep-seated mistrust of the Gifted. And the last thing he expects is to be confronted with an undeniable connection with Cate that neither of them understands, nor wants.

With the fate of the country at stake, Callum and Cate search for ways to bare themselves to each other, and discover a darker force building within La Puissance, one that might ruin the future of Avon for good.To stop Avon from violently falling to ashes, they must sacrifice everything they have . . . even if it requires betraying each other.]]> 384 Falon Ballard 0593854675 ✨Jܱ� 0 to-read 3.40 Something Wicked (Idle Reputations, #1)
author: Falon Ballard
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.40
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/09
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[An Honored Vow (The Halfling Saga, #4)]]> 210721284 “Your land is not the one you take, it is the one you die for.� Still reeling over her discovery of a staggering secret about her closest ally, Keera has no time to rest. She and her fellow rebels plan a desperate rescue mission after King Damien takes one of their own hostage. Opening the kingdom’s magical seals has transformed Keera in ways even the wisest Fae elders could not have anticipated. With the kingdom’s Halfling population suddenly posing a risk to the crown, the land is plunged into violence as the king begins a new blood purge. Keera and her allies gather an army to meet Damien’s forces in a final confrontation of epic, and tragic, proportions. The epic final installment in the Halfling Saga will thrill fans of Melissa Blair’s lush, action-packed, romantasy series.]]> 480 Melissa Blair 1454954949 ✨Jܱ� 1
What to Expect:
� Fae, Elves, Halflings & Mortals
� Evil King
� Magic
� Training
� Found Family
� Kingdom at War
� 4th & Final Book
� First Person POV

This was boring as hell and should have been a DNF. I firmly believe that book three and four should have been significantly edited and condensed into one book. Almost nothing happens in this book until the 70% mark and I’m shocked that I made it that far. There is way too much focus on side characters with zero personality that I frankly do not care about. Gerarda in particular was mentioned endlessly and added almost nothing to the story.

I’m pretty sure I said this after finishing book three, but this series desperately needed a few funny characters for comedic relief. I get that war is serious but this was such a dull read. Also, where the heck was Riven?! He’s barely in this book at all and they spend zero time building their relationship or sorting out their issues.

This is a spoiler so turn away now if you don’t want to know, but at the end, Keera says she needs a year to go find herself and leaves Riven to pick up the pieces and build the kingdom on his own. I’ve seen other readers applauding this decision but this is such a cop out in my opinion. If you’re in a relationship with someone, you don’t just get to run off on your own. You work through things together and support each other. At this point, I honestly hope she never comes back and that Riven finds someone who is deserving of him. Such a selfish choice.

I hate not finishing a series, but this one should have been left unread.

✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　�

Pre-read: The third book was honestly pretty disappointing, but I feel compelled to finish out the series. Hopefully I’ll be able to drum up some interest in these characters this time around. ]]> 3.98 2025 An Honored Vow (The Halfling Saga, #4)
author: Melissa Blair
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.98
book published: 2025
rating: 1
read at: 2025/03/07
date added: 2025/03/08
shelves:
review:
� 1 star �

What to Expect:
� Fae, Elves, Halflings & Mortals
� Evil King
� Magic
� Training
� Found Family
� Kingdom at War
� 4th & Final Book
� First Person POV

This was boring as hell and should have been a DNF. I firmly believe that book three and four should have been significantly edited and condensed into one book. Almost nothing happens in this book until the 70% mark and I’m shocked that I made it that far. There is way too much focus on side characters with zero personality that I frankly do not care about. Gerarda in particular was mentioned endlessly and added almost nothing to the story.

I’m pretty sure I said this after finishing book three, but this series desperately needed a few funny characters for comedic relief. I get that war is serious but this was such a dull read. Also, where the heck was Riven?! He’s barely in this book at all and they spend zero time building their relationship or sorting out their issues.

This is a spoiler so turn away now if you don’t want to know, but at the end, Keera says she needs a year to go find herself and leaves Riven to pick up the pieces and build the kingdom on his own. I’ve seen other readers applauding this decision but this is such a cop out in my opinion. If you’re in a relationship with someone, you don’t just get to run off on your own. You work through things together and support each other. At this point, I honestly hope she never comes back and that Riven finds someone who is deserving of him. Such a selfish choice.

I hate not finishing a series, but this one should have been left unread.

✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　�

Pre-read: The third book was honestly pretty disappointing, but I feel compelled to finish out the series. Hopefully I’ll be able to drum up some interest in these characters this time around.
]]> <![CDATA[First-Time Caller (Heartstrings, #1)]]> 213243908 A hopeless romantic meets a jaded radio host in this cozy, Sleepless in Seattle-inspired love story from beloved author B.K. Borison.

Aiden Valentine has a secret: he's fallen out of love with love. And as the host of Baltimore's romance hotline, that's a bit of a problem. But when a young girl calls in to the station asking for dating advice for her mom, the interview goes viral, thrusting Aiden and Heartstrings into the limelight.

Lucie Stone thought she was doing just fine. She has a good job; an incredible family; and a smart, slightly devious kid. But when all of Baltimore is suddenly scrutinizing her love life-or lack thereof—she begins to question if she's as happy as she thought. Maybe a little more romance wouldn't be such a bad thing.

Everyone wants Lucie to find her happy ending... even the handsome, temperamental man calling the shots. But when sparks start to fly behind the scenes, Lucie must make the final call between the radio-sponsored happily ever after or the man in the headphones next to her.]]> 448 B.K. Borison 0593641191 ✨Jܱ� 5
What to Expect:
� Slow Burn
� Forced Proximity
� Workplace Romance
� Opposites Attract
� Grumpy x Sunshine
� Single Mom
� Radio Cohosts
� Romantic x Commitment Phobe
� Sleepless in Seattle Inspired
� Duet Narration
� Dual First Person POV

Now this is a romance for the romantics! ]]> 4.10 2025 First-Time Caller (Heartstrings, #1)
author: B.K. Borison
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.10
book published: 2025
rating: 5
read at: 2025/03/06
date added: 2025/03/07
shelves:
review:
� 5 stars �

What to Expect:
� Slow Burn
� Forced Proximity
� Workplace Romance
� Opposites Attract
� Grumpy x Sunshine
� Single Mom
� Radio Cohosts
� Romantic x Commitment Phobe
� Sleepless in Seattle Inspired
� Duet Narration
� Dual First Person POV

Now this is a romance for the romantics!
]]> <![CDATA[Blood & Steel (The Legends of Thezmarr, #1)]]> 63905241
Women are forbidden to wield blades, so she has trained in secret her entire life. Now racing against the clock, she fights to secure her place in the elite guild charged with the protection of the five kingdoms.

The sparring and hazing of the new trainees border on deadly, but even more dangerous is her growing attraction to Wilder Hawthorne, her unwilling warrior chaperone.

All around them, schemes are afoot and darkness looms.

Will Althea pass the perilous initiation test and take her place as a champion of Thezmarr � or will the invading evil snatch away her dream before it starts?]]> 550 Helen Scheuerer 1922903027 ✨Jܱ� 3
What to Expect:
� Forced Proximity
� Slow Burn
� Race Against Fate
� Mentor x Mentee
� Found Family
� Warrior Training Camp
� Who Did This to You?
� Forbidden Love
� Third Person Multi POV

Have you even finished a book and felt like you must have missed something?

This book has been recommended to me by SO many people, both friends and strangers, but I honestly struggled to even finish this. The whole format of the story felt super predictable, and most of the time I just felt like I was going through the motions. The slow burn was there, and in theory I should have been into it, but the intimate scenes would come and go and I could barely drudge up even a spark of interest. Based on the ending, the author clearly plans to drag out the slow burn and their denial of their mutual feelings. At this point, I’m pretty worried the next books will just feel like more of the same. There’s only one way to find out and I do still plan to read them, but I’m pretty bummed that I don’t feel more excited about starting book two. Still optimistic that the rest of the series will be better!

✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　�

Pre-read: I’m excited to read Iron & Embers since the character art I’ve seen of the MMC so closely resembles Thor ]]> 4.20 2023 Blood & Steel (The Legends of Thezmarr, #1)
author: Helen Scheuerer
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.20
book published: 2023
rating: 3
read at: 2025/03/04
date added: 2025/03/07
shelves:
review:
� 3 stars �

What to Expect:
� Forced Proximity
� Slow Burn
� Race Against Fate
� Mentor x Mentee
� Found Family
� Warrior Training Camp
� Who Did This to You?
� Forbidden Love
� Third Person Multi POV

Have you even finished a book and felt like you must have missed something?

This book has been recommended to me by SO many people, both friends and strangers, but I honestly struggled to even finish this. The whole format of the story felt super predictable, and most of the time I just felt like I was going through the motions. The slow burn was there, and in theory I should have been into it, but the intimate scenes would come and go and I could barely drudge up even a spark of interest. Based on the ending, the author clearly plans to drag out the slow burn and their denial of their mutual feelings. At this point, I’m pretty worried the next books will just feel like more of the same. There’s only one way to find out and I do still plan to read them, but I’m pretty bummed that I don’t feel more excited about starting book two. Still optimistic that the rest of the series will be better!

✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　�

Pre-read: I’m excited to read Iron & Embers since the character art I’ve seen of the MMC so closely resembles Thor
]]> Manacled 52122096
Fanfiction for Harry Potter by J. K. Rowling.
Words: 370,256]]> 925 SenLinYu ✨Jܱ� 5
WOW!! This was an absolute masterpiece and is so deserving of all the praise it has received. I am completely blown away and cannot stop talking about Manacled to literally anyone who will listen. This was my first experience reading fan fiction and I am amazed by how spectacular this was. ]]> 4.64 2019 Manacled
author: SenLinYu
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.64
book published: 2019
rating: 5
read at: 2024/05/05
date added: 2025/03/07
shelves:
review:
‘Her hand pressed against her stomach, and she gave a low sob. “I don’t want to choose.� Her voice was rasping, and it hurt to speak. “I always have to choose, and I never get to choose you. I’m so tired of not getting to choose you.�

WOW!! This was an absolute masterpiece and is so deserving of all the praise it has received. I am completely blown away and cannot stop talking about Manacled to literally anyone who will listen. This was my first experience reading fan fiction and I am amazed by how spectacular this was.
]]> The Blue Castle 37829640 236 L.M. Montgomery ✨Jܱ� 4
What to Expect:
� Self-Discovery
� Live Like You’re Dying
� Romance Subplot
� Slow Burn
� Overbearing Parents
� Secret Identity
� Forced Proximity
� Marriage Arrangement
� Standalone
� Canadian Classic
� Third Person POV

At the age of 29, Valancy’s unmarried status and lack of marital prospects has already earned her the label of spinster in the late 1920s. She lives a drab repetitive life in her family home where she is never allowed to truly choose anything for herself. Her days are planned out for her from the moment she wakes up and she isn’t even allowed the freedom to decorate her own room. She is miserable and feels stuck. S’s also been experiencing heart pains that she knows she needs to consult with a doctor about. Her birthday provides the perfect opportunity to sneak away, but unfortunately, the news the doctor has to share is dire. He tells Valancy that she likely only has a few months to year left to live. She is devastated by the news, but the knowledge that she is going to die inspires her to truly live for once. I loved joining Valancy on her journey of self-discovery as her confidence grew and she learned to say no to her family and yes to life. There is a romance subplot that initially felt very unromantic, but we do get a grand gesture in the end! Gonna leave it at that to not give away too much of the plot.

✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　�

Pre-read: Classic pick for February! ]]> 4.34 1926 The Blue Castle
author: L.M. Montgomery
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.34
book published: 1926
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/20
date added: 2025/03/07
shelves:
review:
� 4 stars �

What to Expect:
� Self-Discovery
� Live Like You’re Dying
� Romance Subplot
� Slow Burn
� Overbearing Parents
� Secret Identity
� Forced Proximity
� Marriage Arrangement
� Standalone
� Canadian Classic
� Third Person POV

At the age of 29, Valancy’s unmarried status and lack of marital prospects has already earned her the label of spinster in the late 1920s. She lives a drab repetitive life in her family home where she is never allowed to truly choose anything for herself. Her days are planned out for her from the moment she wakes up and she isn’t even allowed the freedom to decorate her own room. She is miserable and feels stuck. S’s also been experiencing heart pains that she knows she needs to consult with a doctor about. Her birthday provides the perfect opportunity to sneak away, but unfortunately, the news the doctor has to share is dire. He tells Valancy that she likely only has a few months to year left to live. She is devastated by the news, but the knowledge that she is going to die inspires her to truly live for once. I loved joining Valancy on her journey of self-discovery as her confidence grew and she learned to say no to her family and yes to life. There is a romance subplot that initially felt very unromantic, but we do get a grand gesture in the end! Gonna leave it at that to not give away too much of the plot.

✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　�

Pre-read: Classic pick for February!
]]> <![CDATA[Fear the Flames (Fear the Flames, #1)]]> 203956681 NATIONAL BESTSELLER � An exiled princess teams up with the last man she thought she could trust in the start of a dazzling and unforgettable epic fantasy romance series.

As a child, Elowen Atarah was ripped away from her dragons and imprisoned by her father, King Garrick of Imirath. Years later, Elowen is now a woman determined to free her dragons. Having established a secret kingdom of her own called Aestilian, s’s ready to do what’s necessary to save her people and seek vengeance. Even if that means having to align herself with the Commander of Vareveth, Cayden Veles, the most feared and dangerous man in all the kingdoms of Ravaryn.

Cayden is ruthless, lethal, and secretive, promising to help Elowen if she will stand with him and all of Vareveth in the pending war against Imirath. Despite their contrasting motives, Elowen can’t ignore their undeniable attraction as they combine their efforts and plot to infiltrate the impenetrable castle of Imirath to steal back her dragons and seek revenge on their common enemy.

As the world tries to keep them apart, the pull between Elowen and Cayden becomes impossible to resist. Working together with their crew over clandestine schemes, the threat of war looms, making the imminent heist to free her dragons their most dangerous adventure yet. But for Elowen, her vengeance is a promise signed in blood, and she’ll stop at nothing to see that promise through.

An immersive fantasy filled with a sizzling reluctant-allies-to-lovers romance, a world to get lost in, dangerous quests, dragon bonds, and an entertaining band of characters to root for, Fear the Flames marks the stunning debut of Olivia Rose Darling.]]> 384 Olivia Rose Darling 0593873890 ✨Jܱ� 3
What to Expect:
� Insta Love
� Forced Proximity
� Enemies-to-Lovers (kind of)
� Morally Gray MMC
� Mother of Dragons Vibe
� Princess in Hiding
� Warring Kingdoms
� Touch Her & Die
� Lies & Betrayal
� Found Family
� First Person POV

I said everyone was either loving or hating this, so of course I find myself giving it three stars. ]]> 3.77 2022 Fear the Flames (Fear the Flames, #1)
author: Olivia Rose Darling
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.77
book published: 2022
rating: 3
read at: 2024/11/14
date added: 2025/03/07
shelves:
review:
� 3 stars �

What to Expect:
� Insta Love
� Forced Proximity
� Enemies-to-Lovers (kind of)
� Morally Gray MMC
� Mother of Dragons Vibe
� Princess in Hiding
� Warring Kingdoms
� Touch Her & Die
� Lies & Betrayal
� Found Family
� First Person POV

I said everyone was either loving or hating this, so of course I find myself giving it three stars.
]]> <![CDATA[Throne in the Dark (Villains & Virtues, #1)]]> 62232755
Dark lord
Demon spawn
Prophesied realm destroyer

With a demon for a father, Damien Maleficus Bloodthorne’s destiny could be nothing but nefarious, and with the completion of his most vicious spell, Damien is on the cusp of fulfilling the evil inevitability all of his dark machinations have led to.

And then, her.

Bubbly
Obnoxious
Blonde

Harboring secrets of her own, a tiny yet troublesome thief calling herself Amma completely upsets Damien’s malevolent plans when she mistakenly gets chained to his side through magic, forcing him to drag her across the realm. Killing her would fix things, of course, but the nauseatingly sweet Amma proves herself useful on Damien's unholy crusade and then proves herself the source of something even more sinister: feelings.

Will Damien be forced to abandon his villainous birthright to help the tender thorn in his side? Or will he manage to overcome the virtue Amma insists on inspiring and instead cut it out at the heart?]]> 459 A.K. Caggiano ✨Jܱ� 4
What to Expect:
� Grumpy x Sunshine
� Morally Gray MMC
� Half-Demon Mage x Human
� Slow Burn
� Forced Proximity
� Banter
� Fantasy Rom-Com
� Blood Magic (His Own)
� Opposites Attract
� Magical Quest
� Secret Identity
� Third Person POV

“Did you hear that?� Amma’s sharp whisper cut into Damien’s mind as it began to drift into sleep.
He groaned. “You mean that terrifying cry that sounded like a woman being gutted?�
Ԩ!�
“No, I didn’t. Go to sleep.�

This is a true grumpy x sunshine slow burn romance between Damien, a Half-Demon Mage and a blonde bubbly soft hearted human named Amma. Just as Damien is on the cusp of completing his evil quest, he crosses paths with Amma whose penchant for theft finds her tied to the one magical artifact he needs to enact his nefarious plot. He could of course just kill her and be done with it, but Amma’s tender nature brings out a softness in him that takes him on yet another quest to safely separate her from the object.

This was such a fun and lighthearted read! The author has a great sense of humor and her writing had me smiling and laughing through out. Everything was just really well done! The side characters were quirky and well developed, the banter between the MC’s was on point, the world the author created was somehow both simple and creative. Honestly I think fantasy rom-coms are for everyone, but certainly if you loved Assistant to the Villain, you will love this book! I honestly think I enjoyed this one more! A great book for anyone who wants to disassociate and take a break from the real world for a little while. ]]> 4.11 2022 Throne in the Dark (Villains & Virtues, #1)
author: A.K. Caggiano
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/20
date added: 2025/03/01
shelves:
review:
� 4 stars �

What to Expect:
� Grumpy x Sunshine
� Morally Gray MMC
� Half-Demon Mage x Human
� Slow Burn
� Forced Proximity
� Banter
� Fantasy Rom-Com
� Blood Magic (His Own)
� Opposites Attract
� Magical Quest
� Secret Identity
� Third Person POV

“Did you hear that?� Amma’s sharp whisper cut into Damien’s mind as it began to drift into sleep.
He groaned. “You mean that terrifying cry that sounded like a woman being gutted?�
Ԩ!�
“No, I didn’t. Go to sleep.�

This is a true grumpy x sunshine slow burn romance between Damien, a Half-Demon Mage and a blonde bubbly soft hearted human named Amma. Just as Damien is on the cusp of completing his evil quest, he crosses paths with Amma whose penchant for theft finds her tied to the one magical artifact he needs to enact his nefarious plot. He could of course just kill her and be done with it, but Amma’s tender nature brings out a softness in him that takes him on yet another quest to safely separate her from the object.

This was such a fun and lighthearted read! The author has a great sense of humor and her writing had me smiling and laughing through out. Everything was just really well done! The side characters were quirky and well developed, the banter between the MC’s was on point, the world the author created was somehow both simple and creative. Honestly I think fantasy rom-coms are for everyone, but certainly if you loved Assistant to the Villain, you will love this book! I honestly think I enjoyed this one more! A great book for anyone who wants to disassociate and take a break from the real world for a little while.
]]> <![CDATA[The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes (The Hunger Games, #0)]]> 51901147
The odds are against him. He's been given the humiliating assignment of mentoring the female tribute from District 12, the lowest of the low. Their fates are now completely intertwined -- every choice Coriolanus makes could lead to favor or failure, triumph or ruin. Inside the arena, it will be a fight to the death. Outside the arena, Coriolanus starts to feel for his doomed tribute... and must weigh his need to follow the rules against his desire to survive no matter what it takes.]]> 541 Suzanne Collins ✨Jܱ� 3
Initially, I found it difficult to get into this since it was written from Snow’s point of view. I would always rather read about the underdog and knowing going in that Snow would be the villain made his character hard to connect with. If I am honest though, I might have disliked Lucy Gray’s character even more. For someone who could hold their own in the Hunger Games, she sure was gullible and I found it pretty annoying when she sang.

I was prepared to rate this two stars but the ending really brought the book home for me. I thought the conclusion was very strong and well developed and that Snow’s character was perfectly written. Seeing inside his mind, you get a sense that he was always a villain at his core and that he would do anything to save his own neck. He reminded me a lot of the main character in “You� and it was eerie to read about how easily he could rationalize his decisions and convince himself that all of his actions were justified and necessary. Snow is essentially a high functioning psychopath, just the person you want in politics. ]]> 3.99 2020 The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes (The Hunger Games, #0)
author: Suzanne Collins
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2020
rating: 3
read at: 2024/01/31
date added: 2025/03/01
shelves:
review:
Lucy Gray was the songbird. Snow was the snake.

Initially, I found it difficult to get into this since it was written from Snow’s point of view. I would always rather read about the underdog and knowing going in that Snow would be the villain made his character hard to connect with. If I am honest though, I might have disliked Lucy Gray’s character even more. For someone who could hold their own in the Hunger Games, she sure was gullible and I found it pretty annoying when she sang.

I was prepared to rate this two stars but the ending really brought the book home for me. I thought the conclusion was very strong and well developed and that Snow’s character was perfectly written. Seeing inside his mind, you get a sense that he was always a villain at his core and that he would do anything to save his own neck. He reminded me a lot of the main character in “You� and it was eerie to read about how easily he could rationalize his decisions and convince himself that all of his actions were justified and necessary. Snow is essentially a high functioning psychopath, just the person you want in politics.
]]> <![CDATA[Storm of Secrets and Sorrow (Legacy, #2)]]> 198107923
A choice to make.

Tessalyn Ausra’s fate has always been out of her hands. Still bonded to the Heir of Endings, she now finds herself with more control than ever before. Everyone wants something from her, and she has to choose a side. But in a realm full of villains, she trusts no one, and she has secrets of her own to keep.

A plan to salvage.

Control and knowledge have always been Theon St. Orcas’s greatest weapons, but both have slipped through his fingers. Given a task by the rulers of the realm, ’s racing against the clock to get his plans back on track. But as myths become reality, he finds himself fighting more than time in an effort to keep what’s his or lose it all to fury.

A fate to alter.

Axel St. Orcas has never minded rubbing shoulders with the depraved rather than the elite. It’s easier to hide his shame among the corrupt. But with each passing day, he risks triggering a curse and endangering those he cares for most. He’ll sacrifice anything to keep them safe, even if that means giving up everything he is.

Who will be left standing when Chaos comes to reign?

Storm of Secrets and Sorrow is book two of four in The Legacy Series. This is a new adult, dark fantasy romance series with elements that may be triggering to some readers. Please be sure to check the updated content information. Seriously. We know the MMC is a morally gray, walking red flag. Read the content information, then embrace the darkness.]]> 660 Melissa K. Roehrich ✨Jܱ� 4
What to Expect:
� Forced Proximity
� Morally Gray MMC
� Enemies w/Benefits
� Special Snowflake FMC
� Reluctant Allies of Sorts
� Kingdom Politics
� Secondary Romance
� Hints at a Love Triangle
� Third Person Multi POV

There’s honestly a lot about the plot and characters in this series that I strongly dislike, but there’s no denying the readability of these books. I have flown through them and they have consistently held my interest. My favorite addition to this story was the secondary romance between Axel and Katya. Theon has very few redeeming qualities so Axel’s goodness was a welcome and needed addition to the story. I’d frankly much rather read their story than the impending throuple that is likely on the way between Tessalyn, Theon, and Luka. Let’s just push Theon and his dad off a cliff and call it a day. ]]> 4.17 2024 Storm of Secrets and Sorrow (Legacy, #2)
author: Melissa K. Roehrich
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/17
date added: 2025/03/01
shelves:
review:
� 3.75 stars �

What to Expect:
� Forced Proximity
� Morally Gray MMC
� Enemies w/Benefits
� Special Snowflake FMC
� Reluctant Allies of Sorts
� Kingdom Politics
� Secondary Romance
� Hints at a Love Triangle
� Third Person Multi POV

There’s honestly a lot about the plot and characters in this series that I strongly dislike, but there’s no denying the readability of these books. I have flown through them and they have consistently held my interest. My favorite addition to this story was the secondary romance between Axel and Katya. Theon has very few redeeming qualities so Axel’s goodness was a welcome and needed addition to the story. I’d frankly much rather read their story than the impending throuple that is likely on the way between Tessalyn, Theon, and Luka. Let’s just push Theon and his dad off a cliff and call it a day.
]]> Mate (Bride, #2) 228256271 A Human hybrid and an Alpha Were claw against the bonds of fate in the highly anticipated companion novel to the New York Times bestselling Bride.

Serena Paris is orphaned, pack-less, and one of a kind. Coming forward as the first Human-Were hybrid was supposed to heal a centuries-long rift between species. Instead, it made her a target, prey to the ruthless political machinations between Weres, Vampyres, and Humans. With her enemies closing in on her, she has only one option left—if he’ll have her.

As Alpha of the Northwest pack, Koen Alexander commands obedience. His authority is so absolute, only a fool would threaten his mate. It doesn’t matter if Serena doesn’t reciprocate his feelings, nothing will stop him from keeping her safe.

But power-hungry Vampyres and Weres are not the only threats chasing Serena. Sooner or later, her past is bound to catch up with her—and Koen might be the only thing standing between her and total annihilation…]]> 432 Ali Hazelwood 0593955013 ✨Jܱ� 0 to-read 4.46 2025 Mate (Bride, #2)
author: Ali Hazelwood
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.46
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/01
shelves: to-read
review:
¡Attention! We have a cover!!
]]> <![CDATA[Of Withering Dreams (Fate of the Embered, #1)]]> 220812301 Enchanting, atmospheric, and addictive—Of Withering Dreams is a steamy dark fantasy romance set in a dying world where dreams, magic, and corruption intertwine. Perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas, Jennifer L. Armentrout, and LJ Andrews.

DREAMS DECAY.

The Dormancy was meant to be the mortal realm’s salvation. From autumn to spring, citizens must enter a magically induced slumber to conserve dwindling resources. The divine Ancients, who gifted mortals magic, disappeared long ago, leaving humanity at the mercy of the Elders. These powerful and elusive oligarchs have one motto: "Through Dormancy, we blossom!" Yet, this seems more like a cruel jest than a promise.

For Seryn, this Dormancy will change everything. Except for the little details� you know, like her realm progressively decaying and people vanishing. As the threads of reality unravel, she soon discovers her hidden identity as a Druik, one who wields magic. But her abilities are� unusual. Unpredictable.

DESIRES BLOOM.

While her inherited powers bloom, so do her desires for her charming best friend, Kaden. She wouldn’t dream of risking their friendship, but the Fates can’t be bothered with mortal dreams.

DESTINY UNRAVELS.

Navigating a treacherous path where dreams and nightmares blur, Seryn must confront haunting truths. Her newfound courage and magic might be the key to saving her realm, but will they be enough when even dreams can wither into oblivion?

Don't miss this captivating debut in the Fate of the Embered series—a spellbinding tale of passion, peril, and profound sacrifice—where every twist and turn challenges the heart and the soul.

Click Read Now or Buy Now to explore a world of magic, steamy romance, and the battle against the darkness within and beyond.

-----
This is the first book in the Fate of the Embered series, featuring a heroine who discovers her strength, morally complex characters, and an engaging supporting cast. This friends-to-lovers tale, with a touch of love triangle, is intended for adult readers (18+) who enjoy open-door spice, tension, and intricate plots. The story includes explicit content, strong language, themes of trauma, betrayal, dark pasts, blood/gore, battles, and supernatural elements. Please review the trigger warnings before reading, as your mental well-being is important.]]> 387 Rowyn Adelaide ✨Jܱ� 0 to-read 4.52 2025 Of Withering Dreams (Fate of the Embered, #1)
author: Rowyn Adelaide
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.52
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/01
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Ready or Not 154462768
Eve Hatch is pretty content with her life. Her apartment in Brooklyn is cozy and close to her childhood best friend Willa, but far from her midwestern, traditional family who never really understood her. While her job is only dream- adjacent , s’s hoping her passion and hard work will soon help her land a more glamorous role. And sure, her most recent romantic history has consisted of not one but two disappointing men named Derek. At least she always knows what to expect…until she finds herself expecting after an uncharacteristic one-night stand.

The unplanned pregnancy cracks open all the relationships in her life. Eve's loyalfriendship with Willa is feeling off , right when she needs her most. And it’s Willa’s steadfast older brother, Shep, who steps up to help. He has always been friendly, but now ’s checking in, ordering her surprise lunches, listening to all her complaints, and is� suddenly kinda hot? Then there’s the baby's father, who is supportive but conflicted. Before long, Eve is rethinking everything she thought she knew about herself and her world.

Over the course of nine months, as Eve struggles to figure out the next right step in her expanding reality, she begins to realize that family and love, in all forms, can sneak up on you when you least expect it.]]> 400 Cara Bastone 0593595718 ✨Jܱ� 5
What to Expect:
� Unplanned Pregnancy
� Found Family
� Slow Burn
� Childhood Friends-to-Lovers
� Best Friend’s Brother
� Self-Discovery
� Cinnamon Roll MMC
� Brooklyn Setting
� First Person POV

Oh my goodness! ]]> 3.97 2024 Ready or Not
author: Cara Bastone
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.97
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2025/02/09
date added: 2025/02/26
shelves:
review:
� 5 stars �

What to Expect:
� Unplanned Pregnancy
� Found Family
� Slow Burn
� Childhood Friends-to-Lovers
� Best Friend’s Brother
� Self-Discovery
� Cinnamon Roll MMC
� Brooklyn Setting
� First Person POV

Oh my goodness!
]]> A Sea of Unspoken Things 207677131 A woman investigates her brother's mysterious death while coming to terms with her own haunting past in this atmospheric novel from the New York Times bestselling author of The Unmaking of June Farrow

The only thing James and Johnny Golden have ever had is each other. For as long as she can remember, James’sdeep connection with her twin brother,Johnny,has gone beyond intuition—she can feel what he feels.So, when Johnny is killed in a tragic accident, James knows before her phone even rings that her brother is gone and that s’s alone—truly alone—for the first time in her life.

When James arrives in the rural town of Hawthorne, California to settleher brother’saffairs,s’sforced to rehash the ominous past she and Johnny shared and finally face Micah, the only person who knows about it. He’s also the only man s’s ever loved.

But James soon discovers that the strange connection she had with Johnny isn’t quite gone, and the more she immerses herself into his world, the more questions she has about the brother she thought she knew. Johnny was keeping secrets, and ’s not the only one. What she uncovers will push her to unravel what happened in the days before Johnny’s death, but in the end, she’ll have to decide which truths should come to light, and which should stay buried forever.]]> 288 Adrienne Young 0593598709 ✨Jܱ� 3
What to Expect:
� Magical Realism
� Supernatural Twin Connection
� Murder Mystery
� Buried Secrets
� Small Town
� Romance Subplot
� Second Chance
� Atmospheric
� First Person POV

As much as I love Adrienne Young, this one just didn’t really do it for me. I’m really not a mystery thriller girly and this is definitely a mystery thriller. I’m wondering if many of her other fans would agree with that sentiment based on the lower ratings. For the genre, I think this was a decent book, but I’m wondering if it‘s just not finding the right readers.

The Magical Realism genre is also a little hit or miss for me and this was not the type I’m looking for. Their connection felt more eerie and almost like a haunting which is not what I gravitate towards at all. The romance was very much a subplot so not much there for me either.

I don’t think it was the book’s fault this time, I just wasn’t the target audience for this one. ]]> 3.72 2025 A Sea of Unspoken Things
author: Adrienne Young
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.72
book published: 2025
rating: 3
read at: 2025/02/13
date added: 2025/02/26
shelves:
review:
� 3 stars �

What to Expect:
� Magical Realism
� Supernatural Twin Connection
� Murder Mystery
� Buried Secrets
� Small Town
� Romance Subplot
� Second Chance
� Atmospheric
� First Person POV

As much as I love Adrienne Young, this one just didn’t really do it for me. I’m really not a mystery thriller girly and this is definitely a mystery thriller. I’m wondering if many of her other fans would agree with that sentiment based on the lower ratings. For the genre, I think this was a decent book, but I’m wondering if it‘s just not finding the right readers.

The Magical Realism genre is also a little hit or miss for me and this was not the type I’m looking for. Their connection felt more eerie and almost like a haunting which is not what I gravitate towards at all. The romance was very much a subplot so not much there for me either.

I don’t think it was the book’s fault this time, I just wasn’t the target audience for this one.
]]> <![CDATA[The Dagger and the Flame (The City of Fantome #1)]]> 174547967 From the number one bestselling author Catherine Doyle comes the most fiery enemies-to-lovers romantasy of the year. Perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas, Leigh Bardugo and Stephanie Garber.

In the dark underbelly of a beautiful city, two rival assassins are pitted against each other in a deadly game of revenge, where the most dangerous mistake of all is falling in love�

In Fantome, a kingdom of cobbled streets, flickering lamplight, beautiful buildings, and secret catacombs, Shade-magic is a scarce and deadly commodity controlled by two enemy the Cloaks and the Daggers � the thieves and the assassins. On the night of her mother’s murder, 17-year-old Seraphine runs for her life. Seeking sanctuary with the Cloaks, Sera’s heart is set on revenge. But are her secret abilities a match for the dark-haired boy whose quicksilver eyes follow her around the city?

Nothing can prepare Sera for the moment she finally comes face-to-face with Ransom, heir to the Order of Daggers. And Ransom is shocked to discover that this unassuming farmgirl wields a strange and blazing magic he has never seen before� Among rumours of monsters stalking the streets and the rival guilds grappling for control of Fantome’s underworld, Sera and Ransom are drawn together by something more than just magic and must face a deadly choice - forgiveness or vengeance? Kiss or kill? Dagger or Flame? ]]> 509 Catherine Doyle 1398528455 ✨Jܱ� 3
What to Expect:
� Enemies-to-Lovers
� Assassins & Thieves
� Shade Magic
� Morally Gray MMC
� Found Family
� Forbidden Romance
� Revenge
� Kiss or Kill
� Monsters Lurking
� Family Secrets
� Dual Narration
� Third Person POV

This entire book had a very solemn vibe to it that made it hard for me to maintain interest in the story. The MC’s are in rival gangs of sorts and the MMC has been tasked with assassinating the FMC. There is a star crossed/tragic element to their connection, but I never fully understood how he got away with putting off the completion of his task for so long.

I also would have liked her powers to have played a bigger role in the story. I understood the ending, but I was left with a lot of questions about some of the character motivations and how her powers could impact the plot moving forward. Taking into consideration a few major events at the end, I really don’t see where the author could be going with the storyline at this point. Perhaps other characters will be introduced to make it make sense, but it seems like our MC’s will again be on opposing sides which sounds like we’ll be in for a boring book two featuring the same overly solemn angst. Unless the ratings are 5 stars, I likely won’t be reading it. Could easily drop this to two stars but I’m feeling kind.

✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　�

Pre-read: I’m about 20% in and I’m not feeling very invested. Not bored enough to DNF but I’m not really connecting to the characters or the plot so far� hoping things pick up!]]> 3.87 2024 The Dagger and the Flame (The City of Fantome #1)
author: Catherine Doyle
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.87
book published: 2024
rating: 3
read at: 2025/02/16
date added: 2025/02/26
shelves:
review:
� 2.55 stars �

What to Expect:
� Enemies-to-Lovers
� Assassins & Thieves
� Shade Magic
� Morally Gray MMC
� Found Family
� Forbidden Romance
� Revenge
� Kiss or Kill
� Monsters Lurking
� Family Secrets
� Dual Narration
� Third Person POV

This entire book had a very solemn vibe to it that made it hard for me to maintain interest in the story. The MC’s are in rival gangs of sorts and the MMC has been tasked with assassinating the FMC. There is a star crossed/tragic element to their connection, but I never fully understood how he got away with putting off the completion of his task for so long.

I also would have liked her powers to have played a bigger role in the story. I understood the ending, but I was left with a lot of questions about some of the character motivations and how her powers could impact the plot moving forward. Taking into consideration a few major events at the end, I really don’t see where the author could be going with the storyline at this point. Perhaps other characters will be introduced to make it make sense, but it seems like our MC’s will again be on opposing sides which sounds like we’ll be in for a boring book two featuring the same overly solemn angst. Unless the ratings are 5 stars, I likely won’t be reading it. Could easily drop this to two stars but I’m feeling kind.

✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　�

Pre-read: I’m about 20% in and I’m not feeling very invested. Not bored enough to DNF but I’m not really connecting to the characters or the plot so far� hoping things pick up!
]]> The Starlight Heir 212364043
“Be ready for a deadly contest for a bride, mistaken identities, hidden magic, and secrets that will keep you guessing until the end.� –NISHA J. TULI, internationally bestselling author of Trial of the Sun Queen

A bladesmith blessed by the stars. A prince with a dangerous secret. A god bound in shadows. From USA Today bestselling author Amalie Howard comes a scorching new romantasy that will leave you spellbound.

“His Imperial Majesty King Zarek requests your presence as his esteemed guest.�

When the gold-dusted court invitation arrives at Suraya Saab’s forge, she believes it’s a joke. Nobles might seek her skills as a bladesmith—one of few who can imbue her work with precious jadu, the last source of magic in the realm—but she has no qualifications as a potential bride for the crown prince. Still, the invitation is the chance at adventure, and the means to finally visit the capital city her late mother loved.

But what awaits her in Kaldari is nothing she could have imagined—and fraught with danger. It’s not the crown prince, but his impossibly handsome, illegitimate half-brother, Roshan, who captures her interest…and her ire. The invitation isn’t a quest to find a suitable bride, but a veiled hunt for the Starkeeper—a girl rumored to hold the magic of the stars in her blood. And across the city, unrest is brewing between the noble houses and the rebel militia.

When the rebels attack, Suraya and Roshan find themselves on the run, trying to deny their simmering attraction and the knowledge that Suraya herself might be the Starkeeper. But Roshan is guarding secrets of his own. And with no control over the power stirring within her, Suraya has drawn the attention of a dark god, an immortal whose interest might be the biggest threat of all.

“Consumes all your attention and leaves you longing for more!� —Jennifer L. Armentrout, #1 New York Times bestselling author

“Stunning .� —Brigid Kemmerer, New York Times bestselling author

“Pure addictive delight." —Thea Guanzon, New York Times bestselling author

“Amalie Howard at her finest!� —Danielle L. Jensen, New York Times bestselling author]]> 368 Amalie Howard 0063355841 ✨Jܱ� 4
What to Expect:
� Deadly Trials
� Bride Selection
� Slow Burn
� Forced Proximity
� Chosen One
� Hidden Magic
� Prophecy
� Touch Her & Die
� Persian & Indian Mythology
� Hidden Identities
� Third Person POV

Can we just take a moment to acknowledge how many top Romantasy authors Amelie Howard’s team got to read and recommend this book?! Check out the book description� that’s more than I’ve ever seen included!

Weirdly, I’m the person who reads all of those glowing recs and decides they are all lying to me ]]> 3.32 2025 The Starlight Heir
author: Amalie Howard
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.32
book published: 2025
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/19
date added: 2025/02/26
shelves:
review:
� 3.55 stars �

What to Expect:
� Deadly Trials
� Bride Selection
� Slow Burn
� Forced Proximity
� Chosen One
� Hidden Magic
� Prophecy
� Touch Her & Die
� Persian & Indian Mythology
� Hidden Identities
� Third Person POV

Can we just take a moment to acknowledge how many top Romantasy authors Amelie Howard’s team got to read and recommend this book?! Check out the book description� that’s more than I’ve ever seen included!

Weirdly, I’m the person who reads all of those glowing recs and decides they are all lying to me
]]> <![CDATA[A Hunger Like No Other (Immortals After Dark, #1)]]> 209439584 New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author Kresley Cole’s sizzling series, a fierce werewolf and a bewitching vampire become unlikely soul mates whose passion will test the boundaries of life and death.

After enduring years of torture from the vampire horde, Lachlain MacRieve, leader of the Lykae Clan, is enraged to find the predestined mate ’s waited millennia for is a vampire. Or partly one. Emmaline Troy is a small, ethereal half Valkyrie/half vampire, who somehow begins to soothe the fury burning within him.

Sheltered Emmaline finally sets out to uncover the truth about her deceased parents—until a powerful Lykae claims her as his mate and forces her back to his ancestral Scottish castle. There, her fear of the Lykae—and their notorious dark desires—ebbs as he begins a slow, wicked seduction to sate her own dark cravings.

Yet when an ancient evil from her past resurfaces, will their desire deepen into a love that can bring a proud warrior to his knees and turn a gentle beauty into the fighter she was born to be?]]> 336 Kresley Cole 166807494X ✨Jܱ� 1
What to Expect:
� Fated Mates
� Werewolf King x Half Vampire/Half Valkyrie
� Nonconsensual Intimacy
� Abduction of the FMC by MMC
� Cringe Lines Galore
� Too much modern jargon
� Special Snowflake FMC
� Scottish MMC
� Virginal FMC
� Third Person POV

It’s so rude to call an author’s hard work garbage, but believe me when I tell you that this was garbage. ]]> 3.38 2006 A Hunger Like No Other (Immortals After Dark, #1)
author: Kresley Cole
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.38
book published: 2006
rating: 1
read at: 2025/02/23
date added: 2025/02/26
shelves:
review:
� 1 star �

What to Expect:
� Fated Mates
� Werewolf King x Half Vampire/Half Valkyrie
� Nonconsensual Intimacy
� Abduction of the FMC by MMC
� Cringe Lines Galore
� Too much modern jargon
� Special Snowflake FMC
� Scottish MMC
� Virginal FMC
� Third Person POV

It’s so rude to call an author’s hard work garbage, but believe me when I tell you that this was garbage.
]]> <![CDATA[Heavenly Bodies (Heavenly Bodies, #1)]]> 223010100 "I defy the stars."

In a world where no entities exist but the Stars, cruel and merciless gods that watch over the world, Elara has been cursed by fate. A prophecy that promises she will fall for a Star, and it will kill them both.

But when one descends to wreak havoc on Elara's Kingdom, she is forced to flee into the arms of her enemy in the neighbouring country.

As she learns more about her own magic, and the depth of the Stars' deceit, she also finds herself learning more about the country she is forced to take refuge in, and the enemy prince forced to train her into a weapon.

Something dark brews within her, a power made of night and shadows that begs to be broken free.]]> 518 Imani Erriu ✨Jܱ� 4
What to Expect:
� Captive FMC
� Prophecy/Fated Future
� Enemies-to-Allies-to Lovers
� Slow Burn
� Touch Her & Die
� Found Family
� Star Gods
� Rival Kingdoms
� Secret Identities
� Third Person POV

This started out strong, but my interest lagged at about 45%. I took a break and read another book and then really struggled to get back into the story. Our FMC had already been captured by the MMC’s kingdom, so when she ended up being held captive by someone else, I just kind of lost respect for her character.

The idea that she is to be used as a weapon is a little flimsy and needed too much propping up by the prophesy that could surely have been altered once it was known. There were also maybe too many revelations at the end that could have been written a little better. I had to reread it because it was too much info to take in at once, especially since some of the information we were told was then quickly walked back by other events.

Additionally, I know authors love a training sequence, but this plot would have felt much more sturdy if she had already been a skilled fighter. There were some angsty moments to the romance that were well executed, but once they were truly together I really wasn’t the biggest fan of their romance. Some swoon worry lines here and there, but also several I would have removed.

All in all this was a decent start to the series and I do plan to continue. I hope to see more of the winged creature depicted in the Fairyloot edition in book 2!

✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　�

Pre-read: So many of my most anticipated reads are currently downloaded in my Libby account! I can barely read them fast enough at this point! ✨✨]]> 4.04 2022 Heavenly Bodies (Heavenly Bodies, #1)
author: Imani Erriu
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.04
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/25
date added: 2025/02/26
shelves:
review:
� 3.5 stars �

What to Expect:
� Captive FMC
� Prophecy/Fated Future
� Enemies-to-Allies-to Lovers
� Slow Burn
� Touch Her & Die
� Found Family
� Star Gods
� Rival Kingdoms
� Secret Identities
� Third Person POV

This started out strong, but my interest lagged at about 45%. I took a break and read another book and then really struggled to get back into the story. Our FMC had already been captured by the MMC’s kingdom, so when she ended up being held captive by someone else, I just kind of lost respect for her character.

The idea that she is to be used as a weapon is a little flimsy and needed too much propping up by the prophesy that could surely have been altered once it was known. There were also maybe too many revelations at the end that could have been written a little better. I had to reread it because it was too much info to take in at once, especially since some of the information we were told was then quickly walked back by other events.

Additionally, I know authors love a training sequence, but this plot would have felt much more sturdy if she had already been a skilled fighter. There were some angsty moments to the romance that were well executed, but once they were truly together I really wasn’t the biggest fan of their romance. Some swoon worry lines here and there, but also several I would have removed.

All in all this was a decent start to the series and I do plan to continue. I hope to see more of the winged creature depicted in the Fairyloot edition in book 2!

✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　�

Pre-read: So many of my most anticipated reads are currently downloaded in my Libby account! I can barely read them fast enough at this point! ✨✨
]]> <![CDATA[The Throne of Broken Gods (Gods and Monsters, #2)]]> 141275671 619 Amber V. Nicole ✨Jܱ� 2
What to Expect:
� Enemies-to-Lovers
� Fated Mates
� Betrayal
� Revenge
� Villainous FMC
� Found Family
� Processing Grief
� Concealed Identities
� Burn the World Energy
� First Person Multi POV

Who gave these emotional idiots unlimited power? I’d like to speak to a Manager because this is out of hand. I’m honestly wondering if I read the same book as everyone else at this point because this was nowhere close to a 5 star or even a 4 star read. I had similar issues with this book as I did with the previous book, but the most glaring issue was Dianna.

The author should have written Dianna as 35 instead of 1000+. Her murderous rampage felt so excessive knowing that her sister lived 1000 years. I could get behind calculated revenge, but it’s implied that she fed off numerous innocents to beef up her power. It makes sense that she would grieve, but all the “burn the world down� nonsense was too much. There were literally 400+ pages dedicated to her temper tantrum and as soon as she finished she fell straight into an insecure thought spiral about how no one could ever love her because she was too evil, blah blah blah. Again, she is 1000, this is such immature behavior and I have no time for it.

Another issue was the length of the book. I honestly really hate the audiobook narrator and probably should have read the book the old fashioned way, but I’d likely still be reading it in 2025 if I had tried. It is TOO long and too much time is dedicated to Dianna’s “villain phase� to hold my interest. There were also one or two too many sex scenes and I wasn’t a fan of how they were written. Don’t even get me started on her calling him “Sami� during sex, major cringe. ]]> 4.21 2023 The Throne of Broken Gods (Gods and Monsters, #2)
author: Amber V. Nicole
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.21
book published: 2023
rating: 2
read at: 2024/10/08
date added: 2025/02/25
shelves:
review:
� 2.25 stars �

What to Expect:
� Enemies-to-Lovers
� Fated Mates
� Betrayal
� Revenge
� Villainous FMC
� Found Family
� Processing Grief
� Concealed Identities
� Burn the World Energy
� First Person Multi POV

Who gave these emotional idiots unlimited power? I’d like to speak to a Manager because this is out of hand. I’m honestly wondering if I read the same book as everyone else at this point because this was nowhere close to a 5 star or even a 4 star read. I had similar issues with this book as I did with the previous book, but the most glaring issue was Dianna.

The author should have written Dianna as 35 instead of 1000+. Her murderous rampage felt so excessive knowing that her sister lived 1000 years. I could get behind calculated revenge, but it’s implied that she fed off numerous innocents to beef up her power. It makes sense that she would grieve, but all the “burn the world down� nonsense was too much. There were literally 400+ pages dedicated to her temper tantrum and as soon as she finished she fell straight into an insecure thought spiral about how no one could ever love her because she was too evil, blah blah blah. Again, she is 1000, this is such immature behavior and I have no time for it.

Another issue was the length of the book. I honestly really hate the audiobook narrator and probably should have read the book the old fashioned way, but I’d likely still be reading it in 2025 if I had tried. It is TOO long and too much time is dedicated to Dianna’s “villain phase� to hold my interest. There were also one or two too many sex scenes and I wasn’t a fan of how they were written. Don’t even get me started on her calling him “Sami� during sex, major cringe.
]]> <![CDATA[War Bride (The Warbride Trilogy #1)]]> 226100300 Ruthless. Bloodthirsty. Killer. And now? Her husband.

Ilsevel knows exactly how brutal the fae raiders are. She watched them attack the holy shrine of her god, slaughter the priests, and drag her sister away screaming into the darkness.

When she's forced up onto the auction block to be sold off as a warbride to the highest bidder—and when the chilling warlord, Taarthalor, pushes his way to the front of the crowd and lays down an outrageous bid—Ilsevel fears her nightmare is only just beginning.

Taar took one look at the fiery little human, and something in him sparked. He cannot explain it. He knows only that he will not see her sold off to one of the soulless monsters trying to outbid each other for a chance to use and discard her soft, womanly flesh. If that means binding himself to her by marriage, so be it.

Can this dark king convince his bride not to murder him in his sleep before he can decide what to do with her? Or do the gods have other plans in store for the captive princess and her terrifying new husband?

War Bride is book one of a dual point-of-view (his and hers) forced marriage fantasy trilogy with a dangerous, brooding hero, kiss-or-kill vibes, and swift-to-ignite steam that will leave you begging for more. If you love watching a cold-hearted fae warlord discover his one weakness just might be the spitfire princess who drives him crazy, this is the book for you. Perfect for fans of Elise Kova, Laura Thalassa, and Danielle L. Jensen.]]> Sylvia Mercedes ✨Jܱ� 0 to-read 3.40 2024 War Bride (The Warbride Trilogy #1)
author: Sylvia Mercedes
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.40
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/22
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Crimson Snow (A Realm of Chaos and Void, #1)]]> 218035327
Guided by enigmatic allies and pursued by ancient enemies, Seraphine ventures through the treacherous Weeping Forest and into the shadowy depths of the Shadow Market. Here, legendary creatures—mischievous Pookas, sinister hags, and the ominous Grim Wanderer—reveal a world of dark enchantments and hidden power.

As she delves deeper, Seraphine discovers a dark destiny intertwined with her lineage. The Grim Wanderer, an ethereal figure cloaked in shadows, pushes her towards a fate shrouded in mystery and danger. This is not a tale of heroes, but the genesis of a villain, forged from heartbreak and betrayal.

In a web of deceit and ancient prophecies, Seraphine's path is one of transformation and darkness. Will she succumb to the shadows that seek to consume her, or will she rise as a force of vengeance, altering the balance between realms forever?

The Crimson Snow is a dark, gripping fantasy of magic, resilience, and the birth of a new power in a world where heroes are myths and villains are made. Embrace the mystery and uncover the secrets beneath the snow.]]> 368 Laura Vega 9695692532 ✨Jܱ� 3
What to Expect:
� Enemies-to-Lovers
� Morally Gray MMC
� Dark Magic
� Caught in a Cursed Cycle
� Betrayal & Redemption
� Tragic Backstory
� OUABH Vibes
� Third Person POV

I genuinely wish I was a bigger fan of Once Upon a Broken Heart, because this was definitely giving the same energy. If you’re a OUABH super fan, this book is for you! For me personally, they were both 3 star reads. Good enough, but not my favs. ]]> 4.61 The Crimson Snow (A Realm of Chaos and Void, #1)
author: Laura Vega
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.61
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2025/01/31
date added: 2025/02/18
shelves:
review:
� 3 stars �

What to Expect:
� Enemies-to-Lovers
� Morally Gray MMC
� Dark Magic
� Caught in a Cursed Cycle
� Betrayal & Redemption
� Tragic Backstory
� OUABH Vibes
� Third Person POV

I genuinely wish I was a bigger fan of Once Upon a Broken Heart, because this was definitely giving the same energy. If you’re a OUABH super fan, this book is for you! For me personally, they were both 3 star reads. Good enough, but not my favs.
]]> <![CDATA[A Light in the Flame (Flesh and Fire, #2)]]> 60682785 From #1 New York Times bestselling author Jennifer L. Armentrout comes book two in her Flesh and Fire series�

The only one who can save Sera now is the one she spent her life planning to kill.

The truth about Sera’s plan is out, shattering the fragile trust forged between her and Nyktos. Surrounded by those distrustful of her, all Sera has is her duty. She will do anything to end Kolis, the false King of Gods, and his tyrannical rule of Iliseeum, thus stopping the threat he poses to the mortal realm.

Nyktos has a plan, though, and as they work together, the last thing they need is the undeniable, scorching passion that continues to ignite between them. Sera cannot afford to fall for the tortured Primal, not when a life no longer bound to a destiny she never wanted is more attainable than ever. But memories of their shared pleasure and unrivaled desire are a siren’s call impossible to resist.

And as Sera begins to realize that she wants to be more than a Consort in name only, the danger surrounding them intensifies. The attacks on the Shadowlands are increasing, and when Kolis summons them to Court, a whole new risk becomes apparent. The Primal power of Life is growing inside her, pushing her closer to the end of her Culling. And without Nyktos’s love—an emotion ’s incapable of feeling—she won’t survive her Ascension. That is if she even makes it to her Ascension and Kolis doesn’t get to her first. Because time is running out. For both her and the realms.]]> 652 Jennifer L. Armentrout 1957568151 ✨Jܱ� 3 4.58 2022 A Light in the Flame (Flesh and Fire, #2)
author: Jennifer L. Armentrout
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.58
book published: 2022
rating: 3
read at: 2023/02/25
date added: 2025/02/17
shelves:
review:
The first half of this book could have been an email. Sorry not sorry. Lots of very repetitive scenes, conversations and circumstances with no forward movement. The storyline picked up a little after that but still had far too much internal monologuing which has always been JLA’s Achilles heel. Love the characters and the world she created but this book would have benefited from a massive edit.
]]> The Favorites 211399784 To the world, they were a scandal. To each other, an obsession.

An epic love story set in the sparkling, savage sphere of elite figure skating about a woman determined to carve her own path on and off the ice

She might not have a famous name, funding, or her family’s support, but Katarina Shaw has always known that she was destined to become an Olympic skater. When she meets Heath Rocha, a lonely kid stuck in the foster care system, their instant connection makes them a formidable duo on the ice. Clinging to skating—and each other—to escape their turbulent lives, Kat and Heath go from childhood sweethearts to champion ice dancers, captivating the world with their scorching chemistry, rebellious style, and rollercoaster relationship. Until a shocking incident at the Olympic Games brings their partnership to a sudden end.

As the ten-year anniversary of their final skate approaches, an unauthorized documentary reignites the public obsession with Shaw and Rocha, claiming to uncover the "real story" through interviews with their closest friends and fiercest rivals. Kat wants nothing to do with the documentary. But she can't stand the thought of someone else defining her legacy either. So, after a decade of silence, she's telling her story: from the childhood tragedies that created her all-consuming bond with Heath to the clash of desires that tore them apart. Sensational rumors have haunted their every step for years, but the truth may be even more shocking than the headlines.

Inspired by the powerful love and hate that fuel Emily Bronte’s classic, Wuthering Heights, The Favorites is an exhilarating dance between passion, ambition, and what it truly means to win.]]> 448 Layne Fargo 0593732049 ✨Jܱ� 5
What to Expect:
� Childhood Friends-to-Lovers
� Chosen Family
� Ice Dancing Partners
� Olympic Skaters
� Toxic Relationships
� Child Abuse
� Poverty & Dysfunctional Family Dynamics
� Character Growth
� First Person POV

If you’re a Taylor Jenkins Reid fan, this book is for you. The writing style of these two authors is so similar that I had to google pictures of each of them and look at them side by side to convince myself that they were in fact two different people. I’m going to take it one step further and say that I personally liked this book more than any of the TJR books I’ve read. ]]> 4.20 2025 The Favorites
author: Layne Fargo
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.20
book published: 2025
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/31
date added: 2025/02/16
shelves:
review:
� 4.65 stars �

What to Expect:
� Childhood Friends-to-Lovers
� Chosen Family
� Ice Dancing Partners
� Olympic Skaters
� Toxic Relationships
� Child Abuse
� Poverty & Dysfunctional Family Dynamics
� Character Growth
� First Person POV

If you’re a Taylor Jenkins Reid fan, this book is for you. The writing style of these two authors is so similar that I had to google pictures of each of them and look at them side by side to convince myself that they were in fact two different people. I’m going to take it one step further and say that I personally liked this book more than any of the TJR books I’ve read.
]]> <![CDATA[Beg, Borrow, or Steal (When in Rome, #3)]]> 211164792 Two feuding second-grade teachers (and neighbors) find themselves teaming up in this rivals-to-lovers romance.

Emily Walker hates having her carefully crafted world disrupted by anyone, most of all her legendary nemesis, Jack Bennett. He's the opposite of the wonderful heroes she dreams up in her double life as a romance writer, which is why Emily was perfectly happy when Jack left Rome, Kentucky, mid-school year, with his fiancée. The last thing Emily saw coming was Jack’s return at the start of the summer after calling off the wedding and ending his relationship, but ’s here to stay—as her colleague and her neighbor.

Jackson Bennett is glad to be back, eager to renovate his house and work on the next mystery novel under his bestselling pen name. But when he realizes ’s now neighbors with the one woman who has always pushed his buttons, he discovers something ’s even more excited for—thwarting Emily and her petty plans to sabotage his return.

With their chemistry-fueled animosity at an all-time high, Emily accidentally sends an email to their school’s principal that could reveal her secret literary side hustle. She needs to steal back her manuscript, and Jack—she hates to admit—is just the man to help her. Surprisingly, Jack agrees. Will their unlikely alliance put an end to their rivalry? Or could it lead to a steamy plot twist they never saw coming?]]> 384 Sarah Adams 0593723694 ✨Jܱ� 4
What to Expect:
� Rivals-to-Lovers
� Coworkers
� Hidden Identity
� Neighbors
� Both Teachers
� Second Chance
� Banter
� Small Town
� Forced Proximity
� Slow Burn
� Duet Narration
� Dual POV

Just look at that stacked trope list, was there ever any doubt that this would be a winner?! I’m kind of amazed by how many people sleep on this author. I guess because her books are lower on the pepper meter and all people seem want these days is smut?? ]]> 4.08 2025 Beg, Borrow, or Steal (When in Rome, #3)
author: Sarah Adams
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.08
book published: 2025
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/02
date added: 2025/02/16
shelves:
review:
� 4.25 stars �

What to Expect:
� Rivals-to-Lovers
� Coworkers
� Hidden Identity
� Neighbors
� Both Teachers
� Second Chance
� Banter
� Small Town
� Forced Proximity
� Slow Burn
� Duet Narration
� Dual POV

Just look at that stacked trope list, was there ever any doubt that this would be a winner?! I’m kind of amazed by how many people sleep on this author. I guess because her books are lower on the pepper meter and all people seem want these days is smut??
]]> <![CDATA[Ash and Feather (Flame and Sparrow Duology, #2)]]> 200757096 From the Ashes, a Goddess Must Rise�

After proving herself through a series of harrowing trials, Karys has found a home among the gods, alongside the Marr of Fire. Her new divine family and magic have allowed her to ascend from the rebellious, dangerous life she once led—yet the ghosts of past mistakes and betrayals linger.

Her once sworn enemy, Dravyn, understands the pain of lingering ghosts better than most. Haunted by the memories of the family he lost—and by the lives he took in retribution—the God of Fire now has one plan: Protecting the ones he has left at whatever the cost.

But the shadow of war is spreading across the realms. A war that will force both Karys and Dravyn to confront past demons. And when those demons collide, the resulting fires might burn everything to ash�

Forcing something new to rise if they want any hope of a future.]]> 580 S.M. Gaither ✨Jܱ� 2
What to Expect:
� Touch Her & Die
� One Horse
� Found Family
� Gods, Elves & Mortals
� Multiple Realms
� Duet Audio
� Dual First Person POV

Boring, too domestic, not nearly enough Moth� I’m very sad to report that this one was a dud. This was very character driven which could have been fine, but after loving them in book one, I was surprised by how little interest I had in these characters in book two. We get to read a lot from the MMC’s POV and while he still seemed like a solid dude, nothing about him felt godly while reading from his perspective. I usually love hearing from the MMC, but for some reason his parts were a turn off for me. The FMC has an experience at the end that should have very emotional, but again, I felt completely detached. Sorry to say that this book was more along the lines of what I’ve come to expect from this author, which is frankly not much.

✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　�

Pre-read: We’ll see if this one lives up to book one! Others have mentioned being dissatisfied with the ending which is ominous since this is a Duology. Hoping I won’t feel the same! ]]> 3.91 2024 Ash and Feather (Flame and Sparrow Duology, #2)
author: S.M. Gaither
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.91
book published: 2024
rating: 2
read at: 2025/02/06
date added: 2025/02/16
shelves:
review:
� 2 stars �

What to Expect:
� Touch Her & Die
� One Horse
� Found Family
� Gods, Elves & Mortals
� Multiple Realms
� Duet Audio
� Dual First Person POV

Boring, too domestic, not nearly enough Moth� I’m very sad to report that this one was a dud. This was very character driven which could have been fine, but after loving them in book one, I was surprised by how little interest I had in these characters in book two. We get to read a lot from the MMC’s POV and while he still seemed like a solid dude, nothing about him felt godly while reading from his perspective. I usually love hearing from the MMC, but for some reason his parts were a turn off for me. The FMC has an experience at the end that should have very emotional, but again, I felt completely detached. Sorry to say that this book was more along the lines of what I’ve come to expect from this author, which is frankly not much.

✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　�

Pre-read: We’ll see if this one lives up to book one! Others have mentioned being dissatisfied with the ending which is ominous since this is a Duology. Hoping I won’t feel the same!
]]> <![CDATA[Fight (Sky Ridge Hotshots, #1)]]> 221979619 Callahan

Fighting wildfires is the only thing I’ve ever wanted to do and I’m damn good at it. Being the captain of an interagency hotshot crew of wildland firefighters is high-risk, high-reward. The risk blindsided me five years ago when I lost one of my crew and was changed forever. Now the only rewards I allow are to work harder, smarter, and enjoy easy, sexy nights with strangers.

Until I meet Prescott Timmons. Her smart-mouth and adventurous spirit have me forgetting all of my rules—until her past shows up and lies start to feel too familiar. I swear to never spare her a second glance, but when she finds herself in a life or death situation with mother nature, my instincts kick in, and I take action. Stranded and sharing a bed again, we’re forced to face our truth. Do we let this fire burn out or fight?]]> 379 Sloane St. James ✨Jܱ� 0 to-read 3.92 2025 Fight (Sky Ridge Hotshots, #1)
author: Sloane St. James
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.92
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/15
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> The Fall Risk 223199392 Two good neighbors make the best of a bad Valentine’s Day in a funny and improbably romantic short story by the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Just for the Summer.

It’s Valentine’s Day weekend, and Charlotte and Seth are not looking for romance. Armed with emotional-support bear spray, Charlotte is in self-imposed isolation and on guard from men. Having a stalker can do that to a person’s nerves. Just across the hall and giving off woodsy vibes is Seth, a recently divorced arborist. As in today recently. Heights, ’s fine with. Trust? Not so much. But when disaster traps them one flight up and no way down, an outrageously precarious predicament forces a tree-loving guy and a rattled girl next door to embrace their captivity. Soon their defenses are breaking away. Considering how close they both are to the edge, Charlotte and Seth could be in danger of falling—in love.]]> 82 Abby Jimenez 1662529082 ✨Jܱ� 0 to-read 4.13 2025 The Fall Risk
author: Abby Jimenez
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.13
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/15
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Flame and Sparrow (Flame and Sparrow Duology, #1)]]> 63214317
Two weeks later, her sister disappeared, leaving nothing but a trail of blood in her wake.

Convinced the gods were responsible for the disappearance, Karys has spent the past five years plotting her revenge with the help of a cutthroat band of likeminded elven rebels. So when Dravyn—one of her world’s most powerful deities—descends upon her kingdom in search of humans worthy of serving him, Karys knows what she must do. Earning a place at the god’s side will allow her to find out what truly happened to her sister…and then destroy the gods from the inside out for what they did.

Thrown into the dazzling but deadly world of the divine courts, she must navigate complicated politics, strange magic, and dangerous trials to prove herself worthy of standing among the gods.

Among the most dangerous of these trials is Dravyn himself.

Karys knows better than to trust the enigmatic God of Fire. The flames of passion that stir between them are only divine trickery. And yet, the more she learns about him, the hotter the forbidden sparks burn. The more she begins to question all she thought she knew about the world of gods and mortals and everything in-between.

And the more she risks betraying her own secrets, which may be the most dangerous thing of all.

This is a romantic epic fantasy with some adult language and spicy content. Though it’s set in the same universe as the Shadows and Crowns series—in the distant past—it can be read and completely enjoyed without reading any previous books in this world. Book two will end with a HEA, but beware the cliffhanger at the end of this first book!]]> 662 S.M. Gaither ✨Jܱ� 5
What to Expect:
� Enemies-to-Lovers
� Elves, Gods, and Mortals
� Trials
� Adorable Beasties
� Revenge & Scheming
� Found Family
� Banter
� He Falls First
� Slow Burn
� First Person POV

I really loved this one! It was a bit predictable, but it’s a formula that works. Both MC’s were VERY likable and I really enjoyed how healthy their interactions felt even though they started out on different sides. (Don’t worry, there was still plenty of banter!) The FMC had some valid reasons for wanting revenge and answers but she always seemed very open to learning and accepting new information and giving each individual person she encountered a clean slate. The author found a great balance in that I felt like the female character was always making logical informed decisions rather than acting on biases and prejudices OR going the other direction and being too naive and trusting.

This couple gave me strong Nytos & Sera vibes which was super exciting to me since I personally think that author tanked that series in book three. ]]> 3.90 2023 Flame and Sparrow (Flame and Sparrow Duology, #1)
author: S.M. Gaither
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.90
book published: 2023
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/27
date added: 2025/02/15
shelves:
review:
� 4.5 stars �

What to Expect:
� Enemies-to-Lovers
� Elves, Gods, and Mortals
� Trials
� Adorable Beasties
� Revenge & Scheming
� Found Family
� Banter
� He Falls First
� Slow Burn
� First Person POV

I really loved this one! It was a bit predictable, but it’s a formula that works. Both MC’s were VERY likable and I really enjoyed how healthy their interactions felt even though they started out on different sides. (Don’t worry, there was still plenty of banter!) The FMC had some valid reasons for wanting revenge and answers but she always seemed very open to learning and accepting new information and giving each individual person she encountered a clean slate. The author found a great balance in that I felt like the female character was always making logical informed decisions rather than acting on biases and prejudices OR going the other direction and being too naive and trusting.

This couple gave me strong Nytos & Sera vibes which was super exciting to me since I personally think that author tanked that series in book three.
]]> <![CDATA[Rain of Shadows and Endings (Legacy, #1)]]> 123349658
Rain of Shadows and Endings is book one in The Legacy Series and ends on a cliffhanger. This is new adult dark fantasy romance series and includes elements that may be triggering to some readers.]]> 670 Melissa K. Roehrich ✨Jܱ� 3
What to Expect:
� Fae & Legacy
� Forced Proximity
� Political Intrigue
� Morally Gray MMC
� FMC w/no Free Will
� Touch Her & Die
� Enemies w/Benefits
� Secret Identity
� Emerging Powers
� Third Person POV

What in the Tamlin was this?!

Friends, are we not bothered by this storyline? This was basically a socially accepted trafficking. I mean� he mostly seems like a decent person and he certainly was in a position to be a lot more awful than he was, but he forced her into a role she didn’t want and has completely stolen her free will. There were a few circumstances where I do believe he was saving her from a much worse fate with his actions and I even get the argument that he saved her from an awful fate by selecting her in the first place, but some of the things he did were inexcusable and purely the result of his own pride and need to assert dominance over her.

I saw the twist at the end coming, but I have no idea where the storyline will go from here. I also don’t really understand the MMC’s motivations. They don’t seem completely nefarious but I don’t quite grasp what he is trying to accomplish or prevent. I guess I’ll have to read on and find out. Most of the plot seemed aimed at making the reader like the MMC, but I’m still hoping the other guy (Tristan) is end game. All of the MMC’s “it’s not your place to know”comments and all the times he abused their connection to make her docile and silent made him a nope for me, and that was BEFORE he locked her in a cellar overnight. ]]> 4.01 2023 Rain of Shadows and Endings (Legacy, #1)
author: Melissa K. Roehrich
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.01
book published: 2023
rating: 3
read at: 2025/01/31
date added: 2025/02/15
shelves:
review:
� 3 stars �

What to Expect:
� Fae & Legacy
� Forced Proximity
� Political Intrigue
� Morally Gray MMC
� FMC w/no Free Will
� Touch Her & Die
� Enemies w/Benefits
� Secret Identity
� Emerging Powers
� Third Person POV

What in the Tamlin was this?!

Friends, are we not bothered by this storyline? This was basically a socially accepted trafficking. I mean� he mostly seems like a decent person and he certainly was in a position to be a lot more awful than he was, but he forced her into a role she didn’t want and has completely stolen her free will. There were a few circumstances where I do believe he was saving her from a much worse fate with his actions and I even get the argument that he saved her from an awful fate by selecting her in the first place, but some of the things he did were inexcusable and purely the result of his own pride and need to assert dominance over her.

I saw the twist at the end coming, but I have no idea where the storyline will go from here. I also don’t really understand the MMC’s motivations. They don’t seem completely nefarious but I don’t quite grasp what he is trying to accomplish or prevent. I guess I’ll have to read on and find out. Most of the plot seemed aimed at making the reader like the MMC, but I’m still hoping the other guy (Tristan) is end game. All of the MMC’s “it’s not your place to know”comments and all the times he abused their connection to make her docile and silent made him a nope for me, and that was BEFORE he locked her in a cellar overnight.
]]> <![CDATA[The Curse of Saints (The Curse of the Saints, #1)]]> 62329962 Has she been sent to save the realm or destroy it?

As Spymaster to the Queen, Aya's blood oath ensures she protects those she fights alongside - including Will, the Queen's Enforcer and Aya's bitter rival.

When rumors of dark magic rise in a nearby kingdom, both are sent to investigate.

But when Aya's power acts beyond her gods-given affinity, she risks being turned into a weapon in a war she doesn't know how to win.

And when her relationship with Will unexpectedly shifts, neither knows the danger that will follow . . .]]> 480 Kate Dramis 0241630908 ✨Jܱ� 3
What to Expect:
� Rivals-to-Lovers
� Reluctant Allies
� Political Intrigue
� Knife to Throat
� Slow Burn
� Chosen One
� He Falls First
� Love Triangle
� Touch Her/Him and Die
� Forced Proximity
� Magic & Prophesy
� Third Person POV

Based on the trope list, this should have been five stars, but it ended up being pretty lackluster and unmemorable. I saw the author advertising this as Enemies-to-Lovers, but Rivals-to-Lovers feels much more accurate. None of the 3 characters really stood out to me and the pacing was on the slow side. Aya is the “chosen one� and her powers are talked about a lot, but they didn’t seem particularly impressive. There was also just a little too much talk of the gods which gave the book a fanatical vibe. The “love triangle� was kind of a joke since Aiden very clearly has no shot. Overall I feel like the author just tried to include too many things and ended up not doing any of them justice. I don’t think I will continue the series.

✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　�

Pre-read: Late to the party on this one! This series has been recommended to me by several people, but the ratings aren’t the highest� Hoping it’s at least easy to follow and an entertaining read. ]]> 3.72 2023 The Curse of Saints (The Curse of the Saints, #1)
author: Kate Dramis
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.72
book published: 2023
rating: 3
read at: 2025/01/27
date added: 2025/02/15
shelves:
review:
� 2.75 stars �

What to Expect:
� Rivals-to-Lovers
� Reluctant Allies
� Political Intrigue
� Knife to Throat
� Slow Burn
� Chosen One
� He Falls First
� Love Triangle
� Touch Her/Him and Die
� Forced Proximity
� Magic & Prophesy
� Third Person POV

Based on the trope list, this should have been five stars, but it ended up being pretty lackluster and unmemorable. I saw the author advertising this as Enemies-to-Lovers, but Rivals-to-Lovers feels much more accurate. None of the 3 characters really stood out to me and the pacing was on the slow side. Aya is the “chosen one� and her powers are talked about a lot, but they didn’t seem particularly impressive. There was also just a little too much talk of the gods which gave the book a fanatical vibe. The “love triangle� was kind of a joke since Aiden very clearly has no shot. Overall I feel like the author just tried to include too many things and ended up not doing any of them justice. I don’t think I will continue the series.

✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　�

Pre-read: Late to the party on this one! This series has been recommended to me by several people, but the ratings aren’t the highest� Hoping it’s at least easy to follow and an entertaining read.
]]> 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 ✨Jܱ� 2
What to Expect:
� Found Family
� Looking for a Cure
� Forbidden Love
� War/Combat
� Touch Her & Die
� Repetitive/Full of Filler
� Dragons, Wyverns, & Gryphons
� Cliffhanger Ending
� Third Person POV

I’m sick to death of this book, so let’s just get this over with. I will never understand how so many people are rating this 5 stars. If I hadn’t read Iron Flame, I might have bumped this up to 3 stars, but at this point Rebecca has written an unbelievable amount of filler and so much of this book felt completely unnecessary.

Fourth Wing was a good book. It definitely wasn’t my favorite book, but it was a promising start to a new series. I thought the intimate scenes were too mature for how immature their relationship felt and I would have preferred a little more slow burn, but if it had been a trilogy, I would have been totally on board. Sadly though, that was not to be. Rebecca chose the money over the integrity of her writing and I honestly can’t hate her for that, but it has definitely had a negative impact on the story.

S’s had to contrive multiple reasons for Xaden & Violet not to be together and as a result, I’ve completely lost interest in their relationship. In Iron Flame it was a ridiculous amount of miscommunication and repetitive arguments. In Onyx Storm it was his Venin status and his role as a Professor at her school. ]]> 4.19 2025 Onyx Storm (The Empyrean, #3)
author: Rebecca Yarros
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.19
book published: 2025
rating: 2
read at: 2025/02/01
date added: 2025/02/13
shelves:
review:
� 2.4 stars �

What to Expect:
� Found Family
� Looking for a Cure
� Forbidden Love
� War/Combat
� Touch Her & Die
� Repetitive/Full of Filler
� Dragons, Wyverns, & Gryphons
� Cliffhanger Ending
� Third Person POV

I’m sick to death of this book, so let’s just get this over with. I will never understand how so many people are rating this 5 stars. If I hadn’t read Iron Flame, I might have bumped this up to 3 stars, but at this point Rebecca has written an unbelievable amount of filler and so much of this book felt completely unnecessary.

Fourth Wing was a good book. It definitely wasn’t my favorite book, but it was a promising start to a new series. I thought the intimate scenes were too mature for how immature their relationship felt and I would have preferred a little more slow burn, but if it had been a trilogy, I would have been totally on board. Sadly though, that was not to be. Rebecca chose the money over the integrity of her writing and I honestly can’t hate her for that, but it has definitely had a negative impact on the story.

S’s had to contrive multiple reasons for Xaden & Violet not to be together and as a result, I’ve completely lost interest in their relationship. In Iron Flame it was a ridiculous amount of miscommunication and repetitive arguments. In Onyx Storm it was his Venin status and his role as a Professor at her school.
]]> Cloud Cuckoo Land 56783258 When everything is lost, it’s our stories that survive.

How do we weather the end of things? Cloud Cuckoo Land brings together an unforgettable cast of dreamers and outsiders from past, present and future to offer a vision of survival against all odds.

Constantinople, 1453:
An orphaned seamstress and a cursed boy with a love for animals risk everything on opposite sides of a city wall to protect the people they love.

Idaho, 2020:
An impoverished, idealistic kid seeks revenge on a world that’s crumbling around him. Can he go through with it when a gentle old man stands between him and his plans?

Unknown, Sometime in the Future:
With her tiny community in peril, Konstance is the last hope for the human race. To find a way forward, she must look to the oldest stories of all for guidance.

Bound together by a single ancient text, these tales interweave to form a tapestry of solace and resilience and a celebration of storytelling itself. Like its predecessor All the Light We Cannot See, Anthony Doerr’s new novel is a tale of hope and of profound human connection.]]> 626 Anthony Doerr 1982168439 ✨Jܱ� 0 dnf 4.24 2021 Cloud Cuckoo Land
author: Anthony Doerr
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.24
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/11
shelves: dnf
review:
Such tedious nonsensical prose.
]]> I Did Something Bad 203578726 In this smart and swoony adventure rom-com, a journalist and a movie star find themselves teaming up to cover up a murder...and falling for each other in the process.

When freelance journalist Khin Hlaing is assigned by Vogue to get a scoop on Tyler Tun, Hollywood’s hottest movie star who has returned home to Myanmar to shoot a film, she's determined to succeed. If Khin’s able to get an explosive exclusive, there may well be a permanent position waiting for her at Vogue Singapore, and a ticket out of the city that's felt too small since her recent divorce.

Tyler has done his very best to keep his private life private, and he doesn’t show any sign of letting down his walls for Khin. But then one night on set, a strange man follows Khin into the surrounding park grounds. When he threatens her, Tyler steps in and things escalate fast. Khin knows they can’t go to the police, even if it was self defense. And when she learns that this man seems to have targeted her specifically, she needs to do everything she can to find out why.

As Khin and Tyler work together to hide their secret and find out more about her attacker, they grow closer and Tyler finally starts opening up. The job at Vogue suddenly looks more promising, but Khin can’t help feel a twang of uncomfortable morality-related guilt. Before long, everything hangs in the balance. Will they get away with murder? Can Khin get the exposé she needs for her dream job? And is she willing to risk Tyler’s trust in the process?]]> 336 Pyae Moe Thet War 1250330513 ✨Jܱ� 3
What to Expect:
� Actor x Journalist
� Writing an Article for Vogue
� Healing after Divorce (Her)
� Covering Up a Murder
� Solving a Mystery
� Will They/Won’t They
� Movie Set
� Closed Door Romance
� First Person POV

I expected this to be a little more fast paced and exciting. After the murder occurs, almost every scene was just them lying to cover up what happened and all the emotional turmoil that came with that. I really liked the FMC at the beginning of the book, but her character became less appealing to me as the story progressed. I was particularly turned off by some of the lies she chose to tell in order to win his trust. The MMC was an A-List actor that was so down to earth and kind that it made her betrayal feel extra sleazy, especially when you learn of his motivations. He pretty much carried this book for me. As I’ve mentioned, the mystery/thriller genre isn’t one I typically reach for, but there was enough romance in this one to get me through. I don’t want to share too many details and spoil the story, but this was a decent enough read if you’re thinking of picking it up. Nothing ground breaking but at the very least an easy read with a unique setting (Myanmar).

✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　�

Pre-read: I don’t often read mystery/thrillers, but since I received this from Afterlight as the December book pick, I figured I’d give this a whirl! Hope it’s decent! ]]> 3.70 2024 I Did Something Bad
author: Pyae Moe Thet War
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.70
book published: 2024
rating: 3
read at: 2025/01/12
date added: 2025/02/04
shelves:
review:
� 3 stars �

What to Expect:
� Actor x Journalist
� Writing an Article for Vogue
� Healing after Divorce (Her)
� Covering Up a Murder
� Solving a Mystery
� Will They/Won’t They
� Movie Set
� Closed Door Romance
� First Person POV

I expected this to be a little more fast paced and exciting. After the murder occurs, almost every scene was just them lying to cover up what happened and all the emotional turmoil that came with that. I really liked the FMC at the beginning of the book, but her character became less appealing to me as the story progressed. I was particularly turned off by some of the lies she chose to tell in order to win his trust. The MMC was an A-List actor that was so down to earth and kind that it made her betrayal feel extra sleazy, especially when you learn of his motivations. He pretty much carried this book for me. As I’ve mentioned, the mystery/thriller genre isn’t one I typically reach for, but there was enough romance in this one to get me through. I don’t want to share too many details and spoil the story, but this was a decent enough read if you’re thinking of picking it up. Nothing ground breaking but at the very least an easy read with a unique setting (Myanmar).

✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　�

Pre-read: I don’t often read mystery/thrillers, but since I received this from Afterlight as the December book pick, I figured I’d give this a whirl! Hope it’s decent!
]]> Same Time Next Year 199334767 From New York Times bestselling author Tessa Bailey comes a steamy novella full of hope and humor tracking a couple’s fake marriage for a year after the wild New Year’s Eve when they first say “I do.�

Adored by all, Britta is an ambitious waitress working at Sluggers. The popular bar holds a special place in her heart and is a regular hangout for the Bridgeport Bandits, the local hockey club. With a half brother on the team, Britta has a strict no-dating policy for hockey boys. But she does have a soft spot for one particular player.

A beast on the ice, Sumner Mayfield is on the brink of breaking into the NHL. But time’s running out. With his work visa about to expire, Sumner’s only chance to stay in Bridgeport is to marry an American—and get a green card. Otherwise, it’s back to Canada for the defenseman.

On New Year’s Eve, the team begs Britta to marry Sumner that very night. Sum is embarrassed yet hopeful—’s desperately in love. But Britta balks at first. Until something about Sumner’s soulful brown eyes and ripped physique makes her reconsider…]]> 144 Tessa Bailey 1662517912 ✨Jܱ� 2
What to Expect:
� Marriage of Convenience
� Hockey Romance
� Daddy Issues
� He Falls First
� Forced Proximity
� Slow Burn
� Novella
� Dual POV

Tessa Bailey writes every horny thought she has out on the page, and no shame, but I personally am not here for it. The first books I ever read by her were the Bellinger Sisters duet and they are still my favorite books by her. They had the perfect amount of spice, well developed heroines with their own unique personalities, AND sexy heroes with cool jobs. THIS is the formula she needs to get back to. I don’t want to know some of these things her characters are thinking. I almost always develop the ick and yet� I keep reading her books so I really have no one to blame but myself. Actually no� I’m blaming you guys. ]]> 3.40 2023 Same Time Next Year
author: Tessa Bailey
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.40
book published: 2023
rating: 2
read at: 2025/02/01
date added: 2025/02/02
shelves:
review:
� 2 stars �

What to Expect:
� Marriage of Convenience
� Hockey Romance
� Daddy Issues
� He Falls First
� Forced Proximity
� Slow Burn
� Novella
� Dual POV

Tessa Bailey writes every horny thought she has out on the page, and no shame, but I personally am not here for it. The first books I ever read by her were the Bellinger Sisters duet and they are still my favorite books by her. They had the perfect amount of spice, well developed heroines with their own unique personalities, AND sexy heroes with cool jobs. THIS is the formula she needs to get back to. I don’t want to know some of these things her characters are thinking. I almost always develop the ick and yet� I keep reading her books so I really have no one to blame but myself. Actually no� I’m blaming you guys.
]]> People Watching 222684223 In this sexy and emotional romance from the acclaimed author of Out of the Woods and Out on a Limb, a small-town woman’s journey to spread her wings intertwines with the arrival of an adventurous newcomer who brings out the best in her.

Prudence Welch has found solace in her introverted life in Baysville, a charming tourist town in Northern Ontario. Despite once dreaming of a life beyond its borders, she now finds contentment in her working at her father’s gas station, writing poetry, and caring for her mother, who was diagnosed with Early Onset Alzheimer's shortly after Prue’s nineteenth birthday. But as her mother’s condition worsens and her father’s concerns about her future intensify, Prue feels her world slipping further out of control.

Enter Milo Kablukov, an enigmatic wanderer whose beat-up van covered with ill-advised bumper stickers rolls into town just when Prue needs a change. It’s all too easy to let go with him, and Prue can’t help but strike up an unlikely friendship with Milo, which leads to a wild and sexy agreement between them.

Milo, a man of many adventures and countless stories, is not one to settle down. However, his brother’s urgent need for help has brought him to Baysville, and now the intriguing Prue has given him more reason to stay. Especially once they start spending more time together, their chemistry intensifying, and casual-sex lessons start at Prue’s request.

But as their temporary arrangement blossoms into something deeper, Prue and Milo discover that getting out of their comfort zones is one thing . . . taking that leap together is something else entirely.]]> Hannah Bonam-Young 0593871898 ✨Jܱ� 0 to-read 4.52 2025 People Watching
author: Hannah Bonam-Young
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.52
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/02
shelves: to-read
review:
A SECOND HBY in 2025!!! EeeeEeeeeee!! The cover is gorgeous AND it’s going to be a duet! I’m obsessed!
]]> Heir (Heir Duology, #1) 206780522 An orphan.
An outcast.
A prince.

And a killer who will bring an empire to its knees.

Growing up in the Kegari slums, AIZ has seen her share of suffering. An old tragedy fuels her need for vengeance, but it is love of her people that propels her. Until one hotheaded mistake lands her in an inescapable prison, where the embers of her wrath ignite.

Banished from her people for an unforgivable crime, SIRSHA is a down-on-her-luck tracker who uses magic to trace her marks. Destitute, she agrees to hunt down a killer who has murdered children across the Martial Empire. All she has to do is carry out the job and get paid. But when a chance encounter leads to an unexpected attraction, Sirsha learns her mission might cost her far more than she's willing to give up.

QUIL is the crown prince of the Empire and nephew of a venerated empress, but ’s loath to take the throne when his aunt steps down. As the son of a reviled emperor, he, better than anyone, understands that power corrupts. When a vicious new enemy threatens the survival of the Empire, Quil must ask himself if he can rise above his tragic lineage and be the heir his people need.

Beloved storyteller Sabaa Tahir interweaves the lives of three young people as they grapple with power, treachery, love, and the devastating consequences of unchecked greed, on a journey that may cost them their lives―and their hearts. Literally.]]> 484 Sabaa Tahir 0593616944 ✨Jܱ� 3
What to Expect:
� Magic & Curses
� Justice/Revenge
� Dreams vs. Duty
� Forced Proximity
� Religious Fanaticism
� Economic Inequality
� Found Family
� 3 Main Characters with Interwoven Stories
� Non Linear Timeline
� Third Person POV

Reading this was a humbling experience. I can’t remember the last time I felt this confused reading a book. I reread close to ten chapters, I phoned a friend, I welcomed spoilers, anything to help me understand what the heck was going on. That being said, there was a lot that I loved about this book, but I can’t fully recommend it after struggling this much.

First off, I need to say that you’re going to have to read this one the old fashioned way. I listened to the audio, and it did NOT work. I really struggled to understand which character I was following at any given point in the story. There are three main characters that the POV shifts between and the female characters were extremely hard to differentiate. The fact that the author was intentionally vague on some details and was purposely unclear about how the characters were connected didn’t help.

I was told that this was a dual timeline story. After researching it a bit more, this is not 100% true according to the author, but thinking of it this was is the only way I made any sense out of what was going on. Since it wasn’t a true dual timeline read though, there were many points where this was also very confusing as the more fluid timeline weaves back and forth. Again, this was an intentional choice by the author since she wanted some details to come together later in the story, but it didn’t quite work for me, especially via audio.

Something I did enjoy was that this story was more romance forward than the authors previous series. The first book in the An Ember in the Ashes series was also more romance forward and it was my favorite in the series by far. I gave the first book in that series five stars and the books that followed each earned one fewer star from me. I think I personally prefer my books to have a happily ever after ending and you can’t count on this author to provide that. I was pretty upset by some of the choices she made in this book that affected the beloved characters from An Ember in the Ashes for example. Those particular characters have been through enough in my opinion and shouldn’t be under attack from her in this Duology. It may be more realistic, but I read to escape reality. ]]> 4.25 2024 Heir (Heir Duology, #1)
author: Sabaa Tahir
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.25
book published: 2024
rating: 3
read at: 2025/01/27
date added: 2025/01/31
shelves:
review:
� 3.25 stars �

What to Expect:
� Magic & Curses
� Justice/Revenge
� Dreams vs. Duty
� Forced Proximity
� Religious Fanaticism
� Economic Inequality
� Found Family
� 3 Main Characters with Interwoven Stories
� Non Linear Timeline
� Third Person POV

Reading this was a humbling experience. I can’t remember the last time I felt this confused reading a book. I reread close to ten chapters, I phoned a friend, I welcomed spoilers, anything to help me understand what the heck was going on. That being said, there was a lot that I loved about this book, but I can’t fully recommend it after struggling this much.

First off, I need to say that you’re going to have to read this one the old fashioned way. I listened to the audio, and it did NOT work. I really struggled to understand which character I was following at any given point in the story. There are three main characters that the POV shifts between and the female characters were extremely hard to differentiate. The fact that the author was intentionally vague on some details and was purposely unclear about how the characters were connected didn’t help.

I was told that this was a dual timeline story. After researching it a bit more, this is not 100% true according to the author, but thinking of it this was is the only way I made any sense out of what was going on. Since it wasn’t a true dual timeline read though, there were many points where this was also very confusing as the more fluid timeline weaves back and forth. Again, this was an intentional choice by the author since she wanted some details to come together later in the story, but it didn’t quite work for me, especially via audio.

Something I did enjoy was that this story was more romance forward than the authors previous series. The first book in the An Ember in the Ashes series was also more romance forward and it was my favorite in the series by far. I gave the first book in that series five stars and the books that followed each earned one fewer star from me. I think I personally prefer my books to have a happily ever after ending and you can’t count on this author to provide that. I was pretty upset by some of the choices she made in this book that affected the beloved characters from An Ember in the Ashes for example. Those particular characters have been through enough in my opinion and shouldn’t be under attack from her in this Duology. It may be more realistic, but I read to escape reality.
]]> For She Is Wrath 61070523 A sweeping, Pakistani romantic fantasy retelling of The Count of Monte Cristo, where one girl seeks revenge against those who betrayed her—including the boy she used to love.

Three hundred and sixty-four days.
Framed for a crime she didn't commit, Dania counts down her days in prison until she can exact revenge on Mazin, the boy responsible for her downfall, the boy she once loved—and still can't forget. When she discovers a fellow prisoner may have the key to exacting that vengeance--a stolen djinn treasure--they execute a daring escape together and search for the hidden treasure.

Armed with dark magic and a new identity, Dania enacts a plan to bring down those who betrayed her and her family, even though Mazin stands in her way. But seeking revenge becomes a complicated game of cat and mouse, especially when an undeniable fire still burns between them, and the power to destroy her enemies has a price. As Dania falls deeper into her web of traps and lies, she risks losing her humanity to her fight for vengeance--and her heart to the only boy she's ever loved.]]> 439 Emily Varga 1250877385 ✨Jܱ� 3
What to Expect:
� Revenge/Betrayal
� Feminine Rage
� Djinn Magic
� Second Chance Enemies-to-Lovers
� Friendship
� Morally Gray FMC
� Dual Timeline
� Count of Monte Cristo Retelling
� YA Fantasy
� First Person POV

The more I think about this book, the less I like it. I was originally planning to bump this up to 4 stars, but I’m giving it 3. I think it’s the title that’s really killing it for me. She WAS wrath, for like 2 seconds until she laid eyes on her betraying ex and then she was mostly just conflicted. Sure, she keeps saying s’s going to get her revenge, but she spends the whole book mooning at him even though it’s very clear there’s no mistake. He did in fact get her imprisoned with no real plan to help her escape. This was supposedly an inescapable prison after all (aren’t they all ]]> 3.68 2024 For She Is Wrath
author: Emily Varga
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.68
book published: 2024
rating: 3
read at: 2024/12/31
date added: 2025/01/29
shelves:
review:
� 3.4 stars �

What to Expect:
� Revenge/Betrayal
� Feminine Rage
� Djinn Magic
� Second Chance Enemies-to-Lovers
� Friendship
� Morally Gray FMC
� Dual Timeline
� Count of Monte Cristo Retelling
� YA Fantasy
� First Person POV

The more I think about this book, the less I like it. I was originally planning to bump this up to 4 stars, but I’m giving it 3. I think it’s the title that’s really killing it for me. She WAS wrath, for like 2 seconds until she laid eyes on her betraying ex and then she was mostly just conflicted. Sure, she keeps saying s’s going to get her revenge, but she spends the whole book mooning at him even though it’s very clear there’s no mistake. He did in fact get her imprisoned with no real plan to help her escape. This was supposedly an inescapable prison after all (aren’t they all
]]> Blood Mercy (Blood Grace, #1) 59760653 One human. One immortal. Will their alliance save the kingdom, or will their forbidden love be a death sentence?

When Cassia seeks out a Hesperine, he could end her mortal life in a heartbeat. But she has no fear of his magic or his fangs. She knows the real monster is the human king, her father. If he finds out s’s bargaining with his enemy, he’ll send her to the executioner.

As a Hesperine diplomat, Lio must negotiate with mortals who hate him. Cassia is different, but politics aren't why she captivates the gentle immortal. He wants more than her blood, and if he can’t resist the temptation, he’ll provoke the war he's trying to prevent.

Blood and Ash fans will love this slow-burn, steamy romance with classic fantasy worldbuilding. Follow fated mates Cassia and Lio through their epic love story for a guaranteed series HEA.

New edition featuring a fantasy world map, glossary of lore and characters, enhanced opening chapter, and all-new cover artwork]]> 767 Vela Roth 1957040009 ✨Jܱ� 0 to-read 3.93 2018 Blood Mercy (Blood Grace, #1)
author: Vela Roth
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.93
book published: 2018
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/26
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Lady of Darkness (Lady of Darkness, #1)]]> 62987104 A CAGE.

Owned by a ruthless Assassin Lord, Scarlett Monrhoe and her two sisters have been trained since they were children to torture and take life. They are the most feared trio on the continent, but they are also wild and unpredictable. A tragic night has Scarlett finding herself locked away in a noble's household, trapped and forgotten, until she's ready to fall into line.

A CHOICE.
Until the day she is presented with a job. If she completes the assignment, her payment will be something she has coveted for ten years. Revenge against the Fae Fire Prince who brutally killed her mother ten years ago. Is she willing to sacrifice her ideals for retribution?

A MYSTERY.
But when children begin disappearing from her home, all her plans are put on hold as she races to save the most innocent. With the help of old friends, a jilted lover, and a mysterious newcomer who claims the magic of the Fae is possible in the mortal lands, Scarlett delves into the darkest corners of the world. Forgotten secrets will come to light, and she will discover the darkness extends far beyond her own kingdom.

Lady of Darkness is a new adult, fantasy, enemies-to-lovers romance and adventure novel that will appeal to lovers of possessive Fae, wicked Witches, sexy Shifters, and arrogant Vampires. It may have triggers of love-hate themes, sexual scenes (both consensual and non), violence, and jealous/possessive themes.]]> 525 Melissa K. Roehrich ✨Jܱ� 3
I also felt a few major details were not explained well enough which had a negative impact on my overall opinion of the book. All the details she shared about her mother and her past were pretty fuzzy and I would have liked to have been given more clear reasoning for why she took her tonic daily, how her mother died, why her mother left, etc. I also needed a better explanation for why the assassin Lord and the King would be interested in her but not tell her what they knew about her, etc. It seemed like too many people were circling her and biding their time, but for what? Why wait and what was their plan in the long run?

She also has a relationship with a former lover that I felt was kind of just dropped on us. She is clearly interested in our MMC but she is still wrapped up in the idea of the other guy (even though she adamantly states they have no future together). This did bother me a bit since the rest of the book implies that her and the MMC are essentially “mates,� but what bothered me more was that I didn’t get any real glimpses or detailing of her relationship with the other guy to understand why she was so drawn to him. If the FMC shared some memories or flashbacks or gave the reader some reasoning for why he was hard for her to let go of, the entire plot would have been a lot more solid.

She has experienced some trauma and there is a point in the book where she starts spiraling and repeating the same thoughts over and over. I understood why the author did this, but I think she milked it a little too much. I was sick of reading those words by the end of the book. I saw the end coming and I’m sure it will all be explained in book two, but as a rule, I don’t love lies and betrayal, so he better have a really good reason for keeping those details from her. The whole formula of this book was pretty obvious to me. Nothing really made it stand out as unique in my opinion. I would probably read the second book if I stumble onto it, but I also won’t go out of my way or be upset if I never find out what’s next for these characters. ]]> 3.98 2020 Lady of Darkness (Lady of Darkness, #1)
author: Melissa K. Roehrich
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.98
book published: 2020
rating: 3
read at: 2024/03/22
date added: 2025/01/26
shelves:
review:
This was a decent book. I liked it. I think I would have liked it even more if I hadn’t already read “Queen of Roses� by Briar Boleyn that had a lot of identical plot points. This book was published first and I highly doubt either author ripped off the other, but the bottom line is, I simply liked Queen of Roses more and I couldn’t help but compare the two.

I also felt a few major details were not explained well enough which had a negative impact on my overall opinion of the book. All the details she shared about her mother and her past were pretty fuzzy and I would have liked to have been given more clear reasoning for why she took her tonic daily, how her mother died, why her mother left, etc. I also needed a better explanation for why the assassin Lord and the King would be interested in her but not tell her what they knew about her, etc. It seemed like too many people were circling her and biding their time, but for what? Why wait and what was their plan in the long run?

She also has a relationship with a former lover that I felt was kind of just dropped on us. She is clearly interested in our MMC but she is still wrapped up in the idea of the other guy (even though she adamantly states they have no future together). This did bother me a bit since the rest of the book implies that her and the MMC are essentially “mates,� but what bothered me more was that I didn’t get any real glimpses or detailing of her relationship with the other guy to understand why she was so drawn to him. If the FMC shared some memories or flashbacks or gave the reader some reasoning for why he was hard for her to let go of, the entire plot would have been a lot more solid.

She has experienced some trauma and there is a point in the book where she starts spiraling and repeating the same thoughts over and over. I understood why the author did this, but I think she milked it a little too much. I was sick of reading those words by the end of the book. I saw the end coming and I’m sure it will all be explained in book two, but as a rule, I don’t love lies and betrayal, so he better have a really good reason for keeping those details from her. The whole formula of this book was pretty obvious to me. Nothing really made it stand out as unique in my opinion. I would probably read the second book if I stumble onto it, but I also won’t go out of my way or be upset if I never find out what’s next for these characters.
]]> <![CDATA[Anne of Green Gables (Anne of Green Gables, #1)]]> 20893527
Anne, an eleven-year-old orphan, is sent by mistake to live with a lonely, middle-aged brother and sister on a Prince Edward Island farm and proceeds to make an indelible impression on everyone around her.]]> 427 L.M. Montgomery 0147514002 ✨Jܱ� 5
“Kindred spirits are not so scarce as I used to think. It's splendid to find out there are so many of them in the world.�

Back in college, I had a friend who was completely obsessed with this book. She worked it into a shocking amount of conversations and I remember thinking that it really couldn’t be THAT good. A children’s book about an orphan girl in the middle of nowhere? Sounded pretty dull to me, but boy was I wrong! Here to eat crow because I just fell in love with this book. ]]> 4.53 1908 Anne of Green Gables (Anne of Green Gables, #1)
author: L.M. Montgomery
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.53
book published: 1908
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/25
date added: 2025/01/25
shelves:
review:
� 5 stars �

“Kindred spirits are not so scarce as I used to think. It's splendid to find out there are so many of them in the world.�

Back in college, I had a friend who was completely obsessed with this book. She worked it into a shocking amount of conversations and I remember thinking that it really couldn’t be THAT good. A children’s book about an orphan girl in the middle of nowhere? Sounded pretty dull to me, but boy was I wrong! Here to eat crow because I just fell in love with this book.
]]> One Last Shot 195790730
From the moment Emerson and Theo met as teenagers, they were inseparable. But just when they finally expressed their feelings to one another, they were torn apart.

Now, supermodel Emerson is nearing her twenty-eighth birthday, and s’s tired of looking for love in all the wrong places. When the calendar reminder for the marriage pact she and Theo made as teens goes off on her phone, she realizes this is it―her chance to rekindle the only romance that ever really made sense. Emerson convinces her grumpy agent to book her as the face of the fashion campaign that Theo, now a fashion photographer, is shooting. The good the campaign is being shot in ridiculously romantic Cinque Terre, Italy. The bad news? Theo might not be as happy to see her as she'd hoped.

The two embark on a four-day campaign that tests not only their feelings, but their ability to keep their hands off one another. But as roadblock after roadblock keeps them apart, Emerson starts to will this photoshoot be the key to getting one last shot at love, or will it be a final goodbye?]]> 352 Betty Cayouette 1250291100 ✨Jܱ� 3
Clever title. Somehow I missed the double meaning until I was nearly finished with the book. ]]> 3.55 2024 One Last Shot
author: Betty Cayouette
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.55
book published: 2024
rating: 3
read at: 2024/06/16
date added: 2025/01/25
shelves:
review:
� 3 stars �

Clever title. Somehow I missed the double meaning until I was nearly finished with the book.
]]> <![CDATA[My Vampire Plus-One (My Vampires, #2)]]> 199702818
Reginald is extremely handsome (which is not in his favour for Amelia's purposes), but he's also rude, infuriatingly arrogant, and wears a riot of clashing clothes that make him look like he got dressed in a skip - all factors in the plus column.

And the date goes well: everyone at the wedding, including Amelia, is horrified by Reginald and his actions, which include crashing the bar, starting up a breakdancing routine on the dance floor, and encouraging the kids to play frisbee with the fine china being used for dinner. (It really is a shame he's so attractive).

After the evening is over, Reginald admits to Amelia that he's a vampire, which doesn't frighten her the way he expects it will. In fact, she asks if he would be willing to accompany her to a few more events over the course of the summer to help her further her goals of getting everyone to leave her alone. But there's a fine line between love and hate, and the last thing either of them expects is there might be a growing spark between them...]]> 352 Jenna Levine 1804945439 ✨Jܱ� 4
What to Expect:
� Fake Dating
� Forced Proximity
� Strangers to Friends to Lovers
� Miscommunication
� Wedding Plus One
� Snowed In
� Paranormal Rom Com
� Slow Burn
� Quirky MMC x Workaholic FMC
� Vampire x Human
� Dual First Person POV

OMG, this was so fun! ]]> 3.82 2024 My Vampire Plus-One (My Vampires, #2)
author: Jenna Levine
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.82
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2024/10/21
date added: 2025/01/25
shelves:
review:
� 4.05 stars �

What to Expect:
� Fake Dating
� Forced Proximity
� Strangers to Friends to Lovers
� Miscommunication
� Wedding Plus One
� Snowed In
� Paranormal Rom Com
� Slow Burn
� Quirky MMC x Workaholic FMC
� Vampire x Human
� Dual First Person POV

OMG, this was so fun!
]]> Reveal Me (Shatter Me, #5.5) 43514655 This fourth companion novella to Tahereh Mafi’s New York Times bestselling Shatter Me series is narrated by fan favorite character Kenji Kishimoto!

The explosive revelations in Defy Me have left readers reeling and desperate for answers. This fourth and final novella in the series will bring readers back to the world of the Shatter Me before the final novel installment hits shelves in winter 2020.

And don’t miss Find Me, the gorgeous paperback bind-up that brings together Shadow Me and Reveal Me in print for the first time!]]> 112 Tahereh Mafi ✨Jܱ� 3
What to Expect:
� Dystopian Fantasy
� Novella
� Kenji’s POV

Well, I can’t say I was wowed by this, but I enjoyed it more than the last novella. Most of the previous novellas have just shown us the same content from a different POV and I appreciated that this one didn’t follow that same pattern. There were a few revelations in this book that will need to be worked into the next book so maybe the repetition will just happen in reverse this time around though. ]]> 3.96 2019 Reveal Me (Shatter Me, #5.5)
author: Tahereh Mafi
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.96
book published: 2019
rating: 3
read at: 2025/01/24
date added: 2025/01/24
shelves:
review:
� 3 stars �

What to Expect:
� Dystopian Fantasy
� Novella
� Kenji’s POV

Well, I can’t say I was wowed by this, but I enjoyed it more than the last novella. Most of the previous novellas have just shown us the same content from a different POV and I appreciated that this one didn’t follow that same pattern. There were a few revelations in this book that will need to be worked into the next book so maybe the repetition will just happen in reverse this time around though.
]]> Next to You (Next, #2) 107525361 With little-to-no renovation experience but a large sum of inheritance money, Lane enlists the help of her friend Matt—a mechanic by trade, handyman by practice, and hottie by nature.
While their mutual attraction is undeniable, Matt and Lane have silently agreed that a friendship is the only thing that could ever exist between them. Matt's a total family guy with "settle down with me" tattooed across his forehead whereas Lane is entirely commitment-averse.
So, when Matt offers to help her with the bus and in the bedroom with no strings attached, Lane’s feelings evolve faster than you can say “just good friends.� But she soon discovers that in order to build something new, she has to first heal her past.

_____________
Next To You is a standalone friends to idiots to lovers romance featuring a tattooed, anxious, chaotic bisexual lead and a cinnamon-roll hero with a heart of gold and filthy mouth. Featuring meddling friends, an escapee pet rabbit, an aggressive amount of siblings, and a doomed wedding. Read as these two friends who are definitely *not* in love attempt to keep their sex free from attachments and find their happily ever after, after grief has put a pause on life.
_____________
Trigger warnings: Sudden death of parent from car accident (referenced throughout) Anxiety/PTSD symptoms and treatments.]]> 416 Hannah Bonam-Young ✨Jܱ� 5
As a single gal who has watched friend after friend find love, this book resonated with me on such a personal level. It can be so difficult to be surrounded by couples and people building families and not feel like you’re being left behind. I am always happy for them, of course, but that does not mean it’s always easy to be content and not feel lonely.

This story was raw and emotional and made me tear up on more than one occasion. HBY masterfully crafts characters that feel as real as you or me. I have only read two of her books and I’m already ready to claim her as one of my favorite romance authors. It’s wild to me that this isn’t even her most read or highly rated book?!

And Matt?! Oh my gosh I am obsessed with that teddy bear of a human. Where do I find a Matt? If I head to Facebook Marketplace to purchase a bus, will one appear? ]]> 3.95 2022 Next to You (Next, #2)
author: Hannah Bonam-Young
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.95
book published: 2022
rating: 5
read at: 2024/03/20
date added: 2025/01/24
shelves:
review:
Bringing this review back around because everyone needs to read this one! This is my favorite novel by her to date and it’s chronically under read!

As a single gal who has watched friend after friend find love, this book resonated with me on such a personal level. It can be so difficult to be surrounded by couples and people building families and not feel like you’re being left behind. I am always happy for them, of course, but that does not mean it’s always easy to be content and not feel lonely.

This story was raw and emotional and made me tear up on more than one occasion. HBY masterfully crafts characters that feel as real as you or me. I have only read two of her books and I’m already ready to claim her as one of my favorite romance authors. It’s wild to me that this isn’t even her most read or highly rated book?!

And Matt?! Oh my gosh I am obsessed with that teddy bear of a human. Where do I find a Matt? If I head to Facebook Marketplace to purchase a bus, will one appear?
]]> Defy Me (Shatter Me, #5) 34992959
Juliette’s short tenure as the supreme commander of North America has been an utter disaster. When the children of the other world leaders show up on her doorstep, she wants nothing more than to turn to Warner for support and guidance. But he shatters her heart when he reveals that ’s been keeping secrets about her family and her identity from her—secrets that change everything.

Juliette is devastated, and the darkness that’s always dwelled within her threatens to consume her. An explosive encounter with unexpected visitors might be enough to push her over the edge.]]> 357 Tahereh Mafi 0062676393 ✨Jܱ� 4
What to Expect:
� Buried Family Secrets
� Rescue Mission
� Plot Twists
� Found Family
� New Allies
� First Person POV x 3

In a shocking turn of events, I think this might be the best book in the series! Don’t worry friends, I’m as surprised by my take on this as you are. My biggest issue with this series has been my annoyance with Juliette’s character and more specifically her character voice. I would go as far as to say that I almost need First Person POV to love a book, but if I don’t love the character? ]]> 4.27 2019 Defy Me (Shatter Me, #5)
author: Tahereh Mafi
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.27
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/22
date added: 2025/01/22
shelves:
review:
� 4.25 stars �

What to Expect:
� Buried Family Secrets
� Rescue Mission
� Plot Twists
� Found Family
� New Allies
� First Person POV x 3

In a shocking turn of events, I think this might be the best book in the series! Don’t worry friends, I’m as surprised by my take on this as you are. My biggest issue with this series has been my annoyance with Juliette’s character and more specifically her character voice. I would go as far as to say that I almost need First Person POV to love a book, but if I don’t love the character?
]]> <![CDATA[The Courting of Bristol Keats (The Courting of Bristol Keats, #1)]]> 141217639 From NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author Mary E. Pearson comes a thrilling romantic fantasy full of dangerous fae, dark secrets, and addictive romance-- the first book in a duology.

After losing both their parents, Bristol Keats and her sisters struggle to stay afloat in their small, quiet town of Bowskeep. When Bristol begins to receive letters from an “aunt� s’s never heard of who promises she can help, she reluctantly agrees to meet―and discovers that everything she thought she knew about her family is a lie. Even her father might still be alive, not killed but kidnapped by terrifying creatures to a whole other realm―the one he is from.

Desperate to save her father and find the truth, Bristol journeys to a land of gods and fae and monsters. Pulled into a dangerous world of magic and intrigue, she makes a deadly bargain with the fae king, Tyghan. But what she doesn't know is that he's the one who drove her parents to live a life on the run. And he is just as determined as she is to find her father―dead or alive.]]> Mary E. Pearson 1035054019 ✨Jܱ� 3
What to Expect:
� He Falls First
� Family Secrets
� Reluctant Allies
� Enemies-to-Lovers
� Fae Royalty
� Found Family
� Sisterhood
� Hidden Powers
� Fae Bargain
� Portal Magic
� Third Person POV

I adore this author and I really wanted this to be a five star read, but I was sadly underwhelmed. The storyline felt similar to so many other fae books and unfortunately there was nothing about this story that made it really stand out for me.

The book started out pretty strong. The FMC seemed likable and her reasoning for accepting the mission offered to her felt both logical and believable. I liked that she negotiated and kept her head rather than jumping into a Fae bargain without thought. It was somewhat implied that she didn’t have a choice once she accepted the painting, but she made the most of her situation which earned her points in my book. Unfortunately once she made it to faerie, things started to go downhill.

Initially there was a bit of a reluctant allies/enemies-to-lovers vibe, but from there I felt that their relationship developed too quickly. There is a portion of the book where the MC’s share secret dances together and I’m gonna be honest that just didn’t do anything for me. Perhaps others will find these rendezvous more romantic, but it felt like the author gave us tiny crumbs of romance and then all of the sudden they were making grand declarations of love to each other. I went back a few times thinking that I had missed something, but sadly that wasn’t the case.

I don’t enjoy the miscommunication trope, but characters deliberately withholding information is worse by far. So much of this plot hinges on key people in the FMC’s life withholding important information from her and when it was revealed that the MMC was doing the same, it put a very sour taste in my mouth. All of them felt that their reasons for doing so were valid, but she is an adult and should be allowed to make informed decisions. If I were her, I think I’d cut my losses and go back to my sisters and forget the rest of them. Since I’m sure the MMC is likely end game for her, it’s very unfortunate that this is how I currently feel about him.

If the next book is a similar length to this one, I’m really not sure if I will continue. I’m genuinely so sad I don’t have anything more positive to share about this one. I would still recommend this authors work, but maybe skip this one. ☹️

✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　�

Pre-read: The ratings are scaring me, but I love this author! Eight more books by the end of the year is feeling like a very lofty goal! This is a long one so it might slow me down! ]]> 3.58 2024 The Courting of Bristol Keats (The Courting of Bristol Keats, #1)
author: Mary E. Pearson
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.58
book published: 2024
rating: 3
read at: 2024/12/24
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves:
review:
� 3.25 stars �

What to Expect:
� He Falls First
� Family Secrets
� Reluctant Allies
� Enemies-to-Lovers
� Fae Royalty
� Found Family
� Sisterhood
� Hidden Powers
� Fae Bargain
� Portal Magic
� Third Person POV

I adore this author and I really wanted this to be a five star read, but I was sadly underwhelmed. The storyline felt similar to so many other fae books and unfortunately there was nothing about this story that made it really stand out for me.

The book started out pretty strong. The FMC seemed likable and her reasoning for accepting the mission offered to her felt both logical and believable. I liked that she negotiated and kept her head rather than jumping into a Fae bargain without thought. It was somewhat implied that she didn’t have a choice once she accepted the painting, but she made the most of her situation which earned her points in my book. Unfortunately once she made it to faerie, things started to go downhill.

Initially there was a bit of a reluctant allies/enemies-to-lovers vibe, but from there I felt that their relationship developed too quickly. There is a portion of the book where the MC’s share secret dances together and I’m gonna be honest that just didn’t do anything for me. Perhaps others will find these rendezvous more romantic, but it felt like the author gave us tiny crumbs of romance and then all of the sudden they were making grand declarations of love to each other. I went back a few times thinking that I had missed something, but sadly that wasn’t the case.

I don’t enjoy the miscommunication trope, but characters deliberately withholding information is worse by far. So much of this plot hinges on key people in the FMC’s life withholding important information from her and when it was revealed that the MMC was doing the same, it put a very sour taste in my mouth. All of them felt that their reasons for doing so were valid, but she is an adult and should be allowed to make informed decisions. If I were her, I think I’d cut my losses and go back to my sisters and forget the rest of them. Since I’m sure the MMC is likely end game for her, it’s very unfortunate that this is how I currently feel about him.

If the next book is a similar length to this one, I’m really not sure if I will continue. I’m genuinely so sad I don’t have anything more positive to share about this one. I would still recommend this authors work, but maybe skip this one. ☹️

✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　�

Pre-read: The ratings are scaring me, but I love this author! Eight more books by the end of the year is feeling like a very lofty goal! This is a long one so it might slow me down!
]]> Shadow Me (Shatter Me, #4.5) 40863452
The ending of Restore Me left readers gasping, and this novella full of Kenji’s signature sass and big heart is the perfect story to tide fans over until Defy Me, the shocking fifth book in the Shatter Me series.]]> 69 Tahereh Mafi 0062906267 ✨Jܱ� 2
What to Expect:
� Novella
� Kenji’s POV

Turns out I like Kenji better from someone else’s perspective. ]]> 3.97 2019 Shadow Me (Shatter Me, #4.5)
author: Tahereh Mafi
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.97
book published: 2019
rating: 2
read at: 2025/01/19
date added: 2025/01/19
shelves:
review:
� 2 stars �

What to Expect:
� Novella
� Kenji’s POV

Turns out I like Kenji better from someone else’s perspective.
]]> Shardless (Tempris, #1) 46042932 Magic marked her for suffering. Magic will save her. Magic will lead her home.
On Tempris, time magic is outlawed, and suspected time mages are hunted. Humans are second-class citizens, shunned by the immortal fey that live on the island. They even have a name for their kind: Shardless.

Taly is one of the lucky humans. Taken in by a fey noble and his family, she's lived a good life, surrounded by people she loves. But when an accidental brush with magic causes her to see things -- ghostly apparitions that give her small glimpses into the future -- it has deadly consequences. The Sanctorum has returned to the island, and if they find her, they'll kill her. And anyone that tries to protect her.

This includes her best friend, Skye. He was the boy that saved her. The man she knew she could never have. And when he refuses to let her go, their actions might hold the power to reshape the world.

An ancient evil is rising, and in order to protect those that she cares for, Taly will have to sacrifice everything.

Including her heart.

Perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas and Holly Black, this action-packed fantasy romance will have you captivated from page one!
]]> 641 Stephanie Fisher ✨Jܱ� 5
What to Expect:
� Childhood Friends-to-Lovers
� Slow Burn
� Special Snowflake in Hiding
� Banter
� Interesting Mix of Magic & Tech
� Strong/Original World Building
� Time Magic
� Fae Nobles
� Mutual Pining/Denial
� Strong FMC
� Debut
� Third Person POV
� Unfinished Series

This was so freaking good! I absolutely devoured this and think it’s absolutely criminal more people aren’t reading this! Help me get the word out friends! ]]> 4.27 2018 Shardless (Tempris, #1)
author: Stephanie Fisher
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.27
book published: 2018
rating: 5
read at: 2024/07/07
date added: 2025/01/19
shelves:
review:
� 4.5 stars �

What to Expect:
� Childhood Friends-to-Lovers
� Slow Burn
� Special Snowflake in Hiding
� Banter
� Interesting Mix of Magic & Tech
� Strong/Original World Building
� Time Magic
� Fae Nobles
� Mutual Pining/Denial
� Strong FMC
� Debut
� Third Person POV
� Unfinished Series

This was so freaking good! I absolutely devoured this and think it’s absolutely criminal more people aren’t reading this! Help me get the word out friends!
]]> Alchemised 207670238
“What is it you think you’re protecting in that brain of yours? The war is over. Holdfast is dead. The Eternal Flame extinguished. There’s no one left for you to save.�

Once a promising alchemist, Helena Marino is now a prisoner—of war and of her own mind. Her Resistance friends and allies have been brutally murdered, her abilities suppressed, and the world she knew destroyed.

In the aftermath of a long war, Paladia’s new ruling class of corrupt guild families and depraved necromancers, whose vile, undead creatures helped bring about their victory, holds Helena captive.

According to Resistance records, she was a healer of little importance within their ranks. But Helena has inexplicable memory loss of the months leading up to her capture, making her enemies wonder: Is she truly as insignificant as she appears, or are her lost memories hiding some vital piece of the Resistance’s final gambit?

To uncover the memories buried deep within her mind, Helena is sent to the High Reeve, one of the most powerful and ruthless necromancers in this new world. Trapped on his crumbling estate, Helena’s fight—to protect her lost history and to preserve the last remaining shreds of her former self—is just beginning. For her prison and captor have secrets of their own . . . secrets Helena must unearth, whatever the cost.]]> 976 SenLinYu ✨Jܱ� 0 to-read 4.73 2025 Alchemised
author: SenLinYu
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.73
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/18
shelves: to-read
review:
OMG! This is NOT a drill‼️ We have a cover AND a release date!! This just officially became my most anticipated read of the year!!!
]]> Restore Me (Shatter Me, #4) 34992929 448 Tahereh Mafi 0062676369 ✨Jܱ� 3
What to Expect:
� YA Romance
� Found Family
� Dystopian
� Miscommunication
� Political Intrigue
� New Characters Introduced
� Past Secrets Revealed
� Trouble In Paradise
� Duet Narration
� Dual First Person POV

Hmm� well that was interesting. I’m sorry, but it has to be said that Juliette is painfully unfit to lead. She is entirely too trusting and naive. Almost everything that transpired in this book could have easily been prevented if she had been even a little bit careful or had taken any interest in preparing herself for her new role. It’s like she really thought everything would just be easy for them now that the commander was out of the picture. Aren’t there still people starving in their own sector? Even just with managing the needs of the people nearby I would have thought she’d be a lot more busy, not just hanging out and yapping with Kenji. ]]> 4.14 2018 Restore Me (Shatter Me, #4)
author: Tahereh Mafi
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.14
book published: 2018
rating: 3
read at: 2025/01/18
date added: 2025/01/18
shelves:
review:
� 3 stars �

What to Expect:
� YA Romance
� Found Family
� Dystopian
� Miscommunication
� Political Intrigue
� New Characters Introduced
� Past Secrets Revealed
� Trouble In Paradise
� Duet Narration
� Dual First Person POV

Hmm� well that was interesting. I’m sorry, but it has to be said that Juliette is painfully unfit to lead. She is entirely too trusting and naive. Almost everything that transpired in this book could have easily been prevented if she had been even a little bit careful or had taken any interest in preparing herself for her new role. It’s like she really thought everything would just be easy for them now that the commander was out of the picture. Aren’t there still people starving in their own sector? Even just with managing the needs of the people nearby I would have thought she’d be a lot more busy, not just hanging out and yapping with Kenji.
]]> <![CDATA[The Notebook (The Notebook, #1)]]> 15931
Set amid the austere beauty of coastal North Carolina in 1946, The Notebook begins with the story of Noah Calhoun, a rural Southerner returned home from World War II. Noah, thirty-one, is restoring a plantation home to its former glory, and he is haunted by images of the beautiful girl he met fourteen years earlier, a girl he loved like no other. Unable to find her, yet unwilling to forget the summer they spent together, Noah is content to live with only memories...until she unexpectedly returns to his town to see him once again.

Allie Nelson, twenty-nine, is now engaged to another man, but realizes that the original passion she felt for Noah has not dimmed with the passage of time. Still, the obstacles that once ended their previous relationship remain, and the gulf between their worlds is too vast to ignore. With her impending marriage only weeks away, Allie is forced to confront her hopes and dreams for the future, a future that only she can shape.

Like a puzzle within a puzzle, the story of Noah and Allie is just the beginning. As it unfolds, their tale miraculously becomes something different, with much higher stakes. The result is a deeply moving portrait of love itself, the tender moments and the fundamental changes that affect us all. Shining with a beauty that is rarely found in current literature, The Notebook establishes Nicholas Sparks as a classic storyteller with a unique insight into the only emotion that really matters.

"I am nothing special, of this I am sure. I am a common man with common thoughts and I've led a common life. There are no monuments dedicated to me and my name will soon be forgotten, but I've loved another with all my heart and soul, and to me, this has always been enough."

And so begins one of the most poignant and compelling love stories you will ever read...The Notebook]]> 214 Nicholas Sparks 0553816713 ✨Jܱ� 4
What to Expect:
� First Love
� Forbidden Love
� Second Chance
� Different World’s
� Enduring Love
� First Person POV

As I’ve been organizing my thoughts on this book, the thing I keep coming back to is how closely the movie followed the plot of the book. Perhaps this was possible because of the book’s relatively short length, but it could very nearly have doubled for a script. The question I’ve been asking myself with each Nicholas Sparks book I’ve read is, which is better, the movie or the book? You might think it would be a hard call to make this time because of their similarities, but in this particular case, the movie was the very clear winner for me.

It’s a great story either way, but the movie is just so beautifully made and well cast. The plots are nearly identical, but the characters didn’t inspire the same level of emotion while reading as they did when I watched the film. I also think Sparks uses some strange verbiage at times which earned him a few lip curls from me. Sometimes it almost felt like I was reading a regency novel or something when he mentions character’s bosoms or loins stirring or describes a character as “aroused sexually.� Isn’t “sexually”already implied? ]]> 4.07 1996 The Notebook (The Notebook, #1)
author: Nicholas Sparks
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.07
book published: 1996
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/16
date added: 2025/01/17
shelves:
review:
� 4 stars �

What to Expect:
� First Love
� Forbidden Love
� Second Chance
� Different World’s
� Enduring Love
� First Person POV

As I’ve been organizing my thoughts on this book, the thing I keep coming back to is how closely the movie followed the plot of the book. Perhaps this was possible because of the book’s relatively short length, but it could very nearly have doubled for a script. The question I’ve been asking myself with each Nicholas Sparks book I’ve read is, which is better, the movie or the book? You might think it would be a hard call to make this time because of their similarities, but in this particular case, the movie was the very clear winner for me.

It’s a great story either way, but the movie is just so beautifully made and well cast. The plots are nearly identical, but the characters didn’t inspire the same level of emotion while reading as they did when I watched the film. I also think Sparks uses some strange verbiage at times which earned him a few lip curls from me. Sometimes it almost felt like I was reading a regency novel or something when he mentions character’s bosoms or loins stirring or describes a character as “aroused sexually.� Isn’t “sexually”already implied?
]]> Love at First Book 196848577
Emily Allen, a librarian on Martha’sVineyard, has always dreamed of a life of travel and adventure. So when her favorite author, Siobhan Riordan, offers her a job in the Emerald Isle, Emily jumps at the opportunity. After all, Siobhan’s novels got Em through some of the darkest days of her existence.

Helping Siobhan write the final book in her acclaimed series—after a ten-year hiatus due to a scorching case of writer’sblock—is a dream come true for Emily. If only she didn’t have to deal with Siobhan’s son, Kieran Murphy. He manages Siobhan’s bookstore, and the grouchy bookworm clearly doesn’t want Em around.

When Siobhan’s health takes a bad turn, s’s more determined than ever to finish her novel, while Kieran tries every trick in the book to get his mother to rest. Thrown into the role of peacemaker, Emily begins to see that Kieran's heart is in the right place. Torn between helping Siobhan find closure with her series and her own growing feelings for the mercurial Irishman, Emily will have to decide if s’s truly ready to turn a new page and figure out what lies in the next chapter.]]> 330 Jenn McKinlay 0593545745 ✨Jܱ� 4
What to Expect:
� Enemies-to-Lovers
� Slow Burn
� Contemporary Romance
� Found Family
� Small Town in Ireland
� Workplace Romance
� Forced Proximity
� Grumpy x Sunshine
� Book About Books
� Librarian x Book Store Owner
� An Emotional Read
� 3rd Act Break Up (but this one made sense)
� First Person POV

Can you imagine how frustrating it would feel if J.K. Rowling had never written an ending to the Harry Potter series?! Or even worse, if HBO had written it? ]]> 3.95 2024 Love at First Book
author: Jenn McKinlay
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.95
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2024/09/01
date added: 2025/01/12
shelves:
review:
� 4.35 stars �

What to Expect:
� Enemies-to-Lovers
� Slow Burn
� Contemporary Romance
� Found Family
� Small Town in Ireland
� Workplace Romance
� Forced Proximity
� Grumpy x Sunshine
� Book About Books
� Librarian x Book Store Owner
� An Emotional Read
� 3rd Act Break Up (but this one made sense)
� First Person POV

Can you imagine how frustrating it would feel if J.K. Rowling had never written an ending to the Harry Potter series?! Or even worse, if HBO had written it?
]]> <![CDATA[Terms and Conditions (Dreamland Billionaires, #2)]]> 60476301 I’m destined to become the next CEO of my family’s media empire.
The only problem? My grandfather’s inheritance clause.
Fulfilling his dying wish of getting married and having an heir seemed impossible until my assistant volunteers for the job.
Our marriage was supposed to be the perfect solution to my biggest problem.
But the more we act in love for the public, the more unsure I feel about our contract.
Caring about Iris was never part of the deal.
Especially not when breaking her heart is inevitable.

Iris
My plan to marry Declan was simple in theory.
Move in together. Throw a wedding. Have a baby.
We set rules to prevent any kind of issues.
Ones that were never meant to be broken, no matter how much Declan tempts me.
But what happens when our fake relationship bleeds into our real one?
Falling in love was never an option.
At least not for me.

Terms and Conditions is the second book in a series of interconnected standalones following three billionaire brothers.]]> 466 Lauren Asher 1737507730 ✨Jܱ� 3
What to Expect:
� Marriage of Convenience
� Billionaire Romance
� Forced Proximity
� Boss x Assistant
� He Falls First
� Inheritance on the Line
� Contractual Agreement
� Fake Dating
� Daddy Issues
� Dyslexia Rep
� Age Gap Romance
� 3rd Act Break Up
� Duet Narration
� Dual First Person POV

The Billionaire Romance trope will never be my favorite, but this was one of the better ones I’ve read. I liked that the power dynamics felt more balanced in this book and that he seemed to view her as invaluable to him professionally long before they became involved romantically. He was demanding as a boss but he for mostly treated her as an equal which endeared him to me.

My biggest issue with the storyline is that I don’t believe she would have ever entered into this agreement in the first place. Certainly not without giving it a good amount of thought. Her back story includes “daddy issues� from an abusive father which has made her a commitment phobe. Even if they plan to eventually end the marriage, the agreement also requires her to produce a child and heir for him. I’d say having a child with someone is a pretty big commitment and wouldn’t she be more careful about choosing a father for her child considering the issues she has with her own? I guess an argument can be made that she does know the MMC well at that point, but still. Seems cruel to knowingly sign her child up for a life with divorced parents or at the very least with parents who don’t love each other. I get that her reasoning for helping him was selfless, but ’s not really the only person to consider since they would be obligated to bring a child into the mix.

The other issue I had was with their big 3rd act break up fight. He was in a high stress situation and said something very mean and cutting. She is mostly angry that he said it because he knew she was insecure about that. I’m not justifying what he said, but her response which was to tell him he was just like his father was also an intentional jab meant to poke at HIS insecurities. It was all very immature and she has the gall to sit up on her high horse as if she didn’t do the exact same thing to him. ]]> 4.10 2022 Terms and Conditions (Dreamland Billionaires, #2)
author: Lauren Asher
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.10
book published: 2022
rating: 3
read at: 2025/01/11
date added: 2025/01/12
shelves:
review:
� 3.45 stars �

What to Expect:
� Marriage of Convenience
� Billionaire Romance
� Forced Proximity
� Boss x Assistant
� He Falls First
� Inheritance on the Line
� Contractual Agreement
� Fake Dating
� Daddy Issues
� Dyslexia Rep
� Age Gap Romance
� 3rd Act Break Up
� Duet Narration
� Dual First Person POV

The Billionaire Romance trope will never be my favorite, but this was one of the better ones I’ve read. I liked that the power dynamics felt more balanced in this book and that he seemed to view her as invaluable to him professionally long before they became involved romantically. He was demanding as a boss but he for mostly treated her as an equal which endeared him to me.

My biggest issue with the storyline is that I don’t believe she would have ever entered into this agreement in the first place. Certainly not without giving it a good amount of thought. Her back story includes “daddy issues� from an abusive father which has made her a commitment phobe. Even if they plan to eventually end the marriage, the agreement also requires her to produce a child and heir for him. I’d say having a child with someone is a pretty big commitment and wouldn’t she be more careful about choosing a father for her child considering the issues she has with her own? I guess an argument can be made that she does know the MMC well at that point, but still. Seems cruel to knowingly sign her child up for a life with divorced parents or at the very least with parents who don’t love each other. I get that her reasoning for helping him was selfless, but ’s not really the only person to consider since they would be obligated to bring a child into the mix.

The other issue I had was with their big 3rd act break up fight. He was in a high stress situation and said something very mean and cutting. She is mostly angry that he said it because he knew she was insecure about that. I’m not justifying what he said, but her response which was to tell him he was just like his father was also an intentional jab meant to poke at HIS insecurities. It was all very immature and she has the gall to sit up on her high horse as if she didn’t do the exact same thing to him.
]]> <![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 s’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 ✨Jܱ� 4
“He is my anchor, and I am willing to sink, so long as it is with him.�

What to Expect:
� Duty vs Desire
� Forced Proximity
� Kiss or Kill?
� Hunter & Hunted
� One Bed
� Enemies-To-Lovers
� Forbidden Romance
� Star Crossed Lovers
� Touch Her & Die
� Secrets & Lies
� Cliffhanger
� Three POV’s

I think I’ve figured out why the reviews for this one have been so all over the place� If you’re here for the star crossed romance then you’re in for a treat, but if you were hoping for plot, you will be sorely disappointed.

Roberts wrote some truly swoon worthy lines for our MC’s. The romance feels unnecessarily angsty at times, but it did create a beautiful tension between the characters. It is clear that neither wishes to harm the other despite the hurt and betrayal they feel. With a price on both of their heads, they come up against many obstacles and must work together to make it back in one piece, but they still manage to fight each other and their feelings every step of the way.

My biggest issue with this series is that Kai and Kitt are essentially mindless puppets. They are both such good little soldiers, doing everything that daddy asks them to do without question. Now that the King is gone, I am even more bothered by how little they question his motivations. They know first hand that he was a cruel unfeeling man, but they continue to assume that he had the people’s best interest at heart. It is difficult for me to truly lose myself in the romance when Kai is still dead set on bringing her back to his brother. He expects that she will likely be killed in retribution for killing their father, but he drags her back anyway. This is love? He saves her several times along the way, but why bother if he plans to deliver her to that fate?

Kai found Paedyn pretty early on in the story and it takes them forever to get back for various reasons. Outside of the romance, him finding her and bringing her back while she tries to escape was pretty much the only plot point. The story flashed to a moping Kitt a few times but his scenes were kept very vague and I was never 100% sure what he and his advisors were talking about. Perhaps it had some connection to the Cliffhanger ending but I would be surprised if his advisors were in favor of that twist.

I still don’t fully understand why they are so opposed to the Ordinaries and at 2.5 books in, the author has to take some of the blame for that. They touched on it more in this book, but I still don’t understand why it would warrant genocide. Why not just banish them if they are found? Surely they don’t believe that it is something contagious since no one would know anyone who had become “Powerless� overnight. For a series with so little original content, it’s baffling that these details weren’t more clearly fleshed out. To borrow so much and still not give clarity to those few details is just lazy writing.

I enjoyed this more than Powerless, but objectively, Powerless had a more interesting plot. The Cliffhanger seemed designed to drag out their angst and mutual pining and I have a feeling I won’t be into it. I am pretty interested in hearing Kitt’s reasoning because knowing what I know now, it makes very little sense. Maybe someone shared the truth with him while they were gone and Kitt’s intentions are to garner peace? Whatever the reasoning, I really hope it makes sense. ]]> 4.07 2024 Reckless (The Powerless Trilogy, #2)
author: Lauren Roberts
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.07
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2024/08/10
date added: 2025/01/11
shelves:
review:
� 3.65 stars �

“He is my anchor, and I am willing to sink, so long as it is with him.�

What to Expect:
� Duty vs Desire
� Forced Proximity
� Kiss or Kill?
� Hunter & Hunted
� One Bed
� Enemies-To-Lovers
� Forbidden Romance
� Star Crossed Lovers
� Touch Her & Die
� Secrets & Lies
� Cliffhanger
� Three POV’s

I think I’ve figured out why the reviews for this one have been so all over the place� If you’re here for the star crossed romance then you’re in for a treat, but if you were hoping for plot, you will be sorely disappointed.

Roberts wrote some truly swoon worthy lines for our MC’s. The romance feels unnecessarily angsty at times, but it did create a beautiful tension between the characters. It is clear that neither wishes to harm the other despite the hurt and betrayal they feel. With a price on both of their heads, they come up against many obstacles and must work together to make it back in one piece, but they still manage to fight each other and their feelings every step of the way.

My biggest issue with this series is that Kai and Kitt are essentially mindless puppets. They are both such good little soldiers, doing everything that daddy asks them to do without question. Now that the King is gone, I am even more bothered by how little they question his motivations. They know first hand that he was a cruel unfeeling man, but they continue to assume that he had the people’s best interest at heart. It is difficult for me to truly lose myself in the romance when Kai is still dead set on bringing her back to his brother. He expects that she will likely be killed in retribution for killing their father, but he drags her back anyway. This is love? He saves her several times along the way, but why bother if he plans to deliver her to that fate?

Kai found Paedyn pretty early on in the story and it takes them forever to get back for various reasons. Outside of the romance, him finding her and bringing her back while she tries to escape was pretty much the only plot point. The story flashed to a moping Kitt a few times but his scenes were kept very vague and I was never 100% sure what he and his advisors were talking about. Perhaps it had some connection to the Cliffhanger ending but I would be surprised if his advisors were in favor of that twist.

I still don’t fully understand why they are so opposed to the Ordinaries and at 2.5 books in, the author has to take some of the blame for that. They touched on it more in this book, but I still don’t understand why it would warrant genocide. Why not just banish them if they are found? Surely they don’t believe that it is something contagious since no one would know anyone who had become “Powerless� overnight. For a series with so little original content, it’s baffling that these details weren’t more clearly fleshed out. To borrow so much and still not give clarity to those few details is just lazy writing.

I enjoyed this more than Powerless, but objectively, Powerless had a more interesting plot. The Cliffhanger seemed designed to drag out their angst and mutual pining and I have a feeling I won’t be into it. I am pretty interested in hearing Kitt’s reasoning because knowing what I know now, it makes very little sense. Maybe someone shared the truth with him while they were gone and Kitt’s intentions are to garner peace? Whatever the reasoning, I really hope it makes sense.
]]> Maybe Once, Maybe Twice 65212083 Filled with the romance and angst that defines the years you come to know yourself, with a shifting timeline covering two decades and ratcheting up the tension, Maybe Once, Maybe Twice is a novel of second chances and finding your own way.

You know that old saying, “if we are still single when we’re 35, we should get married?� Well, Maggie Vine made that vow with two different people, at two very different stages of her life.

And they both showed up.

Maggie Vine’s life is going extra-medium. At 35 s’s pursuing her dreams of being a singer and being a mother—though neither is successfully panning out. So when Garrett Scholl—stifled hedge fund manager by day but electrifying aspiring rock singer by night—comes to her 35th birthday party with the intention to kiss Maggie senseless, it feels like one piece might click into place. Except ’s engaged to someone else, and Maggie knows she won’t fit into the cookie-cutter life ’s building for himself.

Enter Asher Reyes. Her first boyfriend from summer camp, turned into heartthrob actor, ’s lived a successful yet private life ever since he got famous. When a career-changing opportunity is presented to Maggie after her reconnection with Asher, it feels like everything—music, love, family—will fall into place. But her past won’t let her move on without a fight.]]> 336 Alison Rose Greenberg 1250791626 ✨Jܱ� 4 3.61 2023 Maybe Once, Maybe Twice
author: Alison Rose Greenberg
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.61
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2024/02/22
date added: 2025/01/11
shelves:
review:
At face value I expected this to be a fluffy romance but it ended up being kind of deep. There were actually three or four points in the story when I thought I had this book all figured out and then the author would add another layer to the narrative that would take me completely by surprise. It is rare that I read a book without reading the description or any reviews, but in this instance, it made for an intriguing experience. There was a big part of me that kept circling back to the idea that “if he wanted to he would,� but the storyline the author crafted did make the events feel believable, frustrating and tragic at times, but believable. This was a refreshing read that went beyond the standard romance tropes. I was initially a little put off by the last “will they won’t they� twist, but the more I think on it, the more I believe it was actually exactly what the story needed. This one is definitely worth the read! I’d recommend going into it as blind as possible if you still have the option.
]]> The Rom-Commers 195790586 S’s rewriting his love story. But can she rewrite her own?

Emma Wheeler desperately longs to be a screenwriter. S’s spent her life studying, obsessing over, and writing romantic comedies―good ones! That win contests! But s’s also been the sole caretaker for her kind-hearted dad, who needs full-time care. Now, when she gets a chance to re-write a script for famous screenwriter Charlie Yates―The Charlie Yates! Her personal writing god!―it’s a break too big to pass up.

Emma’s younger sister steps in for caretaking duties, and Emma moves to L.A. for six weeks for the writing gig of a lifetime. But what is it they say? Don’t meet your heroes? Charlie Yates doesn’t want to write with anyone―much less “a failed, nobody screenwriter.� Worse, the romantic comedy ’s written is so terrible it might actually bring on the apocalypse. Plus! He doesn’t even care about the script―it’s just a means to get a different one green-lit. Oh, and he thinks love is an emotional Ponzi scheme.

But Emma’s not going down without a fight. She will stand up for herself, and for rom-coms, and for love itself. She will convince him that love stories matter―even if she has to kiss him senseless to do it. But . . . what if that kiss is accidentally amazing? What if real life turns out to be so much . . . more real than fiction? What if the love story they’re writing breaks all Emma’s rules―and comes true?]]> 336 Katherine Center 1250283809 ✨Jܱ� 5
“I had a theory that we gravitate toward the stories we need in life. Whatever we are looking for- adventure, excitement, emotion, connection-we turn to stories that help us find it. Whatever questions we’re struggling with- sometimes ones so deep, we don’t even really know we’re asking them- we look for answers in stories.�

What to Expect:
� Grumpy x Sunshine
� Forced Proximity
� Writing Partners
� Cynic & Optimist
� Suddenly Roommates
� Slow Burn
� Fun & Witty Banter
� Kissing Only/Clean Romance
� Single POV

Katherine Center has done it again! And friends, this may be her best book yet! I have read and watched A LOT of “rom-coms� in my life, but very few have been this laugh-out-loud funny. Emma & Charlie were such a good time - I adored them both and absolutely loved their dynamic. Their romance was a very subtle slow burn romance but I loved all the ways they supported each other and how they continually showed their love for one another through their actions.

It was good that Charlie’s actions were usually so on point because he sometimes needed them to offset his words. Emma must be the least petty person on the planet because she overheard him belittling her to others not once but TWICE and both times, she just very maturely moved on without even confronting him. I would have walked right in to get my purse and glared daggers at him mutely the whole way. ]]> 4.06 2024 The Rom-Commers
author: Katherine Center
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.06
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2024/07/13
date added: 2025/01/11
shelves:
review:
� 4.5 stars �

“I had a theory that we gravitate toward the stories we need in life. Whatever we are looking for- adventure, excitement, emotion, connection-we turn to stories that help us find it. Whatever questions we’re struggling with- sometimes ones so deep, we don’t even really know we’re asking them- we look for answers in stories.�

What to Expect:
� Grumpy x Sunshine
� Forced Proximity
� Writing Partners
� Cynic & Optimist
� Suddenly Roommates
� Slow Burn
� Fun & Witty Banter
� Kissing Only/Clean Romance
� Single POV

Katherine Center has done it again! And friends, this may be her best book yet! I have read and watched A LOT of “rom-coms� in my life, but very few have been this laugh-out-loud funny. Emma & Charlie were such a good time - I adored them both and absolutely loved their dynamic. Their romance was a very subtle slow burn romance but I loved all the ways they supported each other and how they continually showed their love for one another through their actions.

It was good that Charlie’s actions were usually so on point because he sometimes needed them to offset his words. Emma must be the least petty person on the planet because she overheard him belittling her to others not once but TWICE and both times, she just very maturely moved on without even confronting him. I would have walked right in to get my purse and glared daggers at him mutely the whole way.
]]> Voice of the Ocean 217953353 From popular content creator Kelsey Impicciche, Voice of the Ocean follows a daring young siren who defies her people to save a human prince, unearthing ancient magic and igniting a dangerous romance amidst treacherous waters.

As the youngest daughter of the Siren queen, Celeste's life is tightly controlled. Desperate to prove her worth, she intends to join the Chorus - an elite group of siren warriors. With her final test on the horizon, Celeste must finally gain control over her temperamental Song. But when Celeste encounters a seemingly harmless ship, helmed by the intriguing Prince Raiden Sharp, her path veers towards forbidden waters.

Believing the handsome sailor to be innocent of any wrongdoing, Celeste defies Siren law to save Raiden's life - despite knowing he is the son of a king who has murdered many of her kindred. The penalty for Celeste's betrayal should be death, but the queen offers her an alternative: right her wrong by assassinating the prince. Determined to first discover the truth behind the prince's clandestine mission, Celeste agrees to become human.

The human world is nothing like she expected, nor is the prince the charming and noble man she assumed him to be. But as Celeste finds her place aboard the ship, friendships - and attraction - begin to grow. Will Celeste be able to save herself? Or will her choices unravel a kingdom, devastating sirens and humans alike?]]> 432 Kelsey Impicciche ✨Jܱ� 0 to-read 4.11 2025 Voice of the Ocean
author: Kelsey Impicciche
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/10
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Jane Eyre 10210 Alternate editions can be found here and here.

A gothic masterpiece of tempestuous passions and dark secrets, Charlotte Brontë's Jane Eyre is edited with an introduction and notes by Stevie Davis in Penguin Classics.

Charlotte Brontë tells the story of orphaned Jane Eyre, who grows up in the home of her heartless aunt, enduring loneliness and cruelty. This troubled childhood strengthens Jane's natural independence and spirit - which prove necessary when she finds employment as a governess to the young ward of Byronic, brooding Mr Rochester. As her feelings for Rochester develop, Jane gradually uncovers Thornfield Hall's terrible secret, forcing her to make a choice. Should she stay with Rochester and live with the consequences, or follow her convictions - even if it means leaving the man she loves? A novel of intense power and intrigue, Jane Eyre dazzled readers with its passionate depiction of a woman's search for equality and freedom.]]> 532 Charlotte Brontë 0142437204 ✨Jܱ� 4
This took several surprising turns and at times I could not tell quite where the story was headed. As a modern independent woman, some of her hopes and motivations were foreign to me and at times I felt Jane was a bit naive. I could not help but feel that she was lucky to not have encountered any less honorable men that might have taken advantage of her with less noble intentions.

When the death of an unknown relative granted her financial stability and independence, a large part of me felt that she would have been safer staying single. The conclusion made it clear that independence was not the true desire of her heart and with a description like the one that follows, I cannot deny that it seems she did make the right choice for herself. Perhaps the ability to make choices for yourself is true freedom.

“I have now been married ten years. I know what it is to live entirely for and with what I love best on earth. I hold myself supremely blest - blest beyond what language can express; because I am my husband's life as fully as he is mine. No woman was ever nearer to her mate than I am: ever more absolutely bone of his bone and flesh of his flesh. I know no weariness of my Edward's society: he knows none of mine, any more than we each do the pulsation of the heart that beats in our separate bosoms; consequently, we are ever together. To be together is for us to be at once free as in solitude, as gay as in company. We talk, I believe, all day long: to talk to each other is but more animated and an audible thinking. All my confidence is bestowed on him, all his confidence is devoted to me; we are precisely suited in character - perfect concord is the result.�

✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　�

Pre Read: I’m challenging myself to read a few classics this year. If nothing else I think it will be cathartic to FINALLY be able to remove them from my TBR. ]]> 4.14 1847 Jane Eyre
author: Charlotte Brontë
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 4.14
book published: 1847
rating: 4
read at: 2024/03/09
date added: 2025/01/10
shelves:
review:
� 3.75 stars �

This took several surprising turns and at times I could not tell quite where the story was headed. As a modern independent woman, some of her hopes and motivations were foreign to me and at times I felt Jane was a bit naive. I could not help but feel that she was lucky to not have encountered any less honorable men that might have taken advantage of her with less noble intentions.

When the death of an unknown relative granted her financial stability and independence, a large part of me felt that she would have been safer staying single. The conclusion made it clear that independence was not the true desire of her heart and with a description like the one that follows, I cannot deny that it seems she did make the right choice for herself. Perhaps the ability to make choices for yourself is true freedom.

“I have now been married ten years. I know what it is to live entirely for and with what I love best on earth. I hold myself supremely blest - blest beyond what language can express; because I am my husband's life as fully as he is mine. No woman was ever nearer to her mate than I am: ever more absolutely bone of his bone and flesh of his flesh. I know no weariness of my Edward's society: he knows none of mine, any more than we each do the pulsation of the heart that beats in our separate bosoms; consequently, we are ever together. To be together is for us to be at once free as in solitude, as gay as in company. We talk, I believe, all day long: to talk to each other is but more animated and an audible thinking. All my confidence is bestowed on him, all his confidence is devoted to me; we are precisely suited in character - perfect concord is the result.�

✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　�

Pre Read: I’m challenging myself to read a few classics this year. If nothing else I think it will be cathartic to FINALLY be able to remove them from my TBR.
]]> Daydream (Maple Hills, #3) 198647119
Halle may not have the romantic pursuits of her favorite fictional leads, but s’s an academic superstar, and when she hears about Henry’s problems with his class reading material, she offers to help. But being a private tutor isn’t exactly ideal given her own studies, job and the novel s’s trying to write. New experiences are the key to beating her writer’s block, though, and Henry’s promising to be the one to give them to her.

They just need to stick to their rulebook. Oh, and not fall in love.

18+ content]]> 448 Hannah Grace ✨Jܱ� 4
What to Expect:
� Sports/Hockey Romance
� College Romance
� Friends-to-Lovers
� Slow Burn
� Fake Dating for Experiences
� S’s helping him pass a class
� Found Family
� Self Discovery
� Duet Audio
� Dual First Person POV

Hannah Grace has certainly come a long way from Ice Breaker. I saw a graphic that listed the spicy chapters in each book in this series and the author cut the spice by about a third with each new book. ]]> 3.99 2024 Daydream (Maple Hills, #3)
author: Hannah Grace
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/01
date added: 2025/01/10
shelves:
review:
� 3.5 stars �

What to Expect:
� Sports/Hockey Romance
� College Romance
� Friends-to-Lovers
� Slow Burn
� Fake Dating for Experiences
� S’s helping him pass a class
� Found Family
� Self Discovery
� Duet Audio
� Dual First Person POV

Hannah Grace has certainly come a long way from Ice Breaker. I saw a graphic that listed the spicy chapters in each book in this series and the author cut the spice by about a third with each new book.
]]> <![CDATA[A Reign of Rose (The Sacred Stones, #3)]]> 205064757
They must save the world—but can they also save each other?

Kane Ravenwood, King of Onyx Kingdom, would go to the ends of the continent for Arwen Valondale, but what if s’s beyond even that? Broken in ways he never imagined he could be, Kane must find a way to fulfill the prophecy and kill his father, Fae King Lazarus. And after what ’s endured, ’s willing to save Evendell by whatever means necessary—even if that spells his own death.

Little does Kane know, ’s not the only one fighting for revenge. Arwen is no longer afraid to fight—no sacrifice is too great, no enemy too daunting. Now, nothing will stop her from destroying Lazarus and his allies, because she knows if she fails, both realms will be doomed forever.]]> 496 Kate Golden 0593641949 ✨Jܱ� 3
What to Expect:
� Warring Kingdoms
� He Thinks S’s ☠️
� Fae Dragon Shifter MMC
� Evil King
� Full Fae FMC Coming into Her Power
� Action Packed
� Found Family
� Prophecy
� Final Book in the Trilogy
� Dual POV

I really thought I would like this more, but I struggled to connect with the characters this time around and the plot honestly felt a little messy to me. The book starts out with Arwen being held captive by Lazarus while Kane believes she has died. They are apart for about 2 months and Kane spends that time trying to find a god to bring her back from the dead. This portion of the book had a bit of a Romeo and Juliet vibe since he is ready to make any deal to get her back and ends up giving up something major in the process. The god claims it’s impossible to bring her back which implied that they knew all along that she was still alive and were just messing with him.

This would have been a very boring book if Arwen had spent much more time in captivity, but when she escaped it felt a little too easy to me. It seemed like the author just wanted to throw in a cliff hanger at the end of the last book and didn’t have any real sense of how she would write Arwen’s captivity into the plot of this book. Knowing the King’s goals, it seems very unlikely that he would have waited two months to make a move on her if an heir is what he desires. Not saying I wanted Arwen to be r*ped and traumatized, but I at least need a more solid explanation for why he basically left her alone during that time frame. As is, it felt unnecessary to include her capture at all.

Once she was free, there was a lot of down time where they were just hanging out in tubs and getting spicy, etc. Of course we want some spice, but as a reader I was supposed to believe that the fate of the world was at stake and I just couldn’t hold on to that sense of urgency. I also really did not enjoy the way the spice was written, particularly the repeated use of the word “mewl� in reference to the FMC. I’m no stranger to spice in books, but the scenes this author wrote seriously gave me the ick.

I’d describe this book as action packed, but many scenes felt chaotic to me. The MC’s seemed very unprepared which was a little disappointing, and knowing their powers, it felt unlikely that someone could so easily get the jump on them like they did. (mild spoiler ahead) Arwen’s magic senses when people are hurt and urges her to heal them, but she never realized all the guards were being slaughtered around them? Perhaps her power was out of range for many of those deaths but it seems reasonable to assume she would have at least had some clue before it was too late. Some of these battles also ended abruptly when the good guys were already extremely weakened. In these instances, it didn’t make a lot of sense to me for their enemies to have backed off when they did. Lazarus’s whole reasoning for wanting Arwen in the first place is honestly pretty flimsy too because he doesn’t seem like the type to give up the throne to anyone, so why is he so keen to produce a more pure blooded heir?

Anyway� I’m probably overthinking all of this. ]]> 3.90 2024 A Reign of Rose (The Sacred Stones, #3)
author: Kate Golden
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.90
book published: 2024
rating: 3
read at: 2024/11/10
date added: 2025/01/10
shelves:
review:
� 3.15 stars �

What to Expect:
� Warring Kingdoms
� He Thinks S’s ☠️
� Fae Dragon Shifter MMC
� Evil King
� Full Fae FMC Coming into Her Power
� Action Packed
� Found Family
� Prophecy
� Final Book in the Trilogy
� Dual POV

I really thought I would like this more, but I struggled to connect with the characters this time around and the plot honestly felt a little messy to me. The book starts out with Arwen being held captive by Lazarus while Kane believes she has died. They are apart for about 2 months and Kane spends that time trying to find a god to bring her back from the dead. This portion of the book had a bit of a Romeo and Juliet vibe since he is ready to make any deal to get her back and ends up giving up something major in the process. The god claims it’s impossible to bring her back which implied that they knew all along that she was still alive and were just messing with him.

This would have been a very boring book if Arwen had spent much more time in captivity, but when she escaped it felt a little too easy to me. It seemed like the author just wanted to throw in a cliff hanger at the end of the last book and didn’t have any real sense of how she would write Arwen’s captivity into the plot of this book. Knowing the King’s goals, it seems very unlikely that he would have waited two months to make a move on her if an heir is what he desires. Not saying I wanted Arwen to be r*ped and traumatized, but I at least need a more solid explanation for why he basically left her alone during that time frame. As is, it felt unnecessary to include her capture at all.

Once she was free, there was a lot of down time where they were just hanging out in tubs and getting spicy, etc. Of course we want some spice, but as a reader I was supposed to believe that the fate of the world was at stake and I just couldn’t hold on to that sense of urgency. I also really did not enjoy the way the spice was written, particularly the repeated use of the word “mewl� in reference to the FMC. I’m no stranger to spice in books, but the scenes this author wrote seriously gave me the ick.

I’d describe this book as action packed, but many scenes felt chaotic to me. The MC’s seemed very unprepared which was a little disappointing, and knowing their powers, it felt unlikely that someone could so easily get the jump on them like they did. (mild spoiler ahead) Arwen’s magic senses when people are hurt and urges her to heal them, but she never realized all the guards were being slaughtered around them? Perhaps her power was out of range for many of those deaths but it seems reasonable to assume she would have at least had some clue before it was too late. Some of these battles also ended abruptly when the good guys were already extremely weakened. In these instances, it didn’t make a lot of sense to me for their enemies to have backed off when they did. Lazarus’s whole reasoning for wanting Arwen in the first place is honestly pretty flimsy too because he doesn’t seem like the type to give up the throne to anyone, so why is he so keen to produce a more pure blooded heir?

Anyway� I’m probably overthinking all of this.
]]> The Game Changer 199515128 A hockey player and a baker shoot their shot in this steamy romance.

When a very public breakup becomes a PR nightmare for Ian Chase's team, he hopes to focus on his game, but that suddenly seem less likely than a hat trick. With his career and the team’s image in jeopardy, Ian is surprised to find a solution through none other than Delilah Baker, his best friend and teammate's little sister…who isn’t so little anymore.

Delilah Baker is known as “the darling of baking� on her local cable show, and being in the public eye is her bread and butter. But with her numbers dwindling and her producers turning up the heat, Delilah offers up the half-baked idea to collaborate with her brother’s team to entice the hockey fans of Boston to tune in to her show. Delilah thinks it will be a piece of cake—until the team sends Ian Chase, her brother’s best friend and the object of a decade-long crush that s’s never quite gotten over.

Delilah's and Ian’s teams think it’s a true win-win situation—gaining higher numbers for Delilah’s show and casting Ian in a more positive light. And viewers are eating them up like a cupcake, sparking the idea to play up their relationship for the goal of good press. With more than just their careers on thin ice, the line between what’s real and what’s for show begins to blur, but one thing’s for certain: This PR stunt will either be a total game changer—or leave them both totally pucked.]]> 395 Lana Ferguson 0593816846 ✨Jܱ� 3
“Maybe love can only truly be held by two people, because it’s too big for just one.�

What to Expect:
� Brother’s Best Friend
� Childhood Crush
� Fake Dating/PR Stunt
� Hockey Player x TV Baker
� Family Drama
� Forced Proximity
� Nicknames I cant decide if I like
� Small Age Gap
� Friends-to-Lovers
� Dual POV

I’m having an existential crisis after finishing this book because I think this relationship was too healthy for me? ]]> 3.61 2024 The Game Changer
author: Lana Ferguson
name: ✨Jܱ�
average rating: 3.61
book published: 2024
rating: 3
read at: 2024/08/25
date added: 2025/01/10
shelves:
review:
� 3 stars �

“Maybe love can only truly be held by two people, because it’s too big for just one.�

What to Expect:
� Brother’s Best Friend
� Childhood Crush
� Fake Dating/PR Stunt
� Hockey Player x TV Baker
� Family Drama
� Forced Proximity
� Nicknames I cant decide if I like
� Small Age Gap
� Friends-to-Lovers
� Dual POV

I’m having an existential crisis after finishing this book because I think this relationship was too healthy for me?
]]>