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all_plot_and_bothered's Reviews (89)
emotional
funny
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Loveable characters:
Yes
Spice: .5-1 🌶️
Tropes:
- Supernatural v. Human War
- World Ending Plot
- Amnesia
- FMC with Unknown Powers
- Why Choose
- Enemy MMCs (who don't want to share)
- Touch Her & Die
- Possessive/Protective Alphas
- Tension & Anst
- Slow Burn
I have been in a Covid-induced brain fog where I’ve had a hard time staying awake & focusing on anything, but this book held my attention. Not just held it but claimed it & refused to share with anything else (kind of like our four kings want to do with Wren 😉). I just could not put this book down. It’s so good! Probably my top R.L. Caulder book so far.
I am in love with our FMC, Wren. Her journey through this book resonated with me in ways I did not expect. She stumbles at times (literally) & second guesses herself, but she is so resilient. She’s a walking contradiction in the best way - open without allowing herself to be manipulated, vulnerable yet strong, confused but certain. She may not understand this world or her place in it, but she’s stands in her power & refuses let her path be dictated by anyone other than herself. And I love that!
And the four kings? They are all obsessed with our girl, & I adore it. Each has such a distinct personality & voice: sweet & steady Torryn, dramatic but sincere Sylvin, obsessive & intense Riven, & broody & guarded Azyric. They each provide Wren with something she needs & connect with her in a different way, which is why my girl can’t choose, & I don’t blame her!
The spice was light (for now), but there was so much delicious tension & so much going on that I didn’t miss it. This is a slooow burn, & I’m here for it!
There is so much at stake in this book. The world is at war & fate hangs in the balance. And we get to follow along Wren’s journey of self discovery as she learns about this world, explores her connection with the four kings, & finds herself faced with a gut wrenching choice. The cliffhanger at the end was absolutely brutal. And wonderful. It had me trying to keep flipping the pages in my kindle to find more. I can’t wait until the next book!
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
Tropes:
- Supernatural v. Human War
- World Ending Plot
- Amnesia
- FMC with Unknown Powers
- Why Choose
- Enemy MMCs (who don't want to share)
- Touch Her & Die
- Possessive/Protective Alphas
- Tension & Anst
- Slow Burn
I have been in a Covid-induced brain fog where I’ve had a hard time staying awake & focusing on anything, but this book held my attention. Not just held it but claimed it & refused to share with anything else (kind of like our four kings want to do with Wren 😉). I just could not put this book down. It’s so good! Probably my top R.L. Caulder book so far.
I am in love with our FMC, Wren. Her journey through this book resonated with me in ways I did not expect. She stumbles at times (literally) & second guesses herself, but she is so resilient. She’s a walking contradiction in the best way - open without allowing herself to be manipulated, vulnerable yet strong, confused but certain. She may not understand this world or her place in it, but she’s stands in her power & refuses let her path be dictated by anyone other than herself. And I love that!
And the four kings? They are all obsessed with our girl, & I adore it. Each has such a distinct personality & voice: sweet & steady Torryn, dramatic but sincere Sylvin, obsessive & intense Riven, & broody & guarded Azyric. They each provide Wren with something she needs & connect with her in a different way, which is why my girl can’t choose, & I don’t blame her!
The spice was light (for now), but there was so much delicious tension & so much going on that I didn’t miss it. This is a slooow burn, & I’m here for it!
There is so much at stake in this book. The world is at war & fate hangs in the balance. And we get to follow along Wren’s journey of self discovery as she learns about this world, explores her connection with the four kings, & finds herself faced with a gut wrenching choice. The cliffhanger at the end was absolutely brutal. And wonderful. It had me trying to keep flipping the pages in my kindle to find more. I can’t wait until the next book!
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Spice: 4 🌶️
Tropes:
- Small Town Romance
- Vacation Fling
- Forced Proximity
- Hate to Love
- Tattooed Mountain Man Playboy X Fiery Black Cat Divorcee
- Meddlesome Family
- Sex Club Shenanigans & Kink Exploration
- Sexy Powerpoint
- Cat Daddy
- Curvy Heroine/Midsize Rep
Who knew that a chance encounter at a sex club between two people that loathe each other would make for such a great meet cute? Amy Daws, that's who.
Dakota is recently divorced from her disparaging husband and looking to find herself again, and Calder is her best friend's sexy brother in law who doesn't do relationships. This should make him the perfect man to help her explore her post-divorce sexuality without the complications of feelings getting involved. There's just one problem. They have hated one another for seven years after a home renovation gone wrong. But after the unexpected sex club meeting and being forced to share a room at a destination wedding, sparks fly in more ways than one, with enemies becoming friends enemies with benefits. And what follows is chaotically fun, unexpectedly sweet, and seriously spicy.
I love the quirks and imperfections that Amy Daws writes into her characters. Dakota's fear of birds and using Calder's face as shield from a birdcage made me literally lol. And Calder's over the top love of cats was as hilarious as it was endearing. But while each MC has qualities that make them charming, neither character is perfect. Dakota's insecurity and second guessing makes her willfully oblivious to the changes occurring to Calder and their relationship. And fear of getting hurt again causes her to lash out at times. Calder's baggage has led to such an unwillingness to rock the boat or change the status quo that his life has become stagnant. He doesn't allow himself to want more, so when he does, he struggles to voice it. Apart, they're kind of a mess. But together they're a mess that works. Their fiery banter and the tension that comes with loving to fight with one another is steamy and entertaining, while their character growth continues subtly in the background. It's not in your face but it is undeniably there, and the tenderness that develops between Calder and Dakota sort of sneaks up on them (and you). Add in the way Calder praises Dakota and helps her get her confidence back, Dakota helps Calder to see his own potential, a sexy power point checklist, and a family who is meddlesome in the best way, and you get a romance that is equal parts funny, spicy, and sweet.
This has been a fun series so far. I adore Everly and her scheming, matchmaking ways, and I can't wait until she works her magic on her uncle Luke!
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest review. Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing/Canary Street Press for the ARC!
Tropes:
- Small Town Romance
- Vacation Fling
- Forced Proximity
- Hate to Love
- Tattooed Mountain Man Playboy X Fiery Black Cat Divorcee
- Meddlesome Family
- Sex Club Shenanigans & Kink Exploration
- Sexy Powerpoint
- Cat Daddy
- Curvy Heroine/Midsize Rep
Who knew that a chance encounter at a sex club between two people that loathe each other would make for such a great meet cute? Amy Daws, that's who.
Dakota is recently divorced from her disparaging husband and looking to find herself again, and Calder is her best friend's sexy brother in law who doesn't do relationships. This should make him the perfect man to help her explore her post-divorce sexuality without the complications of feelings getting involved. There's just one problem. They have hated one another for seven years after a home renovation gone wrong. But after the unexpected sex club meeting and being forced to share a room at a destination wedding, sparks fly in more ways than one, with enemies becoming friends enemies with benefits. And what follows is chaotically fun, unexpectedly sweet, and seriously spicy.
I love the quirks and imperfections that Amy Daws writes into her characters. Dakota's fear of birds and using Calder's face as shield from a birdcage made me literally lol. And Calder's over the top love of cats was as hilarious as it was endearing. But while each MC has qualities that make them charming, neither character is perfect. Dakota's insecurity and second guessing makes her willfully oblivious to the changes occurring to Calder and their relationship. And fear of getting hurt again causes her to lash out at times. Calder's baggage has led to such an unwillingness to rock the boat or change the status quo that his life has become stagnant. He doesn't allow himself to want more, so when he does, he struggles to voice it. Apart, they're kind of a mess. But together they're a mess that works. Their fiery banter and the tension that comes with loving to fight with one another is steamy and entertaining, while their character growth continues subtly in the background. It's not in your face but it is undeniably there, and the tenderness that develops between Calder and Dakota sort of sneaks up on them (and you). Add in the way Calder praises Dakota and helps her get her confidence back, Dakota helps Calder to see his own potential, a sexy power point checklist, and a family who is meddlesome in the best way, and you get a romance that is equal parts funny, spicy, and sweet.
This has been a fun series so far. I adore Everly and her scheming, matchmaking ways, and I can't wait until she works her magic on her uncle Luke!
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest review. Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing/Canary Street Press for the ARC!
Content Warnings
Moderate: Sexual content
Minor: Body shaming
emotional
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Spice: 3.5 🌶️
Tropes:
- Shifter Romance
- Fated Mates
- Why Choose
- Obsessive/Possessive Alphas
- Touch Her & 💀
- Found Family
A Claim of Fortune was a bit slower than the first two books in this series; a lot still happened, but the overall feel of this installment was more focused on character development. I think that was needed though to process/resolve the events that happened at the end of A Twist of Luck and flush out what the effect of those events would be going forward, as well as to progress Emme’s relationship with her *more reluctant* mates.
Speaking of which, oh be still my grouchy bear loving heart! I can now stop imagining smacking Finley…in the face…with a chair. I loved his character arc in this book and his ownership of his trauma and the hurt he inflicted because of it. The longing, the groveling, and the way he devoted himself to atoning for his behavior towards Emme is enough to warm even the coldest heart. I am eating up the continued unraveling of Slade as well. I adore all of his scary shifter, stalker ways, and it is so satisfying to see him struggling to maintain his distance. His walls are crumbling and his control is slipping, and I feel like I’m being edged to the extreme waiting for it to finally snap. I can’t wait!I am just obsessed with all of the MMCs in this series.
I’ve said it before, and I’ll continue shouting it from the rooftops - Jaymin Eve absolutely excels at found family. With the exception of Kellan, none of Emme’s pack knew what it was like to have a loving and supportive family. Instead, they have all found that in each other, and the strength of the love and ties between them is so sweet and touching. I love their dynamic and the humor that still shines through the drama.
I am enamored with this series, and as bittersweet as it will be to say goodbye to these characters, I can’t wait for the next book!
Tropes:
- Shifter Romance
- Fated Mates
- Why Choose
- Obsessive/Possessive Alphas
- Touch Her & 💀
- Found Family
A Claim of Fortune was a bit slower than the first two books in this series; a lot still happened, but the overall feel of this installment was more focused on character development. I think that was needed though to process/resolve the events that happened at the end of A Twist of Luck and flush out what the effect of those events would be going forward, as well as to progress Emme’s relationship with her *more reluctant* mates.
Speaking of which, oh be still my grouchy bear loving heart! I can now stop imagining smacking Finley…in the face…with a chair. I loved his character arc in this book and his ownership of his trauma and the hurt he inflicted because of it. The longing, the groveling, and the way he devoted himself to atoning for his behavior towards Emme is enough to warm even the coldest heart. I am eating up the continued unraveling of Slade as well. I adore all of his scary shifter, stalker ways, and it is so satisfying to see him struggling to maintain his distance. His walls are crumbling and his control is slipping, and I feel like I’m being edged to the extreme waiting for it to finally snap. I can’t wait!I am just obsessed with all of the MMCs in this series.
I’ve said it before, and I’ll continue shouting it from the rooftops - Jaymin Eve absolutely excels at found family. With the exception of Kellan, none of Emme’s pack knew what it was like to have a loving and supportive family. Instead, they have all found that in each other, and the strength of the love and ties between them is so sweet and touching. I love their dynamic and the humor that still shines through the drama.
I am enamored with this series, and as bittersweet as it will be to say goodbye to these characters, I can’t wait for the next book!
Content Warnings
Moderate: Torture, Violence, Kidnapping, Death of parent
emotional
funny
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Spice: 3 🌶️
Tropes:
- Figure Skater X Hockey Player
- Good Girl X Bad Boy
- Opposites Attract
- Forced Proximity
- Loathe to Love
- Hurt/Comfort
- Pierced Hero
- Virgin Heroine
- He’s Soft Only for Her
This book isn’t just your typical bad boy X good girl romance. Based on the blurb, I expected to read about the playboy being reformed by the good girl, and while that wasn’t wrong, what I got was so much more - an emotional story of overcoming trauma and learning to love and be loved.
Underneath Saint’s cocky, playboy exterior is a man broken by his home life and the weight of his circumstances. He doesn’t do more than one night because he refuses bring anyone else into the chaos that is his life or to let anyone close enough to hurt him more than he already has been. Initially, he comes off as a jerk, but it is impossible to be unaffected by him and his story. The way I wanted to reach in my book and squeeze him tight was intense.
On the surface, Lennon seems like the good girl with a golden life, but that is just a facade. Beneath that perfect veneer lies a lack of control and the pressure to be perfect even if it makes her unhappy. She comes off as sweet and innocent, but deep down there is a fiery side of her that she learns to embrace. She has the kindest heart and loves fiercely, and the way she shows up for Saint is so moving and heartwarming. She is the type of heroine that you can’t help but root for.
When the two of them are forced to share ice time, they instantly loathe one another. But behind that loathing is an attraction that neither can deny no matter how much they try. Their chemistry sizzles, and their banter is witty and had me wanting to giggle and kick my feet. Saint just knows how to get under Lennon’s skin, and deep down, they both like it. The tension and the push and pull between them kept me on the edge of my seat, and I couldn’t wait until it finally snapped. And when it did, the spice was 🥵
Both Lennon and Saint have trauma - different levels and different types, but trauma nonetheless. And it is in each other that they find support, understanding, and healing. Saint helps Lennon claim her power and autonomy over her own her life, and she helps him heal and move past his pain. They show each other what it really means to be loved for who you are and without restriction, and it is incredibly heartbreaking, sweet, and powerful.
Maren Moore just knows how to write a book boyfriend, and Saint Devereaux is another example of that. The mouth on that man 🥵, the big heart hidden beneath the hard exterior, and the way he is soft only for Lennon had me melting. When he falls, he falls hard, and when he loves, he loves deeply. The way he supports Lennon, fights for her, claims her, and loves her is swoony and total book boyfriend goals.
The Bad Boy Rule delivers tension, humor, romance, heat, pain, growth, and joy. It is moving, engaging, and entertaining, and I highly recommend it!
⚠️ Trigger Warnings: physical and emotional abuse by a parent, domestic violence, alcoholism, prescription drug abuse, controlling parents/toxic familial relationships
I received an advanced reader copy of this book, and am voluntarily leaving my honest review. Thank you to Valentine PR for the ARC!
Tropes:
- Figure Skater X Hockey Player
- Good Girl X Bad Boy
- Opposites Attract
- Forced Proximity
- Loathe to Love
- Hurt/Comfort
- Pierced Hero
- Virgin Heroine
- He’s Soft Only for Her
This book isn’t just your typical bad boy X good girl romance. Based on the blurb, I expected to read about the playboy being reformed by the good girl, and while that wasn’t wrong, what I got was so much more - an emotional story of overcoming trauma and learning to love and be loved.
Underneath Saint’s cocky, playboy exterior is a man broken by his home life and the weight of his circumstances. He doesn’t do more than one night because he refuses bring anyone else into the chaos that is his life or to let anyone close enough to hurt him more than he already has been. Initially, he comes off as a jerk, but it is impossible to be unaffected by him and his story. The way I wanted to reach in my book and squeeze him tight was intense.
On the surface, Lennon seems like the good girl with a golden life, but that is just a facade. Beneath that perfect veneer lies a lack of control and the pressure to be perfect even if it makes her unhappy. She comes off as sweet and innocent, but deep down there is a fiery side of her that she learns to embrace. She has the kindest heart and loves fiercely, and the way she shows up for Saint is so moving and heartwarming. She is the type of heroine that you can’t help but root for.
When the two of them are forced to share ice time, they instantly loathe one another. But behind that loathing is an attraction that neither can deny no matter how much they try. Their chemistry sizzles, and their banter is witty and had me wanting to giggle and kick my feet. Saint just knows how to get under Lennon’s skin, and deep down, they both like it. The tension and the push and pull between them kept me on the edge of my seat, and I couldn’t wait until it finally snapped. And when it did, the spice was 🥵
Both Lennon and Saint have trauma - different levels and different types, but trauma nonetheless. And it is in each other that they find support, understanding, and healing. Saint helps Lennon claim her power and autonomy over her own her life, and she helps him heal and move past his pain. They show each other what it really means to be loved for who you are and without restriction, and it is incredibly heartbreaking, sweet, and powerful.
Maren Moore just knows how to write a book boyfriend, and Saint Devereaux is another example of that. The mouth on that man 🥵, the big heart hidden beneath the hard exterior, and the way he is soft only for Lennon had me melting. When he falls, he falls hard, and when he loves, he loves deeply. The way he supports Lennon, fights for her, claims her, and loves her is swoony and total book boyfriend goals.
The Bad Boy Rule delivers tension, humor, romance, heat, pain, growth, and joy. It is moving, engaging, and entertaining, and I highly recommend it!
⚠️ Trigger Warnings: physical and emotional abuse by a parent, domestic violence, alcoholism, prescription drug abuse, controlling parents/toxic familial relationships
I received an advanced reader copy of this book, and am voluntarily leaving my honest review. Thank you to Valentine PR for the ARC!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Emotional abuse, Physical abuse, Toxic relationship
Moderate: Alcoholism, Domestic abuse, Drug abuse, Panic attacks/disorders
Minor: Chronic illness
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Narration: 4 ⭐️
Spice: 🚫
Tropes:
- Women's Fiction
- Theatre Setting
- Personal Growth/Fresh Start
- Found Family
- He Falls First
- Cinnamon Roll MMC
- Small Town
- Cozy Vibes
Everything's Coming Up Rosie is a book for the dreamers - those with a dream that has seemed out of reach and those who have had to reimagine that dream. It is an uplifting story that centers around our heroine, Rosie, and her journey of personal growth and self fulfillment.
After losing her job and apartment, Rosie is at a crossroads; with no acting prospects on the horizon, should she give up or keep pursuing her dream? She hasn't exactly been forthcoming with her friends and family regarding the true state of her life and career, so she also faces the dilemma that making that choice might require her to come clean. She doesn't want to be seen as a failure, even as she struggles with those same feelings and self doubt. Out of desperation, she takes a job directing a regional theatre's production of Cinderella; and it is there that she meets the people who will impact her in ways she never expected.
The supporting cast was my favorite part of this book. Give me all the sassy grandmas and grumpy curmudgeons with secret hearts of gold. The unlikely friendship between Rosie and the residents of the retirement community and the way they force her to face her insecurities and examine what she really wants is what makes this book so heartwarming and endearing. I also adored Booker, the MMC. He is kind, honest, thoughtful, and a total cinnamon roll. It is no wonder that all of his fellow staff loved him and the residents try to set him up with their daughters. He is the type of MMC that you root for from the start. I loved the witty and flirty banter between him and Rosie and the way he won her over to being more than just friends.
While I enjoyed the overall premise and arc of this book, I struggled with it at times. Rosie often came off a little immature for a woman in her late 20s. There were also some issues with pacing and repetition, especially in Rosie's inner thoughts and dialogue, which there was too much of in general for my taste. There are only so many times I can hear her say she's ready to come clean to her friends before I wanted to yell at her to just do it already. I would have preferred to see more of her interactions with the staff and residents, and a bit more development of her relationship with Booker, especially since they are the primary impetus behind her growth.
I won't call this "clean romance" because, to be honest, I loathe that term. Instead, I prefer to use a spice rating/level for those that want to know that information in advance. This book would be a zero on that level, as there are no intimate scenes. I'd also put it in the romance-lite women's fiction category rather than general romance. There is a love interest, but that part of the story is secondary to Rosie's struggles and her journey of self discovery and personal growth.
When I came across the book on NetGalley, I knew nothing about the book, author, or publisher; but the blurb sounded interesting, so I decided to request it and give it a try. And I'm glad I did. Overall, I thought it was heartwarming, sweet, and worth the listen.
The narrator, Jorjeana Marie, was new to me as well, and I enjoyed her performance. The reading was a little slow, but she did a great job conveying the emotions the characters were feeling and bringing the story to life. I think she was the right choice for Rosie, and now that I've heard her, I don't think I can imagine anyone else voicing Rosie's character.
I received an advanced listener's copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest review. Thank you to NetGalley, Thomas Nelson, and Zondervan Fiction Audio for the ALC!
Spice: 🚫
Tropes:
- Women's Fiction
- Theatre Setting
- Personal Growth/Fresh Start
- Found Family
- He Falls First
- Cinnamon Roll MMC
- Small Town
- Cozy Vibes
Everything's Coming Up Rosie is a book for the dreamers - those with a dream that has seemed out of reach and those who have had to reimagine that dream. It is an uplifting story that centers around our heroine, Rosie, and her journey of personal growth and self fulfillment.
After losing her job and apartment, Rosie is at a crossroads; with no acting prospects on the horizon, should she give up or keep pursuing her dream? She hasn't exactly been forthcoming with her friends and family regarding the true state of her life and career, so she also faces the dilemma that making that choice might require her to come clean. She doesn't want to be seen as a failure, even as she struggles with those same feelings and self doubt. Out of desperation, she takes a job directing a regional theatre's production of Cinderella; and it is there that she meets the people who will impact her in ways she never expected.
The supporting cast was my favorite part of this book. Give me all the sassy grandmas and grumpy curmudgeons with secret hearts of gold. The unlikely friendship between Rosie and the residents of the retirement community and the way they force her to face her insecurities and examine what she really wants is what makes this book so heartwarming and endearing. I also adored Booker, the MMC. He is kind, honest, thoughtful, and a total cinnamon roll. It is no wonder that all of his fellow staff loved him and the residents try to set him up with their daughters. He is the type of MMC that you root for from the start. I loved the witty and flirty banter between him and Rosie and the way he won her over to being more than just friends.
While I enjoyed the overall premise and arc of this book, I struggled with it at times. Rosie often came off a little immature for a woman in her late 20s. There were also some issues with pacing and repetition, especially in Rosie's inner thoughts and dialogue, which there was too much of in general for my taste. There are only so many times I can hear her say she's ready to come clean to her friends before I wanted to yell at her to just do it already. I would have preferred to see more of her interactions with the staff and residents, and a bit more development of her relationship with Booker, especially since they are the primary impetus behind her growth.
I won't call this "clean romance" because, to be honest, I loathe that term. Instead, I prefer to use a spice rating/level for those that want to know that information in advance. This book would be a zero on that level, as there are no intimate scenes. I'd also put it in the romance-lite women's fiction category rather than general romance. There is a love interest, but that part of the story is secondary to Rosie's struggles and her journey of self discovery and personal growth.
When I came across the book on NetGalley, I knew nothing about the book, author, or publisher; but the blurb sounded interesting, so I decided to request it and give it a try. And I'm glad I did. Overall, I thought it was heartwarming, sweet, and worth the listen.
The narrator, Jorjeana Marie, was new to me as well, and I enjoyed her performance. The reading was a little slow, but she did a great job conveying the emotions the characters were feeling and bringing the story to life. I think she was the right choice for Rosie, and now that I've heard her, I don't think I can imagine anyone else voicing Rosie's character.
I received an advanced listener's copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest review. Thank you to NetGalley, Thomas Nelson, and Zondervan Fiction Audio for the ALC!
Content Warnings
Minor: Abandonment
funny
inspiring
lighthearted
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
Narration: 4.5 ⭐️
Spice: 2.5 🌶️
Tropes:
- Workplace Romance
- Rivals to Lovers
- Women in STEM
- Employment Biases
- Mutual Pining
- Forced Proximity
- Only One Bed
- Slow Burn
- BIPOC & LGBTQ+ Rep
I think Not Safe for Work is a solid outing for Nisha J. Tuli's first foray into contemporary romance. The premise of the story was there - workplace rivals forced to share space in a dreamy tropical setting - but it just didn't quite live up to my expectations. I liked it, but I didn't love it.
Overall, I enjoyed Trishara's character. She is witty and unabashedly herself. I liked how she refused to tone herself down for anyone and wasn't afraid to call Rafe out when it was warranted. Trishara and Rafe's chemistry is off the charts, and the way that they were both down bad for each other but refused to admit it even to themselves made for some delicious tension. And while I mostly enjoyed their banter and playfulness, I often felt that their actions and dynamic were too immature for two characters in their late twenties. The will they/won't they went on for a bit too long for my taste, and the jumps between burning hot to ice cold were starting to give me a bit of whiplash. (view spoiler)
This book did not pull any punches when comes to employment biases, particularly in regards to race and sex. The way that it addresses sexism, sexual harassment, micro-aggressions, and other issues women face in the work force, especially in a male dominated field, is very well done. I believe most women will be able to relate to at least one situation that Trishara faced. I know I did.
The narrator, Soneela Nankani, was new to me, and I really enjoyed her performance. I felt like she really captured Trishara's personality. She was emotive and did an excellent job voicing all of the characters, including the males. It was quick, easy, entertaining, and overall, worth the listen.
I received an advanced listener copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest review. A big thank you to NetGalley and Hachette Audio for the ALC!
Spice: 2.5 🌶️
Tropes:
- Workplace Romance
- Rivals to Lovers
- Women in STEM
- Employment Biases
- Mutual Pining
- Forced Proximity
- Only One Bed
- Slow Burn
- BIPOC & LGBTQ+ Rep
I think Not Safe for Work is a solid outing for Nisha J. Tuli's first foray into contemporary romance. The premise of the story was there - workplace rivals forced to share space in a dreamy tropical setting - but it just didn't quite live up to my expectations. I liked it, but I didn't love it.
Overall, I enjoyed Trishara's character. She is witty and unabashedly herself. I liked how she refused to tone herself down for anyone and wasn't afraid to call Rafe out when it was warranted. Trishara and Rafe's chemistry is off the charts, and the way that they were both down bad for each other but refused to admit it even to themselves made for some delicious tension. And while I mostly enjoyed their banter and playfulness, I often felt that their actions and dynamic were too immature for two characters in their late twenties. The will they/won't they went on for a bit too long for my taste, and the jumps between burning hot to ice cold were starting to give me a bit of whiplash. (view spoiler)
This book did not pull any punches when comes to employment biases, particularly in regards to race and sex. The way that it addresses sexism, sexual harassment, micro-aggressions, and other issues women face in the work force, especially in a male dominated field, is very well done. I believe most women will be able to relate to at least one situation that Trishara faced. I know I did.
The narrator, Soneela Nankani, was new to me, and I really enjoyed her performance. I felt like she really captured Trishara's personality. She was emotive and did an excellent job voicing all of the characters, including the males. It was quick, easy, entertaining, and overall, worth the listen.
I received an advanced listener copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest review. A big thank you to NetGalley and Hachette Audio for the ALC!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Misogyny, Sexism
Moderate: Bullying, Racism, Sexual harassment
Minor: Chronic illness
emotional
funny
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Spice: 2.5-3 🌶️
Tropes:
- Librarian X Football Player
- Childhood Neighbors
- Dating Lessons
- Opposites Attract
- Good Girl X Playboy
- Cinnamon Roll MMC
- He Falls First
- Small Town
Lessons in Heartbreak is a lesson in taking a well known and much loved trope and turning it into something much more. Ruby is shy and has a hard time putting herself out there (hence, the dating lessons), but her story is so much more compelling than that. To avoid spoilers, I won’t get in to the why exactly, but there are reasons her confidence has taken a hit and she’s so guarded. There is also more to Griffin than the cliched carefree playboy we first meet. He is such a cinnamon roll underneath his flirty exterior, and I adored that about him. Sorensen excels at writing characters who are relatable, complex, and lovable, and that was again showcased in Ruby and Griffin. It is both their histories and their journey together that makes this book so touching and heartfelt.
I loved the chemistry and dynamic between Ruby and Griffin and was rooting for them from the very beginning. They are great together, and their connection, while intense, feels natural. The banter and tension had me wanting to giggle and kick my feet, but it was their tenderness and the way each pushes the other to be the best version of themself that truly had me swooning.
IMO, this also might be Sorensen’s funniest book to date. The side characters were hilarious, and Ruby’s unintentional conversion of the football playboys to period romance junkies had me laughing out loud.
Lessons in Heartbreak cements why Karla Sorensen is an auto-buy author for me. It is sweet, witty, charming, and emotional - a story about healing and facing fears as much as it is about romance. I fell in love with these characters, and I’m looking forward to the rest of the series.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest review. Thank you so much to Good Girls PR, NetGalley, and Montlake for the ARC!
Tropes:
- Librarian X Football Player
- Childhood Neighbors
- Dating Lessons
- Opposites Attract
- Good Girl X Playboy
- Cinnamon Roll MMC
- He Falls First
- Small Town
Lessons in Heartbreak is a lesson in taking a well known and much loved trope and turning it into something much more. Ruby is shy and has a hard time putting herself out there (hence, the dating lessons), but her story is so much more compelling than that. To avoid spoilers, I won’t get in to the why exactly, but there are reasons her confidence has taken a hit and she’s so guarded. There is also more to Griffin than the cliched carefree playboy we first meet. He is such a cinnamon roll underneath his flirty exterior, and I adored that about him. Sorensen excels at writing characters who are relatable, complex, and lovable, and that was again showcased in Ruby and Griffin. It is both their histories and their journey together that makes this book so touching and heartfelt.
I loved the chemistry and dynamic between Ruby and Griffin and was rooting for them from the very beginning. They are great together, and their connection, while intense, feels natural. The banter and tension had me wanting to giggle and kick my feet, but it was their tenderness and the way each pushes the other to be the best version of themself that truly had me swooning.
IMO, this also might be Sorensen’s funniest book to date. The side characters were hilarious, and Ruby’s unintentional conversion of the football playboys to period romance junkies had me laughing out loud.
Lessons in Heartbreak cements why Karla Sorensen is an auto-buy author for me. It is sweet, witty, charming, and emotional - a story about healing and facing fears as much as it is about romance. I fell in love with these characters, and I’m looking forward to the rest of the series.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest review. Thank you so much to Good Girls PR, NetGalley, and Montlake for the ARC!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Chronic illness, Medical content
Minor: Car accident
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Spice: .5-1 🌶️
Tropes:
- Second Generation Spinoff
- Human X Fae
- Stabby, Morally Grey FMC
- Cocky, Cunning Fae MMC
- "Mine"
- Touch Her & 💀
- Found Family
- Banter
- Hidden Identity
- One Horse / One Bed
- Insta-lust
- Hate to Want You Vibes
If you've read K.F. Breene's Demigods of San Francisco series and were hoping to see more from that world, you are in luck. Obsidian follows Daisy, the morally grey teenager with stabby tendencies and uncanny survival skills, that you first met in DoSF. But now, Daisy is all grown up and fiercer than ever. One of the things I love about Daisy though is that she is not just all sass and viciousness. She is so incredibly resilient and loyal, a total black cat but one who would do anything to protect those who have earned her love and trust. In fact, both main characters are more complex & nuanced than they may initially appear. Tarian is the perfect cunning, ruthless, and cocky fae villain you can’t help but like, but with Daisy, we are able to see another side to him. Maybe he has more of a softer side than he lets on or maybe he is just playing the game. It was interesting trying to figure out what is real and what his true desires and motives are.
In true K.F. Breene fashion, the tension and chemistry between our MCs is off the charts. Their banter and back and forth is superb; it is full of the "I hate that I want you" vibes that I love. And I got a huge kick out of how into Daisy's viciousness Tarian is. It reminded me of Casteel and Poppy in that he enjoys her savage side and finds it adorable, even when it is directed at him. Sprinkle in the "mine" moments and the touch her and d!e (slowly & painfully) vibes that Tarian delivers, and I ate it up with a spoon. There isn't a lot of spice, but what is there brings the heat, and the simmering tension and attraction is just waiting to boil over in the next book.
Obsidian has a little darker tone than its predecessor series, but I wouldn't consider it a particularly dark romance. It is still laced with Breene's signature humor that had me literally laughing out loud at times. If you're a fan of Breene, you know that her side characters can sometimes steal the show, and this book is no different. Their quips and one-liners left me in stitches. While we don't see them often, I enjoyed the peeks into their characters and dynamics, and I am expecting we'll see more from them in the next book.
This book is a fun and intriguing ride from start to finish. The plot twists at the end took what I thought I knew and flipped it on its head. I did not see them coming and am excited to see where they lead. I can't wait for the next book!
I received an advanced review copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
Tropes:
- Second Generation Spinoff
- Human X Fae
- Stabby, Morally Grey FMC
- Cocky, Cunning Fae MMC
- "Mine"
- Touch Her & 💀
- Found Family
- Banter
- Hidden Identity
- One Horse / One Bed
- Insta-lust
- Hate to Want You Vibes
If you've read K.F. Breene's Demigods of San Francisco series and were hoping to see more from that world, you are in luck. Obsidian follows Daisy, the morally grey teenager with stabby tendencies and uncanny survival skills, that you first met in DoSF. But now, Daisy is all grown up and fiercer than ever. One of the things I love about Daisy though is that she is not just all sass and viciousness. She is so incredibly resilient and loyal, a total black cat but one who would do anything to protect those who have earned her love and trust. In fact, both main characters are more complex & nuanced than they may initially appear. Tarian is the perfect cunning, ruthless, and cocky fae villain you can’t help but like, but with Daisy, we are able to see another side to him. Maybe he has more of a softer side than he lets on or maybe he is just playing the game. It was interesting trying to figure out what is real and what his true desires and motives are.
In true K.F. Breene fashion, the tension and chemistry between our MCs is off the charts. Their banter and back and forth is superb; it is full of the "I hate that I want you" vibes that I love. And I got a huge kick out of how into Daisy's viciousness Tarian is. It reminded me of Casteel and Poppy in that he enjoys her savage side and finds it adorable, even when it is directed at him. Sprinkle in the "mine" moments and the touch her and d!e (slowly & painfully) vibes that Tarian delivers, and I ate it up with a spoon. There isn't a lot of spice, but what is there brings the heat, and the simmering tension and attraction is just waiting to boil over in the next book.
Obsidian has a little darker tone than its predecessor series, but I wouldn't consider it a particularly dark romance. It is still laced with Breene's signature humor that had me literally laughing out loud at times. If you're a fan of Breene, you know that her side characters can sometimes steal the show, and this book is no different. Their quips and one-liners left me in stitches. While we don't see them often, I enjoyed the peeks into their characters and dynamics, and I am expecting we'll see more from them in the next book.
This book is a fun and intriguing ride from start to finish. The plot twists at the end took what I thought I knew and flipped it on its head. I did not see them coming and am excited to see where they lead. I can't wait for the next book!
I received an advanced review copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
dark
emotional
funny
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Spice: 3-3.5 🌶️
Tropes:
- Dark Rom-Com
- Friends with Benefits
- Forced Proximity
- Hurt/Comfort
- Touch Her & 💀
This just might be my favorite book of the trilogy. I love Rose and the delightful chaos gremlin that she is. And I adored the softhearted and protective side of Fionn we got to see, even as he learned to embrace his dark side. This book was sweeter and more emotional than I expected, and I think that helped set it apart from the first two books. It was a wonderful blend of humor, romance, wildness, spice, and darkness. I will miss these characters, but I think Scythe & Sparrow was a fun and satisfying ending to the series.
⚠️ This book has comedic elements, but it is still a dark romance. Check the content warning for triggers.
Tropes:
- Dark Rom-Com
- Friends with Benefits
- Forced Proximity
- Hurt/Comfort
- Touch Her & 💀
This just might be my favorite book of the trilogy. I love Rose and the delightful chaos gremlin that she is. And I adored the softhearted and protective side of Fionn we got to see, even as he learned to embrace his dark side. This book was sweeter and more emotional than I expected, and I think that helped set it apart from the first two books. It was a wonderful blend of humor, romance, wildness, spice, and darkness. I will miss these characters, but I think Scythe & Sparrow was a fun and satisfying ending to the series.
⚠️ This book has comedic elements, but it is still a dark romance. Check the content warning for triggers.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Violence, Murder, Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Domestic abuse, Gore, Physical abuse, Blood
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Loveable characters:
Yes
Rating: 5 ⭐️
Spice: 2.5-3 🌶️
Tropes:
- Arranged Marriage
- Second Chance
- 10 Things I Hate About You coded
- Mutual Pining
- Snark & Banter
- Obsessed Hero
- Consent King
- Fated Mates
- "My Wife"
I have been impatiently anticipating Solarius & Narissa’s story, & it did not disappoint! After a previous failed courtship, they outwardly loathe one another, while inwardly pining for each other. Enter an arranged marriage, & sparks fly, delivering first-rate banter & delicious tension.
One of the great things about the books in this series is how easy it is to connect with the characters, & that continues with Sol & Rissa. I adore Narissa. She is bright, witty, & soft yet fierce. And Solarius! Based on the first 2 books, I was expecting him to be more broody. And he was at times, but he was also romantic, tender, protective, & a man of action. One who is not too proud to beg & worship on his knees 🫠
Their second chance story is everything I hoped it would be. The back & forth is excellent, the angst & pining is just right, & the “my wife” moments are *chef’s kiss* As for the spice, it was definitely spicing. I’ll just give you two words: mirror scene 🥵 And it’s not often that I see a harp, but I will never look at one the same again.
Hillary writes romantasy worlds that are simultaneously well-built & easy to read. Not once have I felt bogged down by information in this series, nor have I felt confused or like that information was lacking. This book, like the first two, kept me rapt, engaged, & continually turning the pages. It’s hard to pick a favorite couple because I have loved them all so far, but Sol & Rissa might just be it.
If you haven’t picked up this series yet, I encourage you to give it a try. I have been eating it up, & I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book!
⚠️ Trigger Warning: This book contains content that may be difficult for some readers, including memories/mention of past S.A., abuse, & death of a family member, so please check the content warnings.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
Spice: 2.5-3 🌶️
Tropes:
- Arranged Marriage
- Second Chance
- 10 Things I Hate About You coded
- Mutual Pining
- Snark & Banter
- Obsessed Hero
- Consent King
- Fated Mates
- "My Wife"
I have been impatiently anticipating Solarius & Narissa’s story, & it did not disappoint! After a previous failed courtship, they outwardly loathe one another, while inwardly pining for each other. Enter an arranged marriage, & sparks fly, delivering first-rate banter & delicious tension.
One of the great things about the books in this series is how easy it is to connect with the characters, & that continues with Sol & Rissa. I adore Narissa. She is bright, witty, & soft yet fierce. And Solarius! Based on the first 2 books, I was expecting him to be more broody. And he was at times, but he was also romantic, tender, protective, & a man of action. One who is not too proud to beg & worship on his knees 🫠
Their second chance story is everything I hoped it would be. The back & forth is excellent, the angst & pining is just right, & the “my wife” moments are *chef’s kiss* As for the spice, it was definitely spicing. I’ll just give you two words: mirror scene 🥵 And it’s not often that I see a harp, but I will never look at one the same again.
Hillary writes romantasy worlds that are simultaneously well-built & easy to read. Not once have I felt bogged down by information in this series, nor have I felt confused or like that information was lacking. This book, like the first two, kept me rapt, engaged, & continually turning the pages. It’s hard to pick a favorite couple because I have loved them all so far, but Sol & Rissa might just be it.
If you haven’t picked up this series yet, I encourage you to give it a try. I have been eating it up, & I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book!
⚠️ Trigger Warning: This book contains content that may be difficult for some readers, including memories/mention of past S.A., abuse, & death of a family member, so please check the content warnings.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Sexual assault, Death of parent
Minor: Emotional abuse, Physical abuse