bookobsessedmommy's reviews
1109 reviews

Say You'll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez

emotional funny hopeful reflective sad 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? No

4.75

Samantha and Xavier's first meeting was a disaster, thier first date is one for the history books, but their forever seems like it's just not meant to be. Abby is the queen of he falls first. Her MMC's are always obsessed with the FMC's and Xavier understood the assignment. I love how attentive he was to Sam and her entire family. How persistent he was but still with consent. Even though we get his perspective, he almost felt like a side character cause Sam's situation was so life altering. The way the family dealt with, or avoided dealing with, the strain of an ailing family member was so raw and relatable. Xavier's parents were like this dark cloud hovering over his life and when he realized just how much power he had given them, the sun finally breaks through and everything is in technicolor. The discussion memory and being a witness and being grateful for the mundane really struck me. Abby has done it again. I laughed, I cried, I seethed. I caught the references to her other books and it made me feel like I was part of a secret club. What a beautiful book, and I cannot wait to continue this series.

Not in Love by Ali Hazelwood

emotional mysterious sad 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? It's complicated

4.0

I enjoyed this one. Ali knows how to write a steamy sex scene and there are more in here than I expected. Since the initial meeting of the MCs was solely about sex, the insta-lust makes a lot of sense, but Eli still felt too intense. I think most of it is the writing, but the male narrator was so over the top he sometimes got on my nerves. Even with that, he still gave Rue her space, and I appreciate that. I like that Rue's awkwardness isn't patholigized, and how her straightforwardness cut through a lot of bullshit. I like how thoughtful she is and I thought her work was really interested. I liked all the SC's too, especially Minami. Can we get a little novella on Maya and Hark, cause that's totally happening right? And what do you know, Ali can write a book with a tall lady who can look the tall man in the eye! Really enjoyed this one.

The Love Lyric by Kristina Forest

emotional lighthearted medium-paced

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

3.5

Iris is a quintessential eldest daughter. She's a widow and single mom, but she's completely put together, always ready to fix everything for everyone, and ignores what she needs in favor or being safe and responsible. Until she meets Angel. Their chemistry is crackling under the surface, and while Angel's interest gives insta love in the beginning, their spark grows to a full blaze in a really sweet way. They talk about Angel not being able to set boundaries, but Iris is just as bad if not worse. The way she went to the office on a Sunday rubbed me the wrong way, and I wish Paloma had been around to talk some sense into her sooner. I appreciate that Iris chooses herself and her passions at the end, and even though Angel has a bit of development, I wanted more from him. Not being able to record what he wants and having a shitty mom seeming flimsy compared to what Iris had going on. I'm glad I finished the Greene Sister's series, and I'm curious to see what Kristina does next.

Pillow Forts and Hurricanes by R.J. Margaret, Margherita Scialla

lighthearted reflective fast-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? No

4.0

This book is so chill.  There were a few moments where Emma lost her shit, and I loved it. Outside of that, most of it is quiet introspection with the occasional conversation between the characters. Those conversations are deep and probing though, in a way only the best of friends can have. The exploration of Noah's aromanticism was the most intricate I've ever read. The dynamic of this friend group is so sweet, and it made me want to call my best friend. I do wish there was a bit more showing instead of telling, especially because the showing we get (Fanta, heating pad, sausage) does such a great job of depicting how much they care about each other. I love the conversations about the importance of deep friendships and queerplatonic relationships, and I would like to see where this group's story goes.

Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas

adventurous dark emotional funny mysterious sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.5

This was a ride! The mystery, adventure, grief, the chemistry! It all came together for a story that felt like an actual movie. We get montages, action scenes, and flash backs. Each time the story started to slow, something happen to zap it back to life. I wanted more from Maritza, cause sometimes she seemed to disappear for long stretches for no reason. This story not only has fantastical elements, but also addresses homelessness, the devastation of deportation, and the power of community. I loved the diversity of Dia de Muertos celebration in various cultures and the descriptions of food. I was waiting for Yad to really recon with the question of why he needed to prove anything to anyone when he was clearly a brujo, bit that gets glossed over when he gets the approvals he so desperately wanted. Overall, I enjoyed the storytelling and character development, and I am so excited to read Espíritu!

Don't Cry for Me: A Novel by Daniel Black

dark emotional reflective sad slow-paced

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

5.0

Whew. This is the story of so many black men in America, raised with provision and maybe protection, but not real love. There is so much explored about the crushing of spirit, the desire for control and domination, and the grief of not having the life you dreamed of. Jacob is so intricately depicted in his loss, love, and fury. I went back and forth wanting to slap him and hug him. I wasn't ready for it to end though. This is just a one sided conversation, and I'm assuming Isaac's song might be the response. 

Pride really can kill a man. Actually, it makes him kill himself. 

I Wish You All the Best by Mason Deaver

emotional hopeful sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.5

Ben's life is turned upside down when their coming out moment turns into a nightmare. They have to start from scratch with their estranged sister at a new school, and the journey is understandably rough. I wanted to hug Ben so badly. I know this scenario plays out in real life, and it breaks my heart. It's hard for me to fathom kicking my kid out of my house for anything, let alone their gender identity or expression. I appreciate that the romantic aspect is a subplot instead of the main focus, and the tentative way Ben builds a new life with pain, honesty, and hope. Great storytelling and I'm looking forward to read more from Deaver.

Blessed by the Cupid Distribution System by Robin Jo Margaret

lighthearted fast-paced

• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

This was a spicy little read. We've got some exhibitionism and tons of enthusiastic consent. Iris is extremely nervous, but Jaya does a great job of putting her at ease. I honestly wish the story was a bit longer so we could get more from the supporting cast and a slower build up to their physical intimacy. 

Never Met A Devil Like You by Magnus Thorne

lighthearted fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? N/A
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

Magnus gets straight to the point with this one. It is hot and steamy, with a little dash of sweetness. Bit of boot, bit of strap, bit of gold, with a side of "Yes, sir". 🥵🥵🥵

Cupid Calling by Viano Oniomoh

emotional funny lighthearted sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

Omg this was so sweet! The banter is witty and fun, the chemistry is off the charts, and the pining is top tier. The devopment of the relationship between Ejiro and Obiora was so natural, and I am a sucker for secret dating! Love the queer Awakening journey, and how Obiora walked Ejiro through it, but didn't push while also not really hiding his attraction. The beginning was a little slow, but once the competition starts, things pick up quite nicely. I was chomping at the bit while all the sexual tension built up (multiple times) which made the resolution that much sweeter. I love the way they bonded over their culture and the fear of disappointing their parents. And the food! 🤤 I can't wait to read more of Viano's work!