Take a photo of a barcode or cover
book_lover_irl's reviews
450 reviews
Hans by S.J. Tilly
adventurous
dark
mysterious
tense
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
4.5
Hans is book 4 in The Alliance series by S. J. Tilly. I flew through the first three books (Nero, King, Dom) and was excited to read the final book. I was not disappointed.
I love S.J. Tilly. She bases many of her books in or near Minneapolis / St. Paul, Minnesota (where I am from), creates amazing, feisty, curvy FMCs with jiggly thighs (I relate!), and crafts amazing stories with wonderful character development. Tilly's MMC in this series are quite unhinged, completely over the top for their chosen lovely FMC, and fall first in the most dramatic way possible. She also writes FUNNY characters with great banter. (Remember Nero's obsession with brass knuckles and King sending ex's to Alaska? Need I say more?)
Hans is another great book about an alpha-h0le MMC who falls for Cassie, the FMC, the first time he meets her. His possessive streak is OTT and leads to stalker behavior that is adorable and endearing (only in a fictional setting, of course). Hans dedication to Cassie's safety is off the charts h0t and unprecedented. Amazingly enough, considering how OTT the other Alliance men are about protection, I think Hans tops them all with the proactive steps he took and ended up having to use during the second half of the book. I can't say more for fear of spoilers. Similarly Cassie's obsession with Hans (delivering baked good weekly for over a year without additional face time?!) can be considered stalking too.
The sparks and chemistry between the 2 MCs has a fabulous build up and the sp!ce is phenomenal when they are together. The way Cassie is so easily distracted when Hans is touching her is amusing and seems relatable. I wouldn't be able to concentrate either if there was a mountain of a h0t man having his way with me.
The plot for Hans moved slower than the plot for Dom. It focused more heavily on building Hans' preoccupation with Cassie, and developing their actual face to face relationship later in the book. There was enough action and suspense that I wanted to keep reading to see what would happen next. I was waiting for the other shoe to drop and see where the plot twists would take us.
Cassie's parents are fabulous side characters. The narrators did their best to make them sound very Fargo-esque (remember the movie?) with their odd Midwestern accent. As someone from MN, who of course doesn't think I have any type of accent, the accent was equal parts hilarious and irritating. LOL. Karmine was my favorite side character of the entire Alliance series. I loved that she was a bada$$ woman who was taking charge of her life after her horrific traum@s. I *really* wish that Tilly would write her a standalone book. Learning about Karmine's mission to help traum@tized women take back their power would be PHENOMENAL. But alas, I've read interviews that state we won't be so lucky.
I love S.J. Tilly. She bases many of her books in or near Minneapolis / St. Paul, Minnesota (where I am from), creates amazing, feisty, curvy FMCs with jiggly thighs (I relate!), and crafts amazing stories with wonderful character development. Tilly's MMC in this series are quite unhinged, completely over the top for their chosen lovely FMC, and fall first in the most dramatic way possible. She also writes FUNNY characters with great banter. (Remember Nero's obsession with brass knuckles and King sending ex's to Alaska? Need I say more?)
Hans is another great book about an alpha-h0le MMC who falls for Cassie, the FMC, the first time he meets her. His possessive streak is OTT and leads to stalker behavior that is adorable and endearing (only in a fictional setting, of course). Hans dedication to Cassie's safety is off the charts h0t and unprecedented. Amazingly enough, considering how OTT the other Alliance men are about protection, I think Hans tops them all with the proactive steps he took and ended up having to use during the second half of the book. I can't say more for fear of spoilers. Similarly Cassie's obsession with Hans (delivering baked good weekly for over a year without additional face time?!) can be considered stalking too.
The sparks and chemistry between the 2 MCs has a fabulous build up and the sp!ce is phenomenal when they are together. The way Cassie is so easily distracted when Hans is touching her is amusing and seems relatable. I wouldn't be able to concentrate either if there was a mountain of a h0t man having his way with me.
The plot for Hans moved slower than the plot for Dom. It focused more heavily on building Hans' preoccupation with Cassie, and developing their actual face to face relationship later in the book. There was enough action and suspense that I wanted to keep reading to see what would happen next. I was waiting for the other shoe to drop and see where the plot twists would take us.
Cassie's parents are fabulous side characters. The narrators did their best to make them sound very Fargo-esque (remember the movie?) with their odd Midwestern accent. As someone from MN, who of course doesn't think I have any type of accent, the accent was equal parts hilarious and irritating. LOL. Karmine was my favorite side character of the entire Alliance series. I loved that she was a bada$$ woman who was taking charge of her life after her horrific traum@s. I *really* wish that Tilly would write her a standalone book. Learning about Karmine's mission to help traum@tized women take back their power would be PHENOMENAL. But alas, I've read interviews that state we won't be so lucky.
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ .5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
POV: Dual, duet narration
HEA: Yes
Cliffhanger: No
Tropes: Stalker, OTT alpha-male, mafia-vibes, vigilante / assassin
INSTAGRAM: @Book.Lover.IRL
STORYGRAPH: Book.Lover.IRL
GOODREADS: Book Lover IRL
GOODREADS: Book Lover IRL
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I loved this book
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I really liked this book
⭐️⭐️⭐️ I liked this book
⭐️⭐️ Meh… bored or annoyed
⭐️ Seriously? Not worth it
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ INFERNO. P@nty melting
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Blazing h0t
🌶️🌶️🌶️ Now we’re talking
🌶️🌶️ Meh… uninspired missionary
🌶️ Does weak f0replay count?
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Gun violence, Sexual content, Violence, Trafficking, Grief, Stalking, Murder
Make Me Want by Katee Robert
lighthearted
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Make Me Want by Katee Robert was an extremely quick read. Both Lucy and Gavin were great main characters.
Dom by S.J. Tilly
dark
emotional
funny
tense
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
5.0
SUMMARY: Dom is book 3 of 4 in The Alliance series (after Nero, book 1 & King, book 2.)
Haunted by her past, Val seeks connection and family, only to find herself wrapped up in a dangerous Mafia world when she meets Dom. Their intense love story unfolds amidst manipulation, passion, and dark secrets.
REVIEW: After speeding through Nero’s and King’s stories, I was excited to see how the author S. J. Tilly connected Dom’s experience leading the Chicago mafia with The Alliance, which is based in Minneapolis, MN.
Dom brings us another amazingly unhinged, over the top, alpha male antihero who literally embodies “touch her and ☠️” vibes. Everything about this dark romance should be setting off allllllll of our alarm bells. Dom’s behavior is one atrocious red flag after another. Instead, as a true testament to the author’s fabulous writing prowess, we, the reader, lap up each TW as new life goals and soooooo very h0t, then swoon and salivate for more!
Val was a likable FMC with some relatable insecurities. Her childhood was dominated by her mother’s emotional abuse. Yet, given the life she was thrown into with her half siblings, I found her naïveté about Dom’s “work” a tad far fetched but it helped us understand her fierce desire to be “chosen” and dominated by a partner.
The beginning of Dom’s and Val’s whirlwind romance felt magical, then BAM! Plot twist. I suppose I should’ve seen it coming but I am content to just ride the plot train, be entertained, and let things unfold how they will, without trying to guess the upcoming bumps.
The relationships between the Alliance men and their women, as well as their friendships, were so.much.fun! The characters all had hilarious banter, great internal dialogues, and dynamic interactions. I’ve gotta say Nero’s and King’s friendship is unhinged perfection. Their conversations and bickering crack me up and make me giggle. Loudly.
Dom’s story had more suspense than the first two books and I enjoyed the uptick in action and drama. Unlike Nero or King, Dom’s story also ended on a cliffhanger, urging the reader to drop everything and grab the fourth books, Hans, asap — which I plan to do.
I highly recommend reading Dom and the entire Alliance series.
P.S. Two words: Brass Knuckles. 🤣Let me know what you think after you read Dom!
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Haunted by her past, Val seeks connection and family, only to find herself wrapped up in a dangerous Mafia world when she meets Dom. Their intense love story unfolds amidst manipulation, passion, and dark secrets.
REVIEW: After speeding through Nero’s and King’s stories, I was excited to see how the author S. J. Tilly connected Dom’s experience leading the Chicago mafia with The Alliance, which is based in Minneapolis, MN.
Dom brings us another amazingly unhinged, over the top, alpha male antihero who literally embodies “touch her and ☠️” vibes. Everything about this dark romance should be setting off allllllll of our alarm bells. Dom’s behavior is one atrocious red flag after another. Instead, as a true testament to the author’s fabulous writing prowess, we, the reader, lap up each TW as new life goals and soooooo very h0t, then swoon and salivate for more!
Val was a likable FMC with some relatable insecurities. Her childhood was dominated by her mother’s emotional abuse. Yet, given the life she was thrown into with her half siblings, I found her naïveté about Dom’s “work” a tad far fetched but it helped us understand her fierce desire to be “chosen” and dominated by a partner.
The beginning of Dom’s and Val’s whirlwind romance felt magical, then BAM! Plot twist. I suppose I should’ve seen it coming but I am content to just ride the plot train, be entertained, and let things unfold how they will, without trying to guess the upcoming bumps.
The relationships between the Alliance men and their women, as well as their friendships, were so.much.fun! The characters all had hilarious banter, great internal dialogues, and dynamic interactions. I’ve gotta say Nero’s and King’s friendship is unhinged perfection. Their conversations and bickering crack me up and make me giggle. Loudly.
Dom’s story had more suspense than the first two books and I enjoyed the uptick in action and drama. Unlike Nero or King, Dom’s story also ended on a cliffhanger, urging the reader to drop everything and grab the fourth books, Hans, asap — which I plan to do.
I highly recommend reading Dom and the entire Alliance series.
P.S. Two words: Brass Knuckles. 🤣Let me know what you think after you read Dom!
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
POV: Duet
HEA: Yes
Cliffhanger: Kind of
Tropes: Mafia, touch her & ☠️, he falls first, found family
INSTAGRAM: @Book.Lover.IRL
STORYGRAPH: Book.Lover.IRL
GOODREADS: Book Lover IRL
GOODREADS: Book Lover IRL
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I loved this book
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I really liked this book
⭐️⭐️⭐️ I liked this book
⭐️⭐️ Meh… bored or annoyed
⭐️ Seriously? Not worth it
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ INFERNO. P@nty melting
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Blazing h0t
🌶️🌶️🌶️ Now we’re talking
🌶️🌶️ Meh… uninspired missionary
🌶️ Does weak f0replay count?
King by S.J. Tilly
challenging
dark
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
If you thought book one of The Alliance series, with Nero, was a wild ride with an alpha-h0le, touch her and ☠️, stalker vibe… then hold on tight and hop on the crazy train for book two with King. It is absolutely fan-eff!ng-tabulous. Truly a lovely, unhinged story with my newest favorite a$$h0le, cinnabon, morally gray, sweetly scary man, King!
King, The Alliance #2, is a slow burn, enemies to lovers romance with smoking h0t chemistry between the two MCs. It includes one of my most favorite tropes ever -- he falls first and he falls H A R D. The way King and Savannah's relationship unfolded was beautiful and convoluted (as one would imagine if one character kidnaps the other character.)
Somehow S.J. Tilly has managed to make King both more lovably saccharine and terrifying than Nero. I fell in love with King’s desire to make Savannah happy at all costs, as well as the way he owned her s3xually, playing her b0dy like a finely tuned instrument, but always with her c0nsent. (C0nsent is paramount for me -- and h0t!) I adored King's insane possessiveness (only in a book boyfriend. IRL it'd be a hard pass.) His stunt with Savannah's exes... Priceless. Who even thinks this way? Love it.
Savannah is a great FMC who stands her ground and does not take her lumps lying down. Sometimes she’s prone to insecurities but the more she’s around King the more confidence she gains.
I love that S.J. Tilly's FMC are curvy and full figured. I appreciate that they are described with thick thighs and butts that jiggle. As a plus size woman, it is so refreshing to read about characters who aren't all flat stomachs and skinny minis. Representation matters in all of its different forms.
The plot was solid. The tone and angst level varied to keep the listener engaged. It had medium pacing. The sp!ce was fabulous. There was just enough sm*t to keep me happy and mix well within the plot, without turning into an audiobook p0rn0. Have I mentioned the chemistry between King and Savannah yet?!
The narrators, Jack Calihan and Chloe Ryan, were the same for both Nero's and King's books. I enjoyed the way they played each character. They brought emotionality and depth to their performances, enhancing the reading / listening experience.
I highly recommend this book.
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
POV: Duet
HEA: Yes - 2 epilogues is a bonus
Cliffhanger: No
Tropes: He falls first, Mafia / Organized Crime
INSTAGRAM: @Book.Lover.IRL
STORYGRAPH: Book.Lover.IRL
GOODREADS: Book Lover IRL
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I loved this book
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I really liked this book
⭐️⭐️⭐️ I liked this book
⭐️⭐️ Meh… bored or annoyed
⭐️ Seriously? Not worth it
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ INFERNO. P@nty melting
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Blazing h0t
🌶️🌶️🌶️ Now we’re talking
🌶️🌶️ Meh… uninspired missionary
🌶️ Does weak f0replay count?
King, The Alliance #2, is a slow burn, enemies to lovers romance with smoking h0t chemistry between the two MCs. It includes one of my most favorite tropes ever -- he falls first and he falls H A R D. The way King and Savannah's relationship unfolded was beautiful and convoluted (as one would imagine if one character kidnaps the other character.)
Somehow S.J. Tilly has managed to make King both more lovably saccharine and terrifying than Nero. I fell in love with King’s desire to make Savannah happy at all costs, as well as the way he owned her s3xually, playing her b0dy like a finely tuned instrument, but always with her c0nsent. (C0nsent is paramount for me -- and h0t!) I adored King's insane possessiveness (only in a book boyfriend. IRL it'd be a hard pass.) His stunt with Savannah's exes... Priceless. Who even thinks this way? Love it.
Savannah is a great FMC who stands her ground and does not take her lumps lying down. Sometimes she’s prone to insecurities but the more she’s around King the more confidence she gains.
I love that S.J. Tilly's FMC are curvy and full figured. I appreciate that they are described with thick thighs and butts that jiggle. As a plus size woman, it is so refreshing to read about characters who aren't all flat stomachs and skinny minis. Representation matters in all of its different forms.
The plot was solid. The tone and angst level varied to keep the listener engaged. It had medium pacing. The sp!ce was fabulous. There was just enough sm*t to keep me happy and mix well within the plot, without turning into an audiobook p0rn0. Have I mentioned the chemistry between King and Savannah yet?!
The narrators, Jack Calihan and Chloe Ryan, were the same for both Nero's and King's books. I enjoyed the way they played each character. They brought emotionality and depth to their performances, enhancing the reading / listening experience.
I highly recommend this book.
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
POV: Duet
HEA: Yes - 2 epilogues is a bonus
Cliffhanger: No
Tropes: He falls first, Mafia / Organized Crime
INSTAGRAM: @Book.Lover.IRL
STORYGRAPH: Book.Lover.IRL
GOODREADS: Book Lover IRL
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I loved this book
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I really liked this book
⭐️⭐️⭐️ I liked this book
⭐️⭐️ Meh… bored or annoyed
⭐️ Seriously? Not worth it
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ INFERNO. P@nty melting
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Blazing h0t
🌶️🌶️🌶️ Now we’re talking
🌶️🌶️ Meh… uninspired missionary
🌶️ Does weak f0replay count?
Nero by S.J. Tilly
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
dark
emotional
funny
tense
medium-paced
5.0
SUMMARY
Payton - Running away from home at 17 wasn’t easy. Let’s face it though, nothing before, or in the ten years since, has ever been easy for me. So when a man walks through my open patio door, stepping boldly into my home, I should be scared but I must be more broken than I realized, because I’m... intrigued.
Nero - The first time I took a man’s life, I knew there’d be no going back. No normal existence in the cards for me. So instead of walking away, I climbed a mountain of bodies and created my own destiny. I was fine with that. Content enough to carry on. Until I stepped through those open doors and into her life. I should’ve walked away. Should’ve gone right back out the door I came through. But I didn’t.
Now her life is in danger and I’ll happily paint the streets red to protect what’s mine. And Payton is mine. Whether she knows it or not.
REVIEW
I put off reading Nero or any book from The Alliance series because I heard they were dark. I fancy myself a fan of dark romance, but I am quickly learning that I only like *some* dark romance. In particular I dislike dark bully romances. Apparently I am a big stickler for enthusiastic consent and less comfortable with humiliation and degradation. With my curiosity rising, I decided to tackle Nero and oh boy, am I glad that I did!
... REST OF REVIEW COMING SOON ...
QUOTES
Payton - Running away from home at 17 wasn’t easy. Let’s face it though, nothing before, or in the ten years since, has ever been easy for me. So when a man walks through my open patio door, stepping boldly into my home, I should be scared but I must be more broken than I realized, because I’m... intrigued.
Nero - The first time I took a man’s life, I knew there’d be no going back. No normal existence in the cards for me. So instead of walking away, I climbed a mountain of bodies and created my own destiny. I was fine with that. Content enough to carry on. Until I stepped through those open doors and into her life. I should’ve walked away. Should’ve gone right back out the door I came through. But I didn’t.
Now her life is in danger and I’ll happily paint the streets red to protect what’s mine. And Payton is mine. Whether she knows it or not.
REVIEW
I put off reading Nero or any book from The Alliance series because I heard they were dark. I fancy myself a fan of dark romance, but I am quickly learning that I only like *some* dark romance. In particular I dislike dark bully romances. Apparently I am a big stickler for enthusiastic consent and less comfortable with humiliation and degradation. With my curiosity rising, I decided to tackle Nero and oh boy, am I glad that I did!
... REST OF REVIEW COMING SOON ...
QUOTES
“Stop,” Nero snaps, and I do. I swear my eyes widen comically when he yanks the blankets back and climbs into bed next to me.
“What, um…” I trail off.
“I’m not staying,” he mutters it this time. He sounds so resigned, even as he does the opposite of what he just said, and I almost laugh. Nero drops onto his back, shifting the pillow, lifting his head and smacking it back down against the lumpy cotton, trying to get comfortable. With one final sigh, he stretches his arm out in my direction. “Come f*cking cuddle with me.”
"You’re crazy,” I breathe. His hands dart out, gripping my ankles, and he yanks me down the bed. Again. Nero bends over me, putting our faces an inch apart. “For you, I’m f*cking certifiable.”
“I’ve never seen a c*ck in person before. I shuffle backwards on the bed. Maybe this was a bad idea. Maybe I should lose it to an average guy. A smaller guy. Because surely that’s not normal.”
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
POV: Duet
HEA: Yes
Cliffhanger: No
Tropes: Mafia, Stalker, Touch her & be unal!ved
INSTAGRAM: @Book.Lover.IRL
STORYGRAPH: Book.Lover.IRL
GOODREADS: Book Lover IRL
GOODREADS: Book Lover IRL
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I loved this book
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I really liked this book
⭐️⭐️⭐️ I liked this book
⭐️⭐️ Meh… bored or annoyed
⭐️ Seriously? Not worth it
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ INFERNO. P@nty melting
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Blazing h0t
🌶️🌶️🌶️ Now we’re talking
🌶️🌶️ Meh… uninspired missionary
🌶️ Does weak f0replay count?
Content Warnings
Graphic: Cursing, Death, Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, Gun violence, Sexual content, Torture, Violence, Blood, Cannibalism, Medical trauma, Stalking, Murder
Destroy Me by Michelle Heard
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
Fast paced, suspenseful plot. Great action mixed throughout the story and fabulously engaging. Keeps you guessing about what surprising twist would happen next.
Sizzling s3xual tension between Aurora and Misha was to d!e for. His over the top possessive vibe had my toes curling. He literally couldn’t control himself when he went ham on anyone who harmed her. Then in the next moment his amazing tenderness and sweetness while taking care of Aurora (((chefs kiss))).
Also the world building — I haven’t read many mafia romances so I’m unsure if this is unique to the Destroy Me / Corrupted Royals series. The war college that trained criminals from across all walks of life and strictly enforced a no murder on the grounds (but all other forms of violence and torture were fair game) was a genius and novel idea. I loved envisioning it like an adult, dark and spicy version of Hogwarts. I mean they were both set in castles. 😊
The narrators, Samantha Cook and Duncan Cole, were perfect for this story. Normally I’m not a huge fan of accents because I think many narrators struggle to stay in character. That wasn’t the case and I AM HERE FOR IT. Soooooo s3xy. I think both Cook and Cole are new-to-me narrators so I definitely plan to find more books read by them.
Overall - fabulous story! Highly recommend it. I look forward to continuing with the series.
Check the TWs. There is copious amounts of extremely GRAPH1C VI0LENCE, including torture, awful detailed descriptions of violent acts of torture and injuries.
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
POV: Duet
HEA: Yes
Cliffhanger: No
Tropes: mafia, touch her and unal1ve
INSTAGRAM: @Book.Lover.IRL
STORYGRAPH: Book.Lover.IRL
GOODREADS: Book Lover IRL
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I loved this book
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I really liked this book
⭐️⭐️⭐️ I liked this book
⭐️⭐️ Meh… bored or annoyed
⭐️ Seriously? Not worth it
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ INFERNO. P@nty melting
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Blazing h0t
🌶️🌶️🌶️ Now we’re talking
🌶️🌶️ Meh… uninspired missionary
🌶️ Does weak f0replay count?
Sizzling s3xual tension between Aurora and Misha was to d!e for. His over the top possessive vibe had my toes curling. He literally couldn’t control himself when he went ham on anyone who harmed her. Then in the next moment his amazing tenderness and sweetness while taking care of Aurora (((chefs kiss))).
Also the world building — I haven’t read many mafia romances so I’m unsure if this is unique to the Destroy Me / Corrupted Royals series. The war college that trained criminals from across all walks of life and strictly enforced a no murder on the grounds (but all other forms of violence and torture were fair game) was a genius and novel idea. I loved envisioning it like an adult, dark and spicy version of Hogwarts. I mean they were both set in castles. 😊
The narrators, Samantha Cook and Duncan Cole, were perfect for this story. Normally I’m not a huge fan of accents because I think many narrators struggle to stay in character. That wasn’t the case and I AM HERE FOR IT. Soooooo s3xy. I think both Cook and Cole are new-to-me narrators so I definitely plan to find more books read by them.
Overall - fabulous story! Highly recommend it. I look forward to continuing with the series.
Check the TWs. There is copious amounts of extremely GRAPH1C VI0LENCE, including torture, awful detailed descriptions of violent acts of torture and injuries.
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
POV: Duet
HEA: Yes
Cliffhanger: No
Tropes: mafia, touch her and unal1ve
INSTAGRAM: @Book.Lover.IRL
STORYGRAPH: Book.Lover.IRL
GOODREADS: Book Lover IRL
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I loved this book
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I really liked this book
⭐️⭐️⭐️ I liked this book
⭐️⭐️ Meh… bored or annoyed
⭐️ Seriously? Not worth it
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ INFERNO. P@nty melting
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Blazing h0t
🌶️🌶️🌶️ Now we’re talking
🌶️🌶️ Meh… uninspired missionary
🌶️ Does weak f0replay count?
Content Warnings
Graphic: Confinement, Cursing, Gore, Physical abuse, Sexual content, Torture, Violence, Blood, Kidnapping, Car accident, Murder, Injury/Injury detail
Neon Gods by Katee Robert
adventurous
emotional
mysterious
tense
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
4.0
.SUMMARY: Neon Gods is an insanely hot and surprisingly fun retelling of the Hades/ Persephone myth but with a twist -- Hades is the good guy! TBH, I know very little about mythology so I’m unsure how this compares to stories closer to “cannon”.
REVIEW: I listened to the audiobook for Neon Gods over the course of a week. It was an engaging read that mostly kept my interest peaked. I loved Katee Robert's ability to weave Greek mythology tidbits into the modern world and urban cityscape. The mix of mythology into present day was impressive and flowed effortlessly throughout the story.
The unfurling of both Hades' and Persephone's personalities was on point. Watching Persephone grow into herself as she dropped her "mask" was satisfying. I adored that she didn't seem to have body image issues and went for the pleasure she desired. It was endearing to see Hades' heart began softening towards Persephone. I loved his protectiveness over her from the moment he met her.
There was a fair amount of sm*t in the book. Fabulous spicy scenes. Consent was front and center in all s#xu@l interactions, which I think is incredibly H O T. Thankfully, no dub con here!
It was clear that there would be some type of fallout when Persephone fled Olympus. As the reader, we just weren't sure when or how that fallout would happen. The book waited until the very last minute to unravel and resolve the plot tensions, which sadly made the ending feel abrupt. The pacing was fantastic, until approx the last 90 minutes. The ending felt rushed and disappointingly brief. Don't get me wrong, the story was still really good and I definitely plan to continue with the series.
Hermes and Dionysus were quite the pair of side characters. Hermes made me giggle so many times, even though I wasn't sure if I could trust her. She was hard to figure out. I cannot wait to see where their stories will take them in future books of the Dark Olympus series. I'm hoping that being inside Hermes' head will help us understand her better.
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
POV: Duet
HEA: Yes, HFN
Cliffhanger: No
Tropes: mythology, he falls first, exhibitionism
INSTAGRAM: @Book.Lover.IRL
STORYGRAPH: Book.Lover.IRL
GOODREADS: Book Lover IRL
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I loved this book
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I really liked this book
⭐️⭐️⭐️ I liked this book
⭐️⭐️ Meh… bored or annoyed
⭐️ Seriously? Not worth it
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ INFERNO. P@nty melting
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Blazing hot
🌶️🌶️🌶️ Now we’re talking
🌶️🌶️ Meh… uninspired missionary
🌶️ Does weak f0replay count?
REVIEW: I listened to the audiobook for Neon Gods over the course of a week. It was an engaging read that mostly kept my interest peaked. I loved Katee Robert's ability to weave Greek mythology tidbits into the modern world and urban cityscape. The mix of mythology into present day was impressive and flowed effortlessly throughout the story.
The unfurling of both Hades' and Persephone's personalities was on point. Watching Persephone grow into herself as she dropped her "mask" was satisfying. I adored that she didn't seem to have body image issues and went for the pleasure she desired. It was endearing to see Hades' heart began softening towards Persephone. I loved his protectiveness over her from the moment he met her.
There was a fair amount of sm*t in the book. Fabulous spicy scenes. Consent was front and center in all s#xu@l interactions, which I think is incredibly H O T. Thankfully, no dub con here!
It was clear that there would be some type of fallout when Persephone fled Olympus. As the reader, we just weren't sure when or how that fallout would happen. The book waited until the very last minute to unravel and resolve the plot tensions, which sadly made the ending feel abrupt. The pacing was fantastic, until approx the last 90 minutes. The ending felt rushed and disappointingly brief. Don't get me wrong, the story was still really good and I definitely plan to continue with the series.
Hermes and Dionysus were quite the pair of side characters. Hermes made me giggle so many times, even though I wasn't sure if I could trust her. She was hard to figure out. I cannot wait to see where their stories will take them in future books of the Dark Olympus series. I'm hoping that being inside Hermes' head will help us understand her better.
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
POV: Duet
HEA: Yes, HFN
Cliffhanger: No
Tropes: mythology, he falls first, exhibitionism
INSTAGRAM: @Book.Lover.IRL
STORYGRAPH: Book.Lover.IRL
GOODREADS: Book Lover IRL
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I loved this book
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I really liked this book
⭐️⭐️⭐️ I liked this book
⭐️⭐️ Meh… bored or annoyed
⭐️ Seriously? Not worth it
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ INFERNO. P@nty melting
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Blazing hot
🌶️🌶️🌶️ Now we’re talking
🌶️🌶️ Meh… uninspired missionary
🌶️ Does weak f0replay count?
Content Warnings
Graphic: Cursing, Death, Sexual content, Violence, Death of parent, Alcohol
Harmony by Addison Jane
emotional
tense
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
5.0
Harmony is a club girl and we all know the role that club girls have in motorcycle clubs...
I was intrigued at the unique plot idea to write a MC novel from a club girl’s POV but honestly I was also prepared to hate it. I am addicted to MC books but I *loathe* club girls and the way women are treated in general (including the old ladies). Why is a club girl good enough to bang but never have a serious relationship with
Addison Jane did not disappoint with this novel idea. I enjoyed the even pacing and plot twists. The themes around found family, loyalty, honesty and trust were raw and beautiful.
I adored the fabulous characters and really took a shine to them. They were both fierce and tender, funny and crass. Kit and Harmony were fabulous together and had great banter.
With all the foreshadowing, I cannot wait to see where Optimus and Chelsea’s adventures take their relationship in book two of this series.
In summary, I laughed, gasped in surprise, huffed in frustration and even got teary eyed at one point. I truly enjoyed this book and recommend it if you like MC books with a twist.
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I was intrigued at the unique plot idea to write a MC novel from a club girl’s POV but honestly I was also prepared to hate it. I am addicted to MC books but I *loathe* club girls and the way women are treated in general (including the old ladies). Why is a club girl good enough to bang but never have a serious relationship with
Addison Jane did not disappoint with this novel idea. I enjoyed the even pacing and plot twists. The themes around found family, loyalty, honesty and trust were raw and beautiful.
I adored the fabulous characters and really took a shine to them. They were both fierce and tender, funny and crass. Kit and Harmony were fabulous together and had great banter.
With all the foreshadowing, I cannot wait to see where Optimus and Chelsea’s adventures take their relationship in book two of this series.
In summary, I laughed, gasped in surprise, huffed in frustration and even got teary eyed at one point. I truly enjoyed this book and recommend it if you like MC books with a twist.
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
POV: Dual
HEA: Yes
Cliffhanger: Yes
Tropes: motorcycle club, insta-love, he falls first, touch her and ☠️
INSTAGRAM: @Book.Lover.IRL
STORYGRAPH: Book.Lover.IRL
GOODREADS: Book Lover IRL
GOODREADS: Book Lover IRL
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I loved this book
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I really liked this book
⭐️⭐️⭐️ I liked this book
⭐️⭐️ Meh… bored or annoyed
⭐️ Seriously? Not worth it
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ INFERNO. P@nty melting
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Blazing hot
🌶️🌶️🌶️ Now we’re talking
🌶️🌶️ Meh… uninspired missionary
🌶️ Does weak foreplay count?
Content Warnings
Graphic: Cursing, Gun violence, Sexual content, Violence, Trafficking, Murder
Obsession: Addiction Duet Book 2 by Vivian Wood
challenging
dark
emotional
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Let me start by saying Addiction and Obsession by Vivian Wood REALLY NEEDS to come with a content warning. When I checked, I did not find any CWs or TWs in the beginning of the audiobooks, physical books, or even on the author's website. There are some very sensitive topics (eating disorders, alcohol addiction, miscarriage, and car accident / medical trauma) discussed in explicit detail. Given the depth and length that the sensitive topics are discussed, it is irresponsible to forego the CW.
This duet delves into two types of addictions while exploring the budding relationship between Sean, a tattoo artist, and Harper, a model. In Addiction, the story begins when Harper walks into Sean's tattoo parlor and he is struck with insta-lust. We begin Obsession by exploring the cliffhanger that we left off on from book one.
What comes next is more a study in the two MCs addictions -- their inner dialogue and cognitive dissonance, convoluted feelings, physical sensations and experiences, as well as descriptive details -- than it is a spicy romance. Don't get me wrong, there are definitely some spicy dark-ish scenes, including BDSM. However, there are also long stretches where the plot's sole focus is the MCs relationships with their addictions, not each other.
I went into this book relatively clueless, so I was conflicted as I began navigating the tough topics. As a person in the recovery community, the MCs inner dialogue, faulty reasoning, and selfish thoughts while under the influence resonated with me. Much of their struggles mirrored my struggles of deciding to get clean and then the challenges during early recovery. If nothing else, this novel nails what it is like to live under the oppressive feelings of addiction — until the end of the second novel when it gets a little too HEA too quickly. It is a fictional novel, so I'll give the author leeway to deviate from real life and wrap up the story with a cute little bow / HEA. However, real life recovery, specifically early recovery, is BRUTAL.
If you are in early recovery foralcoholism, drug use, or eating disorders , I highly recommend taking a step back from this story and evaluating where you are with your mental health and recovery. Parts of the story could absolutely be triggering and / or cause cravings.
Do I recommend this novel as a spicy romance novel? No. It doesn't delve deep enough into the couple's relationship enough for me. Do I recommend this novel as a study of addictive thoughts and actions? Absolutely.
Overall I highly recommend this duet — IF you check the CWs, are in a good place with your mental health and NOT in early recovery for any addictive behaviors or substances.
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
POV: Dual
HEA: Not yet?
Cliffhanger: Yes
Tropes: Addiction, bad boy/good girl, rich MMC, BDSM
INSTAGRAM: @Book.Lover.IRL
STORYGRAPH: Book.Lover.IRL
GOODREADS: Book Lover IRL
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I loved this book
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I really liked this book
⭐️⭐️⭐️ I liked this book
⭐️⭐️ Meh… bored or annoyed
⭐️ Seriously? Not worth it
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ INFERNO. P@nty melting
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Blazing hot
🌶️🌶️🌶️ Now we’re talking
🌶️🌶️ Meh… uninspired missionary
🌶️ Does weak foreplay count?
This duet delves into two types of addictions while exploring the budding relationship between Sean, a tattoo artist, and Harper, a model. In Addiction, the story begins when Harper walks into Sean's tattoo parlor and he is struck with insta-lust. We begin Obsession by exploring the cliffhanger that we left off on from book one.
What comes next is more a study in the two MCs addictions -- their inner dialogue and cognitive dissonance, convoluted feelings, physical sensations and experiences, as well as descriptive details -- than it is a spicy romance. Don't get me wrong, there are definitely some spicy dark-ish scenes, including BDSM. However, there are also long stretches where the plot's sole focus is the MCs relationships with their addictions, not each other.
I went into this book relatively clueless, so I was conflicted as I began navigating the tough topics. As a person in the recovery community, the MCs inner dialogue, faulty reasoning, and selfish thoughts while under the influence resonated with me. Much of their struggles mirrored my struggles of deciding to get clean and then the challenges during early recovery. If nothing else, this novel nails what it is like to live under the oppressive feelings of addiction — until the end of the second novel when it gets a little too HEA too quickly. It is a fictional novel, so I'll give the author leeway to deviate from real life and wrap up the story with a cute little bow / HEA. However, real life recovery, specifically early recovery, is BRUTAL.
If you are in early recovery for
Do I recommend this novel as a spicy romance novel? No. It doesn't delve deep enough into the couple's relationship enough for me. Do I recommend this novel as a study of addictive thoughts and actions? Absolutely.
Overall I highly recommend this duet — IF you check the CWs, are in a good place with your mental health and NOT in early recovery for any addictive behaviors or substances.
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
POV: Dual
HEA: Not yet?
Cliffhanger: Yes
Tropes: Addiction, bad boy/good girl, rich MMC, BDSM
INSTAGRAM: @Book.Lover.IRL
STORYGRAPH: Book.Lover.IRL
GOODREADS: Book Lover IRL
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I loved this book
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I really liked this book
⭐️⭐️⭐️ I liked this book
⭐️⭐️ Meh… bored or annoyed
⭐️ Seriously? Not worth it
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ INFERNO. P@nty melting
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Blazing hot
🌶️🌶️🌶️ Now we’re talking
🌶️🌶️ Meh… uninspired missionary
🌶️ Does weak foreplay count?
Content Warnings
Graphic: Addiction, Alcoholism, Body shaming, Cursing, Drug abuse, Drug use, Eating disorder, Fatphobia, Miscarriage, Misogyny, Self harm, Sexual content, Blood, Vomit, Medical trauma, Car accident
Addiction by Vivian Wood
challenging
dark
emotional
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Let me start by saying Addiction by Vivian Wood (and it's duet partner, Obsession) REALLY NEEDS to come with a content warning. When I checked, I did not find any CWs or TWs in the beginning of the audiobooks, physical books, or even on the author's website. There are some very sensitive topics (eating disorders, alcohol addiction, miscarriage, and car accident / medical trauma) discussed in explicit detail. Given the depth and length that the sensitive topics are discussed, it is irresponsible to forego the CW.
Wood's book, Addiction, delves into two types of addictions while exploring the budding relationship between Sean, a tattoo artist, and Harper, a model. When Harper walks into Sean's tattoo parlor, he is filled with insta-lust. What comes next is more so a study in the two MCs addictions -- their inner dialogue and cognitive dissonance, convoluted feelings, physical sensations and experiences, as well as descriptive details -- than it is a spicy romance. Don't get me wrong, there are definitely some spicy dark-ish scenes, including domination, restraints and pain for pleasure. However, there are also long stretches where the plot's sole focus is the MCs relationships with their addictions, not each other.
I went into this book relatively clueless, so I was conflicted as I began navigating the tough topics. As a person in the recovery community, the MCs inner dialogue, faulty reasoning, and selfish thoughts while under the influence resonated with me. Much of their struggles mirrored my struggles of deciding to get clean and then the challenges during early recovery. If nothing else, this novel nails what it is like to live under the oppressive feelings of addiction (until the end of the second novel when it gets a little too HEA too quickly. But it is a fictional novel, so I'll give the author leeway to deviate from real life and wrap up the story with a cute little bow / HEA.)
If you are in early recovery foralcohol or drug addiction, or eating disorders , I highly recommend taking a step back from this story and evaluating where you are with your mental health and recovery. Parts of the story could absolutely be triggering and / or cause cravings.
Do I recommend this novel as a spicy romance novel? No. It doesn't hit enough on the couple's relationship enough for me. Do I recommend this novel as a study of addictive thoughts and actions? Absolutely.
Wood's book, Addiction, delves into two types of addictions while exploring the budding relationship between Sean, a tattoo artist, and Harper, a model. When Harper walks into Sean's tattoo parlor, he is filled with insta-lust. What comes next is more so a study in the two MCs addictions -- their inner dialogue and cognitive dissonance, convoluted feelings, physical sensations and experiences, as well as descriptive details -- than it is a spicy romance. Don't get me wrong, there are definitely some spicy dark-ish scenes, including domination, restraints and pain for pleasure. However, there are also long stretches where the plot's sole focus is the MCs relationships with their addictions, not each other.
I went into this book relatively clueless, so I was conflicted as I began navigating the tough topics. As a person in the recovery community, the MCs inner dialogue, faulty reasoning, and selfish thoughts while under the influence resonated with me. Much of their struggles mirrored my struggles of deciding to get clean and then the challenges during early recovery. If nothing else, this novel nails what it is like to live under the oppressive feelings of addiction (until the end of the second novel when it gets a little too HEA too quickly. But it is a fictional novel, so I'll give the author leeway to deviate from real life and wrap up the story with a cute little bow / HEA.)
If you are in early recovery for
Do I recommend this novel as a spicy romance novel? No. It doesn't hit enough on the couple's relationship enough for me. Do I recommend this novel as a study of addictive thoughts and actions? Absolutely.
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
POV: Dual
HEA: Not yet?
Cliffhanger: Yes
Tropes: Addiction, bad boy/good girl, rich MMC, BDSM
INSTAGRAM: @Book.Lover.IRL
STORYGRAPH: Book.Lover.IRL
GOODREADS: Book Lover IRL
GOODREADS: Book Lover IRL
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I loved this book
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I really liked this book
⭐️⭐️⭐️ I liked this book
⭐️⭐️ Meh… bored or annoyed
⭐️ Seriously? Not worth it
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ INFERNO. P@nty melting
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Blazing hot
🌶️🌶️🌶️ Now we’re talking
🌶️🌶️ Meh… uninspired missionary
🌶️ Does weak foreplay count?
Content Warnings
Graphic: Addiction, Alcoholism, Body shaming, Cursing, Drug abuse, Drug use, Eating disorder, Fatphobia, Gore, Self harm, Sexual content, Blood, Vomit, Medical trauma, Car accident