Review: A Study in Drowning by Ava Reid

A Study in Drowning by Ava Reid
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

I own these books because of the gorgeous sprayed edges and I definitely judged a book by the edges. I wanted to like it. How can I not like a book that's about a reader loving a book? That's what I do daily. 

Sadly though I was bored. I didn't care for the lyrical writing and I didn't like the almost poetry like parts. Effy wasn't a character that I liked. She was extremely judgemental towards Preston which I found hypocritical considering her situation and even though she admitted she was acting that way, it didn't make her a better person in my eyes. 

I love fae stories but this was a watered down version of any I've read. I know it's a made up world with different rules but the author didn't explain the rules well enough to follow. I predicted the reveal about the Fairy King. I predicted the author of Effy's favorite book wasnt the real author. I even had a feeling the main female character in the Fairy King book was real and the mom hiding in her room. Nothing surprised me by the end of the book and i couldn't even remember what the significance of the bells ringing meant and had to Google it. 

Suffice to say, I'm disappointed i didn't like this more. Definitely not my cup of tea but I'm glad I finally read it to realize this author may not be for me. 

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Review: Bedeviled by Laura Thalassa

Bedeviled by Laura Thalassa
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I'm always sad when finishing a series and I'm especially sad about finishing Selene and Memnon's story. But I loved every moment of this journey with them and the final battles we got to experience with them in this novel. These two have a love that never ends and will defy all obstacles thrown their way. 

I love how both characters have grown so much from book 1 and how much they've both learned not only with their magic but with each other and in this 21st century world. They both have pure intentions (yes even Memnon) and seeing them fight for good was such a joy. 

I hope Laura Thalassa will revisit this world again (maybe a story for poor Candy Kane?! Love that nickname!). I also love the unexpected character drop off the Bargainer!!! Seeing him and Memnon together was amazing. 

So glad I decided to wait and binge this series because I was able to remember all the small details that otherwise would have been forgotten. 

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Review: The Curse that Binds by Laura Thalassa

The Curse that Binds by Laura Thalassa
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a great backstory. I love seeing Memnon with Roxi. I loved seeing him more human with more emotion when he first met her before he used so much magic that stripped him of a piece of himself. I absolutely love that he gave her her name! Seeing his family and his town with his people. Seeing how he's ALWAYS adored Roxi since the moment they were just voices in each other's heads. And the moment they met in person and he stole her frim being married only to be wed to him 20 minutes later? I wouldn't love that in person but for their story I was entrapped. 

And Roxi. She's a spitfire! She's definitely a survivor since the moment she lost her family as a child and seeing her absolutely thrive when she's with Memnon and his tribe? I adore that so much! She had to get past her own beliefs to transition to Memnon's lifestyle but I don't think that made her weak or meek. Instead she grew into an amazing woman and witch that was able to take care of herself and the people she loved. 

I am glad Laura Thalassa wrote this book because now we can see the differences between Roxi and Selene. They may be the same soul but they are different people with different ways of doing things. Deep down they have the same goals but that doesn't mean they will get to the resolution the same way. 

So excited to read the conclusion to this love story! 

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Review: Bespelled by Laura Thalassa

Bespelled by Laura Thalassa
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I'm so glad I decided to wait for the whole series to binge because these endings are brutal! I once again got sucked into this story of Selene and Memnon. His determination and dedication to Selene is uncanny. Memnon's sole mission on earth is Selene. And power. He has so many secrets that will continue to keep Selene guarded, at least a little bit. Our at least it would be if I were in her shoes. 

Selene has come so far since book 1 with her confidence! Getting her memories back really was the best thing for her and being able to do magic with no repercussion has definitely allowed her to learn more. She's also extremely kind hearted and always looking out for everyone extremely tough most of them are ill intent.

So glad I'm binging this series and can't wait to see what happens next! 

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Review: Bewitched by Laura Thalassa

Bewitched by Laura Thalassa
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

With the last book coming out in this series, I decided to binge read all together and I loved it just as much as I did 3 years ago when I read it the first time. I definitely still love the "Mummy/Indiana Jones" vibes from the Amazon adventure and I still like Memnon more than I probably should have. Very excited to dive into book 2!

My review from March 23, 2023:

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

I am quickly becoming a Laura Thalassa fan, which I knew would happen just by reading the synopsis of all of her novels.  This novel was so unique and different from many of the other books I've read in this genre.  It had a lot of mix going on in it, which really kept me on my toes.  Witchcraft, magical school, a flight to the Amazon forest, The Mummy vibes, Indiana Jones vibes, new adult feel being in school, other supernaturals?  I mean, all amazing things in my mind! 

I cannot imagine being Selene and losing her memories every time she does magic, which she loves so much.  If I were in her shoes, I'd forego magic and keep my memories - relying on past me to make notes wouldn't cut it.  But Selene makes it work for the most part, until she starts to use A LOT of magic and loses A LOT of memories. 

Memnon.  Am I supposed to hate him?  I'm not sure, but I really don't hate him lol.  I think he did bad stuff, but do I care?  Not really haha.  I love how in tuned he is with Selene.  I wouldn't like being called another name, but over time they grew to know the "today" versions of each other and I dunno, I just really liked all of the interactions between these two.  

I'm very very interested after the ending of this book to see what is going to happen.  Because things WILL happen and I will be along for the ride right away!

I'm so glad I got the chance to read this novel and I already have the physical copy on order to have this pretty book in my possession!

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Review: The Villain We Tempt by Jagger Cole

The Villain We Tempt by Jagger Cole
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I barely put this book down, I was so engrossed by it! I love how addicting Jagger Cole's books are and how they always get me out of a book slump! 

Galina and Lochlan are *chef's kiss* together. You wouldn't think so on surface level but with their alter egos, they both deep down enjoy the same things. I was amazed at how long an identity was kept from the other one. I definitely couldn't be in their shoes cause I would want to know immediately! 

The smark and sass between these two were great along with the intense chemistry! I'm not sure how either are keeping their online identity a secret from their friends, but it seems to work for both of them. 

I was also a bit surprised that this book happened at the same time as book 1 in this series, so kudos to Jagger for, I'm sure, the meticulous notes that had to be kept to keep the same time line! 

So glad this book had beef created and we got this delicious unhinged book from this author! Can't wait for the next couple! 

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Review: Obsessed by Jolie Vines

Obsessed by Jolie Vines
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is my first book by this author and I enjoyed it! I haven't read the prior series that goes through the older character HEA stories but it wasn't needed to enjoy this book. I'm sure i missed some Easter eggs here or there but overall the author did a great job bringing in a new reader without feeling lost. 

I enjoyed Cait and Lochie together. With Isla too of course. Cait is extremely aware of her thoughts and choices and doesn't let anyone put her down which i love. Her determination to become a mom is so pure and full and she's not going to let anything get in her way. 

Lochie is so protective of Isla, it melts my hearts. He loves that little girl and will do anything to make sure she stays safe. Seeing him add Cait into his heart with Isla was great. He was a bit rocky at the beginning, but once this man makes a decision, he's in it for the long haul. 

Glad I decided to read this story! 

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Review: Hate Mates by Mickey Miller

Hate Mates by Mickey Miller
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I haven't read this book in 6 years and I gotta say, I didn't love it as much the 2nd time around. I'm also in a completely different place in life, so I'm looking at this college story with a different pair of eyes. I did so like the things i mentioned in my first review below. I had more issues due to plot holes and grammatical or geographical mistakes. Still enjoy Mickey Miller's books though! 

My review from March 13, 2020:

I was stunned when the location of this novel was revealed: Galesburg, IL!  I had to go there quite often when I was growing up.  Even more crazy?  DJ is from Davenport, IA and I lived 30 minutes from there!  So this book amazed me in just the location of the novel, without even getting to the storyline and characters!

It's quick to read, a funny situation, and a lot of self-reflecting for both characters.  I love how spunky and down to earth Alex is.  She is a serious student because of her tortured past and she's very mature for a freshman in college.  Most college students are about partying and having sex every day, but Alex definitely wants a jump start on her career and is working very hard to get it. 

And DJ.  I love that him and his athletic friends don't fit the standard type of dumb jocks.  When they were hanging out together, I loved the topics they were talking about and how not everything was about that "hot girl" this and that.  He is the standard guy who everyone thinks he has it all, but really his life is a crumbling mess.  But the way he responds to everything is very level-headed (well, except when it comes to Alex that is).  

I loved seeing Alex and DJ interact with each other - when they weren't avoiding temptation and staying away from each other.  I also loved seeing the friendships with other students at school and not having this book be just about their feelings for one another.  College is definitely a place to create a new life, make new friends, and honestly get a feel for how their lives are going to be in the future.  DJ and Alex are definitely going to have many adventures for their future!

This was my first book by Mickey Miller, but you can bet it won't be the last!  I was pleasantly surprised by this novel and now I'm intrigued to buy more from him to see if they are all like this one.  Though this one might be my favorite just because it reminded me of home and growing up myself, being that it was in locations I grew up!

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Review: Room to Breathe by Kasie West

Room to Breathe by Kasie West
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Kasie West sure does like to make her characters locked in a room or space, haha! 

I liked Beau and Indy's story. Or really, Indy's story since we are following her home and school life. I can't imagine being in high school and not being able to tell my closest friends about a life altering moment like the one Indy went through. I can definitely understand why she acted the way she did and why her friends acted the way they did. This story was very relatable with everyone's reactions and emotions. 

Im also glad that it didn't take forever for Indy to reconnect with everyone in the scheme of things. Letting those things fester is never good for anyone. She got lodt for a little bit but after forced proximity, finally grew the courage to talk about what she went through and what happened. 

Very glad i finally read this and will hopefully be playing catch up with more Kasie West books soon! 

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Review: The Algorithm Of Them by L Beckett

The Algorithm Of Them by L. Beckett
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This was a very quick read! And I actually liked it more than I expected. I liked seeing Colt and Addie shift their priorities for their little one and finding out what works and doesn't. And of course we still had intense and brooding Colt to watch over his girls. I liked seeing Addie grow stronger with her anxiety throughout this journey. Glad I decided to dive into it really fast to get the ending to their story. 

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Review: The Algorithm Of Us by L Beckett

The Algorithm Of Us by L. Beckett
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This was a different style of story than I'm used to reading. It's not a bad thing but it took me longer to get into the novel and to keep up with things sometimes. 

The biggest thing is the two main characters, Colt and Addie, have been married for 13 years. Most, if not all, of the romances i read, start when the characters meet and we get to experience all of the first time moments. I like those first time moments to really understand who the characters are and how they overcome issues throughout that sensitive period. 

Also the amount of science talk went over my head. I love that Colt is super science smart and can do great things with his company but anytime they got into that topic of conversation i lost interest. 

It took me awhile to get over the third person POV, not gonna lie, but i experience got used to it. And, on a personal note, I couldn't put myself in their shoes when they talked about wanting a baby. Since I don't have or wasn't kids, I found those moments to be fine but repetitive.

Now, it sounds like I disliked this book, but i really didn't. I thought it was unique and I liked how determined the characters were to make a difference. They have so many obstacles to overcome but it didn't scare them to back down. 

I'm glad i decided to read this and I'm going to get the novella just to see what happens, even though I'm sure it will be much of the same feelings I have for this book. 

On a separate note i think Amber should get her own story. And Nash! Just not together lol

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Review: The Lure of Wolves and Whispers by Amanda Connolly

The Lure of Wolves and Whispers by Amanda Connolly
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I thought this book was fine. I didn't love it or hate it. I got through it pretty quickly but I also feel like not a lot really happened? It also felt like another version of hunger game meets the selection so I wasnt all that shocked by the betrayals and back stabbing that happened. I read this because a SE is coming to me soon to decide if I'm going to keep it. I suspect I'll not be keeping it but I'm glad i read it to decide if I like it enough or not. 

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Review: Reclaimed by Roxie Ray

Reclaimed by Roxie Ray
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

I thought this book was okay. There was A LOT of repetition that could have been cut and a lot of giving second or third or fourth chances for characters that needed absolutely none. I thought the story was good and I liked the main characters. But this was an 800 page book that could have definitely been cut to about 450-500. Sebastian and Harley were great characters though and I loved Dylan and Cassidy. Glad I finally got around to reading it and seeing what their story was all about. 

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Review: Beneath a Midnight Moon by Catherine Cowles

Beneath a Midnight Moon by Catherine Cowles
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am absolutely loving this series by Catherine Cowles! It's my first dip into her books but I have a feeling I'll be reading the whole backlog soon. 

I really enjoyed Maverick and Aster's story! With the amount of passion they've shown in book 1 and 2, I knew they would have a dramatic novel to get through the past issues. This is a very slow burn and had a bit of a different vibe than the previous books since it had a different overarching story line. The banter and sarcasm between these two were top notch. Still has the Archer drama of course, and getting bigger with each book!

I YET AGAIN did not see the prime suspect coming until right before the reveal. I'm not sure what magic Catherine Cowles has, but I'm always surprised by who the culprit is for each book so far and I'm LOVING that! 

I did, however, predict the couple for book 4 way before that reveal so I was pleased with myself at that moment :)

This series has been in my head since I read book 1 and I don't foresee that changing until we get to the end of the series. I'm not sure why I love it so much, but I adore everything about them including the suspense/mystery story line, the Archer family and their upbringing, WAYLON and his shenanigan's. It's a great mix of so many pieces that blend really well together and leaves a lasting impression on me. I'm so glad I stumbled upon this and now I will be waiting forever for the next installment since I was blessed enough to read this story so early! Definitely a must read series for me!

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Review: Dove by Paisley Hope

Dove by Paisley Hope
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

This was an okay read. Fast to get through but after the initial attraction of Sean and Layla being obsessed over each other, I kinda grew bored of them repeating the same things over and over. I definitely liked the banter and push/ pull of the beginning part of their relationship. The storyline about her mom was a nice twist and seeing Layla be the strong FMC was great. Overall glad I read it so I know I dont need to own a copy. 

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Review: The Gravewood by Kelly Andrew

The Gravewood by Kelly Andrew
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

At first I was really intrigued with this story and the characters, even if the world building was poor and i felt more lost than anything. But as the book went on i lost interest in the characters with the back and forth secrets with no answers. Once the answers arrive, i was pretty checked out and just wanted to complete the book to see if it got any better. Which it didn't for me sadly. I wont be continuing the series, but I am glad to have read it to not wonder if I would like it or not anymore.  

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Review: Twilight Tides by Samantha Young

Twilight Tides by Samantha Young
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have been so excited for Murray and Londons story and i was not disappointed with this novel! I love the angst and healing that occurred in this book. By both main characters as well as side characters. 

Watching London start to take control of her life after years of abuse and emotional trauma was so inspiring and emotional. I definitely teared up quite a few times during this book! I loved how she got her confidence back and started to trust more and more people. It was a slow healing for her but time means noting when you've experienced this level of abuse.

Murray is such an amazing character and a fantastic dad. He's also going through his own trust issues after what his ex, Jill, has put him through. Im not sure how he had the strength to drop off his daughter, Kelly, with her all those times. 

I loved seeing both Murray and London getting to know each other and realizing how deep their feelings are towards each other. 

I also loved seeing all the characters from Harbor Island get together often and keeping their friendships strong.

So glad I got the chance to read this! As always, I adore Samantha Young's novels and am always excited for more! 

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Review: The Wren in the Holly Library by K.A. Linde

The Wren in the Holly Library by K.A. Linde
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

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

I love a book with a library in it. I think it's my weakness haha. So I was very intrigued to dive into this book with a library in the title! And I enjoyed it. There were a lot of twists and turns, secrets and reveals. I called very quickly what Kierse is early in the book so I wasn't surprised by that.

I loved that Grave made Kierse read so many books. I mean he had a reason, but seeing a character thrust books at another and them talking about it? Love. I don't understand why Grave had to keep so many things a secret from her. I mean I do get it, I don't like or agree with it. These two kept so many things from each other and kept themselves so distant from each other I just wanted to scream at them.

I love Kierse's dedication to get friends, her found family. She is so fierce when it comes to them. But I'm also glad they will be more protected because of the reveal at the end. I'm tired of them being collateral damage to Kierse.

I'm very curious to see how this all ends and who Kierse ends up with. I have my team, but it's not a strong feeling yet so I could probably be swayed if needed for now. I'm glad I got the chance to read this story and I'm excited to get the pretty deluxe edition when it releases!

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Review: Light Wielder by Rachel Schneider

Light Wielder by Rachel Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

My mind is honestly a bit overwhelmed from this book! I know the beginning was long winded but throughout the whole book so much is thrown at us. I honestly need to reread after just finishing to obtain all the details. 

Jovie is a badass. That's the best description I got. She has sacrificed so much throughout her life and she's still making sacrifices every day. She doesn't love a lot of people, but the ones she does, she loves them fiercely. And she's always keeping her thoughts hidden. I bet it's exhausting being her. 

Acker. I seriously love this man. I knew his obsession with Jovie wouldn't keep him away forever. But four years is such a long time!! But the moment they locked eyes? Swoon! His determination is uncanning. What his father made him do? My jaw literally dropped and I gasped. He also sacrificed everything solely for his love for Jovie and I couldn't be happier. 

I am mad though that the BIG battle moment where Jovie used her gift?! I want that scene through her point of view!! We need this as a bonus scene or something because I was WAITING for that moment!!!! 

Messer is the best in this book. His conversation about how much Jovie means to him literally had me tearing up.  

Kai is an ass. Seriously over this dude. 

I'm so glad we got Jovie and Ackers ending! And we didn't get an awful ending like book 1. Im pretty sure I've guessed correctly on what's coming next and I'm so excited for that adventure! 

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Review: Metal Slinger by Rachel Schneider

Metal Slinger by Rachel Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book had blown me away with the amount of twists and turns and secrets and deceiving and just all around shock that comes out of nowhere. I have 1,000 questions with no answers and I have been thinking about the surprises all day wondering how I missed everything!

Brynne...Jovie? I'm calling her Jovie. She's extremely determined, a fighter, smart and so much more. Seeing her get shunned over and over again was hard to see because deep down everyone wants to be accepted. But she didn't let anyone see how she felt and kept making sure she was going toward her goal.

Acker is an enigma. I was drawn to him right away. There are so many personalities to him, but under all of it i can tell he's just a man wanting to find his happily ever after.

That ending? THAT ENDING?! I literally sat there staying at the book wondering what on earth happened because I didn't see any of it at all. So many things got revealed and I felt like I was short circuiting. It was so much all at once with no warning and I feel a reread happening in my future. I'm so sad book 2 is so far away!

I honestly didn't expect to love this book as much as I did. I'm not sure love is the right word, but I'm obsessed to find out more and will be impatiently waiting until I can hopefully get some answers!

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