booksthrilljessica's reviews
479 reviews

Shadows of Perl by J. Elle

4.0

In the second installment of the House of Marionne series, readers are swept back into Quell Marionne’s magical journey as she searches for her mother. Following the explosive conclusion of book one, Quell gains access to the elusive House of Perl, where she learns that her magic is not something to fear but to celebrate. Yet, danger still looms as she is hunted by her former lover, Jordan Wexton, who is torn between love and duty.

This is a fantastic read for young adult audiences. Free of spice, the story focuses on themes of self-discovery, found family, and the wonder of magic.

*Thank you to J. Elle, ​​PENGUIN GROUP Penguin Young Readers Group | Razorbill and Netgalley for the copy. I am freely leaving my honest review.

This Girl's A Killer by Emma C. Wells

4.0

A female version of Dexter in all its glory! I absolutely loved this book with its sharp, witty internal humor of Cordelia. Her thoughts about men are so relatable that many readers might find themselves having the same thoughts about men.

Cordelia’s loyalty to her best friend, Diane, and Diane’s daughter knows no bounds—even if it means breaking her own rules. When she decides to eliminate Diane’s latest fling to protect them, her carefully constructed life begins to unravel, spiraling her into chaos.

Cordelia’s inner dialogue offers fascinating insight into her character, making it surprisingly easy to empathize with her choices. I also enjoyed the mystery of her past and the mental anguish she experiences at the thought of losing her only human connection, Diane.

The big question remains: Is Cordelia a hero, a villain, or simply a killer? You’ll have to decide for yourself.

*Thank you to Emma C. Wells, ​​Poisoned Pen Press and Netgalley for the copy. I am freely leaving my honest review.

Queen Macbeth by Val McDermid

3.0

This book felt like a middle-of-the-road read for me. While it had some interesting aspects, it fell short in fully exploring the characters and the plot surrounding Lady Macbeth. That said, it was a quick and easy read, and I did enjoy the heartfelt bond between Macbeth and her companions.

*Thank you to Val McDermid, ​​Grove Atlantic | Atlantic Monthly Press and Netgalley for the ARC copy. I am freely leaving my honest review.

Hades and Persephone: Keeper of Sins by Alannah Carbonneau

4.0

I’ve always been intrigued by the tale of Hades and Persephone, so I couldn’t wait to dive into Carbonneau’s fresh take on this classic story. What stood out to me was the unique twist—setting the fated mates in the modern world, with Persephone unable to remember their past life.

As Persephone seeks to forge her own path, she’s haunted by a mysterious male voice in her thoughts. Enter Hades, who offers her an irresistible job: serving as his personal companion at night. But only Hades knows the truth about their shared destiny and must patiently wait for her to rediscover it.

I really enjoyed following Persephone’s journey of self-discovery, as she proves to be anything but meek or easily swayed this time around. With just the right amount of spice, this story kept me invested in both the characters and their fate.

*Thank you to Alannah Carbonneau and BookSirens for the ARC copy. I am freely leaving my honest review.

Nightbirds by Kate J. Armstrong

3.0

I have mixed feelings about this book. While I was intrigued by the characters and the outcome of the Nightbirds as they became entangled in a political game, there were moments where the story fell flat for me. At over 400 pages, it felt like the book could have been trimmed down, as some of the side storylines shifted focus away from the bonds forged between the Nightbirds and felt unnecessary. If you enjoy more of a folklore steeped in magic with a political plot this book is perfect for you. 

*Thank you to Kate J. Armstrong, PENGUIN GROUP Penguin Young Readers Group and Netgalley for the ARC copy. I am freely leaving my honest review.

Lights Out by Navessa Allen

5.0

A dark stalker romantic comedy that captivated me right from the beginning! With the perfect blend of humor and intense dark desire, I couldn’t help but laugh while secretly hoping for a masked stalker to be waiting for me at home. Reminiscent of You, the MMC, Josh, feels like a “healthier” version of Joe—if that’s even possible. This book will leave you questioning your kinks and plotting how to convince your significant other to invest in a mask!

A Bond Beyond Blood by J. Jameson

3.0

After reading The Butcher’s Daughter prequel, I was eager to see how Jack’s twisted affair with three vampires would unfold. As she struggles with her vow for revenge upon the vampire that could have saved her father’s life, Jack finds herself desperately attracted to him even though he invades her thoughts. Navigating her new normal—managing the family butcher shop after her father’s death—Jack enters a relationship with the vampire who has been helping her prepare for vengeance. But her life takes a more complicated turn when another vampire from her past resurfaces, seeking reconciliation. 

This book may not dive deep into world-building, but it shines with its complex, morally gray characters. A fast-paced read driven by lust and desire, it explores the inner turmoil of its main characters, who find a sense of solace in one another—except for Elias, of course. I wish we had more insight into Elias’s perspective or a deeper storyline into his past from his POV. His dramatic reentry into the vampire world felt a bit abrupt, lacking the context and thorough explanation it deserved. Honestly, I think I would have enjoyed exploring that storyline more than the love triangle between Jack and the vampires. That said, don’t get me wrong—I’m all for a spicy vampire romance!

If you enjoy why-choose romances, overprotective MMCs, vampires, or reverse harems, this is a must-read!

*Thank you to J. Jameson for the ARC copy. I am freely leaving my honest review.

In the Wake of the Wicked by V.B. Lacey

5.0

The tragic births of twins Clarissa (Rissa) and Zareleon (Leo) changed their lands forever. Rescued by Theodore Gayl through the use of dark magic, this act unleashed a curse that envelops people one-by-one of the realm into an eternal slumber. Now, with Gayl ruling as Emperor, the people are desperate to fight back and reclaim what remains of their lives.

Rose, who has been trained to become an Alchemist by her uncle, was orphaned at a young age and her buried memories hold secrets that could uncover the truth about her father’s murder. When Rose and her family journey to the capital to compete in the Emperor’s trials, she embarks on a dangerous path. As she comes face-to-face with Gayl, Rose discovers the curse is far more complex than anyone believed—and she might be the one destined to break it.

This book delivers incredible world-building, characters who fight at every turn, and a subtle yet spellbinding love story. Packed with epic contests that challenge both the characters' wits and magical abilities, it kept me on the edge of my seat. And the struggles the two main characters, Rose and Leo, face draw you into their lives, making you root for their success—and for them to find their way to each other. Lacey has created characters with lonely souls who are battling their inner demons and ultimately discover a connection they can trust and rely on in a new found family. This is a journey through despair, hope, and perseverance, complete with a heartfelt HEA, and was exactly what I needed.

*Thank you to V.B. Lacey for the ARC copy. I am freely leaving my honest review.

I See Red by R. Crowe

4.0

That ending was incredible! I need the next book immediately! I wasn’t expecting to fall so hard for this story and its characters, who walk the line between morally gray to black. The twist halfway through was brilliant, adding a subtle mystery element to this dark romance that made it even more captivating. Crowe tackles intense themes like SA and mental illness with a unique approach, making the characters feel more relatable and more likable.If you’re a dark romance fan who loves flawed main characters, this book is a must-read!

*Thank you to R. Crowe for the ARC copy. I am freely leaving my honest review.

Heir of Stardust and Secrets by CC Hartly

5.0

Nyleeria’s world is shattered when she discovers her family has been brutally attacked by beings she believed only existed in myths. Now confronted with the truth about magic and the existence of multiple realms, she must journey into the unknown alongside the charming King Thaddeus.

Thaddeus, a battle-worn human king hardened by a never ending war against the fae, has spent decades searching for Nyleeria, knowing she is their last hope for survival. Driven to protect his kingdom and humanity, he’ll do whatever it takes to find her.

As Nyleeria faces her true identity and role in the conflict between fae and humankind, she must also confront her growing attraction to the mysterious king. Will she locate her missing family and unlock her powers before it’s too late?

This book had me hooked from the first page. With a brilliantly crafted storyline of self-discovery, steamy romance, and immersive world-building, Hartly takes readers on an unforgettable journey alongside Nyleeria. Reminiscent of ACOTAR, you’ll find yourself thrown into a world of fantasy wanting more with every chapter. The only thing I’d love to see added is a morally gray MMC. How soon is it to ask for book 2….asking for a friend.

*Thank you to CC Hartly for the ARC copy. I am freely leaving my honest review.