aebennettwrites's reviews
282 reviews

Dark by Kat Kinney

4.0

This was a fun read. The chemistry between Hayden and Ethan is super strong and I wanted them together from the start. Though I found some aspects of their personalities a bit cliche, Kinney does a good job with keeping the sparks flying between them. The world building is believable and the ending left me curious to know what will happen next in Blood Moon, Texas.

Bad Company: Almost Like Magic, Book 1 by Jill Corddry

4.0

A unique page-turner! The lore in this world intrigued me and immediately drew me in. Corddry's world building is top notch. The main character, Dr. Stella Pike, is likable and believable and as a reader I wanted to know more about what makes her tick, so to speak. The adventure she finds herself on is quest-like and well-paced, but some of the banter between her and the Hill brothers was a tad much and bit immature for me. Overall, a joy to read.

Kidnapped by the Pirate by Keira Andrews

5.0

OMFG THIS BOOK! I loved every page. As someone who sneak-read bodice rippers as a tween/teen, I have an immense nostalgia for the genre... and this book really hit for me. Nathanial is a perfect MC - shy and desperate to get out from underneath his controlling father. The Sea Hawk is a super sexy pirate kidnaps Nathaniel as a means to get revenge on Nathaniel's father. Of course, they fall for each other during the course of Nathaniels confinement - with consent being a huge part of their blooming relationship - and they wind up living happily ever after. If you're at all into this genre, this breeches-ripping gay romance is definitely for you!

Tea by Alan Scott

5.0

This is a semi-cozy story about an old tailor, Samuel, and an even older soldier, William (aka Shadow Killer), who get together once a year for tea. (I say semi-cozy because, while there's not violence in the story itself, both the men have seen horrors, so not all of their memories are happy.) Scott does an excellent job setting the scene between the two men as they look backward and discuss their pasts -- both triumphs and regrets. I haven't read the entire series yet, so there were a few characters mentioned with whom I wasn't familiar, but this was a lovely read during a cold afternoon. (The last line, especially, is very impactful.)

The Wolf and the Sparrow by Isabelle Adler

4.0

What an exciting read! Main character Derek is someone you immediately sympathize with and root for. Callan, the other main character, is also well-developed. The sparks that build between him and Derek are perfect and their eventual passion for each other is believable and sexy. The threats of torture were a bit more savage than I'm accustomed to, but they are only threats and there is no gore or graphic violence in this book. Overall, a fantastic fantasy read!

Once Stolen by D.N. Bryn

4.0

Once Stolen was a great read, though it took me a bit to get oriented in the world of Murk. Bryn has created a fascinating world and, though Cacao is a bit snarky, I was rooting for him from the very first page. Thais is a great contrast to him and reading about them both was a delight. A great adventure worth a read!

Soul of Lucifer: Lost by Rune Rivers

5.0

I'm drawn to stories about angels and demons and this one did not disappoint. Rivers' take on Christian archetypes is unique and the humor peppered throughout was refreshing. Action and adventure kept the story moving and I'm excited for more! Definitely add this to your TBR!

Labours of Stone by EM Harding

5.0

What can I say without giving the best parts of this book away? Not much other than this is one of the most unique books I've ever read. Harding is a fabulously creative writer and this book needs to go on your TBR now!

A Bitter Drink by Azalea Forrest

5.0

A fantastic adventure story! When this book begins, we meet MC Rowan, a seemingly carefree Dahlseid who prioritizes having fun over his ambassadorship in the city of Bisia. We soon learn, however, that "all is not well in Denmark". Rowan is soon swept into intrigue and danger and has to partner with a merry dwarf and a mysterious elf, among others, in order to save the kingdom. Forrest weaves a page-turning tale full of characters you root for and villains you want to destroy yourself. This is a must-read for anyone who enjoys fantasy adventure.

Sweet & Dark by Grayson Bell

5.0

This collection of super steamy stories is fantastic if you're looking for gay erotica. Bell is imaginative and knows how to pull a reader in from the very first sentence. A very enjoyable, quick read. I'm sure I'll be rereading a few of these stories in the future!