bookswithjenb's reviews
48 reviews

Incoming Layne Shift by Sadie Winchester

dark emotional hopeful inspiring tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? N/A
• Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

5.0

Just when I thought their story could get any better, the author proved me wrong yet again! We pick right up where the last book left off and let me tell you that you will be mind blown with all that happens in just the first few chapters! The power struggle, the secrets, and the spiciness will have you picking your jaw up off the floor, needing a cold shower and grabbing a box of tissue before you finish this one. Seeing Layne take power and her relationship with Joey finally getting to flourish was so good I couldn't put the book down. I can't express enough how much I love this series and I can't wait for the next book in the series!

A House in Shadow by Erica Damon

dark mysterious tense medium-paced

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

5.0

This book will absolutely keep you on the edge of your seat from the very first page. The story revolves around Tristan and Ally, a young couple who move into a seemingly idyllic new house with their four-year-old daughter, Dora. However, their dream home quickly turns into a nightmare as they are plagued by a series of inexplicable and terrifying events.

Tristan and Dora begin to experience strange occurrences and Tristan becomes increasingly convinced that the house is haunted, but Ally remains skeptical, dismissing his fears as mere imagination. As the supernatural activity intensifies, Tristan's sanity begins to unravel, and he becomes desperate to uncover the dark secret hidden within the walls of their new home.

The author creates a web of suspense and fear that keeps the reader guessing until the very end. The pacing of this story is perfect, with each chapter building towards a chilling climax. This is the first book I have read by Erica Damon and it did not disappoint! I am looking forward to reading more of her books. This is a must-read for fans of the thriller genre!

The Secrets We Hide by Berlin Wick

medium-paced

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

5.0

This book was smoking hot right from the beginning! You are immediately pulled in and fall in love with Elena and Jake whose relationship is one we all hope to find. Then enters the fantasy jars and you see a whole other side of them that will definitely make you blush. The storyline was easy to follow and will absolutely take you on a rollercoaster of emotions. The author did an amazing job with this book and I definitely am looking forward to reading more of her books!!  If you love a hot spicy book this is a definite must!

Can't Hide Forever by Lauren Marcie

dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? N/A
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

I don’t think I have ever read a book where I was obsessed with the “good” guy and the “bad" guy at the same time! This Jekyll and Hyde take was AMAZING!!!!! Even though you know right from the start that the “good” guy and the “bad" guy are one in the same, the author did an amazing job of keeping you on the edge of your seat. The way this was written you can actually visualize when “Hyde” comes out and the anticipation is intense to say the least! There are some very spicy scenes that will leave you 🥵 and 🤭!!! I love the characters in this book and wish that their story didn’t have to end but this book was definitely one of my top 2024 reads for sure!! If you love good thrillers with some spicy sprinkled in then I would definitely recommend this book to you.

Rewriting Grey by L.A. Ferro

emotional funny hopeful inspiring mysterious sad tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? N/A
• Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

5.0

 

Where to begin with this one. I wish I could give it more than 5 stars! 

 

Rewriting Grey is a story of suspense, mystery, heartache, love, and steamy romance. The story unfolds as Quinn arrives in a small town to handle the affairs of her missing and presumed dead sister. Haunted by a traumatic past, Quinn struggles to confront her own fears. The author created the perfect combination of suspense and mystery as the circumstances surrounding Quinn's sister's disappearance unravel as well as Quinn’s attraction to Iverson, a charming and enigmatic ladies' man who has never been tied down to one woman. The reader is kept on the edge of their seat, eager to discover the truth behind the tragedy. Amidst the turmoil, Quinn and Iverson's love story blossoms, providing a beacon of hope in the darkness. The chemistry between the two characters is palpable. The story explores complex themes of love, loss, and the power of forgiveness. It delves into the ways in which our past experiences can shape our present and future relationships. The author's skillful storytelling and vivid imagery take the reader into the heart of the characters' struggles and triumphs.
 
 Overall, Rewriting Grey is a captivating and emotional book that will stay with you long after you finish it. It is a story that celebrates the transformative power of love, the resilience of the human spirit, and the importance of confronting our past in order to heal and move forward with the future. If you love a book that checks all of the boxes, then this is the one for you. 

Bed of Roses (A Curvy Girl Dark Romance) by D.V. Fischer

dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? N/A
• Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

5.0

This book threw me for a loop!! The author did an amazing job combining spicy romance with an intriguing mystery. Tegan and Cole are complete opposites but the fire between them cannot be denied and there are scenes that are sure to make you blush! There are so many unexpected twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very end. I thought I had it figured out halfway through, but it turns out I didn’t have a clue!! I would highly recommend this one if you’re a fan of steamy romances, suspenseful mysteries, and characters that stay with you long after you finish the book. It's a perfect escape into a world where love and danger collide.

One More Time by Nik Robbins

dark emotional hopeful inspiring tense medium-paced

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

5.0

 One More Time is the story of Thena, a woman trapped in a toxic marriage with a verbally abusive and unfaithful husband. As the weight of his cruelty becomes unbearable, Thena reaches out for help from her husband’s best friend, Kye, who has been in love with her for years. The unspoken love between Thena and Kye adds a layer of forbidden passion and emotional tension that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

This book has it all! It will have you laughing, crying, blushing and ready to throw something as you read. This is a powerful story that exposes the devastating effects of a toxic marriage while offering a glimmer of hope for a way out and starting new. With its relatable characters, gripping plot, and cliffhanger ending, it is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and stories of resilience. I can’t wait for the next book!!!! 

I Thought I Knew by Melissa Trombetta

emotional inspiring sad tense medium-paced

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

5.0

 If I could give this one 10 stars I would!! I Thought I Knew is a powerful and moving story about a young woman named Nicole who faces the devastating reality after a traumatic event and her journey towards healing and recovery. The story begins with Nicole as a bright and ambitious college student, full of hopes and dreams for her future. However, her life takes a dark turn when she becomes a victim of a horrific attack. The author does an excellent job of depicting the raw emotions and struggles that Nicole faces in the aftermath of the attack. We see how it affects her relationships as well as in her overall mental and emotional well-being. However, the true strength of this story lies in Nicole's resilience and determination to overcome the past. With the help of a support group, she slowly begins her journey towards healing. The author portrays this process with sensitivity and authenticity, showing the ups and downs and the small victories that come with it.

What I appreciate most about this book is how it sheds light on the importance of seeking help and support when dealing with trauma. It also breaks the damaging stigma surrounding mental health and encourages readers to speak up and seek help when needed. The writing style of the author is engaging and easy to follow, making it a quick read. The character development of Nicole is well-crafted, and I found myself rooting for her throughout the story. The supporting characters also add depth and emotion to the storyline.

Overall, this book is a thought-provoking and inspiring read that sheds light on a sensitive and important topic. It is a story of hope, resilience, and the power of healing. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a powerful and emotionally charged read. It is a story that will stay with you long after you turn the last page. 

Love Without Influence: Book Two in the Bouvier Family Saga by Jade Dollston

emotional funny hopeful medium-paced

5.0

 Love Without Influence is the story of Kassie and Monty who fell in love when they were teenagers and went through more than some people go through in a lifetime. With all the odds against them they fought to stay together until tragedy strikes and they are torn apart. Fast forward 16 years later and the two cross paths unexpectedly and it all comes flooding back. I laughed, cried, screamed, bawled my eyes out and did quite a bit of blushing while reading this book. The characters are very relatable, and you can’t help but love them and others you will love to hate! This is a story that will give you hope in second chances, even if the world is against you. If you like a book that will hit all the feels this one is perfect for you! I can’t wait for the next book in the series! 

Double Play by A.K. LANDOW

emotional funny lighthearted medium-paced

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

5.0

 AK Landow hit a Grand Slam with this one!!! This story has it all: a great storyline, characters you will love and hate, and a whole lot of spice. Arizona and Layton had me🥵🥵throughout most of the book! The instant attraction between these two is undeniable and watching their relationship grow left me unable to put the book down. I fell in love with the secondary characters almost as quickly as I did the main ones. There were so many times I was literally laughing out loud at the banter between them all. I thoroughly enjoy this book and if you love a book that has it all then I would definitely recommend giving this one a read!