april_be_readin's reviews
377 reviews

Your Wish Is My Command by Alicia J Armstrong

4.0

Really enjoyed this novella, and very curious to see more of Nina & X’s story. It had just enough spice but also just enough of info to make you interested in the characters. I’m excited to dive into “The Politician” Book 1 of Club XTC. 

Flawed by J. P. Blake, Gerry Kontos

3.5

Enjoyed this story overall. A very likable FMC that you would be rooting for the entire time. Persy has had a fairly interesting childhood. She was adopted by Marion, and she has had controlling tendencies for as long as Persy can remember. She has always been afraid to stand up for herself against Marion, but when the unthinkable happens and she is demanded to get rid of a body, Persy knows this is taking it way too far. How far are you go to protect the only family that you have, even if they’re not always the best? It was interesting to see how she maneuvered through this difficult task. Thank you Cameron Publicity & Marketing and NetGalley for this reader copy. All opinions are my own.

Caught Up with the ‘Rona by Tanisha Stewart

4.0

This was such a fun read, as Cordell and Jerone had me laughing with some of their lingo. I really liked both of these characters, and this sci-fi thriller kept me anticipating what will happen next! I will definitely run if I see a black van approaching lol. I listened to the audiobook and this narrator did  a great job. Great job & great spin on the “rona” 

Cutthroat by Octavia Grant

dark mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character

5.0

If “I’m gone get my lick back” was a person, it would be Eden. Octavia Grant does it again, and per usual she did not disappoint. This story was truly mind blowing and kept me hooked from start to finish. 

Eden & Jermaine are happily married, living their best life. When Jermaine commits the ultimate betrayal, Eden is determined to show him that she is NOT the one to be toyed with, as “Hell hath no fury, like a woman scorned!” As Jermaine steps into the “Garden of Eden,” read to see if he will escape Eden’s wrath, or will this be his demise.

And if this wasn’t a proud mama moment, I don’t know what is lol. ⬇️

"Bring him into the Garden of Eden, baby girl," Marie said proudly as she bit into her apple.”

Overall, a very solid 5 ⭐️ read. Highly recommend for anyone that loves jaw dropping, wtf moments. 

Don't Ever Tell by Brandon Massey

tense

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.0

I really enjoyed my first Brandon Massey read a very anxious to dive into some more of his catalogue. Rachel is running from her past and abusive ex Dexter. She started over in a new city with a new identity, but when Dexter escapes from prison, she knows that her life and the lives of everyone she love is in danger. 

Well written story with a MMC that delivers all the unhinged, delusional and narcissistic behaviors of a man that abuses his power. Dexter will probably live rent free in my head as he was a straight menace throughout this entire book. Joshua was my favorite character. Between Dexter‘s insanity and Rachel’s poor decision-making, Joshua brought a good balance. 

Overall a very good read that I recommend for fans of suspense thrillers. I listened to this audiobook in one day as it was highly addictive, and I simply could not stop.

Fake Flames by Jaynhi Allen

emotional hopeful mysterious sad tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.5

Completely devoured this book in about 24 hours. Great read the hooks you from the very beginning & I was definitely emotionally invested in this story, as I could literally feel the chemistry between the protagonists in this story. The title fits the story perfect as the flames in this book will definitely burn you. The characters had emotional depth, character development, were very complex & you will find yourself loving & hating them at the same time. I especially enjoyed the dual POVs from Leona & Selorm, it was good to hear the story from both of their views. I thoroughly enjoyed Jaynhi Allen’s writing style (even during the times I wanted to scratch Leona’s eyes out lol), and although my first read of hers it will definitely not be my last. 

Overall a solid read that I highly recommend for fans of fiery romance novels, with a hint of mystery. I was pleased to receive this advanced reader copy & all opinions are my own. 

The Marriage Rules by Samantha Hayes

medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes

3.75

Very shocking ending that I did not see coming! This book will have you yelling at the FMC only to conclude with “oh” when you realize what is truly taking place! This story will draw you in from the prologue.

Fiona & Jason married quickly after meeting. Jason has a dozen of insane rules that Fiona & their 2 daughters must follow at all times. With severe punishments in store, they tend to follow these carefully or at least try their very best to ensure Jason doesn’t find out if they break 1, as the consequences are not pretty.

Overall, a highly enjoyed read that I would recommend for domestic thriller fans! Twists that you won’t see coming, with jaw dropping & shaking your head moments. Well paced overall, there was a bit it in the middle that was not as engaging, however the ending came with a bang & explained while all of it was necessary. Thank you Bookouture and NetGalley for this advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.

The Other Sister by Jessica R. Patch

mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes

4.5

The Other Sister was a very intriguing story that had a lot of suspense, built tension, and had deep rooted family secrets. I had no idea where the story was heading, and the curiosity kept me invested to see how these sisters’ stories would play out. Despite my attempts to figure out how everything would unfold, this ended up being a completely unexpected turn of events that I did not see coming. I would definitely be reading more novels by Jessica R. Patch. The narrator in this audiobook brought a lot of emotion and depth to the characters, making it easy to stay immersed in the story.

Charlotte finds out that she has an identical, twin sister that was given up for adoption as a baby. Due to tragic and unforeseen circumstances, Charlotte is forced to assume her sister Acelynn’s identity, but she soon realizes that her sister‘s secrets are just as bad as the ones that she is harboring.

Overall, a great listen with an unexpected & satisfying ending. Definitely recommend for those that enjoy twisty, keep you guessing, enthralling thrillers. Thank you Harlequin Audio and NetGalley for this advanced listening copy. All opinions are my own.

Next Monday by Linette King

4.0

From Monday to Next Monday, this was definitely a turn of events that I did not see coming. Kyndall is back, but with a different agenda in mind this week. However, make no mistake crossing Kyndall still has deadly consequences! An unexpected duo joins forces to uncover truths, and Staci still fights to protect the family that she has left. Great read & continuation of Monday. Please read Book 1 (Monday) first, would not recommend as a standalone. 

First Time Mother by A.J. Campbell

2.75

Decent read overall & worth a try, for readers who enjoy domestic suspense.

The story follows Annie, a newlywed that is struggling to raise a newborn and two teenage stepkids. After the death of Max’s first wife, Annie steps in and tries to be a good stepmother although she is severely struggling with Lola. After Lola is born, the family sees changes in Annie and they are unsure of what is causing this. When Annie becomes forgetful and strange things begin to occur, she begins to wonder is something far more sinister taking place in their home. 

The blurb on the front really threw me for a loop, as it does not match the premises of this story at all. I am still interested in reading more from this author as I did enjoy her writing style. Thank you Bookouture and NetGalley for this advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.