Review: Bratva Lullaby by Penny Dee

Bratva Lullaby by Penny Dee
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Brooke and Lev had a wild ride in their novel! First off Brooke is too nice of a person. If my ex decided to abandon me multiple times, I never would have saved his sorry ass. I would have told Lev to do what he had to do and leave me out of it. 

But the tension between these two was intense. I get why Brooke was resistant when she discovered Lev's betrayal, but they just connect with each other really well so they were fated to cave into their attraction.

The amount of betrayal that happened in this book is ridiculous and the ending is a cliffhanger, just an FYI. I'm not committed enough to go through more drama to get to the inevitable happily ever after, so i don't care to read the next one. It was a good book and I'm glad I read it.

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Review: Wild Runaway by Sadie King

Wild Runaway by Sadie King
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This was a very short and quick read. Trish Amy Joseph's instant connection was refreshing and I love that Joseph was there to help Trish in her desperate time of need. I also love how no nonsense Joseph was about his thoughts towards Trish and Rose and that he was open about his intentions with them. 

Trish is such a strong woman to leave Ian when she did. Women stay through so much worse and Trish was having nothing to do with that lifestyle and I was cheering her on. She was making sure her and Rose were safe and protected and I love that. 

I could have almost had a little bit more to this story because I was really enjoying the characters and the plot. Glad I decided to read it! 

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Review: Rose in Chains by Julie Soto

Rose in Chains by Julie Soto
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from NetGalley. This is my honest review. 

Only after reading other reviews did I realize this is Dramione fan-fic, which I have not read The Auction. So this was all new to me.

Also this review will contain spoilers. Read at your own risk. 

And because it was all new...I wasn't blown away by this story, sadly. The background story felt too loose and missing pieces. The going back in the past felt clunky. And the magic description wasn't the best. I know there are trigger warnings for this book, but about 70% surrounds the topic of sex one way or another, and not in a pleasant way. We see characters traumatized by what they are forced to do and a main female character is basically mad she's not having sex with her master...

I liked Toven. He seemed like a decent person trying to do the right thing in a terrible sitution without getting killed. Was everything he did great? Absolutely not, but he didn't treat Briony like a piece of trash even though he owned her. Was he close minded and shut tight? Definitely yes, but being around Marrow, I would do the same in his shoes. Should he have told Briony more details when it came to her body? Of course, but he didn't. 

Briony was fine too. She was very naive for her age. I'm not sure what her plan was for her future since she was so worried about her brother achieving his mission in life and she didn't think he could cut it. I don't like that her father made her cheat all the way through school to make her brother look better. 

Basically, when I really think about it, I very much disliked how women were treated in this book. Which you would think since Marrow was victorious in the war, she wouldn't allow women to be used like cattle and trash, but she doesn't care about anyone other than herself. 

I finished this book and the epilogue was intriging, but I doubt I will continue the series. It kinda left a bad taste in my mouth on multiple levels. I'm glad I got the chance to read it, but sadly this book just wasn't for me. 

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Review: Dawn of Flames by Tessa Hale

Dawn of Flames by Tessa Hale
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is probably the fastest I've gone through a book series in a long time. 

I love how much Hayden grew from book one to the end. She had a lot thrown at her and she adjusted quickly and with an ease not many people could have done honestly. So many people were after her for one reason or another and I'm glad she found her mates before so the crazy happened. They were able to help her understand this new world and guide her through so the changes she went through. 

So glad i decided to read this series! I'm very tripped to read about Wren because she is a very intriguing character. 

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Review: Midnight of Ashes by Tessa Hale

Midnight of Ashes by Tessa Hale
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Hayden is continually going through one issue after another. She hasn't even finished one semester in school and she's been though countless dangerous scenarios. Honestly if I were her I'd take some time off from classes until things got settled in her life, but Hayden's too stubborn for that. 

I'm a bit bummed she didn't turn into her dragon yet. Just like she is. I'm guessing she's going to be a purple colored one because of her eyes. I wonder what special gift she will get? 

Also? I'm frustrated that everyone around her (besides her five guys) thinks that just because she a fork and she's small that they can do whatever they want to her. Seriously, this world she lives in is stereotypical power hungry jerks.

And that ending? Oh boy, I am invested to see what awful thing is going to happen to her now. 

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Review: Twilight of Embers by Tessa Hale

Twilight of Embers by Tessa Hale
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I've been meaning to read this series for awhile so I finally just dived right in!

Hayden's story with Knox, Easton, Maddox, Cillian and Cael is very intriguing. I can feel the yearning Hayden needs when she arrives to get new college. She's always been an outcast and she's hoping this will be the new start she's been dreaming of. But from the moment she bumped into Knox, so many things have happened to completely changed her world, along with the dangers that come with her truly finding out host who she really is.

Easton and Maddox are frustrating. They both have their own issues from their past and they are making Hayden suffer because of it. Delaney needs to leave the school because her jealousy is going to really get Hayden hurt in the end with her revenge.

I just went and got the rest of the series to binge read because now I'm vested and need to see Hayden shift into her own dragon and see how much of a badass i know she's going to be!

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Review: Sincerely, Your Enemy by Eliah Greenwood

Sincerely, Your Enemy: A Fake Dating Sports Romance by Eliah Greenwood
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from the author. This is my honest review. 

TJ and Lacey seem completely opposite of one another when we first met these two, but they have so much in common once we really see who they truly are. I love that both of these characters are taking care of their siblings even though they are still a kid themselves. To show that much determination to help them and love then really had an impact on the reader. 

The tension between these two was off the charts. There was a smidgen of hope for Lacey and Aaron, but honestly I was enamored with TJ the moment we met him. He just snagged my attention right away. 

The secrets and mysteries that happened in this book were new and refreshing. I loved how both stories had their own life, but didn't interfere with the other storyline. 

I loved seeing all the past characters from previous books in a pretty big role. It was like a family reunion. 

I'm so glad I got the chance to read this book! I can't wait for more by this author! 

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Review: No Prince by Stevie J. Cole

No Prince by Stevie J. Cole
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Monroe and Zepp's story is one wild ride. Both of these characters have a crappy life but they are finding ways to make the best of it. I'm surprised it took them until senior year to butt heads honestly with how similar they are to each other. And their stubbornness. 

I love Monroe's determination to get out of her awful town that's she willing to do what she had to do until graduation. Her mom? I don't care if she got herself better, she put Monroe in a lot of awful situations at such a young age. 

And Zepp is just living minute to minute until he finally got Monroe in his life. I love that she creeped into his routine and that he fell first. 

Glad I finally read this book on my kindle! 

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Review: Better Than Revenge by Kasie West

Better Than Revenge by Kasie West
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Once again, Kasie West has entrapped me with her storytelling and has wrote another great novel that I binge read. So is her books are the traditional YA romances that are clean and have such a big message to tell her readers. 

Finley and Theo's story was truly realistic for me. What Jensen did to her, taking her dream spot away when she's been working towards that for years? That was extremely hurtful and disgusting. To be dating someone for a year, hearing about their goal and dream to be one of the lead Podcaster, just to try out for fun basically with no real passion for it? He really didn't care or love Finley as a person let alone as a girlfriend who he was suppose to support.

So her decision to get revenge? Steal his kicker position in the football team since it's the first year he's able to be the main kicker? I am fully 100% in support of this plan. I actually truly love this plan. Give him a taste of his own medicine. 

And the fact she got Theo to train her? Even better. The atmosphere between these two during this novel was intense and sweet all at once. I loved their banter so much. 

But also? I absolutely adored the moments with her grandma and the side mission she created trying to help her with remembering her past. I thought that was the sweetest.

Kasie will always be a must read author for me. I inhale her books and love the characters and story each and every time. They always have a great message in the background and I always find myself smiling by the end of her books. Can't wait for the next novel! 

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Review: Iceberg by Jennifer A Nielsen

Iceberg by Jennifer A. Nielsen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Yet another book i wouldn't have picked up if it weren't for my job and this one was very emotional, having to deal with passengers on the Titanic. Hazel is a force to be reckoned with, and she's only 12 years old. The amount of amazing questions she has and the focus to click things together to come up with answers is astonishing. She never gives up her drive to find the answers. 

I'm sure everyone can relate to ignoring a childs constant line of fire with questions as I'm sure everyone in the Titanic was doing with Hazel. But if she didn't get any answers from one person, she simply moved on to the next person or read about the topic in a book. She definitely has the drive of a journalist and I hope she goes on to be a successful one. 

Charlie was one of my favorites, along with Ruth Abelman. Charlie because no matter how much he knew he was going to get into trouble, he always came back to help Hazel. 

And Ruth? That woman made me tear up more times than I thought possible. I love how sky she is. How she didn't let class stop her from doing what she wanted. How she wanted to be helpful and useful and needed in a way she knew she would never be again. Her love for Hazel was so apparent and I love knowing Hazel was watched out for by so many people aboard the Titanic.

Seeing men and crew sacrifice their lives to help women and children? The musicians playing their music until they no longer couldn't? Gave me chills because those were the ultimate heroes on that horrid day. I couldn't imagine being a passenger of any status or final result on that ship. Makes a person stop and appreciate what we have in our lives now. 

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Review: Firebird by Juliette Cross

Firebird by Juliette Cross
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from Edelweiss. This is my honest review. 

I have been wanting to read this book for awhile now and I am so glad Edelweiss approved my request! 

I loved Malina. She has so much confidence and spunk. She knows she capable of taking care of herself because of her gift. But she also knows what she believes in and doesn't stray them. 

Julianus is intriguing. He knows his uncle is evil and has a long winded plan to overcome his rule. He's brutal and cunning. But the moment he lays eyes on Malina, he knows everything takes a back seat to his devotion to her. 

I love that this didn't end on a completely awful ending, yet more will be coming! It's refreshing to not be in agony when ending a book for once. 

I'm so glad I got to read this and can't wait for all of my special edition copies to get delivered! 

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Review: Dance of Deception by Jagger Cole

Dance of Deception by Jagger Cole
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from the author and Valentine PR. This is my honest review. 

Carmine and Lyra's story was great! I love seeing these two opposites get more and more intertwined with each other. Lyra has had a pretty crappy childhood and she's not having a great adult life either with her awful mom and now people wanting money from her terrible father's life choices that still haunt her. 

And I love Carmine's disconnect from human nature, but his sole focus pinpointing Lyra. Seeing him act out of nature for him with his focus on Lyra should have been disturbing but I loved every minute of it. 

All the twists and turns that dealt with Lyra's father? Brilliant. I loved the suspense and mystery. And i loved the moments that showed Lyra dancing. 

This was another great novel by Jagger Cole and I can't wait for the next installment! 

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Review: Scythe & Sparrow by Brynne Weaver

Scythe & Sparrow by Brynne Weaver
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Fionn and Rose are so different from the previous characters in this series. Not in a bad way, but it was definitely a slower pace book and not as intense with the for. I loved Rose's mission and what she was doing, but this woman definitely does not have the strong stomach like Sloane or Lark, that's for sure. 

Fionn is almost...timid... compared to his brothers. I know he had this lifestyle in mind to control his darker urges but it was always triggered when Rose was in danger. And for him to crochet? Loved that bit. So unpredictable! 

I know a ton of readers fell in love with Barbara so I was expecting... more and was a bit let down when she wasn't in the book as much as I thought she would be. 

I loved that the brothers are so tight and that we got to see so much of that in this novel. And seeing Rose bond with Sloane and Lark was awesome. 

Do overall I'm glad I read this book and series! Definitely a different type of story that I wasnt expecting to love so much. Intrigued to see what Brynne Weaver comes up with next! 

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Review: Borrow My Heart by Kasie West

Borrow My Heart by Kasie West
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

As always, once I decide to read a Kasie West book, I wonder why i took so long to get around to reading it because I loved it so much. 

Wren and Asher's story is very relatable and can easily be a real story in our society today. I love that shy, rule following Wren went outside her safe space to save Asher from being humiliated by his friend Dale. She didn't like to see him bullied or ghosted and wanted to help by proving Dale wrong. What she didn't expect was to actually like Asher, which then made her plan messy. 

I also love that Wren works with animals at the shelter and truly loves the animals. You can always tell who is at a shelter for the paycheck or to actually help the animals find their forever home. Her connection with Bean was so sweet and I loved that she tried over and over for him to find his new human and didn't give up hope. 

Wren's complicated situation with her mother was heartbreaking to see, but even worse was when her sister Zoey lashed out because she couldn't handle the truth about her mother's lack of love for her daughters. I think that was the truest scenario, that Zoey treating her that way hurt way worse than her mother because Wren didn't see Zoey's anger coming, but already knew her mother would disappoint before the end of their visit. 

The social media bit of this book also made it super relevant in today's society. So many people think they can just post whatever they want without permission from the people in their videos. That's so disrespectful of people privacy and lives. Wren was walking around not knowing people were talking about her and I honestly would have held my grudge and anger way longer than she did. 

I'm so glad I finally read this book and know it's one of my top favorite of Kasie West novels to date! Can't wait to dive into the next one soon! 

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Review: Requiem by Hannah McBride

Requiem by Hannah McBride
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from the author. This is my honest review. 

I loved coming back into this world and getting Dimitri and Lulu's story! Lulu had been through so much emotional turmoil her whole life. Having Dimitri in it has made things bearable but also excruciatingly hard for her after what they both went through as kids.

I love how protective Dimitri is of Lulu. And how he's always there for her, even when she doesn't want him there, but still needs him. 

And Lulu's magic is getting the best of her, but I'm sure in book 2 she will be able to control it with ease because she is capable of so much.

I'm so excited this novel has been released into the world and I can't wait for the next novel to conclude their story and see how things end! 

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Review: The Red Palace by June Hur

The Red Palace by June Hur
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This was a super quick read that kept me engaged and intrigued to find out the answers about what happened. I normally wouldn't have picked this up on my own but it is an IA award winner so I read it for work. 

Hyeon has always felt the lack of love from her parents, being shunned from her father and feeling the disappointed from her mother for not being a boy. Gender means everything in her culture and as a girl in a lower class, she had no higher power. But that didn't stop her from becoming a palace nurse and proving she can achieve her goals with enough work and concentration. 

But when her mentor and, frankly, the woman she has grown to love like her true mother, gets framed for a Massacre, Hyeon makes it her mission to find the proof needed to free her from execution. After pairing up with Inspector Eojin, they are both risking everything to figure out what really happened that night. Even if it means going against the royal family.

I love how these two go through their suspects and find clues to do a process of elimination. I couldn't imagine living in a society where my gender has a lack of power, but i know that was how the world was, and sometimes is today in certain countries. I love how determined and thorough Hyeon was during this time to figure out what really happened. She was definitely the brains of the operation, that's for sure. 

I like that this is a standalone and how the story ended. Though finding out more about Hyeon and Eojin's future would have been nice! 

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Review: Beautiful Ugly by Alice Feeney

Beautiful Ugly by Alice Feeney
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Let me first start off by saying I don't read this type of book normally. Adult fiction is not my thing unless it's romance. I'm attending a book club with this book and honestly thought based on the synopsis I might enjoy it a bit. 

I did not. 

Also? This review will have spoilers. Read at your own risk. 

Grady is a selfish and childish character. I get it. So am I on occasion. Wanting to be in your own little bubble and do what you want to do? Totally me. Doesn't mean I want to read about a person with similar traits. I don't care that he can't write a book after his wife disappearance. 

I thought it was cool that he went to a remote island to write in peace and quiet. I'd like to do that but to read said books. 

A few things I really just flat out disliked? The narration. I get the author wanted to keep us confused. But we were falsely mislead multiple times with Abby's narrative. It says one week before disapperance. Since most of those chapters were not Grady's wife, and happened YEARS ago, that is incorrect information. So the reader was never given a chance to figure out the different characters. 

The Island. Why do I hate it? There are so many lore stories for every section - the 5 mile apart island. I'm sure history is a big deal for these residents, but I really couldn't give a care while reading. 

I really wanted to love the whole women are better without men so they can't live here bit. But it just fell flat for me for some reason. I'm all about women being empowered but these women were just.... I can't explain why I was let down by that part.

And finally. Grady attempting to kill Abby. Wasnt he on the phone with her when she found him? Was he legit on the ground on his phone taking to her? That whole bit was confusing and seemed rushed. 

The only good thing about this book? The dog survives. That's why I have it 2 stars. 

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Review: The Coach by Mickey Miller

The Coach by Mickey Miller
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from the author. This is my honest review. 

I'm so excited to read another novel by Mickey Miller and really loved this story and characters! This book sits differently with me because the town I live in gets mentioned over and over again, which I loved. Made it more real for me. 

Ivy is so strong and honest. She found herself in a tight position and, with help from her friend Lauren, was able to reconnect with Jackson to start the most amazing adventure in her life. 

Jackson also showed that adults can make changes and sacrifices when they realize their whole world has come into their lives. Becoming a famous coach should have made his life perfect but he realized he was missing a key part to make him happy. Once he found her, he wasn't going to stop until he had it all. 

I loved how these characters worked together and eventually had discussions on what to do with their unexpected news. It shows that things can be adjusted if the love is strong enough. And that distance doesn't have to stop good things from happening. 

I'm so glad I got the chance to read this novel! Looking forward to more! 

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Review: The Cursed King by Abigail Owen

The Cursed King by Abigail Owen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I knew I would like Airk and Angelicka's story a lot! The ending was action packed and so so much happened. I was worried at first but shouldn't have been. Abigail Owen did a great job getting every little piece in place for the perfect ending. I even got goosebumps multiple times! 

I love how Angelicka didn't give up on Airk. If i were in her shoes the work wouldn't have appealed to me. But this woman knows how to be as patient as a saint honestly. 

These two are definitely made for each other and I loved seeing their story come together. So glad I decided to read this series! 

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Review: The Warrior King by Abigail Owen

The Warrior King by Abigail Owen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Samael and Meira's story sucked me in for a wild journey. For Meira who is typically shy and a computer need, she was pretty brave for offering to mate with Gordon. I'm not sure i could have done it in her shoes. 

But then for her and Sam to realize their connection would severe that claim and have to fight their natural instincts? Talk about a very complicated psuedo-love triangle. 

Also i know the red dragon can't be killed until book 4 for dramatic purposes, but come on how many times can he escape with his life? 

I'm looking forward to the final sister and book! I feel like it might be my favorite for some reason! 

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Review: The Blood King by Abigail Owen

The Blood King by Abigail Owen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ladon and Skylar are a riot to see. They are both so strong headed and stubborn so seeing them go head to head really was quite entertaining. 

I have to give Ladon props. He took losing his first Phoenix week, but when the serving one appeared he took no chances, even though Skylar was not amused with his claim. So I'm really glad she fought him with everything she had just to make it difficult for him. 

I'm very invested to see how the last 2 sisters find their mates with their stories coming up! 

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Review: The Rogue King by Abigail Owen

The Rogue King by Abigail Owen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

After devouring The Games Gods Play, I knew i had to read Abigail Owens backlist. And what better series to dive in than this one with dragon shifters! 

Kasia is one tough chick, having known her whole life that she would be used by so many species if anyone discovered what she really was. But when she got backed into a corner, she decided to begrudgingly partner with Brand to stay closer to the lesser of two evils. 

Brand's life mission is about to come to a close, but he didn't expect to get trapped by Kasia. Seeing these two play tug of war was very entertaining and the end result was great. 

Also? Maul? My favorite part of this book lol. 

I'm very intrigued to see where the other sisters will end up with their own stories and so glad I have so of them to dive right in! 

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Review: Amid Clouds and Bones by Ella Fields

Amid Clouds and Bones by Ella Fields
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Finding a standalone romantasy is pretty hard to come by these days. Finding one that I really liked? Even rarer. But this book had me vibe reading for almost 1 sitting and I loved how the story unfolded.

Mildred is one tough woman. She's been used beyond a doubt so many times by so many men. Seriously, she's had to be on high alert her whole life. I can't imagine trying to be one step ahead only for unexpected things to keep happening and to find out she's just a pawn in other people's plans. 

Atakan is so intriguing. I know we are probably supposed to hate him from chapter one, but I was drawn to him from the moment they met. And the amount of secrets this man has? It's a good thing Mildred like games and unraveling secrets cause it makes them a great couple. 

The storyline with Vane was different and made me question where the end result would go. I think out of the two Vane was more of a monster. Or maybe not? With Atakan, she's been prepared for his evilness. We were expecting it. Vane though came in with so many deceptions and lies, it was a harder hit in the end. 

I really did enjoy this book a lot and I'm glad I decided to read it in preparation for a SE getting released. I need to read more Ella Fields as I've enjoyed the one I've read so far! 

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Review: Poison and Wine by Katie Ashley

Poison and Wine by Katie Ashley
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Caterina and Callum's journey was different from the very beginning. I love Caterina's solution to not being pawned off by her father. She seriously is so smart and kind, but has a fire in her when she needs to let it out. Especially when she is around Callum and his family. 

And I love that Callum wrote a contract with his new, unwilling wife. Not that I think a new marriage needs that, but being raised in a Mafia house, it definitely doesn't hurt to have that piece of insurance to make sure things go according to plan. 

This was a good book and i enjoyed the story and the characters. 

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Review: Fireball by Nikki Belaire

Fireball by Nikki Belaire
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Titan and Addie couldn't be any more different than each other. And yet somehow their relationship works. Well, probably because Titan doesn't give up and Addie was in his sights from the moment he saw her. 

But Addie didn't give in without a fight and I love that about her. Also? The love she has for Pete? She's my best friend and soul sister. She loves that pup with all of her heart. I dont think I've seen a deeper connection than these two. 

Chelsea is hilarious and naive and a spitfire. I can totally understand why Titan always has a headache! 

Glad I read this random book on my kindle! 

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Review: On Loverose Lane by Samantha Young

On Loverose Lane by Samantha Young
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from the author. This is my honest review. 

Samantha Young has wrote another incredible story! It has been so long since I've read On Dublin Street, but the way Samantha dives into Beth and Callan's story, it was like I never left. I dont remember a lot of details from the prior series, but you don't need to have read the older generation to enjoy this amazing novel. 

The intensity between Beth and Callan flies of the page the minute they met each other again. I knew it was going to be explosive between them and it definitely was! Their past relationship was so sweet and I wish it didn't have to wait 8 years before they could truly be with each other. Beth is such a sweetheart and Callan went through a lot of turmoil at a young age. I feel like he could benefit by seeing and talking to someone about what he went through. 

I love love love Baird as well and he's quite hilarious. I desperately hope we get his story and his carefree silliness back. 

There are so many characters i hope we get books of but I know it would be the Neverending series if that were the case. I'm so glad Samantha decided to dive back into the world! I can't wait for more amazing stories to come! 

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Review: Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson

Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

I read this book because it won an award in the IA schools and is a part of a trivia. If it wasn't for that, I never would have picked up this book. It wasn't awful. It actually had some great moments and makes the reader reflect on the past and present and the struggles humans have. It's just not a book I would want to read. It is not what I normally read. 

There are a lot of moving pieces to this book. So many characters. So many locations. So many years span throughout this book. So many messages too. I can't say I hated it. But I definitely didn't like it. I may watch the hulu show to see how that played out with all of these differences and viewpoints. 

Now off to write trivia questions...

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Review: Finally Home by Holly Crawford

Finally Home by Holly Crawford
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I got a SE of this book and finally got around to reading it. And I enjoyed it! I'm not a huge fan of friends-to-lovers because it's extra angst of I can't ruin this amazing friendship... which did for sure happen in this book. 

But I did love that Wren grew so much in this book. She had a lot of crappy things happen to her and I'm proud of the actions she took to get those negative things out of her life. I also love that she befriended so many people in a place she was outside her comfort zone. 

And Rhodes is the best, though I wish he would have confessed his feelings to Wren so long ago. Would have saved them both some heartbreak. 

So overall I'm glad I read this! Especially to get one more physical tbr off the tbr list! 

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Review: Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros

Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

As I predicted, I loved this book yet I feel so lost and confused and overwhelmed with emotion.

Violet grew so much in this book. Seriously, she is such a different person than who we met at the Parapet. I'm so glad she is becoming the woman she is but also sad she's had to grow so much in such a short amount of time.

Xaden is so frustratingly delicious it's hard to know how I feel about him sometimes. I get he's in a bad situation but he locks Violet or so much. It's amazing how she is still fighting for what will be.

Rhiannon, Sawyer and Ridoc are still the best friend and squad anyone could ask for.

Tairn, Saegel and Andarna are still fantastic dragons! Though Andarna needs to figure out her life choices; she's on my list.

So many answers revealed only to get new questions! So many new characters introduced to build this world even more. So many hilarious laugh out loud moments. So many jaw dropping scenes and events. So so so many tears!

I can't say I comprehended every reveal and understand every new signets revealed, but I was along for this ride 100% and a reread will be in my future soon. I wish I didn't have to wait so long for more details but I'll have to be patient for yet I'm sure will be another cliffhanger ending. So good, I loved this adventure!

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Review: Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros

Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Still loved this series so much! Glad I reread before Onyx Storm!

Original review from Dec 7, 2023:

I've had this book since release day and a month after, I've read this twice now. I haven't been this obsessed over a book series for many years and I honestly am not sure how to move into another book with the emptiness I have when done. I sound dramatic, but it's true lol.

Violet is fantastic. The brain this girl has, she's always figuring things out way before anyone else and it's all thanks to her scribe life she was preparing for. People think reading books is silly, but it's not. Gathering information and learning facts will prepare a person to be equipped with everything they may need to know in a single second. 

I love Violet interacting with Tarin and Andarna. The love she has for her dragons, actually everyone in her life, is so strong and pure. She is so selfless and is always trying to save everyone but herself.

Xaden is so swoon-worthy, but also annoying. I get all of the choices he made (except the last one) but it doesn't mean I liked him during those moments. And the moments he was SHOWING Violet he loved her? Oh boy, they were convincing moments!

There is so much that happens in this novel. Yarros has a way of shoving so much info but it doesn't feel like we are bombarded with everything all at once. 

I loved all of the returning characters and all of the new characters. I'm very intrigued to see what events will happen with Aaric. I feel like he's going to have a major role soon. 

Dain left my "he can be unalived" corner and moved to my "just stay here and be quiet" corner. He can still be moved depending on what he did in the next book. Still up for debate. 

As you can see I'm still all over the place when it comes to this book, this series, but I love it so much and know I'll be rereading before book 3 is released to get immersed into this amazing world again.

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Review: Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros

Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

May 28th review:
I legit just did a reread of this book 20 days later. I almost NEVER reread a book but to cave into temptation in 20 days? I have so many other things to read, but instead I'm reading a book that I can't help but devour.

I'm glad I did the reread because I caught many things that I either missed or I caught new things based on my knowledge of how evening pans out. I still laughed, gasped, cried over certain scenes even though I knew they were coming.

Like everyone else, I can't wait until November and honestly wonder how many more rereads I'm going to do before then.

READ THIS BOOK! It's amazing!


May 8th review:
I saw the hype for this book everywhere and I saw MANY of my all time, auto buy authors RAVING about this story. So my expectations were set at an all time high. 

I was 1,000% not disappointed!!  I legit read this book in 12 hours. In one day I started and finished this book, and while I consumed it, I knew I was going to be devastated when I finished. Well, here I am devastated but also extremely happy.

Also?  THERE WILL BE SPOILERS IN THIS REVIEW. For once I didn't read an early copy so I can say whatever I want and I'm oh so going to lol.

Violet. VIOLET! I need to be her friend. She is fantastic person. So super smart, I love that she wanted to be a scribe and be surrounded by books. And her ability to retain information is amazing! Makes her the dangerous student in her school. And her the brilliant plan she came up with for each of her sparring sessions made me jump up and down with joy. 

Xaden. I loved him the second he learned Violets name and threatened her life. The tension between them was instantaneous and it was always sizzling between them with every encounter. For them to have waited so long to cave in to their attraction was agonizing but so worth it. Though he's really put himself into a deep hole by the end of this book. I'm really really going to enjoy seeing him pull out all the bells and whistles to gain Violets trust again. I know it's going to be even more intense I bet. 

I honestly despise her mother. I cannot believe she is willing to risk another child, especially considering Violet had only been training for 6 months. All because of their name and image. I would have had a few choice words for her.  And then later when Violet proved herself to her mother's standards? AND HER MOTHER IGNORED HER??? Hell no. No. No. No. 

Another person I hate? Dain. That spineless weasel, I can't stand him. I need to be Violets friend so I can punch him and break his nose,  I swear. He's only out for himself. One minute he's lecturing Violet, telling her what to do, acting like she's not 20 years old, the next he's celebrating the exact thing he was scolding her about and acting like he was responsible for it. Just because he realized that he can be associated with her and her some fame from it or something. And his "the rules say...." oh just shove it, Dain. 

The amount of people after Violet in this book
is insane and that girl has so much luck on her side. 

Also? I loved how many people died in this book. Do not get attached to many of these characters because they drop like flies. 

The dragons. THE DRAGONS!!! I freaking love them. Every single second a dragon is on these pages I'm in love. Especially Tarin - he's hilarious and I love his and Violets banter!

The revolution happening is going to get crazy in the upcoming books. I'm not the biggest fan of those but I'll suffer through it to continue loving these characters. 

Now, the biggest spoiler because I need to remember for book 2. So, you know, don't read of you don't want spoilers...

I CAN'T BELIEVE BRENNAN IS STILL ALIVE!!!!!!!  How did he fake his death with his mother?? Does she know? Is her mother in the dark? How mad is Violet going to be?? Her father died from his death basically and Violet loved her father. Also? This is not going to go well with Xaden keeping this from her and HE BETTER TELL HER EVERY FREAKING SECRET IN HIS LIFE!!!!! If he messed up what they have forever and she moves on to someone else I'll never forgive him. 

So suffice to say, this book has me obsessed and I'm about to own 4 copies - at least! The hype is worth it. I'm telling everyone to read it. And I can't wait for more! 

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Review: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Wow I read this book 11 years ago! I really didn't think it had been that long ago. My original review still runs true to my feelings, though I don't remember much from the movies anymore, so it was nice to just revist the story before book club.

My review from January 25, 2014:
So I'm a little behind on reading this series. I am a huge fan of the movies and became impatient wanting to know how it all ends, so I grabbed the series from my library.

I know that books turned into movies are not the same, but this was like reading a whole different story! Sure, there was about 25% similarities, but otherwise it was a whole new story for me.

One thing that blew my mind was, "Percy is 12?!" I didn't realize he was that young! Definitely can't tell that in the movie!

Overall, I thought this book was good. A little younger than I am used to reading (I'm more in the 15 or older stage) but for this age group, it is definitely a series worth reading. I can see why it is a popular series among young readers, and among guy readers.

I will be reading the whole series and while I may have problems with the next book since I just watched the movie, I think I will start to enjoy them more because I won't have any expectations on what it should be versus what it is.

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Review: Emperor of Havoc by Jagger Cole

Emperor of Havoc by Jagger Cole
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from the author. This is my honest review. 

Takeshi and Katarina are so different from each other, yet are the perfect match together. I've been so curious about Kat since we met her on that awful see-saw moment and I'm so glad she's as strong and powerful as I predicted from that moment. She's ready to be a Mafia boss essentially and as a mute female she knows she will have issues leading the men who followed her father. But that really did not stop her determination to do what she was trained to do. 

And Takeshi. He wasn't as unhinged as I predicted or was told by previous characters in prior books. But I loved his tunnel vision mission and then how that swayed when he was around Kat longer and longer. He doesn't usually get distracted, but that so charged when Kat charged into his life. 

I actually was unable to figure out the mystery this go around! Which was a great surprise! I love how after all these books Jagger still keeps me on my toes with the mystery and suspense.

I devoured this book and loved every second of it! I can't wait to see the next series by this author!

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Review: Wandering Wild by Lynette Noni

Wandering Wild by Lynette Noni
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from Edelweiss and NetGalley. This is my honest review. 

The amount of joy and happiness and excitement I went through when I got this arc is too hard to explain but I was extremely giddy when I got this book on my kindle. Lynette Noni has become one of my top authors of all time and I absolutely love her writing, her stories, and her as a human being on her social media. Safe to say I'm going to be an extreme fan for life and hope to one day meet her in person. 

Okay on to this marvelous novel.

Charlie and Zander are amazing. They both are so different from each other, yet both have gone through some very traumatic moments that are similar to one another. And both are still dealing with those moments and trying to figure out life. Just like us readers I'm sure. 

I love Charlie. She is so loyal and fierce and determined. I love those qualities in a person and Charlie has them 10 times over. For her to do this show with an actor she dislikes just to make her closest friend happy shows how much she will sacrifice for the people she loves. 

Zander is very much the same as Charlie in his qualities. But I also love that he hasn't let the fame of being a famous actor get to his head. He is very much protective of his friends who are like family. 

The hardships, both mentally and physically, Charlie and Zander had to go through in this novel is intense. For two people not trained to be going through these obstacles, they did a fantastic job. I'm severely frustrated with the grownups in this book, but when presented with the issues and challenges they went through, Charlie and Zander were determined to finish their mission. 

I love all of the side characters in this book: Samantha, Maddox, Sandi, Ember. They truly love their close friend and are always there for each other. I truly hope another novel in this world will be created because I would love to see how things progress with all of these characters! 

I honestly can't explain how much I love this book. There is adventure, love, danger, determination, and being able to find yourself and your dreams. It's a beautiful story and I'm going to make everyone I know read in May!

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Review: Howl’s Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones

Howl’s Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I wanted to like this more, but I found myself a bit bored through most of the story.  And it took soooo long to get through it and it's a smaller book that what I usually read.  I just feel like not a lot happened?  Sophie does learn more about herself and what she is capable of, which I appreciate, but I dunno, she's stuck in the moving castle most of the time while Howl and Michael get to go in and out.  Plus she's cursed because she's more advanced at making hats than the Witch appreciated?

It was an okay book for me, but not anything I'll need to collect which works for me in the end.  I'm glad I finally got a chance to read it but I won't be continuing with the series. 

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Review: Tempting by Crystal Kaswell

Tempting by Crystal Kaswell
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The new illustrated cover on Amazon 100% swayed me to read this book, not gonna lie. Even though I was leery because it's a best-friends-sibling romance which I tend to have issues with. And that is the reason I gave it 3 stars. The whole hiding from friends and family just really doesn't do it for me for some reason. 

Brendon and Kaylee are honestly wonderful together. They balance each other out and are good for each other. 

But they both focus on too many little things. Age difference. Interests differences. Emma can't know. Kaylee's parents can't know. Both are better than the other and deserve more. It just gets repetitive and old after awhile. 

I'm glad I finally read it to see if the cover was as great as the story and it was a decent novel. 

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Review: The Games Gods Play by Abigail Owens

The Games Gods Play by Abigail Owen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I'm so glad the sprayed edges looked gorgeous in this book which is why I decided to read it because I LOVED this story! It's The Hunger Games meets Percy Jackson and I inhaled it in less than 24 hours. I couldn't stop reading and even though I predicted the ending, I was so for it. I'm just bummed I didn't wait until closer to September when book 2 releases cause now the wait will feel like forever! 

Lyra is fantastic. She's so guarded but the most kind hearted person. All she's ever wanted was for someone to choose her, to care about her, but Zeus's curse wont allow that to happen. So she just goes through the motions day by day. 

Hey getting picked as Hades champion? Seeing those two interact over and over again? Seeing Hades slowly lose the battle to not fall for her, and vise versa? I loved every bit of it. And seeing Lyra help her competitors over and over and over again? She's who everyone should aspire to be honestly. 

I'm so curious what will happen next, especially since Boone is with her. And also with Zai. So many things to come and I'm ready for it all to be revealed in book 2 later this year! What a great book to start the new year! 

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