I don't think I was in the right headspace to enjoy this.
It was a slow paced book with an intriguing, unique plotline. Unfortunately, when the book stI don't think I was in the right headspace to enjoy this.
It was a slow paced book with an intriguing, unique plotline. Unfortunately, when the book started I had no idea what was going on and struggled to remain invested enough to find out.
It absolutely had potential to be a great read but I unfortunately DNF'd @20%
Thankyou to netgalley and the publisher for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review...more
Screaming from the rooftops this was everything I wanted and more. A great gothic LGBT+ romance fuelled with mystery, tension, a slow burn and professScreaming from the rooftops this was everything I wanted and more. A great gothic LGBT+ romance fuelled with mystery, tension, a slow burn and professor x student (college).
The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is because I would have liked a bit more interaction/relationship development between our MMCs. It was a very very easy book to read (I binged it in a day) and I found the pacing to be done well.
- Enemies to Lovers - Fantasy - Sworn Enemies (Romeo & Juliet vibes) - High Stakes - Slow Burn -Found Family -Touch her and die
My thoug3.75
What to expect?
- Enemies to Lovers - Fantasy - Sworn Enemies (Romeo & Juliet vibes) - High Stakes - Slow Burn -Found Family -Touch her and die
My thoughts
I really enjoyed this book. It felt very on brand for Catherine and I think anyone who has enjoyed her previous work will enjoy this novel. The world was unique and interesting, I liked the Romeo/Juliet feuding houses elements as well as the mystery surrounding the tragedy at the start of the novel. I saw the plot twist coming pretty early on, but that's to be expected with a YA novel. The characters were intriguing, especially the friends Sera found along the way. I would have liked some more 1 on 1 interaction between our protagonists a bit earlier on and struggled with the pacing in the middle. However, this was a great story full of fun twists, turns and tension....more
This book was extremely heartwarming but also so incredibly frustrating at times. I really struggled with what to rate this as a result, but, as I'm fThis book was extremely heartwarming but also so incredibly frustrating at times. I really struggled with what to rate this as a result, but, as I'm feeling ✨festive✨ I've rounded it up to a 4.
Synopsis: “Make the Season Bright” follows Charlotte, a successful violinist who was left at the altar by her ex-fiancée, Brighton, five years ago. After finding out Charlotte intends to spend Christmas alone, her quartet convince her to fly out and spend Christmas in Colorado. To everyone's surprise, Brighton is also there.
As they navigate a series of Christmas activities together, old memories and feelings begin to resurface. Despite the initial tension, the magic of the season and their shared love for music begin to thaw the ice between them.
thankyou to the publisher for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review
Book 2 is no doubt written much better than Book 1, there is a definite improvement in writing style and character dUnfortunately, this wasn't for me.
Book 2 is no doubt written much better than Book 1, there is a definite improvement in writing style and character depth. The MMC seems more intriguing and there are less immediate red flags.
The FMC was so unprofessional at the start it made me recoil at times and the whole thing felt like a retelling of books I've read before, I didn't feel like I was reading a unique story so am choosing to not continue.
DNF @ 25%
-------------
Thankyou to the publisher for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.Hated the first one but heard this is better - shall I do it?
It's really great to see how far the authors writing has come since the release of book 1 in this series. This book was much more fleshed out, articulaIt's really great to see how far the authors writing has come since the release of book 1 in this series. This book was much more fleshed out, articulate and engaging than the first and others in the series.
Broken by Daylight is the fourth instalment in the Beasts of the Briar series, it's a gripping continuation that enhances on the series’ rich lore and conniving betrayals. This book has many moments of high-stakes action but also has those moments of soul-crushing vulnerability, as characters struggle with both their emotions and relationships.
Whilst this book was much longer than the others in the series, I found myself engaged and on tenterhooks for 80% of the book because of how tense it was. Elizabeth & Helen surely know how to keep us waiting, and that cliff-hanger?!
'I cannot keep away from you any more than the tides can resist the pull of the moon.'
I found myself skimming parts of Ezryn's chapters at times due to the way it deviates from the main storyline and I do wish the whole group had been together for more of the novel; but overall, this was a really engaging continuation of the series and I really need to know how this story ends.
How many more books until a happy ending? It will be a happy ending? Right? right?!
Thankyou to the publisher and authors for an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review -----------
I’m choosing chaos and jumping to book 4. No judgement please...more
This was a fun, light read, if a bit predictable at times.
The first 50% of this book is paced slowly, with our two protagonists James and Bobby struggThis was a fun, light read, if a bit predictable at times.
The first 50% of this book is paced slowly, with our two protagonists James and Bobby struggling to fall into common ground. For James, he is trying his hardest to avoid Bobby Mason at all costs, Bobby however, has different plans.
The second half of the book is where the romance really picks up, with some light spice and wholesome moments. I did feel as though the 'love' was slightly rushed and I guessed how the book would end at around 45% in but that didn't make it less enjoyable.
This was a really unique read and I'm happy it now exists in the world for LGBTQ+ & Historical Romance lovers!
This is a historical LGBT+ romance with a supportive family and friendship ring. We have some iconic moments including, but not limited to:
-Angry Kisses -The use of the word 'romp' -Blackmail -Beth and Gwen content -Beards -An adorable epilogue
Thankyou to Netgalley and Penguin for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review....more
As a lover of sad books, I found "Medusa of the Roses" to be an 'enjoyable' read.
This is a lyrical story that follows Anjir, a gay man in Iran. We focAs a lover of sad books, I found "Medusa of the Roses" to be an 'enjoyable' read.
This is a lyrical story that follows Anjir, a gay man in Iran. We focus on Anjir, as he discovers both his partner's infidelity and their attack on the same night, unraveling the story and actions that led to that moment as we read through. Sinaki creates a captivating world where the past and present meet, highlighting the persecution faced by queer and trans people in modern-day Iran.
The main character's journey is deeply engaging. The author’s poetic and descriptive language bringing the story to life, making it feel both magical and real. Some readers might find the heavy use of metaphor and symbolism a bit much, but for me, it was beautifully curated.
Thankyou to netgalley and the publisher for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
Please check the tws before reading this book as it deals with some distressing themes....more
I got this book purely based on the cover by queen Brittany Keller.
This book is a collection of short-steamy romance stories, varying in length. They I got this book purely based on the cover by queen Brittany Keller.
This book is a collection of short-steamy romance stories, varying in length. They are well written, and despite their short length the characters are fleshed out. Day achieved exactly what she was aiming for when writing this collection, and I thought it was a great read in between heavier books. (The story 'The Professor' made me laugh. I need a comedic story about Llewellyn.)
Day's writing is evocative and sensuous, with a strong focus on character emotions. Her writing is both engaging and descriptive, capturing the intensity of the romantic and intimate moments between the characters. It's a compelling and enjoyable read that will keep you hooked until the last page.
Thankyou to Luna Day and Netgalley for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review...more
This book was a captivating prequel to Her Majesties Royal Coven. When I saw this was a short, snappy prequel of HMRC, set in Tudor times, there was nThis book was a captivating prequel to Her Majesties Royal Coven. When I saw this was a short, snappy prequel of HMRC, set in Tudor times, there was no way I wasn’t going to read it.
Dawson provides a brief reimagining of Anne Boleyns life if it was infused with magic. The book follows a dual timeline, set both during Anne’s rise to power and after her death. We are given a brief look into a key historical figure within the HMRC world. Although named Queen B, the majority of the book takes place from the POV of two of Anne’s coven-mates as they deal with the aftermath of her execution. There is not a deep dive into Anne’s character but instead a look at what she left behind (in this story).
I do not believe it is necessary to have read HMRC beforehand, but some of the world building around the witches may make more sense if you do.
As I’ve come to expect with Dawson, evocative writing captured the opulence and danger of the Tudor court, the plot blending historical events (or tragedies) with fantasy. The novel also looked at themes of power, gender, sexuality and autonomy, making the witch’s struggles feel both timeless and relevant.
I do believe the novella relies on readers having pre-existing knowledge and understanding of Anne Boleyn’s life. The book doesn’t go into a lot of detail (as to be expected with only 168 pages), but still manages to tell the story it sets out to. With short, captivating chapters, it’s very easy to devour this in one sitting.
Thankyou to NetGalley and the publisher for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review...more
"Anyone" is a well crafted story that dives into the nuances of young love and the struggles of finding oneself. The characters are well-developed, if"Anyone" is a well crafted story that dives into the nuances of young love and the struggles of finding oneself. The characters are well-developed, if a bit unaware at times. I found the pacing to be quite slow, resulting in a struggle to stay engaged at all times.
The novel follows best-friends Charles and Tori as they navigate high school, life and their feelings for one another. Set mostly during the backdrop of the school play 'Romeo and Juliet' there is a definite love for the arts portrayed throughout the book. Anyone that knows my reviews will know I am a huge Shakespeare lover, so any reference to his work in a book is an automatic point in its favour.
The last 30% of the book was more fast-paced easy to read as a result, and I do genuinely feel as though a lot of readers would enjoy this book more than I did. I am just not a fan of miscommunication, which was the overwhelming theme of the novel.
'If I'm allowed only one kiss in my whole life, let it be this one.'
Sarah Sprinz's writing is emotive and engaging. Set in a boarding school, I struggled to connect with the characters for the most point, although some of the more challenging themes dealt with in the book were written exceptionally well and made up for a lot of the disconnect I felt with the characters in themselves. Sarah dealt with these difficult topics well, and I was impressed at how we saw this impact her characters.
I do feel as though some plot points were predictable and wish the resolution had been explored in more detail. However, the strong character development and relatable themes made up for this. I would recommend this read to lovers of young adult who enjoy heartfelt romance and stories about self-discovery, dealing with difficult themes.
Tropes:
Friends to Lovers Miscommunication Previous on-page Toxic Relationship High School Setting Complex Friendships
Please check TWs before reading.
Thankyou to netgalley and the publisher for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review...more
This MMC was a walking red flag I feel like Cece needs a restraining order.
I don’t think a 4-5⭐️ prediction has ever gone so wrong for me, which is a This MMC was a walking red flag I feel like Cece needs a restraining order.
I don’t think a 4-5⭐️ prediction has ever gone so wrong for me, which is a shame as I was super excited for this.
This book felt like a bunch of tropes had been jammed into a book with no alignment or editing. The writing was mediocre at best and overall just felt like a copy of another popular cowboy romance.
I can appreciate what the author was trying to achieve but this really wasn’t for me - the MMC actually concerned me at times and made it feel more dark romance than lighthearted southern-hockey fun.
Thankyou to the publisher for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review....more
The story and plot of this novel had a lot of potential, for the most part this was executed well and made for a light, easy read. I really enjoyed TrThe story and plot of this novel had a lot of potential, for the most part this was executed well and made for a light, easy read. I really enjoyed Tricia's writing style and would check out more of her work in the future, especially now knowing there is another book in this 'series'. Unfortunately I struggled with the pacing of the book, the ending felt rushed and incomplete which was a shame as other parts of the story seemed to drag.
I usually love morally grey characters, but I like them to be oblivious. Chrys came across as very naïve and aware of her faults, using them in a way that benefitted her, not caring who was hurt in the process. She is also a very hypocritical character, not holding herself to the same standards as others. I could not connect with her for this reason.
'I truly am a terrible person, and I smile at the thought of it' ???? This whole line felt very juvenile to me as did a lot of the internal monologue of our main character.
Eyrx on the other hand, was very intriguing, his mystery and allure transcended the page and I found myself enjoying the parts he was present for the most. The tension between Eryx and Chrys was certainly done well, they had chemistry off the charts and this was an enemies to lovers trope done right.
This is definitely a book about female power, mystery and fighting for what you want. If that sounds intriguing to you and you're a lover of YA then check this book out!
Thankyou to netgalley and the publisher for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review....more
"You Had Me at Happy Hour" by Timothy Janovsky is a cheerful romance that combines humour & heart to create an engaging read.
One of the standout aspec"You Had Me at Happy Hour" by Timothy Janovsky is a cheerful romance that combines humour & heart to create an engaging read.
One of the standout aspects of the novel is the author's ability to balance humour with genuine emotion. The witty banter and laugh-out-loud moments are perfectly complemented by deeper, more introspective scenes that explore themes of disability and vulnerability. The chemistry between Greg and Julien is palpable from the get-go, and their relationship develops in a way that feels both organic and satisfying. I found myself not wanting the book to end.
This was an enjoyable read, but I feel as though it was missing something.
Our main protagonists Wren and Nick keep missing each other. This is amusingThis was an enjoyable read, but I feel as though it was missing something.
Our main protagonists Wren and Nick keep missing each other. This is amusing at first but eventually becomes tiresome after a while (46% of the book for example). Once they have met, it is captivating to see the two work out just how interconnected their lives are - although it occasionally felt unrealistic (the Italy meet 2.0).
Joseph was great at setting the scene, the way she describes atmosphere and landscape was thoroughly engaging, especially those where the characters were abroad. The main characters were well fleshed out, I found myself hating those we were meant to dislike and liking those we got to meet in more depth. Unfortunately, I do feel as though the chemistry between Wren and Nick was lacking - they felt more like friends than lovers and I struggle to imagine the pair having feelings for each other. This is a shame as the book was marketed as a love story. The love was definitely not there for me. I also wish that we got to see more of Wren's best friend, she felt like a filler character to fill space which was a shame as she had potential.
I would read more of Joseph's work in the future - depending on the themes. This would be a good holiday poolside book. ...more
Daughters of Olympus" by Hannah Lynn is a captivating retelling of ancient Greek myths, cantered around the lives of the often-overlooked daughters ofDaughters of Olympus" by Hannah Lynn is a captivating retelling of ancient Greek myths, cantered around the lives of the often-overlooked daughters of the gods. Lynn masterfully blends mythological lore with fresh, imaginative twists, creating a narrative both familiar and original. I particularly enjoyed the LGBT+ representation throughout Core's story and found it a refreshing take on a very well known story.
The story follows the lives of several key female figures from Greek mythology, focusing on 2 POVs: Demeter & Core (Persephone) Each of whom tells their myths from their own perspectives. I particularly enjoyed the comparison between Core and Demeter's story, that of mother and daughter set in the same timeline, showing how perceptions and justifications of a situation can be drastically different but also familiar.
What sets "Daughters of Olympus" apart is its focus on the resilience and agency of its female protagonists. Lynn delves into their personal struggles and triumphs, offering an exploration of themes such as power, love, and identity. The characters' journeys are compelling and relatable, making the ancient myths feel relevant to contemporary readers.
Thankyou to NetGalley, the author and publisher for an earc in exchange for an honest review...more
Loading...
