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a_phoenix_bookcorner's Reviews (57)
emotional
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
A Favorite Quote: “I’m hers. For as long as she wants me, for whatever she wants me for, I’m hers. All hers.”
Self-written Blurb: We are back in the Zordinary world and this time, Trey is determined to get his girl back. But when Arella is taken, Trey’s deceit comes to light. Can Arella see past Trey’s lies enough to trust him to get her out? Or will her entire world and everything she thought she knew to be true, crumble around her as she grapples with the discovery of the zordinary secrets. The only one who can save her is him. The only one who can save him is her. Can love heal all wounds or will their love perish in the ashes just as quickly as it ignited?
What I enjoyed: What a followup to Ordinary Secrets! Captured Immune was action packed and full of twists and turns. It was gritty and raw as Melissa Lam slowly began to peel back the layers of betrayal and secrets that is Trey’s life. I really enjoy Melissa’s style of writing in these books. It makes it easy and enjoyable to read and it is almost as if you are in the characters' heads. I like to say I’m pretty good at predicting twists, but there were a couple here that I didn’t predict. Melissa has a way with story telling that will distract you with one aspect of the story while silently building up another. Such a great read and I cannot wait for the third and final installment of the Secrets Trilogy!
Any struggles?: I didn’t have any struggles with this book and had it not been for life getting in the way- I would have zoomed through it!
Will I recommend and to who: Anyone who likes contemporary or urban-like fantasy with romance should read this series.
reflective
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
A Favorite Quote: “”Run quickly, little bird.” The wind carries Gabriel’s voice to my ears as I disappear through the trees. “I’ll be coming for you.””
Self-written Blurb: Wren was a god-given. A chosen to be given to the gods to serve them. The blue swirl mark on her forehead makes it so. She spent her entire life preparing for this moment. Blessed to be given. But when Wren discovers that her entire life has been a lie a day before her given ceremony, she decides her only option is to run. Run away from her fate. Run for her life.
Gabriel is one hunt away from being a master hunter. One hunt away from finally showing his cruel father… that he is worthy of something. So when he gets the call- naturally he obeys. What he doesn’t expect is to be saved by the very thing he is hunting. Now he must make a choice. Should he hunt the one thing that stands in his way of his hopes and dreams, or should he let her go and suffer the consequences of a failed mission?
What I enjoyed: I enjoyed the theme and idea of this novel. It was an easy read, with not too complicated world building. I enjoyed the dual point of view. It was nice to see Gabriel’s thoughts and reasonings behind the choices that he made. An insanely slow burn with an ending that gives hope to more romance in later novels.
Any struggles?: I struggled with about the first 70% of this book. Because the FMC is on the run, a majority of this book is spoken from internal monologue. Some of which felt a little repetitive. I also feel like the instances where there was action and conversation and drama- it was resolved too quickly and then we were thrown back into the internal monologue. The major plot twists I was able to predict pretty early on so that took the angst out of the read for me. I was also hoping for a little more of the cat and mouse game. I realize this is meant to be a slow burn but I feel like Wren and Gabriels interactions were so brief it was hard to believe their push/pull relationship.
Will I recommend and to who: I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a quick read and doesn’t mind an insanely slow burn.
dark
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
A Favorite Quote: “We weren’t a fairy tale. We were a forbidden love letter, tucked into the back of a drawer and retrieved only in the darkness of night. We were the chapter of bliss before the climax hit and everything crumbled into ash. We were a story that was always meant to end.”
Self-written Blurb: Bridget’s new grumpy bodyguard is a stickler for rules and the epitome of “party pooper”. And as a princess, trouble seems to fall right into her lap. Rhys, an ex-Navy SEAL, does not mix business with pleasure. His job is to ensure his client’s safety, no exceptions. No matter how beautiful and intriguing they may be. But when Bridget’s life gets thrown a curveball when her brother abdicates the throne, leaving Bridget next in line, a bucket list just might be the thing that flips the script for Rhys and the princess. And after they both get a taste, how are they to move on with their lives like their story was meant to?
What I enjoyed: Wow! Ana Huang has done it again. I am usually not big on the bodyguard trope but Ana delivered this trope masterfully and had me pining for more of Rhys and Bridget’s story. I am a giant fan of the dual POV! The plot kept me engaged and curious enough to ponder when I wasn’t actively reading. This one was hard for me to put down and I blew through it in a matter of days when it normally takes me longer to finish a book. The spice was on point with the commanding bodyguard vibe. The perfect blend of spice and plot and very easy to read and follow.
Any struggles?: I would say it was mildly predictable but it didn’t take away from the story or experience.
Will I recommend and to who: If you like contemporary romance with a slightly darker theme- this is for you.
emotional
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
A Favorite Quote: “Thunder growled. Rain clawed at the window. Joe held Ursa in her safe nest, and all the while fate sat watching.”
Self-written Blurb: Two strangers who have both handled grief and trauma in completely different ways, must navigate through their colliding worlds to help a little girl through her own trauma. Jo is just trying to get her bird research done. Gabe is just stuck in a daily repetitive routine. Ursa is an alien living in an 8 year old’s body and was sent to Earth to witness 5 miracles. Faced with the impossible situation of trying to do the right thing by Ursa, Jo and Gabe wade their way through tough decision after tough decision. Who is Ursa, if not a lost and trauma ridden child? And what 5 miracles could send these three on an, at best, nontraditional and at worst, unethical journey? Perhaps love is the best miracle of all.
What I enjoyed: Glendy Vanderah is a masterful storyteller. This book has the perfect blend of humor, heartache, mystery and life lessons. Ursa immediately captured my heart. The way I could relate to both Jo and Gabe was enigmatical. The author does a splendid job at making you feel as if you are right there with Jo, Gabe and Ursa. Told completely in the third person, this story has everything you want in literary fiction. It highlights how everyone handles grief and trauma differently but most importantly that sometimes friendship and a found family can give you the greatest power of healing. Such a heart-warming story that will likely stay with me through the years.
Any struggles?: I didn’t have any struggles with this book.
Will I recommend and to who: To everyone. To absolutely everyone. If you have triggers with thoughts surrounding child abuse though, I would recommend to proceed with caution.
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Thank you to the author for gifting me this book. All opinions are my own.
A Favorite Quote: “I thought I was the one calling the shots. Nope. It’s her. She’s destroying me, and I want her to keep doing it.”
Self-written Blurb: Trey Grant. A singer. A Harley rider. A millionaire. A man with a secret past. A Zordinary? Trey is just a guy with supernatural powers who has been tasked with discovering an important research question: Why does a random woman seem to be immune to all of the zordinary powers. He must investigate and uncover the truth by any means necessary. Naturally, formulating a plan to bump into her and make her fall in love with him so she spills all of her secrets is the best plan. What could possibly go wrong? What happens when the answers to which he seeks only materializes more questions. How is Arella Rance immune to the zordinary effects, and better question, is she aware that she has this immunity? Is she blind to the secret race and has no idea of their existence, as the rest of the world, or is something else awry?
What I enjoyed: What a ride! It has been a while since there was a twist I couldn’t predict. Indie author, Melissa Lam does a fantastic job at drawing you in from the beginning and doesn’t let you go until the very last word. While this story is in dual POV, I would say the majority of the book is from Trey’s point of view and the plot was driven by Trey’s character. I feel like this is unique, as usually we get a majority female perspective. It was definitely different and a breath of fresh air from the typical romance genre layout. It was easy to get submerged into this world as it was a well written blend of action, banter, spice and twists.
Any struggles?: I went into this expecting it to be a fantasy romance but I think it ended up reading more like a romance in a fantasy world. I struggled with Trey towards the end as he became a little overbearing and Arella really had to spell things out for him. But I also can appreciate that perhaps this was part of the learning curve of him not being able to sense her and her feelings.
Will I recommend and to who: I would recommend this book to any one who I know loves a knight in shining armor, over protective, who did this to you kind of MMC.
challenging
inspiring
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
A Favorite Quote: “Perhaps one day, she said, there would be a safer time. When women could walk the earth, shining bright with power, and yet live.”
Self-written Blurb: Weyward. Weird sisters. Witches. They are all linked together, much like Altha, Violet, and Kate. The Weyward daughters. We are taken on a journey through 3 different time periods, following three different women, whose life experiences are different and yet… very similar. One who was only trying to help a long lost friend. One who dared to dream of more than society thought she deserved. And one who had to run to save her own life. Will the Weyward name and the women who bare it stand the test of time? Or will they all perish under the cruel and oppressive patriarchal society?
What I enjoyed: This novel is expertly written. Emilia Hart weaves in several genres into one, whimsical and cohesive read. With a little bit of historical fiction, a touch of fantasy, and a pinch of women’s fiction, this novel does an excellent job highlighting the faults of the patriarch and then hand delivering retribution on a silver platter. Though there are heavier and darker tones, the author manages to distract you with the uplifting message of hope, justice, and perseverance.
Any struggles?: The audiobook was a slight struggle for me, only because I have a harder time with accents and have to use a lower speed. But otherwise this was a fantastic experience.
Will I recommend and to who: Every woman should read this book. Period.
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
A Favorite Quote: “What did I tell you? You’re mine, Sunshine. You’re never touching another man unless you want him six feet in the ground. So yes, we’re fucking exclusive.”
Self-written Blurb: She’s just a girl with an overprotective big brother who has to leave out of country for a year. He’s her brother’s grumpy best friend. She could never fall for someone who is mean and emotionless all the time. Until she slowly starts peeling back the layers of his stone heart. He’s a self made billionaire with a dark and mysterious past. He’s on a path of vengeance. One that has his best friend’s ray of sunshine little sister in the cross hairs. Love isn’t even in his vocabulary. Until he realizes that she is the light within his dark, dark world.
What I enjoyed: This book had me in it’s grip from the very beginning. I simply could not put it down or hit the pause button while I was listening to the audio. The banter and teasing had me giggling. The spice scenes had me blushing and jaw dropping a couple of times and giggling like a schoolgirl. While slightly predictable for me, I was still able to enjoy the twists and how they were revealed within the plot. I cannot wait to move on to the next book!
Any struggles?: Only trying to figure out how I have sat on this series and anything else by Ana Huang for so long! Fan for life!
Will I recommend and to who: Anyone who loves romance with spice, grumpy x sunshine trope, and awesome banter should definitely read this!
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
Quote: “War wasn’t just what I did. It was who I was. It was woven into the fabric of my existence, as constant as my heartbeat. Peace? That was the fairy tale. This endless cycle of strategy, combat, and survival? That was my reality.”
A Phoenix Blurb: Where does a princess go when her throne has been taken and her family has arranged to give her to the enemy? To the frontlines of the ongoing war of course. Except what happens when the Captain turns out to be the very thing you were fighting the war against? A twisted tale of Transylvania lore and the stakes are high.
What I enjoyed: I enjoyed the banter and the premise of this book. It was nice to see the origin of the vampire represented.
Any struggles?: There were a lot of moving parts in this book from the very beginning and it was all very confusing to me. I really struggled throughout the book making sense of everything.
Would I recommend?: If you like the true history of Dracula or if you like the movie Underworld, this might be up your alley.
A Phoenix Blurb: Where does a princess go when her throne has been taken and her family has arranged to give her to the enemy? To the frontlines of the ongoing war of course. Except what happens when the Captain turns out to be the very thing you were fighting the war against? A twisted tale of Transylvania lore and the stakes are high.
What I enjoyed: I enjoyed the banter and the premise of this book. It was nice to see the origin of the vampire represented.
Any struggles?: There were a lot of moving parts in this book from the very beginning and it was all very confusing to me. I really struggled throughout the book making sense of everything.
Would I recommend?: If you like the true history of Dracula or if you like the movie Underworld, this might be up your alley.
dark
sad
tense
medium-paced
Favorite Quote: “They were seeing the Marlena who was rising from the ashes, the girl who was no longer allowing herself to be treated as less than who she was—no longer standing in her parents’ shadows.”
A Phoenix Blurb: Marlena was the good girl her entire life. She did everything that was expected of her. She pushed her body, mind, and soul to the brink of death for them. All the while, her heart was left to fend for itself against the harsh, brazen ice of her parents cruelty. Now, Marlena will show all those who dared to betray, doubt and ignore her just who she is and just how powerful she became.. right under their noses. If only they had shown her even an ounce of love, perhaps their blood wouldn’t be coating her hands.
What I enjoyed: I could NOT put this book down and absolutely devoured it in a day. I didn’t think Dany Crooks could change my mind about the villain we all came to hate in Revenge of the Forgotten. I WAS WRONG. I have never fallen in love with a villain quite like this. I have never HURT for a villain quite like this. I have never ROOTED for a villain quite like this. Though only a novella, Dany Crooks does a phenomenal job at placing the ground work and piecing together the events in Marlena’s life that led her to that fateful day in her induction day. Did I mention a forbidden romance that will rip out your heart as you watch it unfold? And yes I said “watch”. Dany Crooks is unbelievably masterful at using just enough and the right descriptions to immerse you into the growing world of Tolevarre. I’m not a visionary person, so it isn’t very often that I can imagine scenes as I read them. But Dany has the special touch. Please do not skip out on this amazing read!
Any struggles?: Only in wiping my ugly crying tears away.
Would I recommend?: ABSOLUTELY! If you are a fan of the romantasy genre- this is a must read! Please read Revenge of the Forgotten first though for full impact. (Trust me- it’s just as good!)
A Phoenix Blurb: Marlena was the good girl her entire life. She did everything that was expected of her. She pushed her body, mind, and soul to the brink of death for them. All the while, her heart was left to fend for itself against the harsh, brazen ice of her parents cruelty. Now, Marlena will show all those who dared to betray, doubt and ignore her just who she is and just how powerful she became.. right under their noses. If only they had shown her even an ounce of love, perhaps their blood wouldn’t be coating her hands.
What I enjoyed: I could NOT put this book down and absolutely devoured it in a day. I didn’t think Dany Crooks could change my mind about the villain we all came to hate in Revenge of the Forgotten. I WAS WRONG. I have never fallen in love with a villain quite like this. I have never HURT for a villain quite like this. I have never ROOTED for a villain quite like this. Though only a novella, Dany Crooks does a phenomenal job at placing the ground work and piecing together the events in Marlena’s life that led her to that fateful day in her induction day. Did I mention a forbidden romance that will rip out your heart as you watch it unfold? And yes I said “watch”. Dany Crooks is unbelievably masterful at using just enough and the right descriptions to immerse you into the growing world of Tolevarre. I’m not a visionary person, so it isn’t very often that I can imagine scenes as I read them. But Dany has the special touch. Please do not skip out on this amazing read!
Any struggles?: Only in wiping my ugly crying tears away.
Would I recommend?: ABSOLUTELY! If you are a fan of the romantasy genre- this is a must read! Please read Revenge of the Forgotten first though for full impact. (Trust me- it’s just as good!)
adventurous
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
3.5 stars!!!
A Favorite Quote: ““I’m glad I could be a port in the storm that was your life.” His heart ached for her. “You saved me more than you know,” she whispered.”
Self-written Blurb: We are back again in the world of Elyria for the second installment of the Mind Breaker series. With Aelia finally reunited with her sister, Baylis, she should be able to relax a little and enjoy her time with Tharan. But there is no time to rest. Gideon and Erissa are still out there… scheming… planning, even from the shadows in which they lurk in. The team will each have a vital role in locating and putting a stop to the villains of this story. But all may not be as it seems. Secrets, lies, betrayals will threaten Aelia’s resolve and quest to save all of Elyria from the rise of an evil who was only ever interested in power. Can Aelia, Tharan, Baylis, Caiden, Roderick, and Amolie get to the Trinity Wells before it is too late?
What I enjoyed: This book was enjoyable. I found myself wishing that Caiden would get his memories back and come rushing back to Amolie and steal her away from Tharan. There was a lot going on in the book so there was hardly ever a dull moment. The twist at the end did get me. Was NOT expecting that!
Any struggles?: I’m personally not the greatest fan of Tharan as their relationship really only seems at surface level for Amolie. So this book was a little harder for me to stick with than the first book. There are a lot of characters and a lot going on and so that made it difficult for me to really connect and be completely invested with the characters.
Tropes:
Women kicking butt
Toy play
Yearning
Forced proximity
Epic quests
Everyone is morally gray
Trust no one
Will I recommend and to who: I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a found family (aka: a bunch of friends and allies working together for a common goal) and a plan to save the kingdom with many moving parts (each of which could go wrong at any moment).
A Favorite Quote: ““I’m glad I could be a port in the storm that was your life.” His heart ached for her. “You saved me more than you know,” she whispered.”
Self-written Blurb: We are back again in the world of Elyria for the second installment of the Mind Breaker series. With Aelia finally reunited with her sister, Baylis, she should be able to relax a little and enjoy her time with Tharan. But there is no time to rest. Gideon and Erissa are still out there… scheming… planning, even from the shadows in which they lurk in. The team will each have a vital role in locating and putting a stop to the villains of this story. But all may not be as it seems. Secrets, lies, betrayals will threaten Aelia’s resolve and quest to save all of Elyria from the rise of an evil who was only ever interested in power. Can Aelia, Tharan, Baylis, Caiden, Roderick, and Amolie get to the Trinity Wells before it is too late?
What I enjoyed: This book was enjoyable. I found myself wishing that Caiden would get his memories back and come rushing back to Amolie and steal her away from Tharan. There was a lot going on in the book so there was hardly ever a dull moment. The twist at the end did get me. Was NOT expecting that!
Any struggles?: I’m personally not the greatest fan of Tharan as their relationship really only seems at surface level for Amolie. So this book was a little harder for me to stick with than the first book. There are a lot of characters and a lot going on and so that made it difficult for me to really connect and be completely invested with the characters.
Tropes:
Women kicking butt
Toy play
Yearning
Forced proximity
Epic quests
Everyone is morally gray
Trust no one
Will I recommend and to who: I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a found family (aka: a bunch of friends and allies working together for a common goal) and a plan to save the kingdom with many moving parts (each of which could go wrong at any moment).