en-US Mon, 14 Apr 2025 08:03:08 -0700 60 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg 198431617
First, Amber’s fiancé left her when she told him she was pregnant, and then her daughter's birth left her with complications from a heart defect she didn’t realize she had.

I’m devastated.

Of course I offer to pay for her surgery, but Amber (stubborn woman that she is) insists on wanting to pay me back, which I don't understand. As captain of an NHL team, I have plenty of spare cash, and I’m more than happy to help. I want to help.

So I come up with a plan.

I’ll marry Amber, my health insurance will cover her surgery, I’ll help with the baby, and the gold band on my finger will get my parents—who seem to think I'm incapable of love—off my back.

It's a win-win for both of us.

Two years of platonically wedded bliss before we amicably go our separate ways, and remain best friends, as always.

Only, how am I supposed to let Amber go when I’m not only in love with her, but also with her baby girl� who now feels like my own.

And I might have to let her go sooner than I ever wanted to.


Betrothal or Breakaway is a dual POV, fade-to-black romance with mild langauge. This book is light-hearted, but contains themes of minor heart surgery, broken engagement, and difficult parental relationships.]]> 320 Leah Brunner Shannon 0 currently-reading 4.13 2024
author: Leah Brunner
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.13
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/14
shelves: currently-reading
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]]> 203861808 After getting my heart broken, I’ve sworn off athletes forever.

Then my best friend has to go and marry an NHL player, and his teammate, Colby Knight, won’t leave me alone.

Colby is a master at scoring (on and off the ice), and he’s not used to being told no. So he takes my disinterest as an invitation to pursue me even harder. I ignore him� until I realize I can use his expertise to help me get my crush’s attention.

But now that he’s my dating coach, and we’re spending so much time together, I’m growing more and more distracted. I mean, those dimples? Very enticing.

Just when I think he might be more than just a playboy hockey player, a blast from the past comes back and reminds me why I swore off athletes in the first place.

Can I trust Colby, or is he just another jerk who will break my heart?

(This is a dual POV, fade-to-black romance, and can be read as a standalone. This book contains mild language. Trigger warnings: cheating exes.)]]> 306 Leah Brunner Shannon 0 3.93
author: Leah Brunner
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.93
book published:
rating: 0
read at: 2025/04/13
date added: 2025/04/13
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]]> 60197314
Now, Bailey and Charlie are still polar opposites, but instead of everything about him rubbing Bailey the wrong way, she starts to look forward to hanging out and gossiping about the waterpark guests and their coworkers—particularly two who keep flirting with each other. Bailey and Charlie make a bet on whether or not the cozy pair will actually get together. Charlie insists that members of the opposite sex can’t just be friends, and Bailey is determined to prove him wrong.

Bailey and Charlie keep close track of the romantic progress of others while Charlie works to deflect the growing feelings he’s developed for Bailey. Terrified to lose her if his crush becomes known, what doesn’t help his agenda is Bailey and Charlie “fake dating� in order to disrupt the annoying pleasantries between Bailey’s mom and her mom’s new boyfriend. Soon, what Charlie was hoping to avoid becomes a reality as Bailey starts to see him as not only a friend she can rely on in the midst of family drama—but someone who makes her hands shake and heart race. But Charlie has a secret—a secret that involves Bailey and another bet Charlie may have made. Can the two make a real go of things…or has Charlie’s secret doomed them before they could start?]]> 432 Lynn Painter 1665921234 Shannon 0 to-read 4.12 2023
author: Lynn Painter
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.12
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/12
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 203861746 I’m not the hero in this story.

I’m the villain...

The notoriously angry, grouchy, D.C. Eagles defenseman that just can’t keep his temper in check. The temper that leads to a fifteen game suspension from the NHL.

As if that’s not bad enough, I'm forced into a short term youth-hockey coaching gig. Which my manager swears will “rebuild my image.�

But what I didn’t expect was for a gorgeous, spunky blonde to stomp onto the ice on day one and lecture me about being rude to her little brother.

Something about this spitfire of a woman, and the boy she’s so protective of, has my defenses melting.

And if I’m not careful, I’ll burst into flames, forever melting the ice I’ve carefully kept around my heart.



(This is a closed-door romcom with mild language. Trigger warnings include: parental substance abuse & dealing with grief/loss of parents).]]> 284 Leah Brunner Shannon 0 3.76 2023
author: Leah Brunner
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.76
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at: 2025/04/12
date added: 2025/04/12
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]]> 214208274 Paedyn and Kai are reunited but face a terrible decision in this thrilling conclusion to the New York Times bestselling romantic fantasy trilogy perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas and The Red Queen.

Paedyn Gray and Kai Azer return to the Kingdom of Ilya�

And Paedyn has a life-altering choice to make. Whatever she decides will determine her fate—and the fate of those around her—forever.

In the ultimate battle of love and loyalty, who wins?]]> 604 Lauren Roberts 1665955481 Shannon 0 4.38 2025
author: Lauren Roberts
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.38
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at: 2025/04/10
date added: 2025/04/10
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]]> 214073115
Now, the true test begins as Khalani ventures through the treacherous “Death-Zone� toward the nearest underground city, Hermes. Abandoned relics of a once-great nation are not the only threats on the barren road. Violent storms sweep across the Death-Zone, the deadly Takeshi Steele has resumed his cold detachment, and unsettling signs suggest they might not be alone on the surface.

To survive in this unforgiving world, Khalani must draw on her strength and harrowing experiences from Braderhelm. For a new kind of prison awaits in the corrupt city of Hermes—one where she finds herself trapped with the man who aggravates her the most. But this time, they’ll likely perish before escaping alive.
]]> 353 Alexis Patton Shannon 0 4.24
author: Alexis Patton
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.24
book published:
rating: 0
read at: 2025/04/08
date added: 2025/04/08
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]]> 216550304 374 Kate Watson Shannon 5 arc 4.70 2025
author: Kate Watson
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.70
book published: 2025
rating: 5
read at: 2025/03/28
date added: 2025/04/08
shelves: arc
review:
Lou and WHO!?!? Ugh I need to know yesterday
]]> 56569600
An arranged marriage isn’t the worst fate for a princess like me. Especially because I’ve been in love with my intended groom since we were children.

But when my prince shows up with an American girlfriend instead of an engagement ring, all arrangements are off.

The clock is nearing midnight--I won’t turn into a pumpkin, but if I’m not wed by summer’s end, I’ll forfeit my kingdom.

Just your typical royal dilemma.

Out of sheer desperation, I make a deal with a devilish duke. Rafe de Silva is the prince’s rival and has a plan so ridiculous it just might work.

One moment, Rafe seems to relish making the prince jealous.

And the next� he’s making me question everything with his words, his touch, and his ability to melt my Ice Princess persona.

I’m not always given the luxury of choice, but now I have a huge one to make. I only hope I don't lose my crown, my heart, or myself in the process�

Royally Rearranged is a sizzling, swoony, closed-door romantic comedy.]]> 405 Emma St. Clair Shannon 0 4.05
author: Emma St. Clair
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.05
book published:
rating: 0
read at: 2025/04/06
date added: 2025/04/06
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]]> 220307687 But she needs a job—and refuge from her abusive soon-to-be-ex-husband.

If only her new boss, Austin Wells, would make it clear whether he hates her or wants her. His gaze makes her feel things she hasn’t in years. Though getting over her ex by getting under her grumpy boss isn’t worth the potential fallout.

Austin’s a gruff, no-nonsense rancher who’s seriously regretting letting his head cook hire her own help. As far as he’s concerned, Cecily won’t be sticking around for long. Nobody ever stays. And the wedding ring indent still on her finger makes her more trouble than she’s worth.

When Cecily’s past catches up with her, Austin discovers that she’s already placed a branding iron on his heart. He wants her to stay. First, he needs to keep her safe.

CW/TW: DOMESTIC VIOLENCE (ON PAGE), PHYSICAL VIOLENCE (ON PAGE), DEATH OF PARENT AND GRANDPARENT (DISCUSSED), TROUBLED PARENT-ADULT CHILD RELATIONSHIP (DISCUSSED), ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION (ON PAGE), RANCHING ACTIVITIES (BRANDING, CASTRATION, VACCINATION, ROPING - ON PAGE), EXPLICIT SEX SCENES]]> 320 Bailey Hannah 0593983998 Shannon 0 to-read 4.10
author: Bailey Hannah
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.10
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/05
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 174057601 Khalani is a Prisoner.
Takeshi is a Guard.
Both are slaves to the Underground.

Khalani Kanes has never stood on the surface of the earth. In the underground city of Apollo, faith and dreams are as absent as the sun. She longed to visit Genesis, the infamous Domed City and the final place where humanity lives aboveground. But when Khalani is given a life sentence and thrown into prison for a theft she didn't commit, those wishes shatter into oblivion.

In Braderhelm Prison, murderers are neighbors, ruthless and cold-blooded guards live to punish, and every second is a battle to survive. She thought the danger lay in befriending criminals and avoiding Takeshi Steele, the nefarious Captain who runs her cell block. But darker traps and secrets await her within the shadows of imprisonment. Khalani's blood will coat the walls in flaming silk before her enemies let her escape to the surface, a feat no one has successfully achieved. If the reclusive and callous Takeshi Steele won't kill Khalani, then the merciless prisoners and her fractured mind will.

Enter Braderhelm Prison, where only the Wicked remain.]]> 321 Alexis Patton Shannon 2 3.86
author: Alexis Patton
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.86
book published:
rating: 2
read at: 2025/04/03
date added: 2025/04/03
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review:

]]> 65213918 Kristen Simmons's masterful breakout novel for young adult readers, Jumanji but Japanese-inspired, about estranged friends playing a deadly game in an eerie folkloric underworld.

Four years ago, five kids started a game. Only four survived.

Now, at the end of their senior year of high school, the survivors—Dax, Maddy, Emerson, and Owen—have reunited for one strange and terrible reason: they’ve been summoned by the ghost of Ian, the friend they left for dead.

Together they return to the tunnel where their friendship ended with one goal: find Ian and bring him home. So they restart the deadly game they never finished—an innocent card-matching challenge called Meido. A game without instructions.

As soon as they begin, they're dragged out of their reality and into an eerie hellscape of Japanese underworlds, more horrifying than even the darkest folktales that Owen's grandmother told him. There, they meet Shinigami, an old wise woman who explains the rules:

They have one night to complete seven challenges or all of them, Ian included, will be stuck in this world forever.

Once inseparable, the survivors now can’t stand each other, but the challenges demand they work together, think quickly, and make sacrifices—blood, clothes, secrets, memories, and worse.

And once again, not everyone will make it out of Meido alive.]]> 272 Kristen Simmons 1250851122 Shannon 0 to-read 3.34 2023
author: Kristen Simmons
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.34
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/02
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 33381234
Ross lives a life of privilege. As the president's son he wants for nothing, but he longs for a life of adventure. On a dare, he convinces his best friend Adam to sneak out to the Docks, the site of local race riots between the poor Shorlings and the upper class. But when Adam is arrested along with the other Shorlings, and not even the president is willing to find him, Ross finds himself taking matters into his own hands. He journeys back into the Docks, ready to make deals with anyone, even a beautiful pirate, if it means Adam's safe return.

When Marin and Ross meet in dangerous Shoreling territory he sees a way to get his friend back and she sees her ticket home. The ransom a president’s son would command could feed her people for years and restore her family’s legacy. But somewhere in the middle of the ocean, Marin must decide if her heart can handle handing over the only person who has ever seen her as more than a pirate.]]> 384 Kristen Simmons 0765336634 Shannon 0 to-read 3.68 2018
author: Kristen Simmons
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.68
book published: 2018
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/02
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 40604051 Metaltown, where factories rule, food is scarce, and hope is in short supply.

The rules of Metaltown are simple: Work hard, keep your head down, and watch your back. You look out for number one, and no one knows that better than Ty. She’s been surviving on the factory line as long as she can remember. But now Ty has Colin. She’s no longer alone; it’s the two of them against the world. That’s something even a town this brutal can’t take away from her. Until it does.

Lena’s future depends on her family’s factory, a beast that demands a ruthless master, and Lena is prepared to be as ruthless as it takes if it means finally proving herself to her father. But when a chance encounter with Colin, a dreamer despite his circumstances, exposes Lena to the consequences of her actions, she’ll risk everything to do what’s right.

In Lena, Ty sees an heiress with a chip on her shoulder. Colin sees something more. In a world of disease and war, tragedy and betrayal, allies and enemies, all three of them must learn that challenging what they thought was true can change all the rules.

An enthralling story of friendship and rebellion, Metaltown will have you believing in the power of hope.]]> 385 Kristen Simmons Shannon 0 to-read 3.57 2016
author: Kristen Simmons
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.57
book published: 2016
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/04/02
shelves: to-read
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]]> 213938138
However, even her heaviest science books seem simple compared to life at the palace. Worse still, she’s being forced to marry the roguish Prince Lukas, who declares that Naria’s only use is to bear him heirs and that her kingdom should remain in ruins.

Determined to escape her engagement, Naria spends her nights sneaking away to the crystal-walled, underground realm of the faeries. Yet, while the faery prince might be willing to help her people, behind his charming looks lies a sinister obsession for his darling new princess. To deepen her troubles, the more Naria finds herself in heated exchanges with Lukas, the more she begins to fear she’s falling for the wrong prince.

Because only a selfish princess would fall for the one prince who has vowed to forever leave her kingdom in ruins.]]> 343 Erin Fae Shannon 0 to-read 4.06
author: Erin Fae
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.06
book published:
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/04/02
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]]> 61182210
A queen in hiding.

When eighteen-year-old Arianna is stolen from her family and sold into slavery, she spends months disguised as a half-breed Fae struggling against the devastations of a decade-long war. But she never expected to find herself at the mercy of her country's greatest enemy.

General Rion is ruthless and commanding. He relishes in his reputation as The Demon-a vile creature incapable of love or compassion. With a secret no one can know, Arianna strives to placate him while plotting her escape, but sometimes fate has other plans and rumors can't always be trusted.

She'll have to make a choice. Kill the most feared male on the continent or stay and let a forbidden bond take root. But what will happen when he discovers her secret?]]> 374 J.E. Reed Shannon 0 to-read 3.76
author: J.E. Reed
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.76
book published:
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/03/31
shelves: to-read
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]]> 228894645 A steamy friends to lovers, surprise pregnancy standalone novel by romantic comedy author Gia Steven...

We went from fling to friend-zone. Now I have to tell him he’s going to be a dad.

After my ex-husband left, I became a single mom, and I vowed never to date a guy in a suit again.

Then Trey Wilson entered my life. The guy who lives in suits. He’s charismatic, good-looking, and charming AF.

Everything that can make any woman swoon, including me.

What started as a one-night fling turned into a mid-morning office quickie followed by an afternoon rendezvous in my kitchen. Which ultimately led to the purchase of a new table.

After I told him we can only be friends, he's determined to be my best friend. The more time we spent together the boundary between friends and benefits blur.

Deep down, I know he’s exactly like the others. Once they get what they want, they’re out the door, leaving me to pick up the pieces of my broken heart. Been there. Done that. And I have a daughter to prove it.

So the moment emotions get involved, I quickly suppress them and do what I know is right.

I end whatever this is.

Except now I can’t do that when the white stick shows two pink lines.

Love Is Ale You Need is a friends to lovers, surprise pregnancy romantic comedy. Be prepared to laugh-out-loud one minute and swoon the next in this steamy standalone romcom. The Brews and Flings series is a spin-off of the Harbor Highlands series. You’ll see a lot of familiar characters but also new ones. Each book in the Brews and Flings series is set in the same world, and delivers a guaranteed happily ever after.]]> Gia Stevens Shannon 0 to-read 4.00 2024
author: Gia Stevens
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2024
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/03/27
shelves: to-read
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]]> 195883956 To enter the woods as a human means death� But I am no mere human. They call me, “witch."

As one of the last surviving witches, Faelyn’s sole duty is to keep the protective barriers on the forests where the lykin roam—creatures who can shed flesh for fur—sparing nearby humans from their violent, beastly natures. When she has an unlikely encounter with the rare, primordial spirit of the moon, Faelyn finds herself not only the object of the Wolf King’s desire, but essential to his ability to keep his crown.

Taken to the magical land of Midscape, the Wolf King claims her as his bride to control the moon spirit’s magic that now resides within Faelyn. But Faelyn refuses to resign herself and the spirit Aurora to a life of servitude underneath the king’s cruel rule. Faelyn hatches a dangerous plan for them both to escape and help comes from an unlikely ally.

Evander is the king’s blisteringly handsome, loyal knight, right hand, and Faelyn’s sworn protector…on the outside. But appearances are not what they seem. He plots against the king’s brutality at every turn and helping Faelyn escape will serve these ends. But altruism for Faelyn and the trapped moon spirit isn’t his only motivation� Evander is hiding secrets, and they might change Faelyn’s life forever.

A desperate plot to escape. A brutal king. Ancient powers. And a sworn protector who can’t keep his hands off her� Will she be taken as the Wolf King’s bride? Or will she manage an escape that will free her heart and change her fate forever?

A Dawn with the Wolf Knight is a complete, *stand alone novel*. For readers who love romantasy novels with second-chance/long-lost love, life-changing female friendships, deep lore, forbidden romance, slow-burn, and a happily ever after. While it is set in the Married to Magic universe, readers can start with this book.]]> 464 Elise Kova 1949694593 Shannon 0 3.84 2024
author: Elise Kova
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.84
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at: 2025/03/27
date added: 2025/03/27
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]]> 227916359 He’s a no-nonsense businessman. She’s a free-spirited baker. But the magical building they live in seems to think they’re a perfect match�

When billionaire Archer Gaines needs to escape his father’s corrupt shadow and a related scandal, he purchases The Serendipity, a historic apartment building far from New York City.

He believes in bottom lines and big business deals, definitely not in the local folklore surrounding the town of Serendipity Springs. So he’s eager to move forward with plans to flip the building into luxury lofts.

But The Serendipity doesn’t particularly care what Archer believes, and the building has plans of its own.

Willa never believed in the rumors about her “magical� building. But that was before she walked into her closet looking for a sweater and found herself in another apartment altogether—in the penthouse closet of the grumpy and unfortunately attractive new building owner.

This is less of a meet cute than a meet ugly, and things only go downhill from there.

When Archer announces sweeping changes that include a rent increase, he becomes public enemy number one for the residents. And by charging Willa for use of the commercial kitchen, he puts her fledgling baking business at risk.

With his progress being (magically) blocked at every turn, Archer grows desperate for help.

But the bewitching woman he found hiding in his closet seems to present both the answer and a larger because Archer never planned to fall in love or stay in Serendipity Springs forever…]]> 296 Emma St. Clair Shannon 0 to-read 4.17 2025
author: Emma St. Clair
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2025
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/03/27
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]]> 34196663
But an ominous warning mars their journey back, and they soon find themselves captured in a tangled web of deceit woven by their greatest enemies and unlikeliest allies, a place where betrayals run deeper and more deadly than either had thought possible and where timeless ambitions threaten to destroy them both.]]> 480 Mary E. Pearson 1250162653 Shannon 5 4.30 2019
author: Mary E. Pearson
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.30
book published: 2019
rating: 5
read at: 2023/05/31
date added: 2025/03/26
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]]> 35796008
At the same time, Kazi, a legendary former street thief, is sent by the queen to investigate transgressions against the new settlements. When Kazi arrives in the forbidding land of the Ballengers, she learns that there is more to Jase than she thought. As unexpected events spiral out of their control, bringing them intimately together, they continue to play a cat and mouse game of false moves and motives in order to fulfill their own secret missions.

Mary E. Pearson's Dance of Thieves is a new YA novel in the New York Times bestselling Remnant Chronicles universe, in which a reformed thief and the young leader of an outlaw dynasty lock wits in a battle that may cost them their lives—and their hearts. ]]> 512 Mary E. Pearson 1250159016 Shannon 5 book-club-picks 4.11 2018
author: Mary E. Pearson
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2018
rating: 5
read at: 2023/05/21
date added: 2025/03/26
shelves: book-club-picks
review:

]]> 55688537 She knew her hand in marriage would be sold. She had no idea a fae prince was the buyer.

Katria swore she'd never fall in love. She's seen what "love" means through the cruelty of her family. So when she's married off to the mysterious Lord Fenwood for a handsome price, all Katria wants is a better life than the one she's leaving. Feelings are off the table.

But her new husband makes not falling in love difficult.

As their attraction begins to grow, so too do the oddities within her new life: strange rules, screams in the night, and attacks by fae that Katria never thought were real. When she witnesses a ritual not meant for human eyes, Katria finds herself spirited away to the land of Midscape.

Surviving the fae wilds as a human is hard enough. Katria must survive as a human who accidently pilfered the magic of ancient kings - magic a bloodthirsty king is ready to kill her for in order to keep his stolen throne - and her new husband is the rightful heir in hiding.

The power to save the fae is in her hands. But who will save her from a love she vowed never to feel?

A Dance with the Fae Prince is a complete, stand-alone novel, inspired by the tales of Psyche and Eros, as well as Cinderella, with a "happily ever after" ending. It's perfect for fantasy romance fans looking for just the right amount of steam and their next slow-burn and swoon-worthy couple. ]]> 429 Elise Kova 1949694291 Shannon 0 book-club-picks 3.85 2021
author: Elise Kova
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.85
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at: 2025/03/17
date added: 2025/03/26
shelves: book-club-picks
review:

]]> 62009833 She sold her soul to a siren and now he’s come to collect.

Victoria risks everything to leave a dangerous marriage and gain a second chance at life. But when her escape goes awry, she finds herself caught in the strong embrace of a mysterious siren, forced to choose: temporary salvation or immediate death.

And so, a cursed deal is struck.

Five years later, Victoria is alive—and the world’s finest ship captain. But her debt to the siren looms while her conniving ex has demanded a king’s ransom as the final price of her freedom. Victoria refuses to cause her family to suffer any more on her behalf, and is determined to make things right before her time is up. But that time is cut short.

The siren comes for her. Six months early.

Taken to the magical and deadly Eversea, home of the sirens, Victoria discovers she’s the sacrifice upon which all sirens pin their hopes. If they want to appease an angry god and save a world on the brink of destruction, then they need her. Which gives her the perfect leverage.

Victoria strikes a new bargain: the Siren Duke will help save her family, and she’ll fulfill his demands. It’s a good bargain until a flicker of passion ignites in the scarred remnants of Victoria's heart, threatening all she's worked for. As the sacrifice for the God of Death, she’s meant to give up everything that draws her to the world of the living. But that’s impossible when all she can think about is how this handsome siren’s song, and his hands, make her feel very much alive.

In a realm of ancient magic, submerged secrets, and forgotten gods, can love find a place among shattered hearts as they race against time and the blossoming of forbidden desires? Or will the delicate songs of their hearts be silenced once and for all?

A Duet with the Siren Duke is a complete, *stand alone novel*. It’s for readers looking for a fantasy romance with deep lore, second-chance love, sacrifice, forbidden and slow-burn romance that sizzles on the page, and a happily ever after where love triumphs over all.

While it is set in the Married to Magic universe, readers can start with this book as all Married to Magic novels are stand alones.]]> 554 Elise Kova 1949694410 Shannon 0 3.61 2023
author: Elise Kova
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.61
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at: 2025/03/26
date added: 2025/03/26
shelves:
review:

]]> 60909831
Chicago hockey isn't complete without me - everyone's favourite player to hate. I know my role, and I play it well. In fact, I thoroughly enjoy spending the majority of my game time in the penalty box before leaving the arena with a new girl on my arm each night.

What I don't like is the new flight attendant on our team's private plane. She works for me, not the other way around. But I'll be sure to remind her of that, and I can guarantee, by the end of the season, she'll be begging to quit her job.

But every road trip blurs the lines, and I can't quite figure out if I keep pushing that flight attendant call button in order to push her buttons, or if it's more than that.

STEVIE

I've been a flight attendant for years. I thought I'd seen it all, but when my new job lands me onboard working for the most egotistical and self-righteous diva in the NHL, I start to second guess everything. Including the promise I made to myself of never hooking up with an athlete again . . . no matter how annoyingly tempting he may be.

Evan Zanders is unfiltered, unapologetic, and too attractive for his own good. He loves his image, but I hate everything about it.

Everything but him.]]> 603 Liz Tomforde Shannon 0 to-read 3.98 2022
author: Liz Tomforde
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.98
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/25
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 56267120
But the pirates have no say in who they kill on this island.

The council orders. The pirates obey.

This arrangement has kept Declan from setting foot on these shores for years... until a bit of bad luck forces him to return.

But it may prove a lucrative stop, if the rebel's information is true.

Find the dagger. Escape this life.

But only if this damn stowaway doesn't ruin everything first.

=======
This high seas tale of deceit, legends, and love delivers a deliciously gray hero, a relatable heroine, and a found family you'll root for. An enemies-to-lovers story with a slow-burn romance and one bed, this is book one of a trilogy and ends on a cliffhanger. But it's worth it.]]> 436 Vanessa Rasanen 1732765227 Shannon 0 to-read 3.63 2021
author: Vanessa Rasanen
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.63
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 58830475 On the night of the blood moon, the Vampire Lord must die.

Floriane's position as the forge maiden of Hunter's Hamlet is one of reverence, for it is her skill that arms and protects the vampire hunters. She knows her place and is a faithful servant to the Master Hunter and her community... until the night of the blood moon. Until her brother is dying at the hands of the Vampire Lord Ruvan.

Wanting to defend her home at all costs, Floriane fights the vampire lord, ready to give her life if it means taking his. But Ruvan doesn't want to take her life... he wants her.

Kidnapped and brought to the vampire castle, Floriane is now blood sworn to the vampire lord. She is bound in mind and body to her worst enemy. But Ruvan isn't the fiend she thought he was. She learns the truth of the vampires: They are not mindless monsters, but a proud people, twisted and tortured by an ancient curse.

Ruvan believes that Floriane might be the key to ending his people's suffering. All Floriane wants is to defend her home. Loyalties are tested and the lines between truth and lie, hate and passion, are blurred.

When her dagger is at his chest, will she be able to take the heart of the man who has claimed hers?

A darkly-reimagined Snow White meets inspiration from Beauty and the Beast in an epic fantasy world of hunters, vampires, and curses that run deeper than blood. This stand alone is complete with a "happily ever after" ending. It's perfect for fantasy romance fans looking for just the right amount of steam and their next slow-burn and swoon worthy, enemies to lovers story.

While it is set in the Married to Magic universe, readers can start with this book.]]> 536 Elise Kova 1949694356 Shannon 0 3.93 2022
author: Elise Kova
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.93
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at: 2025/03/24
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves:
review:

]]> 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 Shannon 4
If you like the Hunger Games, villain origin stories, and pondering what humanity is at it's core you will enjoy this.

Spoiler:
[spoilers removed]]]> 3.99 2020
author: Suzanne Collins
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/23
date added: 2025/03/23
shelves:
review:
I love a villain I can understand. I love what it implies about humanity. I was skeptical of this book but enjoyed it so much.

If you like the Hunger Games, villain origin stories, and pondering what humanity is at it's core you will enjoy this.

Spoiler:
[spoilers removed]
]]> 228701332 The highly anticipated fifth book in the Drowned Empire romantasy series!]]> Frankie Diane Mallis 1399736353 Shannon 0 to-read 0.0 2026
author: Frankie Diane Mallis
name: Shannon
average rating: 0.0
book published: 2026
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/22
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 95584311
Across the realm, four ancient beings who control the elements of nature are awakening.

After a civil war that tore the humans apart, the elementals entered a thousand year slumber. Now, they are being summoned to prevent a dark force that is greedy for power and threatening to overturn the balance of nature.

When Isla’s path crosses with one of these elementals, she finds her fate is more entangled with theirs than she had ever imagined. As she risks it all to follow the elementals on their journey to defeat the unknown foe, she discovers that not everything may be as it seems. Isla is torn between protecting her loved ones or following her heart down a dangerous path of power and magic, of truth and lies.

What will they sacrifice to stop the coming storm?]]> 475 V.B. Lacey Shannon 0 to-read 3.92
author: V.B. Lacey
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.92
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/21
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 207611551 A wandering fortune teller finds an unexpected family in this warm and wonderful debut fantasy, perfect for readers of Travis Baldree and Sangu Mandanna.

Tao is an immigrant fortune teller, traveling between villages with just her trusty mule for company. She only tells "small" fortunes: whether it will hail next week; which boy the barmaid will kiss; when the cow will calve. She knows from bitter experience that big fortunes come with big consequences�

Even if it’s a lonely life, it’s better than the one she left behind. But a small fortune unexpectedly becomes something more when a (semi) reformed thief and an ex-mercenary recruit her into their desperate search for a lost child. Soon, they’re joined by a baker with a knead for adventure, and—of course—a slightly magical cat.

Tao sets down a new path with companions as big-hearted as her fortunes are small. But as she lowers her walls, the shadows of her past are closing in—and she’ll have to decide whether to risk everything to preserve the family she never thought she could have.]]> 336 Julie Leong 0593815912 Shannon 0 to-read 3.82 2024
author: Julie Leong
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.82
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/21
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 216359689 A mythical island. A magical cure. A choice between duty and love.

Lennox Holt has spent her life preparing for her twenty-first birthday ceremony, where she will finally be recognized as the future queen of Blackwood. Her father, the king, has ignored her, keeping her hidden away from the kingdom under the guise of �protection�, ever since her birth caused her mother to fall into a perpetual sleep.

Isolated and alone, she’s all but given up hope of ever having a loving parent or family until she learns of a mythical island named Dawnlin that is said to hold a cure for any ailment. When her ceremony doesn’t go as planned, she takes matters into her own hands and seeks the Guardian to take her to the island so she can heal her mother.

Along the way, she meets Dane, a handsome and mysterious stranger who is seeking the same elixir. But Lennox doesn’t know the island is full of magic and secrets, including the location of the cure.

Hunted by the dangers of the land, both magical and human, Lennox must survive while searching and avoiding the clutches of the Castaways, who are trying to steal the cure for selfish reasons. After finding everything on the island she has always dreamed of � freedom, family, and love � Lennox must decide if the duty to her kingdom and the promise to her mother outweigh her new life on Dawnlin.

Dawn of Hope is the first book in a debut New Adult Fantasy Romance trilogy, for readers who love coming of age, found family, slow burn romance, hidden identity, and magical systems. It is meant for adult audiences with spice levels increasing throughout the series.]]> 362 Amanda Briar 1964819008 Shannon 0 to-read 4.31
author: Amanda Briar
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.31
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/21
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 221763622 What if Belle never returned to the enchanted castle?

After her cheating husband ruins her life, twenty-nine-year-old musician, Alixandria Knight, moves from Chicago to Ironhill, Pennsylvania—a near-abandoned Appalachian ghost town with a firey history. Officially, she’s there to help her aging grandmother. Unofficially, Alix just wants to escape reality.

She’ll get her wish.

When a one night stand with a wickedly handsome stranger turns out to be more than she bargained for, Alix is whisked away to the land of the fae. There, she uncovers her family’s darkest secret. Sixty years ago, Alix’s grandmother, Isabelle, broke her promise to marry a beastly king. Now, the fae are hungry, and it’s up to Alix to clear her family’s debt.

Beauty and the Beast meets Anastasia in this spicy and addictive modern fairytale mashup from the USA Today bestselling author of Wilde Fae.]]> 517 Kate King Shannon 0 to-read 4.41
author: Kate King
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.41
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/20
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 59808540
Hauntings, and a variety of horrifying secrets, lurk in the places we once called home. Written by New York Times bestselling, and other critically acclaimed, authors these stories shed a harsh light on the scariest tales we grew up with.

Stay / Erica Waters
The tallest poppy / Chloe Gong
Loved by all, save one / Tori Bovalino
One-lane bridge / Hannah Whitten
Ghost on the shore / Allison Saft
Petrified / Olivia Chadha
Third burn / Courtney Gould
It stays with you / Aden Polydoros
Truth or dare / Alex Brown
The burning one / Shakira Toussaint]]> 272 Tori Bovalino 1645676226 Shannon 0 to-read 3.55 2022
author: Tori Bovalino
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.55
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/20
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 62916249 This time it could prevent one.

I have been a loyal servant to the fae crown my whole life–an arrangement that has kept me safe from the violence between our two races…until I kill a fae noble.

Sentenced to death I beg the king for mercy and am shocked when it comes from the eldest prince who hates me.

But there’s a catch�

Now thrust into the role of my growly protector’s bride-to-be, I have to choose between playing along with this fake engagement or following my own heart to protect my people.

Until the Stars Fall is the first in a new fantasy romance collection of interconnected stand-alones set in a magical war-torn world, where love is weakness and danger lurks around every corner. Loosely inspired by the classic movie, Sabrina, this slow-burn fated mates tale with a fake engagement brings you a growly, yet noble fae prince and the sunshine human who just might be the death of him…if he doesn’t fall for her first.]]> Vanessa Rasanen Shannon 0 to-read 3.52
author: Vanessa Rasanen
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.52
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/20
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 222376906
Ten years ago, Vincent of Beckett wrote to Matilda on the darkest night of his life―begging the goddess he befriended in dreams to help him. When his request went unanswered, Vincent moved on, becoming the hardened, irreverent lord of the river who has long forgotten Matilda. That is, until she comes tumbling into his bedroom window with a letter for him.

As Fate would have it, Matilda and Vincent were destined to find each other beyond dreams. There may be a chance for Matilda to rewrite the blood-soaked ways of the gods, but at immense sacrifice. She will have to face something she fears even more than losing her magic: to be vulnerable, and to allow herself to finally be loved.]]> 544 Rebecca Ross 1250373352 Shannon 0 to-read 4.74 2025
author: Rebecca Ross
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.74
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/19
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 48909025
Weston Winters isn’t an alchemist--yet. Fired from every apprenticeship he's landed, his last chance hinges on Master Welty taking him in. But when Wes arrives at Welty Manor, he finds only Margaret and her bloodhound Trouble. Margaret begrudgingly allows him to stay, but on one condition: he must join the hunt with her.

Although they make an unlikely team, Wes is in awe of the girl who has endured alone on the outskirts of a town that doesn’t want her, in this creaking house of ghosts and sorrow. And even though Wes disrupts every aspect of her life, Margaret is drawn to him. He, too, knows what it's like to be an outsider. As the hunt looms closer and tensions rise, Margaret and Wes uncover dark magic that could be the key to winning the hunt - if they survive that long.]]> 384 Allison Saft 1250623650 Shannon 0 to-read 3.84 2022
author: Allison Saft
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.84
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/19
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 25528808 That Inevitable Victorian Thing is a novel of love, duty, and the small moments that can change people and the world.

Victoria-Margaret is the crown princess of the empire, a direct descendant of Victoria I, the queen who changed the course of history two centuries earlier. The imperial practice of genetically arranged matchmaking will soon guide Margaret into a politically advantageous marriage like her mother before her, but before she does her duty, she'll have one summer incognito in a far corner of empire. In Toronto, she meets Helena Marcus, daughter of one of the empire's greatest placement geneticists, and August Callaghan, the heir apparent to a powerful shipping firm currently besieged by American pirates. In a summer of high-society debutante balls, politically charged tea parties, and romantic country dances, Margaret, Helena, and August discover they share an unusual bond and maybe a one in a million chance to have what they want and to change the world in the process —just like the first Queen Victoria.]]> 330 E.K. Johnston 1101994975 Shannon 0 to-read 3.19 2017
author: E.K. Johnston
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.19
book published: 2017
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/19
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 62869062 World Ender meets Ender of Worlds...A thousand years ago, Dianna gave up her life in the deserts of Eoria to save her dying sister. She called upon anyone who would listen, not expecting a monster far worse than any nightmare to answer. Now she does what Kaden asks, even if that means securing an ancient relic from the very creatures that hunt her.A King thought long dead and long forgotten.In the old world his name was Samkiel. In the new world it is Liam, but one title remains true throughout time. He is the World Ender, a myth to his enemies, a savior and King to those loyal to him. After the Gods War, he locked himself away, hiding from the world. He denied his crown and responsibilities, leaving the very ones who needed him most to deal with the fallout of the death of their homeworld. Now an attack on those he holds dear sends him back to the one realm he never wished to visit again and into the sights of an enemy he thought imprisoned eons ago.Now enemies older than time must put aside their differences and work together in hopes of saving both their world and every realm in between.]]> 493 Amber V. Nicole 1737706741 Shannon 0 to-read 4.27 2022
author: Amber V. Nicole
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.27
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/17
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 228062716
After twenty-five years of depending on her family, Daisy LaFleur is determined to prove she’s a capable adult, epilepsy be damned. When she moves out and accepts a temporary teaching job, reality sinks in—she’s alone, hours from home, and unable to drive or secure the medications she so desperately needs.

Then, in walks Dr. Landry Reed—her brother’s former roommate and Camellia’s resident grump. He’s cynical about love but unable to resist helping a damsel in distress when Daisy proposes a a spare bedroom in exchange for his taxi services, last name, and health insurance—so long as they both shall live together (platonically, of course).

While Landry struggles to endure Daisy’s bright disposition, she quickly finds the cracks in his rough exterior. The more confident Daisy grows as she helps Landry overcome his pessimistic nature, the more he finds himself thinking of her as his wife, not only his best friend’s little sister.

Now that he’s one-knee deep in marital debt, can Landry finally acknowledge what’s right in front of him? Or will Daisy need a whole decade of Hail Marys to make that catch?


Hail Mary Catch is the third minty rom com in Marie Veillon's Camellia series and incorporates Catholic themes.]]> 398 Marie Veillon 1967217009 Shannon 5 arc "She’s definitely feistier than I remember."
"He’s kind of sexy when he’s angry."

I've learned to expect great things from Marie Veillon, and Hail Mary Catch did not disappoint! 

We entered back into Camilla, this time to tag along with Dr Landry Reed (Loren's brother) and new character Miss Daisy LaFleur (Rowan's youngest sister). 

First off, I really enjoyed the representation in this one. Between some of Daisy's personality quirks and Landry trying to navigate exhausting social nuances, a lot of our MCs story resonated with me. This book features a marriage of convenience that reminded me why I love that trope so much (me too Lo, me too)! This was the kind of romance that had me kicking my feet and waiting for our leads to kiss. 

HMC really painted Landry in a new light for me, though I suppose that's half the point. I plan to revisit the first two books in part so I can look at Landry through a new lens. I think Dr Reed might be my new favorite Camilla MMC � I love a good broody bleeding heart, what can I say! 

I hope to see more of the LaFleurs in future books, (the name Easter Egg was so cute,) Daisy was such a ray of sunshine! The grumpy x sunshine trope is another favorite and definitely hit the mark here with our realist vs optimist "faux"couple.

I could not book this book down and I'm honestly so sad I finished it!

You will love this book if you love:
]]> 4.28
author: Marie Veillon
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.28
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2025/03/03
date added: 2025/03/17
shelves: arc
review:
"She’s definitely feistier than I remember."
"He’s kind of sexy when he’s angry."

I've learned to expect great things from Marie Veillon, and Hail Mary Catch did not disappoint! 

We entered back into Camilla, this time to tag along with Dr Landry Reed (Loren's brother) and new character Miss Daisy LaFleur (Rowan's youngest sister). 

First off, I really enjoyed the representation in this one. Between some of Daisy's personality quirks and Landry trying to navigate exhausting social nuances, a lot of our MCs story resonated with me. This book features a marriage of convenience that reminded me why I love that trope so much (me too Lo, me too)! This was the kind of romance that had me kicking my feet and waiting for our leads to kiss. 

HMC really painted Landry in a new light for me, though I suppose that's half the point. I plan to revisit the first two books in part so I can look at Landry through a new lens. I think Dr Reed might be my new favorite Camilla MMC � I love a good broody bleeding heart, what can I say! 

I hope to see more of the LaFleurs in future books, (the name Easter Egg was so cute,) Daisy was such a ray of sunshine! The grumpy x sunshine trope is another favorite and definitely hit the mark here with our realist vs optimist "faux"couple.

I could not book this book down and I'm honestly so sad I finished it!

You will love this book if you love:

]]> 214208184 Tracy Deonn’s Legendborn Cycle continues in the sensational third book about a dazzling contemporary fantasy world that blends Southern Black Girl Magic with secret societies and the legend of King Arthur!

Severed from the Legendborn. Oathbound to a monster.

Bree Matthews is alone. She exiled herself from the Legendborn Order, cut her ancestral connections, and turned away from the friends who can’t understand the impossible cost of her powers. This is the only way to keep herself—and those she loves—safe.

But Bree’s decision has come with a terrible an unbreakable bargain with the Shadow King himself, a shapeshifter who can move between humanity, the demon underworld, and the Legendborn secret society. In exchange for training to wield her unprecedented abilities, Bree has put her future in the Shadow King’s hands—and unwittingly bound herself to do his bidding as his new protégé.

Meanwhile, the other Scions must face war with their Round Table fractured, leaderless, and missing its Kingsmage, as Selwyn has also disappeared. When Nick is detained by the Order’s Merlins, he invokes an ancient law that requires the High Council of Regents to convene at the Northern Keep and grant him an audience. No one knows what he will demand of them� or what secrets he has kept hidden from the Table.

As a string of mysterious kidnappings escalates and Merlins are found dead, it becomes clear that no matter how hard Bree runs from who she is, the past will always find her.]]> 653 Tracy Deonn 1665951923 Shannon 0 4.48 2025
author: Tracy Deonn
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.48
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at: 2025/03/15
date added: 2025/03/15
shelves:
review:

]]> 176443237
In the midst of a historic "birth dearth," why do some 5 percent of American women choose to defy the demographic norm by bearing five or more children? Hannah’s Children is a compelling portrait of these overlooked but fascinating mothers who, like the biblical Hannah, see their children as their purpose, their contribution, and their greatest blessing.

The social scientist Catherine Pakaluk, herself the mother of eight, traveled across the United States and interviewed fifty-five college-educated women who were raising five or more children. Through open-ended questions, she sought to understand who these women are, why and when they chose to have a large family, and what this choice means for them, their families, and the nation.

Hannah’s Children is more than interesting stories of extraordinary women. It presents information that is urgently relevant for the future of American prosperity. Many countries have experimented with aggressively pro-natalist public policies, and all of them have failed. Pakaluk finds that the quantitative methods to which the social sciences limit themselves overlook important questions of meaning and identity in their inquiries into fertility rates. Her book is a pathbreaking foray into questions of purpose, religion, transcendence, healing, and growth—questions that ought to inform economic inquiry in the future.]]> 400 Catherine Pakaluk 1684514576 Shannon 0 to-read 4.40 2024
author: Catherine Pakaluk
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.40
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/14
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 205181098 This is the story of Hazel, a young healer navigating a ruthless court to save the life of the king, grappling with a pantheon of gods with questionable agendas as she fights for agency and true love in her own life as the goddaughter of none other than Death himself.

All gifts come with a price.

Hazel Trépas has always known she wasn’t like the rest of her siblings. A thirteenth child, promised away to one of the gods, she spends her childhood waiting for her godfather—Merrick, the Dreaded End—to arrive.

When he does, he lays out exactly how he’s planned Hazel’s future. She will become a great healer, known throughout the kingdom for her precision and skill. To aid her endeavors, Merrick blesses Hazel with a gift, the ability to instantly deduce the exact cure needed to treat the sick.

But all gifts come with a price. Hazel can see when Death has claimed a patient—when all hope is gone—and is tasked to end their suffering, permanently. Haunted by the ghosts of those she’s killed, Hazel longs to run. But destiny brings her to the royal court, where she meets Leo, a rakish prince with a disdain for everything and everyone. And it’s where Hazel faces her biggest dilemma yet—to save the life of a king marked to die. Hazel knows what she is meant to do and knows what her heart is urging her toward, but what will happen if she goes against the will of Death?

From the astonishing mind of Erin A. Craig comes the breathtaking fairy tale retelling readers have been waiting for� what does a life well-lived mean, and how do we justify the impossible choices we make for the ones we love?]]> 512 Erin A. Craig 0593482581 Shannon 0 to-read 4.08 2024
author: Erin A. Craig
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.08
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/14
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 57789637
“Epic, romantic, and enthralling from start to finish.”—Stephanie Garber, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Caraval series

“An all-consuming work of literary fantasy that is breathtaking both for its beauty and its suspense."—BookPage, starred review

A captivating and romantic debut epic fantasy inspired by the legend of the Chinese moon goddess, Chang’e, in which a young woman’s quest to free her mother pits her against the most powerful immortal in the realm.

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

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

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

Daughter of the Moon Goddess begins an enchanting duology which weaves ancient Chinese mythology into a sweeping adventure of immortals and magic, of loss and sacrifice—where love vies with honor, dreams are fraught with betrayal, and hope emerges triumphant.]]> 503 Sue Lynn Tan 0063031302 Shannon 0 to-read 4.08 2022
author: Sue Lynn Tan
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.08
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/12
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 55626358 The elves come for two things: war and wives. In both cases, they come for death.

Three-thousand years ago, humans were hunted by powerful races with wild magic until the treaty was formed. Now, for centuries, the elves have taken a young woman from Luella's village to be their Human Queen.

To be chosen is seen as a mark of death by the townsfolk. A mark nineteen-year-old Luella is grateful to have escaped as a girl. Instead, she's dedicated her life to studying herbology and becoming the town's only healer.

That is, until the Elf King unexpectedly arrives... for her.

Everything Luella had thought she'd known about her life, and herself, was a lie. Taken to a land filled with wild magic, Luella is forced to be the new queen to a cold yet blisteringly handsome Elf King. Once there, she learns about a dying world that only she can save.

The magical land of Midscape pulls on one corner of her heart, her home and people tug on another... but what will truly break her is a passion she never wanted.

A Deal with the Elf King is a complete, stand-alone novel, inspired by the tales of Hades and Persephone, as well as Beauty and the Beast, with a "happily ever after" ending. It's perfect for fantasy romance fans looking for just the right amount of steam and their next slow-burn and swoon-worthy couple. ]]> 340 Elise Kova 1949694267 Shannon 0 book-club-picks 3.97 2020
author: Elise Kova
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.97
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at: 2025/03/08
date added: 2025/03/08
shelves: book-club-picks
review:

]]> 64338 209 John Christopher 0689856660 Shannon 0 4.09 1967
author: John Christopher
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.09
book published: 1967
rating: 0
read at: 2025/03/06
date added: 2025/03/06
shelves:
review:

]]> 43267272
And now Sr. Theresa Aletheia's series of tweets has led to a memento mori-inspired Lenten devotional. Each day contains a refection written by Sr. Theresa Aletheia based on the liturgy of the day for all of Lent, Holy Week, and Easter. The devotional also includes a memento mori examen or review of the day, a daily moment of intercessory prayer, and daily reflections on death from the tradition, including the Church Fathers and many of the saints. Prompts are provided for journaling that can be used along with the Remember Your Death: Memento Mori Journal, also available from Pauline Books.

Lent is a time when we remember the death of Christ and the sacrifice he made to give us eternal life. This devotional will help you to meditate on your own mortality and the incredible gift of salvation in preparation for Easter. Whether you get a skull for your desk, a memento mori journal, or a Lenten devotional, it is vitally important to the Christian life to remember the fragility of your life on earth - because one day you will die.
]]> 224 Theresa Aletheia Noble 0819865176 Shannon 0 currently-reading 4.43
author: Theresa Aletheia Noble
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.43
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/05
shelves: currently-reading
review:

]]> 223360881 I’ve hated Cooper Bailey since high school. So why would a few years, a set of swoon-worthy forearms, and one shiny new law degree change anything?

Leah Bradford’s never been a fan of the spotlight—not years ago at her high school prom and definitely not now with the drama her ex-boyfriend is causing. Running her cinnamon roll shop is all she needs, thank you very much.

Cooper Bailey’s had it all—looks, brains, an ideal life. But one career-defining case gone wrong and that favored life is spiraling. He’s back home and determined to do better. He’ll be a helpful son, a dependable brother, and the best uncle ever, all while clawing his way back to a respectful place in his career.

Enter Leah. She’d rather run a marathon in high heels than be in the same room as Cooper Bailey. One problem–she’s broke with an idiot ex who happens to be suing her. Cooper is willing to take payment in sweet rolls–that is if he can convince her to take a chance on him.

Is Cooper still that cocky jock from high school or will he be Leah’s cinnamon roll hero?

Cooper Bailey is a Cinnamon Roll is a laugh out loud, kissing only, enemies to lovers romcom. It’s perfect for anyone who ever had a cute high school nemesis or anyone who secretly wanted one.
]]> 312 Jen Atkinson Shannon 0 to-read 4.48
author: Jen Atkinson
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.48
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/05
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 224267315 Embark on a wholesome journey of healing and self-discovery. A cozy fantasy tale of forging new friendships and overcoming fears. A quiet quest of family bonds and budding romance.

From dragon fire to garden flowers �

Felton Holdum spent his entire life training to become one of Galium’s elite dwarven warriors. When a bloody battle leaves him injured, he has no choice but to move into his eccentric twin aunts� quaint home in the town’s quiet Garome District.

With his life of military service seemingly over, the captain of the city guard gives Felton his only chance at a fresh start in the new life he never wanted.

But when a human woman barges through his front door, the grumpy dwarf starts to wonder if there is more to life than war. The sunshine woman invites him to visit her garden, where Felton gains a new nemesis and a new purpose in life.

Take a walk through the garden and see what magic awaits.

Come enjoy the hospitality of the whimsical Garome District. Meet new friends as you sample new breads at the bakery, play a game of Castle Brick at the tavern, and taste homemade pies during the annual pie baking contest at the Fall Festival.

“Virgin River meets The Hobbit� in this heartwarming, feel-good fantasy.]]> Z.S. Diamanti 1961580136 Shannon 0 to-read 4.64
author: Z.S. Diamanti
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.64
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/03
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 118075622
But traveling across the Empire is no simple task. With the consecration of Arianna as Arkasva of Bamaria, and her new political alliances in place, Lyr and Rhyan find themselves vulnerable when Rhyan’s political immunity as a forsworn is stripped. He’s now wanted in both the north and the south for questioning. Not to mention Imperator Kormac has personally tasked Lord Tristan with hunting Rhyan down and arresting him.

But ever since Lyr learned the Empire’s darkest secret, that the Emperor has been enslaving vorakh, siphoning their forbidden magic to the elite, she has only one goal in mind: get Jules out.

But breaking into the Emperor’s palace will be nearly impossible, especially after he announces a grand tournament to distract from the civil unrest across the land. The tournament will bring thousands to the capital, including both Imperators. Freeing her cousin will require more power than even Lyr and Rhyan combined possess, especially as more of their secrets come to light, threatening everything they’ve worked for. The only way to move forward may be to make a far more sinister deal with the person who has the most to gain–the person Rhyan trusts the least.

As they navigate their mission in the present, while uncovering memories of the past, ancient enemies resurface. More Guardians� identities are revealed, and they are ready to finish a war that started a millennia ago.


To protect the ones she loves, Lyr has no choice but to harness more magic and power than she ever has before. But if she can’t claim and control the fire inside of her, she risks unleashing total destruction across the Empire, costing her everything–her freedom, her heart, and even her soul.]]> Frankie Diane Mallis Shannon 5 arc Thank you to Frankie Diane Mallis and her team for sending me an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review

This book! Are you kidding me right now??

First off I was a little nervous to jump back into this world, and the recap at the start was a life saver. The pacing of this was perfect and had me so anxious (in the good way!) to see where things would lead.

I loved getting to see more of Dario and Aiden, especially after having previously read Rhyan's novellas. And Tristan's POVs might have been my favorite. I loved seeing new sides to Tristan, and I definitely have some theories about the role he will have moving forward.

Morgana was intriguing to see stepping into a new role as well. I really wish would could have seen more of her this book. Where she started and ended had me feeling a little lost and I still don't entirely understand her angle, so I hope we get a bit more clarity in the next book.

The last couple hundred pages had so many twisty WTF moments that I will be going crazy over for the foreseeable future (seriously, that ending is torture)! I was on the edge of my seat for so much of this book and will definitely be reading the next!

4.5 �

As always, please read the full list of triggers from the author before reading. This book deals with some potientally uncomfortable topics and includes multiple on page intimacy scenes. ]]> 4.43 2025
author: Frankie Diane Mallis
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.43
book published: 2025
rating: 5
read at: 2025/02/13
date added: 2025/03/01
shelves: arc
review:
Thank you to Frankie Diane Mallis and her team for sending me an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review

This book! Are you kidding me right now??

First off I was a little nervous to jump back into this world, and the recap at the start was a life saver. The pacing of this was perfect and had me so anxious (in the good way!) to see where things would lead.

I loved getting to see more of Dario and Aiden, especially after having previously read Rhyan's novellas. And Tristan's POVs might have been my favorite. I loved seeing new sides to Tristan, and I definitely have some theories about the role he will have moving forward.

Morgana was intriguing to see stepping into a new role as well. I really wish would could have seen more of her this book. Where she started and ended had me feeling a little lost and I still don't entirely understand her angle, so I hope we get a bit more clarity in the next book.

The last couple hundred pages had so many twisty WTF moments that I will be going crazy over for the foreseeable future (seriously, that ending is torture)! I was on the edge of my seat for so much of this book and will definitely be reading the next!

4.5 �

As always, please read the full list of triggers from the author before reading. This book deals with some potientally uncomfortable topics and includes multiple on page intimacy scenes.
]]> 123368729 She was commanded to kill him with a single strike to the heart. She didn’t expect her own to betray her.

Sylina has sacrificed everything for her goddess–her soul, her freedom, her eyes. Life in service to the Arachessen, a cult of the Goddess of Fate, has turned Sylina from orphaned street-rat to disciplined killer, determined to overthrow Glaea’s tyrannical king. But when a brutal vampire conqueror arrives on their shores, Sylina faces an even deadlier adversary. She’s tasked with a crucial mission: infiltrate his army, earn his trust� and kill him.

Atrius is a terrifying warrior carving an unstoppable path through Glaea. Yet when Sylina becomes his seer, she glimpses a dark and shocking past–and a side of him that reminds her far too much of parts of herself she’d rather forget. Sylina’s orders are clear. The conqueror cannot live. But as the blood spilled by Glaea’s tyrant king runs thicker, her connection with Atrius only grows stronger. A connection forbidden by her vows. A connection that could cost her everything.

Slaying the Vampire Conqueror is a standalone fantasy romance set in the Crowns of Nyaxia world, full of heart-wrenching forbidden romance, dark curses, and epic battles � perfect for fans of The Bridge Kingdom and the From Blood and Ash series.]]> 369 Carissa Broadbent Shannon 0 to-read 4.10 2023
author: Carissa Broadbent
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.10
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/01
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 123027751
Lilith has been dying since the day she was born. But while she long ago came to terms with her own imminent death, the deaths of everyone she loves is an entirely different matter. As her town slowly withers in the clutches of a mysterious god-cursed illness, she takes matters into her own hands.

Desperate to find a cure, Lilith strikes a bargain with the only thing the gods hate even more than her village: a vampire, Vale. She offers him six roses in exchange for six vials of vampire blood–the one hope for her town’s salvation.

But when what begins as a simple transaction gradually becomes something more, Lilith is faced with a terrifying realization: It’s dangerous to wander into the clutches of a vampire� and in a place already suffering a god’s wrath, more dangerous still to fall in love with one.

Six Scorched Roses is a standalone fantasy romance novella set in the world of the Crowns of Nyaxia series, perfect for those who love dark, romantic tales with bite and fans of Sarah J. Maas or Jennifer L. Armentrout.]]> 187 Carissa Broadbent Shannon 0 4.25 2023
author: Carissa Broadbent
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.25
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at: 2025/02/28
date added: 2025/02/28
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review:

]]> 57693250 From acclaimed bestselling author James Runcie, a meditation on grief and music, told through the story of Bach's writing of the St. Matthew Passion.

In 1727, Stefan Silbermann is a grief-stricken thirteen-year-old, struggling with the death of his mother and his removal to a school in distant Leipzig. Despite his father's insistence that he try not to think of his mother too much, Stefan is haunted by her absence, and, to make matters worse, he's bullied by his new classmates. But when the school's cantor, Johann Sebastian Bach, takes notice of his new pupil's beautiful singing voice and draws him from the choir to be a soloist, Stefan's life is permanently changed.


Over the course of the next several months, and under Bach's careful tutelage, Stefan's musical skill progresses, and he is allowed to work as a copyist for Bach's many musical works. But mainly, drawn into Bach's family life and away from the cruelty in the dorms and the lonely hours of his mourning, Stefan begins to feel at home. When another tragedy strikes, this time in the Bach family, Stefan bears witness to the depths of grief, the horrors of death, the solace of religion, and the beauty that can spring from even the most profound losses.


Joyous, revelatory, and deeply moving, The Great Passion is an imaginative tour de force that tells the story of what it was like to sing, play, and hear Bach's music for the very first time.]]> 272 James Runcie Shannon 0 to-read 3.90 2022
author: James Runcie
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.90
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/27
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 12707152 1076 Michael D. O'Brien 089870815X Shannon 0 to-read 4.09 2011
author: Michael D. O'Brien
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.09
book published: 2011
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/27
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 60634118
Auden Harmon learns her parents� marriage is officially over. Expected. Accidentally gifts a five-hundred-dollar pen to a stranger. Unexpected.

Neither event wreaks havoc on her life quite like meeting Elliot Reid does. He has eyes the color of the cloudy sky. A slapshot the whole country has an unhealthy obsession with. The uncanny ability to say the exact right thing, right when she needs to hear it.

They stay in touch after she leaves. Swap secrets. Become best friends. Tell each other everything.

°Â±đ±ô±ôâ€�almost everything.

It’s a thin line between love and hate. The line between love and friendship with a guy who makes mammoth-sized butterflies swarm your stomach? Practically transparent.

But when he’s made it clear friendship is all he has to offer?

You can never say it.]]> 251 C.W. Farnsworth Shannon 0 4.08
author: C.W. Farnsworth
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.08
book published:
rating: 0
read at: 2025/02/27
date added: 2025/02/27
shelves:
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]]> 215353471 Hester Flanders went to the ball for the food. She didn’t expect a prince to follow her home.

If there’s one rule Hester learned during her country upbringing, it’s never accept a gift; that’s how the Folk get you. Although she’s left her farm behind, she can’t leave her superstitions, even if no one else in the capital city seems to care. Hardworking but hungry, she’s looking for loopholes, and the king’s annual Commoners Ball seems like the perfect way to get a free meal that’s not technically a gift—and it would have been, too, except a pesky prince took a shine to her.

Inglebert Lucas Chesingwick isn’t just the crown prince; he’s also practical, responsible, and very annoyed to see his younger brother causing a scene by flirting with a peasant at the ball. He can separate them for one night, but his mischievous brother is determined to see the poor girl again. And again. And for some reason, Lucas keeps running into her, too. If only there was some way he could help her.

The princes might mean well, but Hester knows better than to accept favors from anyone, even royalty—even if it’s cheese—and even if saying no breaks her heart. After all, just because the Folk have never been seen in the city doesn’t mean they’re not around.

Cinderella meets Howl’s Moving Castle in this cozy fantasy romance from debut author Elisabeth Aimee Brown. Whirl away into a whimsical story of glittering gaslamps, frisky Folk, and huggable hogs.]]> 278 Elisabeth Aimee Brown Shannon 0 4.25 2024
author: Elisabeth Aimee Brown
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.25
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at: 2025/02/26
date added: 2025/02/26
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review:

]]> 123009515 In the luscious, dark sequel to One Dark Window, Elspeth must face the consequences of what she's wrought - perfect for readers of Hannah Whitten's For the Wolf and Alexis Henderson's The Year of the Witching.

Elspeth and Ravyn have gathered most of the twelve Providence Cards, but the last, and most important one remains to be found: The Twin Alders.

If they are going to find it before the Solstice and cure the kingdom of the dark magic infecting it, they will need to journey beyond the dangerous mist-cloaked forest that surrounds their kingdom.

And the only one who can lead them there is the monster that shares Elspeth's head. The Nightmare. And he's not eager to share any longer.]]> 458 Rachel Gillig 0316312886 Shannon 4 4.50 2023
author: Rachel Gillig
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.50
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/25
date added: 2025/02/25
shelves:
review:

]]> 27189194
On their first wedding anniversary, Jesse is on a helicopter over the Pacific when it goes missing. Just like that, Jesse is gone forever.

Emma quits her job and moves home in an effort to put her life back together. Years later, now in her thirties, Emma runs into an old friend, Sam, and finds herself falling in love again. When Emma and Sam get engaged, it feels like Emma’s second chance at happiness.

That is, until Jesse is found. He’s alive, and he’s been trying all these years to come home to her. With a husband and a fiancé, Emma has to now figure out who she is and what she wants, while trying to protect the ones she loves.

Who is her one true love? What does it mean to love truly?

Emma knows she has to listen to her heart. She’s just not sure what it’s saying.]]> 352 Taylor Jenkins Reid Shannon 0 to-read 4.03 2016
author: Taylor Jenkins Reid
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.03
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/24
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 971862 315 Louis de Wohl 0898708133 Shannon 0 to-read 4.15 1952
author: Louis de Wohl
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.15
book published: 1952
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/24
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 971836 361 Louis de Wohl 0898703816 Shannon 0 to-read 4.36 1961
author: Louis de Wohl
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.36
book published: 1961
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/24
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 403120 401 Louis de Wohl 0898706041 Shannon 0 to-read 4.39 1955
author: Louis de Wohl
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.39
book published: 1955
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/24
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 59729041 For fans of Uprooted and For the Wolf comes a dark, lushly gothic fantasy about a maiden who must unleash the monster within to save her kingdom—but the monster in her head isn't the only threat lurking.

Elspeth needs a monster. The monster might be her.

Elspeth Spindle needs more than luck to stay safe in the eerie, mist-locked kingdom she calls home—she needs a monster. She calls him the Nightmare, an ancient, mercurial spirit trapped in her head. He protects her. He keeps her secrets.

But nothing comes for free, especially magic.

When Elspeth meets a mysterious highwayman on the forest road, her life takes a drastic turn. Thrust into a world of shadow and deception, she joins a dangerous quest to cure the kingdom of the dark magic infecting it. Except the highwayman just so happens to be the King’s own nephew, Captain of the Destriers…and guilty of high treason.

He and Elspeth have until Solstice to gather twelve Providence Cards—the keys to the cure. But as the stakes heighten and their undeniable attraction intensifies, Elspeth is forced to face her darkest secret yet: the Nightmare is slowly, darkly, taking over her mind. And she might not be able to stop him.]]> 419 Rachel Gillig Shannon 4 4.40 2022
author: Rachel Gillig
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.40
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/24
date added: 2025/02/24
shelves:
review:

]]> 38833011 Listening Length: 2 hours and 55 minutes

An original novella and prequel to Ally Carter's New York Times best-selling Gallagher Girls series, exclusively on Audible.

The first day at a new school is tough for any kid, but it's especially scary when you're going to a school for spies. Cammie Morgan has spent her whole life dreaming of becoming a Gallagher Girl, but she has no idea what she’ll face when she arrives at The Gallagher Academy for Exceptional Young Women. Secret passages? Check. Lab experiments that might make you lose your eyebrows (and other body parts)? Check. Classmates who are the smartest, strongest, most intimidating girls in the world? Double check.

Cammie might be a Gallagher legacy, but she's about to learn that the most intimidating part about the Gallagher Academy are the Gallagher Girls themselves. Soon Cammie and her clumsy-but-genius roommate Liz, and the glamorous Bex have to learn the most important lesson of the seventh grade: getting into spy school is hard. Surviving spy school is harder.

Ally Carter is the author of many beloved series, including Heist Society and the Embassy Row novels, and Not If I Save You First.]]> 3 Ally Carter Shannon 0 3.73 2018
author: Ally Carter
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.73
book published: 2018
rating: 0
read at: 2025/02/22
date added: 2025/02/22
shelves:
review:

]]> 26032912 He will be destruction of the crown and the ruination of the throne.

Power is much easier to acquire than it is to hold onto. Jude learned this lesson when she released her control over the wicked king, Cardan, in exchange for immeasurable power.

Now as the exiled mortal Queen of Faerie, Jude is powerless and left reeling from Cardan’s betrayal. She bides her time determined to reclaim everything he took from her. Opportunity arrives in the form of her deceptive twin sister, Taryn, whose mortal life is in peril.

Jude must risk venturing back into the treacherous Faerie Court, and confront her lingering feelings for Cardan, if she wishes to save her sister. But Elfhame is not as she left it. War is brewing. As Jude slips deep within enemy lines she becomes ensnared in the conflict’s bloody politics.

And, when a dormant yet powerful curse is unleashed, panic spreads throughout the land, forcing her to choose between her ambition and her humanity�

From the #1 New York Times bestselling author Holly Black, comes the highly anticipated and jaw-dropping finale to The Folk of the Air trilogy.]]> 321 Holly Black 0316310409 Shannon 5 Delightful once more 4.33 2019
author: Holly Black
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.33
book published: 2019
rating: 5
read at: 2025/02/21
date added: 2025/02/21
shelves:
review:
Delightful once more
]]> 208841368 Encyclopaedia of Faeries. Now she is about to embark on her most dangerous academic project studying the inner workings of a faerie realm-as its queen.

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

Emily has been obsessed with faerie stories her entire life, but at first she feels as ill-suited to Faerie as she did to the mortal world-how could an unassuming scholar like herself pass for a queen? Yet there is little time to settle in-Wendell's murderous stepmother has placed a deadly curse upon the land before vanishing without a trace. It will take all of Wendell's magic-and Emily's knowledge of stories-to unravel the mystery before they lose everything they hold dear.
]]> 368 Heather Fawcett 0356519198 Shannon 0 to-read 4.17 2025
author: Heather Fawcett
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/20
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 203578814 Where the Library Hides is Isabel Ibañez's stunning conclusion to the story that started in What the River Knows. A lush immersive historical fantasy set in Egypt filled with adventure, and a rivals-to-lovers romance like no other!

"Ana Osorio and Ahmed Hamad are consistently excellent as they deliver this audiobook."�AudioFile

Inez Olivera traveled across the world to Egypt, seeking answers into her parents' recent and mysterious deaths. But all her searching led her down a perilous road, filled with heartache, betrayal, and a dangerous magic that pulled her deep into the past.

When Tío Ricardo issues an ultimatum about her inheritance, she’s left with only one option to consider.

Marriage to Whitford Hayes.

Former British soldier, her uncle’s aide de camp, and one time nemesis, Whit has his own mysterious reasons for staying in Egypt. With her heart on the line, Inez might have to bind her fate to the one person whose secret plans could ruin her.

A Macmillan Audio production from Wednesday Books.]]> 400 Isabel Ibañez 1250822998 Shannon 0 to-read 3.85 2024
author: Isabel Ibañez
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.85
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/20
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 214248848 A painter in need of a model.
A matchmaker seeking a subject.
An arrangement that will tangle their hearts.

Fae shifter Daphne has landed the opportunity of a illustrating her favorite author’s steamy romance novels. If only she could master male physiques…and other essential anatomy. What she needs is a model. Yet how does the socially awkward fae with a tendency to bite find a man she can comfortably paint in the nude?

Self-proclaimed matchmaker Monty Phillips is a hopeless romantic, but only when it comes to others. Meddling in the love lives of strangers via his popular advice column keeps romance a safe distance away. Yet when he’s tasked with proving his tips on modern courtship work, he’ll need to step out from behind the pen and into someone’s love life.

And he knows just the perfect plaything.

The last time Daphne saw Monty, he broke her heart and discarded their friendship. Now he wants to drag her into one of his idiotic matchmaking games—where she’s the subject! But when he promises to pose as her model in exchange, she can’t refuse. At least it’s only temporary. If he’s the expert he claims to be, she can replace him with a lover in no time.

Painting sessions and flirting lessons commence, rekindling their friendship. But when instructional seduction turns their platonic spark into burning desire, will either have the courage to fan the flames?

Bridgerton meets My Fair Lady and a dash of He’s Just Not That Into You in My Feral Romance , a spicy standalone fantasy romcom in the Fae Flings and Corset Strings series. If you like fae bargains, friends-to-lovers romance, and cozy fantasy worlds, you’ll love this sizzling tale.]]> 428 Tessonja Odette Shannon 0 4.31
author: Tessonja Odette
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.31
book published:
rating: 0
read at: 2025/02/20
date added: 2025/02/20
shelves:
review:

]]> 52857700
Bryce Quinlan never expected to see a world other than Midgard, but now that she has, all she wants is to get back. Everything she loves is in Midgard: her family, her friends, her mate. Stranded in a strange new world, she's going to need all her wits about her to get home again. And that's no easy feat when she has no idea who to trust.

Hunt Athalar has found himself in some deep holes in his life, but this one might be the deepest of all. After a few brief months with everything he ever wanted, he's in the Asteri's dungeons again, stripped of his freedom and without a clue as to Bryce's fate. He's desperate to help her, but until he can escape the Asteri's leash, his hands are quite literally tied.

In this sexy, breathtaking sequel to the #1 bestsellers House of Earth and Blood and House of Sky and Breath, Sarah J. Maas's Crescent City series reaches new heights as Bryce and Hunt's world is brought to the brink of collapse-with its future resting on their shoulders.]]> 835 Sarah J. Maas 1681193094 Shannon 0 4.15 2024
author: Sarah J. Maas
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.15
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/19
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]]> 26032887 The enchanting and bloodthirsty sequel to the New York Times bestselling novel The Cruel Prince.

You must be strong enough to strike and strike and strike again without tiring.

The first lesson is to make yourself strong.

After the jaw-dropping revelation that Oak is the heir to Faerie, Jude must keep her brother safe. To do so, she has bound the wicked king, Cardan, to her, and made herself the power behind the throne. Navigating the constantly shifting political alliances of Faerie would be difficult enough if Cardan were easy to control. But he does everything in his power to humiliate and undermine her even as his fascination with her remains undiminished.

When it becomes all too clear that someone close to Jude means to betray her, threatening her own life and the lives of everyone she loves, Jude must uncover the traitor and fight her own complicated feelings for Cardan to maintain control as a mortal in a Faerie world.]]> 336 Holly Black 0316310336 Shannon 5 4.27 2019
author: Holly Black
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.27
book published: 2019
rating: 5
read at: 2025/02/18
date added: 2025/02/18
shelves:
review:

]]> 53137938
Noah is at the pinnacle of his career. With book and movie deals galore, there isn’t much the “golden boy� of modern fiction hasn’t accomplished. But he can’t walk away from what might be the best book of the century—the one his idol, Scarlett Stanton, left unfinished. Coming up with a fitting ending for the legendary author is one thing, but dealing with her beautiful, stubborn, cynical great-granddaughter, Georgia, is quite another.

But as they read Scarlett’s words in both the manuscript and her box of letters, they start to realize why Scarlett never finished the book—it’s based on her real-life romance with a World War II pilot, and the ending isn’t a happy one. Georgia knows all too well that love never works out, and while the chemistry and connection between her and Noah is undeniable, she’s as determined as ever to learn from her great-grandmother’s mistakes—even if it means destroying Noah’s career.]]> 400 Rebecca Yarros 1682815668 Shannon 0 to-read 4.26 2021
author: Rebecca Yarros
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.26
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/18
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 61141014 Every young woman dreams of marrying a king.
Everyone except for me.
Because the king I am to wed has razor sharp fangs and a thirst for blood.

All my life I knew I’d come of age during the Hundred Year Reaping. According to the ridiculous treaty, two human girls are sent to the faelands as brides for the fearsome fae king and his devilish younger brother.

Not me. I was supposed to be safe. Two girls were chosen from my village already. But when they are executed for offending the king, my sister and I are sent in their place.

What a mess. Then again, maybe it’s not so bad. The younger brother I’m paired with doesn’t seem as monstrous as I’d expected. He’s delightfully handsome too. But nothing compares to the chilling, dangerous beauty of the fae king. And when my sister flees the castle and her terrifying husband-to-be, I’m left to marry him instead.

If I go through with this, I might not survive my wedding night. If I don’t, no one is safe, neither human nor fae. An ancient war will return, bringing devastation we haven’t seen in a thousand years. Can I sacrifice myself for the good of my people? Or will a dangerous desire be the death of me first?

If I don’t lose my heart, the king will certainly lose his. I’ll carve it out with an iron blade if I have to.

To Carve a Fae Heart is an enemies-to-lovers fantasy, perfect for fans of The Cruel Prince, ACOTAR, and The Iron King. If you like snarky fae, brooding fae royals, sizzling romance, and fierce heroines, you'll love this breathtaking fae fantasy.]]> 384 Tessonja Odette Shannon 0 to-read 3.71 2020
author: Tessonja Odette
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.71
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/18
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 57309054 A Beauty and the Beast Retelling

A beastly fae king with a deadly curse.
A devious bargain to break it�

All Gemma Bellefleur wants is to leave her past behind and forget the day scandal broke her heart. But when she’s captured by a trickster fae king who threatens to hold her for ransom, she’ll find herself at the top of the gossip column yet again.

±«˛Ô±ô±đ˛ő˛őâ€�

Plagued by a curse that will soon claim his life, the human-hating King Elliot will do anything to save himself. And if Gemma can use that to her advantage, she might be able to bargain her way to freedom. All she has to do is help him break his curse.

There’s just one hitch—to do so, they’ll have to trick someone into falling in love with the beastly, brooding Elliot.

With a devious alliance made, their scheme begins, bringing Gemma and Elliot into very close quarters. Soon, an unexpected desire stirs where once there was only hate. But Gemma must fight it. For when the curse is broken, Elliot will return to his true form—a wolf—and be lost to her for good.

Can Gemma sacrifice her budding feelings to save the king’s life? Or will love force her to give up something even greater...her heart?

ACOTAR meets Bridgerton in this standalone fairytale retelling of Beauty and the Beast. If you like slow burn romance, wolf shifters, and brooding fae royals, then you’ll love this swoon-worthy story in the Entangled with Fae series.

*NOTE this book is upper YA/NA featuring mature situations, moderate violence and gore, substance abuse, and some adult language. The romance is slow burn but leads to moderate steam.

Curse of the Wolf King is a complete stand-alone novel set in the same world as The Fair Isle Trilogy. Journey back to Faerwyvae or begin your adventure for the first time with this enchanting tale. Each book in the Entangled with Fae series can be read on its own and in any order. Happily ever after guaranteed!

(An alternate cover for this ASIN can be found here.)]]> 408 Tessonja Odette Shannon 0 to-read 3.80 2021
author: Tessonja Odette
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.80
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/18
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 177601547 One prestigious publishing contract.
A bargain of hearts and desire.

They say never bargain with the fae. They also say don’t get drunk on fae wine. Yet romance author Edwina Danforth has managed a blunder with both on her first visit to the infamous faelands. Now she's trapped in a magic-fueled bet she barely remembers with a man she’d be happier to forget. The terms? Whoever can bed the most lovers during their month-long dueling book tour wins a coveted publishing contract.

The win should be easy for Edwina. She’s known for penning scintillating tales of whirlwind romance. There’s just one problem: her imagination vastly exceeds her bedroom experience. But when failure means plummeting her career back into obscurity, losing isn’t an option.

Her handsome fae rival, William Haywood, poses an even greater challenge. Not only are his looks as aggravatingly perfect as his track record behind closed doors, but he has his own reasons for playing to win, and he won’t go down without a fight. Unless, of course, it’s a different kind of going down. In that case, he’s fair game.

Edwina and William clash in a rivalry of romance. But what happens when their objects of desire…turn out to be each other?

A Rivalry of Hearts is a spicy standalone adult fantasy romcom in the Fae Flings and Corset Strings series. Every book in this interconnected series is a complete story and ends with a HEA. If you like academic rivals, enemies to lovers, and quirky heroines, then you’ll love this sizzling tale.

The Fae Flings and Corset Strings series is set in the same world as The Fair Isle Trilogy and Entangled with Fae. Journey back to this beloved fae world or fall in love for the first time.]]> 409 Tessonja Odette Shannon 0 4.01
author: Tessonja Odette
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.01
book published:
rating: 0
read at: 2025/02/18
date added: 2025/02/18
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]]> 134119076 When mysterious faeries from other realms appear at her university, curmudgeonly professor Emily Wilde must uncover their secrets before it’s too late, in this heartwarming, enchanting second installment of the Emily Wilde series.

Emily Wilde is a genius scholar of faerie folklore who just wrote the world’s first comprehensive encyclopaedia of faeries. She’s learned many of the secrets of the Hidden Ones on her adventures . . . and also from her fellow scholar and former rival Wendell Bambleby.

Because Bambleby is more than infuriatingly charming. He’s an exiled faerie king on the run from his murderous mother and in search of a door back to his realm. And despite Emily’s feelings for Bambleby, she’s not ready to accept his proposal of marriage: Loving one of the Fair Folk comes with secrets and dangers.

She also has a new project to focus on: a map of the realms of faerie. While she is preparing her research, Bambleby lands her in trouble yet again, when assassins sent by his mother invade Cambridge. Now Bambleby and Emily are on another adventure, this time to the picturesque Austrian Alps, where Emily believes they may find the door to Bambleby’s realm and the key to freeing him from his family’s dark plans.

But with new relationships for the prickly Emily to navigate and dangerous Folk lurking in every forest and hollow, Emily must unravel the mysterious workings of faerie doors and of her own heart.]]> 370 Heather Fawcett 0593500202 Shannon 0 to-read 4.28 2024
author: Heather Fawcett
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.28
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/17
shelves: to-read
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]]> 223804447 Once upon a time...I fell for my brother's best friend.

I'm not proud of myself, okay? But these things happen when you're young and impressionable. The point is, I got over it. I moved on.

Except now Felix Caine is back—back with his easy smile and sparkling eyes, and he’s making me an offer I (literally) can’t refuse. He needs help with a romantic article he’s writing, and he won’t take no for an answer.

The more time I spend with him, the more I remember all the reasons I fell for him before. But he’s not just my brother’s flirtatious friend this time. He’s my friend, too. And though he says he’ll never fall in love, I sometimes see his gaze linger with more than just friendship.

There's a spark between us that wasn't there before. And I don’t want to have any regrets in this relationship. But what’s a girl to do when the only way to follow her heart…is to give it away?]]> 291 Gracie Ruth Mitchell Shannon 0 to-read 4.26
author: Gracie Ruth Mitchell
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.26
book published:
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/02/17
shelves: to-read
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]]> 44034494
Six years ago, when Camden Daniels came back from war without his younger brother, no one in the small town of Alba, Colorado, would forgive him—especially his father. He left, swearing never to return.

But a desperate message from his father brings it all back. The betrayal. The pain. And the need to go home again. But home is where the one person he still loves is waiting. Willow. The one woman he can never have. Because there are secrets buried in Alba that are best left in the dark.

If only he could tell his heart to stay locked away when she whispers she’s always loved him, and always will�

Great and Precious Things is a heart-wrenching story about family, betrayal, and ultimately how far we're willing to go on behalf of those who need us most.]]> 384 Rebecca Yarros 1640638164 Shannon 0 to-read 4.00 2020
author: Rebecca Yarros
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/16
shelves: to-read
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]]> 26032825 Of course I want to be like them. They’re beautiful as blades forged in some divine fire. They will live forever.

And Cardan is even more beautiful than the rest. I hate him more than all the others. I hate him so much that sometimes when I look at him, I can hardly breathe.

Jude was seven when her parents were murdered and she and her two sisters were stolen away to live in the treacherous High Court of Faerie. Ten years later, Jude wants nothing more than to belong there, despite her mortality. But many of the fey despise humans. Especially Prince Cardan, the youngest and wickedest son of the High King.

To win a place at the Court, she must defy him–and face the consequences.

As Jude becomes more deeply embroiled in palace intrigues and deceptions, she discovers her own capacity for trickery and bloodshed. But as betrayal threatens to drown the Courts of Faerie in violence, Jude will need to risk her life in a dangerous alliance to save her sisters, and Faerie itself.]]> 370 Holly Black 0316310271 Shannon 0 4.01 2018
author: Holly Black
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.01
book published: 2018
rating: 0
read at: 2025/02/16
date added: 2025/02/16
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]]> 58419108
Bad luck has always followed Olivia Marshall…or maybe she’s just the screw-up her family thinks she is. But when a “What are you wearing?� text from a random wrong number turns into the hottest, most entertaining—albeit anonymous—relationship of her life, she thinks things might be on the upswing�.

Colin Beck has always considered Olivia his best friend’s annoying little sister, but when she moves in with them after one of her worst runs of luck, he realizes she’s turned into an altogether different and sexier distraction. He’s sure he can keep his distance, until the moment he discovers she’s the irresistible Miss Misdial he’s been sort of sexting for weeks—and now he has to decide whether to turn the heat up or ghost her before things get messy.]]> 350 Lynn Painter Shannon 0 to-read 3.67 2022
author: Lynn Painter
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.67
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/16
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 211003894
Now, Noon is stuck navigating the submerged town with her mom, who believes their dead family has reincarnated as sea creatures. Alone with the pain of what happened that night at the cove, Noon buries the truth: she is not the right shape.

When Mercy’s predatory leader demands Noon and her mom capture the creature drowning residents, she reluctantly finds an ally in his deadly hunter of a daughter and friends old and new. As the next storm approaches, Noon must confront the past and decide if it’s time to answer the monster itching at her skin.]]> 272 Trang Thanh Tran 1547611111 Shannon 0 to-read 3.62 2025
author: Trang Thanh Tran
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.62
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/15
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 211004089
Dominic Salt and his three children are caretakers of Shearwater, a tiny island not far from Antarctica. Home to the world’s largest seed bank, Shearwater was once full of researchers. But with sea levels rising, the Salts are now its final inhabitants, packing up the seeds before they are transported to safer ground. Despite the wild beauty of life here, isolation has taken its toll on the Salts. Raff, eighteen and suffering his first heartbreak, can only find relief at his punching bag; Fen, seventeen, has started spending her nights on the beach among the seals; nine-year-old Orly, obsessed with botany, fears the loss of his beloved natural world; and Dominic can’t stop turning back toward the past, and the loss that drove the family to Shearwater in the first place.

Then, during the worst storm the island has ever seen, a woman washes up on shore. As the Salts nurse the woman, Rowan, back to life, their suspicion gives way to affection, and they finally begin to feel like a family again. Rowan, long accustomed to protecting her heart, begins to fall for the Salts, too. But Rowan isn’t telling the whole truth about why she set out for Shearwater. And when she discovers the sabotaged radios and a freshly dug grave, she realizes Dominic is keeping his own dark secrets. As the storms on Shearwater gather force, the characters must decide if they can trust each other enough to protect the precious seeds in their care before it’s too late—and if they can finally put the tragedies of the past behind them to create something new, together.]]> 303 Charlotte McConaghy 1250827957 Shannon 0 to-read 4.31 2025
author: Charlotte McConaghy
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.31
book published: 2025
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/02/15
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]]> 203956677 A thrilling collection of thirteen short stories that span the worlds of the New York Times bestselling author of the Scholomance Trilogy, including a sneak peek at the land where her next novel will be set.

From the dragon-filled Temeraire series and the gothic, magical halls of the Scholomance trilogy to the fairy tale worlds of Spinning Silver and Uprooted, this stunning collection takes us from fairy tale to fantasy, myth to history, and mystery to science fiction as we travel through Naomi Novik’s most beloved stories.

In Buried Deep, we move from ancient Greece and Rome, through the Middle Ages and the Black Death, and into the modern era. We meet Mark Antony, Sherlock Holmes, and Elizabeth Bennet, in ways we have never seen them before. We visit exotic fantasy cities and alien civilizations among the stars.

Though the stories are vastly different, there is a unifying theme: the act of finding and seizing one’s destiny, and the lengths one will go to achieve that—be it turning pirate, captaining a fighting dragon, or shifting from marriage to seek your destiny with a sword.

And in the two tales original to this collection, we first reenter the remade Scholomance in the wake of El’s revolution and see what life is like for the new crop of students. Then, we get a glimpse at the world of Novik’s upcoming series, a deserted land, populated only by silent and enigmatic architectural behemoths whose secrets are yet to be unlocked.]]> 430 Naomi Novik 0593600355 Shannon 0 to-read 3.99 2024
author: Naomi Novik
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2024
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/02/15
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]]> 39679076 In a manor by the sea, twelve sisters are cursed.

Annaleigh lives a sheltered life at Highmoor, a manor by the sea, with her sisters, their father, and stepmother. Once they were twelve, but loneliness fills the grand halls now that four of the girls' lives have been cut short. Each death was more tragic than the last—the plague, a plummeting fall, a drowning, a slippery plunge—and there are whispers throughout the surrounding villages that the family is cursed by the gods.

Disturbed by a series of ghostly visions, Annaleigh becomes increasingly suspicious that the deaths were no accidents. Her sisters have been sneaking out every night to attend glittering balls, dancing until dawn in silk gowns and shimmering slippers, and Annaleigh isn't sure whether to try to stop them or to join their forbidden trysts. Because who—or what—are they really dancing with?

When Annaleigh's involvement with a mysterious stranger who has secrets of his own intensifies, it's a race to unravel the darkness that has fallen over her family—before it claims her next.]]> 403 Erin A. Craig 1984831925 Shannon 0 book-club-picks 3.89 2019
author: Erin A. Craig
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.89
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at: 2022/07/18
date added: 2025/02/15
shelves: book-club-picks
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]]> 50892212
A blood feud between two gangs runs the streets red, leaving the city helpless in the grip of chaos. At the heart of it all is eighteen-year-old Juliette Cai, a former flapper who has returned to assume her role as the proud heir of the Scarlet Gang—a network of criminals far above the law. Their only rivals in power are the White Flowers, who have fought the Scarlets for generations. And behind every move is their heir, Roma Montagov, Juliette’s first love…and first betrayal.

But when gangsters on both sides show signs of instability culminating in clawing their own throats out, the people start to whisper. Of a contagion, a madness. Of a monster in the shadows. As the deaths stack up, Juliette and Roma must set their guns—and grudges—aside and work together, for if they can’t stop this mayhem, then there will be no city left for either to rule.

Perfect for fans of The Last Magician and Descendant of the Crane, this heart-stopping debut is an imaginative Romeo and Juliet retelling set in 1920s Shanghai, with rival gangs and a monster in the depths of the Huangpu River.]]> 449 Chloe Gong 1534457690 Shannon 0 book-club-picks 3.82 2020
author: Chloe Gong
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.82
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at: 2022/05/27
date added: 2025/02/15
shelves: book-club-picks
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]]> 42133479 A fresh and addictive fantasy-romance set in modern-day Seoul.

Eighteen-year-old Gu Miyoung has a secret--she's a gumiho, a nine-tailed fox who must devour the energy of men in order to survive. Because so few believe in the old tales anymore, and with so many evil men no one will miss, the modern city of Seoul is the perfect place to hide and hunt.

But after feeding one full moon, Miyoung crosses paths with Jihoon, a human boy, being attacked by a goblin deep in the forest. Against her better judgment, she violates the rules of survival to rescue the boy, losing her fox bead--her gumiho soul--in the process.

Jihoon knows Miyoung is more than just a beautiful girl--he saw her nine tails the night she saved his life. His grandmother used to tell him stories of the gumiho, of their power and the danger they pose to humans. He's drawn to her anyway.

With murderous forces lurking in the background, Miyoung and Jihoon develop a tenuous friendship that blossoms into something more. But when a young shaman tries to reunite Miyoung with her bead, the consequences are disastrous . . . forcing Miyoung to choose between her immortal life and Jihoon's.]]> 429 Kat Cho 1984812343 Shannon 0 book-club-picks 3.75 2019
author: Kat Cho
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.75
book published: 2019
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/02/15
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]]> 10305231
After losing her husband and returning to her hometown, Clare Brewster soon settles into her life as the mother of three young sons while running the town’s bookstore. Busy, with little time for romance, Clare is drawn across the street by Beckett’s transformation of the old inn, wanting to take a closer look . . . at the building and the man behind it.

With the grand opening inching closer, Beckett’s happy to give Clare a private tour - one room at a time. It’s no first date, but these stolen moments are the beginning of something new - and open the door to the extraordinary adventure of what comes next . . .]]> 11 Nora Roberts 1455806854 Shannon 0 book-club-picks 4.13 2011
author: Nora Roberts
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.13
book published: 2011
rating: 0
read at: 2022/02/16
date added: 2025/02/15
shelves: book-club-picks
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]]> 35068705
When Rin aced the Keju—the Empire-wide test to find the most talented youth to learn at the Academies—it was a shock to everyone: to the test officials, who couldn’t believe a war orphan from Rooster Province could pass without cheating; to Rin’s guardians, who believed they’d finally be able to marry her off and further their criminal enterprise; and to Rin herself, who realized she was finally free of the servitude and despair that had made up her daily existence. That she got into Sinegard—the most elite military school in Nikan—was even more surprising.

But surprises aren’t always good.

Because being a dark-skinned peasant girl from the south is not an easy thing at Sinegard. Targeted from the outset by rival classmates for her color, poverty, and gender, Rin discovers she possesses a lethal, unearthly power—an aptitude for the nearly-mythical art of shamanism. Exploring the depths of her gift with the help of a seemingly insane teacher and psychoactive substances, Rin learns that gods long thought dead are very much alive—and that mastering control over those powers could mean more than just surviving school.

For while the Nikara Empire is at peace, the Federation of Mugen still lurks across a narrow sea. The militarily advanced Federation occupied Nikan for decades after the First Poppy War, and only barely lost the continent in the Second. And while most of the people are complacent to go about their lives, a few are aware that a Third Poppy War is just a spark away . . .

Rin’s shamanic powers may be the only way to save her people. But as she finds out more about the god that has chosen her, the vengeful Phoenix, she fears that winning the war may cost her humanity . . . and that it may already be too late.]]> 545 R.F. Kuang 0062662597 Shannon 0 book-club-picks 4.16 2018
author: R.F. Kuang
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.16
book published: 2018
rating: 0
read at: 2022/08/29
date added: 2025/02/15
shelves: book-club-picks
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]]> 28374007 When kingdom come, there will be one.

In every generation on the island of Fennbirn, a set of triplets is born—three queens, all equal heirs to the crown and each possessor of a coveted magic. Mirabella is a fierce elemental, able to spark hungry flames or vicious storms at the snap of her fingers. Katharine is a poisoner, one who can ingest the deadliest poisons without so much as a stomachache. Arsinoe, a naturalist, is said to have the ability to bloom the reddest rose and control the fiercest of lions.

But becoming the Queen Crowned isn’t solely a matter of royal birth. Each sister has to fight for it. And it’s not just a game of win or lose…it’s life or death. The night the sisters turn sixteen, the battle begins.

The last queen standing gets the crown. ]]> 403 Kendare Blake 0062385437 Shannon 0 book-club-picks 3.78 2016
author: Kendare Blake
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.78
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at: 2022/04/23
date added: 2025/02/15
shelves: book-club-picks
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]]> 50892338
A flying demon feeding on human energies.

A secret society of so called “Legendborn� students that hunt the creatures down.

And a mysterious teenage mage who calls himself a “Merlin� and who attempts—and fails—to wipe Bree’s memory of everything she saw.

The mage’s failure unlocks Bree’s own unique magic and a buried memory with a hidden connection: the night her mother died, another Merlin was at the hospital. Now that Bree knows there’s more to her mother’s death than what’s on the police report, she’ll do whatever it takes to find out the truth, even if that means infiltrating the Legendborn as one of their initiates.

She recruits Nick, a self-exiled Legendborn with his own grudge against the group, and their reluctant partnership pulls them deeper into the society’s secrets—and closer to each other. But when the Legendborn reveal themselves as the descendants of King Arthur’s knights and explain that a magical war is coming, Bree has to decide how far she’ll go for the truth and whether she should use her magic to take the society down—or join the fight.]]> 502 Tracy Deonn 1534441603 Shannon 0 book-club-picks 4.32 2020
author: Tracy Deonn
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.32
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at: 2023/06/27
date added: 2025/02/15
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]]> 29739506 This is a revised edition of the novellas The Island & The Waves combined into one storyline with brand new content!

'I walk toward the sea. The endless surface of the water extends to the horizon, whichever way I look.
Our world is small. We’re on our own, and we only have ourselves to depend on. We rely on the Force deep within us as taught to us by our forefathers.
If I were to walk westward from here, I’d come across a barrier - the Wall. Behind it, there are Fools. At least, that's what everyone says. I’ve never seen one.'

Leia lives on an island where children leave their parents to take care of themselves when they’re just ten years old. Across the island runs a Wall that no one has ever crossed. The Fools living behind it should be shunned because they believe in salvation from across the sea. That's what The Book says, the only thing left to the Eastern Islanders by their ancestors.
But when a strange man washes ashore and Leia meets a Fool face to face, her life will never be the same again. Walt, the boy from the other side of the Wall, isn’t as foolish as she was always led to believe. And as Leia and Walt set out to bring the truth about both their societies to light, all the things they once took for granted fall by the wayside.

Their island world is about to change... for better or for worse.]]> 170 Jen Minkman Shannon 0 book-club-picks 3.37 2013
author: Jen Minkman
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.37
book published: 2013
rating: 0
read at: 2022/12/16
date added: 2025/02/15
shelves: book-club-picks
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]]> 58733682
Princess Rose Valhart knows that with power comes responsibility. Marriage into a brutal kingdom awaits, and she will not let a small matter like waking up in the middle of the desert in the company of an extremely impertinent (and handsome) kidnapper get in the way of her royal duty. But life outside the palace walls is wilder and more beautiful than she ever imagined, and the witches she has long feared might turn out to be the family she never knew she was missing.

Two sisters separated at birth and raised into entirely different worlds are about to get to know each other's lives a whole lot better. But as coronation day looms closer and they each strive to claim their birthright, the sinister Kingsbreath, Willem Rathborne, becomes increasingly determined that neither will succeed. Who will ultimately rise to power and wear the crown?]]> 480 Catherine Doyle 0063116138 Shannon 0 book-club-picks 3.92 2022
author: Catherine Doyle
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.92
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at: 2023/01/16
date added: 2025/02/15
shelves: book-club-picks
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]]> 23253083 A burning vengeance.

Adrian sul’Han, known as Ash, is a trained healer with a powerful gift of magic—and a thirst for revenge. The son of the queen of the Fells, Ash is forced into hiding after a series of murders throws the queendom into chaos. Now Ash is closer than he’s ever been to killing the man responsible, the cruel king of Arden. As a healer, can Ash use his powers not to save a life but to take it?

A blood-based curse.

Abandoned at birth, Jenna Bandelow was told the mysterious magemark on the back of her neck would make her a target. But when the King’s Guard launches a relentless search for a girl with a mark like hers, Jenna assumes that it has more to do with her role as a saboteur than any birth-based curse. Though Jenna doesn’t know why she’s being hunted, she knows that she can’t get caught.

Destiny’s fiery hand.

Eventually, Ash’s and Jenna’s paths will collide in Arden. Thrown together by chance and joined by their hatred of the king, they will come to rescue each other in ways they cannot yet imagine.

Set in the world of the acclaimed Seven Realms series a generation later, this is a thrilling story of dark magic, chilling threats, and two unforgettable characters walking a knife-sharp line between life and death.]]> 535 Cinda Williams Chima 006238094X Shannon 0 book-club-picks 4.02 2016
author: Cinda Williams Chima
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.02
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at: 2023/03/09
date added: 2025/02/15
shelves: book-club-picks
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]]> 59060468
19-year-old mage Lady Lyriana Batavia is third in line to the Seat of Power in Bamaria: a position of wealth and privilege, but not safety. Bamaria falls under the rule of the Lumerian Empire, survivors of a celestial war whose island sank in the Drowning. Now all Lumerians submit to the Emperor and his strict laws about magic. He decides what magic can be practiced and what powers remain forbidden. He decides who will die for possession of forbidden magic.

Lyr’s own cousin was executed for wielding the wrong kind. And for years, Lyr has sworn to protect her older sisters, helping them conceal their own illicit magic.

But when Lyr must participate in the ceremony that reveals her power, she uncovers something else entirely. Something that means banishment from the Empire.

Faced with death in exile, and leaving her sisters behind, Lyr has no choice but to accept a deadly contract. She has seven months to train as a warrior and pass the Emperor’s brutal test of strength—all without magic.

But when she’s forced to train with Lord Rhyan Hart, the man she’s secretly loved since she was a girl—a feared warrior in exile himself, forbidden to her in every way—she’s in danger of losing far more than her family, life, and country.

Rebel forces, and an invading army, are destabilizing Bamaria, just as her family’s secrets threaten to reveal themselves.

Surviving the training, and saving her sisters may mean sacrificing her own heart.]]> 454 Frankie Diane Mallis 1957014016 Shannon 0 book-club-picks 3.81 2022
author: Frankie Diane Mallis
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.81
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at: 2024/03/13
date added: 2025/02/15
shelves: book-club-picks
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]]> 49018347 USA Today bestselling author K.A. Linde introduces the Royal Houses series with House of Dragons: the story of Kerrigan Argon, a half-Fae, half-human as she seeks her place in an unforgiving world filled with magic, mayhem, and romance. Perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas, Holly Black, and V.E. Schwab.

Ten years ago, half-Fae, half human Kerrigan Argon was discreetly dropped off onto the steps of Draco Mountain with nothing but a note. Her life changes completely as she’s swept into the care of the House of Dragons—an elite training program for gifted Fae.

On the year of her seventeenth name day, each student will be chosen by one of the twelve tribes of Alandria to enter society.

Everyone is chosen, except Kerrigan.

So, she strikes a bargain with the Dragon Society: convince a tribe to select her or give up her birthright forever.

With the unlikeliest of allies—Fordham Ollivier, the cursed Fae prince, who escaped his dark throne—she has to chart her own destiny to reshape the world.
]]> 492 K.A. Linde Shannon 2 book-club-picks 4.15 2020
author: K.A. Linde
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.15
book published: 2020
rating: 2
read at: 2023/10/31
date added: 2025/02/15
shelves: book-club-picks
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]]> 52578297
When Nora Seed finds herself in the Midnight Library, she has a chance to make things right. Up until now, her life has been full of misery and regret. She feels she has let everyone down, including herself. But things are about to change.

The books in the Midnight Library enable Nora to live as if she had done things differently. With the help of an old friend, she can now undo every one of her regrets as she tries to work out her perfect life. But things aren't always what she imagined they'd be, and soon her choices place the library and herself in extreme danger.

Before time runs out, she must answer the ultimate question: what is the best way to live?]]> 288 Matt Haig 0525559477 Shannon 0 book-club-picks 3.96 2020
author: Matt Haig
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.96
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at: 2024/01/19
date added: 2025/02/15
shelves: book-club-picks
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]]> 51813802
But when her father coerces her into taking part in his latest con, Chatine finds herself embroiled in a plot that will send her on a one-way path toward a future she never wanted and a destiny she’s been running from her entire life.]]> 63 Jessica Brody Shannon 0 to-read 3.79 2019
author: Jessica Brody
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.79
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/15
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 51337956 A traitor. A prisoner. A fugitive.
Wanted by the Regime. Destined to save the planet.

Laterre is on the brink of war. The Third Estate are rioting against the injustices of a corrupt system. The Patriarche, reeling from the murder of his only heir, makes brutal attempts to quash the unrest, while a new militant faction launches a series of deadly attacks.

And three outlaws find themselves pulled into the fray....

Marcellus is now a traitor to his planet, willing to do anything to stop his grandfather from seizing control of Laterre, even if it means joining the Vangarde, a rebel group back from the dead.

Chatine is a prisoner on Bastille. Desperate to survive the harsh conditions of the moon, she becomes embroiled in the Vangarde’s dangerous attempt to free their infamous leader.

Alouette is a fugitive who has been lied to her entire life. Searching for the truth about her mysterious past, she soon finds herself hunted by the Regime for reasons she’s only beginning to understand.

But when Laterre is threatened by the emergence of a deadly new weapon, these three renegades must risk everything, traveling to the far reaches of the System Divine and into the white-hot center of a planet ready to ignite.]]> 704 Jessica Brody 153441066X Shannon 0 book-club-picks 4.27 2020
author: Jessica Brody
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.27
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at: 2024/11/08
date added: 2025/02/15
shelves: book-club-picks
review:

]]> 55710836 A traitor. A prisoner. A fugitive.
Wanted by the Regime. Destined to save the planet.

Laterre is at a crossroads. The Patriarche and his wife are dead, killed by the Red Scar—a militant group who calls for more bloodshed. And the corrupt General is in control of the planet, with the Third Estate believing his corrupt lies. But not all are easily fooled.

Marcellus is trying to keep the Vangarde on mission. But the rebels who want to overthrow the General and keep the peace are without their key asset and the person Marcellus will do anything to find: Alouette.

Locked in the General’s prison, Alouette is planning an escape. It’s the only way for her to unite the Vangarde—and Laterre—as the rightful heir to the planet’s throne. But even if she were to escape, the General is almost impossible to defeat.

Chatine is wasting away in the Vangarde vault, so when an opportunity to take down the General—the man who ruined her life—comes her way, she believes she has no choice but to take action, even if Marcellus begs her not to.

But when Laterre is threatened by the emergence of the other planets in their system, these three renegades must risk everything to save their home.

Les Misérables meets The Lunar Chronicles in this thrilling conclusion to the System Divine trilogy that’s an “explosion of emotion, intrigue, romance, and revolution� (Stephanie Garber, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Caraval series).]]> 857 Jessica Brody 1534474439 Shannon 0 book-club-picks 4.22 2021
author: Jessica Brody
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.22
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at: 2025/02/12
date added: 2025/02/15
shelves: book-club-picks
review:

]]> 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 Shannon 0 4.08 2025
author: B.K. Borison
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.08
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at: 2025/02/15
date added: 2025/02/15
shelves:
review:

]]> 216016090 In a world at war with demons, one girl will face the ultimate test when she is forced to enter into an ancient, deadly competition for the chance to save her mother's soul� before she loses her forever. From the New York Times bestselling author of Song of Silver, Flame Like Night comes the beginning of a dark and opulent fantasy duology, perfect for fans of Throne of Glass.

Nine years ago, the war between the Kingdom of Night and the Kingdom of Rivers tore Àn’yīng’s family apart, leaving her mother barely alive and a baby sister to fend for. Now the mortal realm is falling into eternal night, and mó—beautiful, ravenous demons—roam the land, feasting on the flesh of humans and drinking their souls.

Àn’yīng is no longer a helpless child, though. Armed with her crescent blades and trained in the ancient art of practitioning, she has decided to enter the Immortality Trials, which are open to any mortal who can survive the journey to the immortal realm. Those who complete the Trials are granted a pill of eternal life—the one thing Àn’yīng knows can heal her dying mother. But to attain the prize, she must survive the competition.

Death is common in the Trials. Yet oddly, Àn’yīng finds that someone is helping her stay alive. A rival contestant. Powerful and handsome, Yù’chén is as secretive about his past as he is about his motives for protecting Àn’yīng.

The longer she survives the Trials, the clearer it becomes that all is not right in the immortal realm. To save her mother and herself, Àn’yīng will need to figure out whether she can truly trust the stranger she’s falling for or if he’s the most dangerous player of all . . . for herself and for all the realms.]]> 400 Amélie Wen Zhao 0593813847 Shannon 0 to-read 3.71 2025
author: Amélie Wen Zhao
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.71
book published: 2025
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/02/15
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 19504931
All she wants is a home, but can she find one...UNDER DIFFERENT STARS

Kricket Hollowell is normally not one to wish upon stars; she believes they’re rarely in her favor. Well versed at dodging caseworkers from Chicago’s foster care system, the past few years on her own have made Kricket an expert at the art of survival and blending in. With her 18th birthday fast approaching, she dreams of the day when she can stop running and find what her heart needs a home.

Trey Allairis hates Earth and doubts that anyone from his world can thrive here. What he’s learning of Kricket and her existence away from her true home only confirms his theory. But, when he and Kricket lie together under the stars of Ethar, counting them all may be easier than letting her go.

Kyon Ensin’s secrets number the stars; he knows more about Kricket's gifts than anyone and plans to possess her because of them. He also knows she’s more valuable than any fire in the night sky. He’ll move the heavens and align them all in order to make her his own.

When everything in their world can be broken, will Kricket rely upon love to save her under different stars?]]> 297 Amy A. Bartol 0991292502 Shannon 0 to-read 4.20 2013
author: Amy A. Bartol
name: Shannon
average rating: 4.20
book published: 2013
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/11
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 60114057 From the author of the Ĺ·±¦ÓéŔÖ Choice Award winner The Spanish Love Deception, the eagerly anticipated follow-up featuring Rosie Graham and Lucas MartĂ­n, who are forced to share a New York apartment.

Rosie Graham has a problem. A few, actually. She just quit her well paid job to focus on her secret career as a romance writer. She hasn’t told her family and now has terrible writer’s block. Then, the ceiling of her New York apartment literally crumbles on her. Luckily she has her best friend Lina’s spare key while she’s out of town. But Rosie doesn’t know that Lina has already lent her apartment to her cousin Lucas, who Rosie has been stalking—for lack of a better word—on Instagram for the last few months. Lucas seems intent on coming to her rescue like a Spanish knight in shining armor. Only this one strolls around the place in a towel, has a distracting grin, and an irresistible accent. Oh, and he cooks.

Lucas offers to let Rosie stay with him, at least until she can find some affordable temporary housing. And then he proposes an outrageous experiment to bring back her literary muse and meet her deadline: He’ll take her on a series of experimental dates meant to jump-start her romantic inspiration. Rosie has nothing to lose. Her silly, online crush is totally under control—but Lucas’s time in New York has an expiration date, and six weeks may not be enough, for either her or her deadline.]]> 400 Elena Armas 1668002779 Shannon 0 to-read 3.78 2022
author: Elena Armas
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.78
book published: 2022
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/02/11
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 55502861
Cecilia Bassingwaite is the ideal Victorian lady. She's also a thief. Like the other members of the Wisteria Society crime sorority, she flies around England drinking tea, blackmailing friends, and acquiring treasure by interesting means. Sure, she has a dark and traumatic past and an overbearing aunt, but all things considered, it's a pleasant existence. Until the men show up.

Ned Lightbourne is a sometimes assassin who is smitten with Cecilia from the moment they meet. Unfortunately, that happens to be while he's under direct orders to kill her. His employer, Captain Morvath, who possesses a gothic abbey bristling with cannons and an unbridled hate for the world, intends to rid England of all its presumptuous women, starting with the Wisteria Society. Ned has plans of his own. But both men have made one grave mistake. Never underestimate a woman.

When Morvath imperils the Wisteria Society, Cecilia is forced to team up with her handsome would-be assassin to save the women who raised her--hopefully proving, once and for all, that she's as much of a scoundrel as the rest of them.]]> 336 India Holton 0593200160 Shannon 0 to-read 3.64 2021
author: India Holton
name: Shannon
average rating: 3.64
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/10
shelves: to-read
review:

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