ashleyreads88's reviews
593 reviews

Bad Boy Extended Epilogue by Willow Winters

My favorite part of this extended epilogue is the talk that Anthony had with his father because it showed a different side of both of them and eased the thoughts and doubts about the kind of father Anthony would be.  I loved how Anthony wasn't afraid to show his emotions.

His Hostage Extended Epilogue by Willow Winters

fast-paced

This short epilogue takes place at Vince and Elle's wedding reception and surprise baby shower.

It was a great extension to Vince and Elle's story.

Those Boys Are Trouble by Willow Winters

dark emotional tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

Those Boys Are Trouble is a collection of interconnected standalones that feature a different couple.  The boys in these stories are trouble but will do anything to not only protect the women that they fall in love with but also protect each other, they are family after all.  The women in these stories are strong, independent, and have their dreams.  Willow Winters does dark mafia romance so well and I enjoyed these stories.

We'll Always Have Summer by Jenny Han

emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted reflective sad fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

I loved how much the characters grew and how their relationships grew too.  We'll Always Have Summer tied everything together and I love how this trilogy ended. 

The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo

fast-paced

The Poet X was great on audio!

Of Stars and Tides by Locklyn Blake

adventurous dark emotional informative mysterious reflective tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

I loved Of Stars and Tides. I loved the story and the characters.  While a lot was going on in the story, it was easy to follow.  I loved how Cassie's relationship with the other Zodiacs, especially Hero developed.  The power system was unique as the characters' powers are based on their Zodiac sign.  I loved how the majority of the characters truly cared for Cassie.  There were twists I didn't see coming and they kept things exciting.  Of Stars and Tides is a great debut with fated mates, found family, internal struggle, a deeply complex story with intriguing characters, and rich world-building.  I can't wait to read more from this series and Locklyn Blake.

Call Us What We Carry: Poems by Amanda Gorman

Poetry is meant to be listened to, and listening to Call Us What We Carry was such a great experience.  I enjoyed these poems more on audio as I could feel the emotions more.  The poems were just as heartbreaking, and honest.  I highly recommend listening to the audiobook.

It's Not Summer Without You by Jenny Han

emotional funny inspiring lighthearted reflective tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

I loved Belly's growth in It's Not Summer Without You.  Taylor at times wasn't a good friend to Belly pushing her to do things she didn't want to do.  I loved how the friendship between Belly, Steven, Conrad, and Jeremiah grew.  I loved Laurel's relationship with the boys, and what she did for them.  It's Not Summer Without You was heartwarming, emotional, and fun, and I enjoyed reading it.

If These Walls Could Talk: Boston Red Sox by Jerry Remy, Nick Cafardo

emotional informative inspiring reflective sad fast-paced

If These Walls Could Talk is a great look into Jerry's days as a baseball player and eventually a broadcaster.  He discusses his favorite players and why they're his favorite, his favorite World Series moments and why.  I appreciated how much he discussed his depression and cancer battles.  There were moments when his humorous side came through and others where he was more serious, and the balance between them was nicely done.  If These Walls Could Talk is a great look into Jerry in his own words.

Take Me Home Tonight by Morgan Matson

adventurous emotional funny hopeful lighthearted fast-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

Take Me Home Tonight was a whirlwind adventure of a book, and I loved it.  The main character Kat has flaws but as the story goes on, she shows a lot of growth, same with her best friend Stevie.  Kat and Stevie go through things together and separately that strengthen their friendship.  Teri's story was fun too.  I loved the romances and how the developed.  I enjoyed this book and felt that I was part of the story.