beauty_andbooks's reviews
535 reviews

Things We Do in the Dark by Jennifer Hillier

3.0

I would more-so categorize this book as a mystery rather than a thriller. I think the writing was great, but I really had to push myself to finish this one. I felt it could have been 100 pages shorter and still explained the major plot points. The plot itself was great and pretty original. There are many trigger warnings though! I much preferred the present day plot versus the past plot. So I wish there was more of that. The characters were good and some were pretty likable.

The House Across the Lake by Riley Sager

5.0

As I always do with thrillers (and pretty much every other book) is I went in blind. I knew it was a Rear Window-esque storyline but that was about it. I really enjoyed this one! First 80 pages were a bit slow but after that initial plot twist, I was on board! I’m not a huge paranormal thriller fan, but this book still peaked my interest. Yeah, were some elements not as believable? Sure. But I still binged this book so easily. I didn’t figure out the main twist/murderer (which I always do) so that was great! Some of the twists I audibly gasped!! I couldn’t get enough of this book. I loved the setting too. That was a character of its own. I’m a sucker for settings being a major part of the book (think The Paris Apartment). Loved loved loved this one.

Eight Perfect Murders by Peter Swanson

3.0

Ok. I changed my review from 4 star to 3 stars, for one reason. Its been three weeks and I've already forgotten the plot and twist. My other huge issue with this book is the endless spoilers of other books that were used in the murder plot. I really want to read The Secret History, but now the ending has been spoiled. I'm hoping I'll forget the spoilers so I can eventually read it! This book kept me entertained as I read but it was okay. I honestly don't know how to review this since I've forgotten everything. Oh well. 

Insomnia by Sarah Pinborough

4.0

I'm writing this review a month after finishing this book, and I have thoughts! I am not normally a paranormal fan, but this book has to be one of the few exceptions. The entirety of the plot twist was mind blowing in my opinion. Yes, I felt as thought the first 60% of the book was slow, but that ending made it all worth it. I understand the slow burn that was needed to show the insanity of the main character getting worse and worse. If you don't like paranormal, then you may not enjoy this one as much. If you are already a fan of Sarah Pinborough, then you'll like this one. She comes up with such original plot lines. This plot has stuck with me since I read it!

The Island by Adrian McKinty

4.0

This was a really fast paced thriller/light horror book. The setting of the book was an added element that helped pull me in more as a reader. Reminiscent of Chainsaw Massacre type characters as well. I think it was well written and had some good plot points. I started losing interest about 50% in when it felt as though the main characters were going in circles with their decisions. All in all, I think this is a great thriller to read!

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Content Warnings

Moderate: Rape

A Shadow in the Ember by Jennifer L. Armentrout

5.0

It’s hard to write this review without spoilers. So I will keep it simple and share that I enjoyed this book so much more than the original FBAA series. I loved the main characters and the plot was so much more enticing. Armentrout is so good at creating these massive world building and extensive plots! It’s amazing! This was a hunker, but I kept not wanting to put it down. Can’t wait for the next one in the series.

Ugly Love by Colleen Hoover

4.0

I'm quickly learning that when I read Colleen Hoover's books, I just binge them! Which I never do with other books! That's a good sign, right?

Colleen does a great job at writing simple plot lines with gut wrenching twists and relationships. I always enjoy her main characters and can relate to each one of them in some way. The romance is so believable too. I think if you're only just venturing into contemporary romance, that these books are for you.

This one in particular gave that gut wrenching twist at the end and also allowed readers to just fall in love with the characters, with that addition of smutty goodness. While I wouldn't say the plot of this book is completely complex, I still wanted to read more. 

People Like Us by Louise Fein

4.0

This was a recommendation for the 12 for 12 friend prompt on bookstagram!

I went into this book very carefully because based off the book’s description, I was worried it would sympathize with Nazi ideals since many of the characters are Nazis.

I’m glad to say that I think I was wrong and I really did enjoy this book. Although the main character begins by defending Hitler and his ideals, she changes her ways and thoughts halfway through and it really shows a raw look at how perhaps some Germans changed their opinions during the war. This is a chunky book, but I was able to binge it so easily because of the major plot points and twists. A really enjoyable romance as well. I’m really glad I read this book. 

A Lot Like Adiós by Alexis Daria

4.0

This was one of my most anticipated books since I read and loved You Had Me At Hola! I don’t have a lot of experience reading contemporary romances, but I really enjoy this series and this author. I loved the bisexual representation aspect of the book and the steam level was amazing! Perfect amount of steam for most people, I feel like. I didn’t think I’d enjoy a friends to lovers, but I really liked this one. Such a fun read!

The Dragon's Bride by Katee Robert

4.0

Wow wow wow! What a sexy and unique book! No but really, this was a first for me in my reading history. Who would have thought a dragon could be sexy?! I really enjoyed this book. Gave me both a good storyline as well as enough smut to keep me happy. I can NOT wait for the next books in this series! I loved how short this was but it gave just enough to keep me happy. Both the main characters were likable and the chemistry was there for sure. I think even if you aren't a fantasy fan, you'd still enjoy this book.