bribreez's reviews
672 reviews

The Kiss Lottery by Ilsa Madden-Mills

funny hopeful lighthearted 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? Yes

4.0

4⭐️/ 1🌶️

*Thank you to Greys Promotions and Ilsa Madden-Mills for providing me with an ARC to this story, greatly appreciated and love you Ilsa!

In Ilsa Madden-Mill’s newest release, it’s a spicy novella centered around the Valentine’s Day, but with a twist! In the small town of Rose, Tennessee, there is the kiss lottery which is essentially a match making game where couples are paired up. For Everly Davis, coming back to Rose was filled with some nerves in seeing familiar faces, but mostly one bringing back memories of the past. Beckett Whitfield had always lived in Rose, now a well known thriller author he spent his time writing his books, but also still thought about the girl from his childhood and the friendship they shared, until things went downhill in high school. Now, with the kiss lottery once again taking place, Everly received an invitation to come back to town for it by a mysterious admirer. With the small town vibes, a mystery admirer who sends gifts and letters to the FMC, grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity, and more, this was the perfect novella to read.

This was the perfect novella to read especially with Valentine’s Day coming up. Whether you’re looking for a story that’s short and sweet or a little lighthearted romance, this novella is perfect for that occasion. With Beckett and Everly having a long held history of once being close friends to years in between they didn’t speak to now speaking to one another, this novella illustrated the strong connection they had. I liked the way the novella was set up in which it combined the tradition of the kiss lottery (*which was a cute thing to include in the story) as well as the characters themselves. Ilsa wrote Everly and Beckett’s characters perfectly in a way that left me wanting more of them and honestly part of me wouldn’t have minded if the story was a bit longer so I could have gotten to know more about Everly and Beckett. Everly and Beckett were great main characters and I liked seeing them reconnect after so many years apart. Beckett was the man whose feelings for Everly never went away despite his initial reaction when they were in high school. If you love a MMC who’s secretly had feelings for his friend and reconnects with her, and anonymously sends her gifs, you’ll like Beckett in this book.  

Overall, I thought the book was cute, sweet, had a tiny bit of spice, lighthearted characters, and humor. Ilsa Madden-Mills also managed to write a novella that surprisingly made me wish it was a bit longer so I had more time with the characters. This type of novella was perfect to read with the Valentine’s Day theme being sprinkled throughout the story, and it was a straightforward plot line. I can never go wrong with a book written by Ilsa Madden-Mills, she just knows how to write romances that are fun, have some depth, lovable characters, and interesting storylines. I would recommend this book to read this upcoming Valentine’s Day, and if you’re in the mood for a short and quick novella. 

Beg, Borrow, or Steal by Sarah Adams

funny hopeful lighthearted reflective 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? Yes

4.0

4⭐️

Back in Rome, Kentucky, the Walker siblings once again bringing warmth and comfort from their stories, but this time focusing on the eldest sister, Emily Walker. Emily was the one who always took matters into her own hands. In some ways, due to Emily’s strict rules and taking on many responsibilities, some if not most people in town saw her as cold. Emily was just someone who liked to take control of things that she saw needed fixing. When it came to work as a second grade teacher, Emily loved her job, but it also brought her face to face with her longtime nemesis, Jackson Bennett. Jackson or more called as, Jack, was the perfect gentleman, well loved by others, and an amazing teacher, except his nemesis, Emily had never liked him ever since they were in college together. Once again in the small town of, Rome, Kentucky, Sarah Adams writes a dislike to love romance between two nemesis’s who are also kind of feuding second grade teachers with the occasional prank, fun loving characters, a handsome glasses wearing MMC who secretly wants his nemesis in a way the reveals such long held feelings. 

I was in the mood for an easy going romance with that had a bit of depth, humor, loving characters, and that’s exactly what I got with this book. Admittedly, in the beginning it took me a bit to really get into the mindset of both Emily and Jack, but after a while I started to feel more comfortable with them. Like any book, it takes a bit to get into the groove of the story, but little by little I found myself enjoying parts of the story and Emily and Jack as well. I felt like Emily was a bit misunderstood in the way she approached things, and people saw her controlling tendencies as being superior to others when that wasn’t the truth. Jack on the other hand was clearly loved by everyone (except for Emily) but he also had his own personal issues he kept hidden namely those involving his family background. Both, Emily and Jack took a bit of time for me to get to know, but once I got past the beginning half, and moved into the middle portion of the story, I started to like them a bit more and really liked their dynamic/ banter. 

This was a cute, sweet book and Sarah Adams illustrated Emily and Jack’s story going from nemesis’s to friends to lovers. While through out the years those two didn’t like each other, I wouldn’t necessarily classify this story as, “enemies to lovers”, so it’s more appropriate to say nemesis’s since they actually referred to each other as that. While I enjoyed aspects of this story, I do think that maybe this fell under the, “right book, wrong time” type of category. Not sure if it was just me that I wasn’t fully connected or maybe I’m nearing a reading slump, but I wasn’t as enthusiastic as I had hoped before reading. Regardless of the slight bump in how I felt after reading this book, I still think it was a good story with lovable characters and of course, it was great seeing familiar faces such as, Annie, Will, Amelia, and Noah! I have a feeling maybeeee this series will continue with Madison (Emily’s sister) and James (Noah’s best friend) since there were some hints surrounding them throughout this book. From seeing Jack and Emily go from nemesis in college to being teachers at the same school, there was always that underlying feeling that they shared an attraction and understanding for each other.  I would like to read this book again at another time when I’m in the right headspace and hopefully I’ll be obsessed with Jack and Emily as I had originally hoped. Big takeaways from this book was that it was cute, sweet, loved the banter, seeing the open communication between Emily and Jack and of course, the romance that grew over the course of this book. 

Delicate Escape by Catherine Cowles

emotional funny hopeful 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

4.5

4.5⭐️/ 3🌶️

Second book in the, “Sparrow Falls” series, and Catherine Cowles once again had me hooked right from the beginning! One thing you should expect within this series and I’m assuming other books in Catherine’s stories is, the elements of suspense and mystery. I personally love when a story has that extra oomph and danger lurking in the background, makes the reading experience a bit more exciting. This story followed, Thea and Shepard as the two went from acquaintances to roommates to lovers! If you read the first book, “Fragile Sanctuary”, you’ll have gotten glimpses of Thea and Shep. This time around, we got to learn the nitty gritty of Thea’s backstory and why she was always distance and wary of others. Shep always being the golden boy of town and being the white knight always helped others, but felt a pull towards the quiet yet prickly woman who his sister was friends with. This story had, romantic suspense, mystery, best friend’s brother, forced proximity, roommates, found family, and an overprotective MMC. Catherine Cowles is quickly becoming an author I’m enjoying reading! 

As a newbie reading Catherine’s books, I’m quickly realizing just how much I love a romance with a twist on it. Sure with each book it kind of follows the same formula of the FMC being in some kind of danger and the MMC coming in to save her, but regardless each story has its own interesting take on it. Following the first book, Shep was still reeling from the fall out that occurred with the stalker Rhodes had and how it connected to Anson’s past as a former FBI profiler. Shep was someone who was use to taking care of others, and helping, but felt like when one of his family members needed him he failed them. Shep wasn’t responsible for what happened to Rhodes, but couldn’t help feeling guilt over having worked with the unsub right before him without knowing. For Thea, she was definitely struggling to find her inner peace and happiness due to the fact of always living in fear of someone from her past finding her and causing her more harm like before. With Thea having been in Sparrow Falls for two years, she wasn’t exactly close with others, but gradually started to open up especially once she started getting to know Shep. Both, Shep and Thea had their own obstacles they had to overcome, but as luck would have it they formed a lovely connection together that strengthened their bond and allowed them to feel safe enough to share their fears, vulnerabilities, etc. 

Wow, clearly I’ve become a fan of Catherine Cowles’s because, I’VE BEEN ENJOYING THIS SERIES SO FAR! I remember hearing about this series through a YouTube video and decided to give it a shot since the tropes from the last book intrigued me, and needless to say from the first book and this second one, I’VE BEEN EATING THEM UP!!!! This book (as well as the first) had the perfect amount of romance, suspense, mystery, danger, found family, and lovable characters. Seeing glimpses of Shep and Thea in the previous book gave me a tiny idea of how they were, but this story really expanded on all things about them. Thea was initially so wary and quiet around others, and couldn’t feel safe in truly opening up to others. Shep was the golden boy in town who always helped others, and upon meeting Thea was intrigued by her not immediately falling head over heels for him like other women he had met/dated previously. Thea and Shep were a good couple together because, they not only opened up to each other, but they also helped each other grow and lifted each other up in times of darkness, and supporting each other too. I like how with the two books in this series, Catherine has written good plot twists/ reveals that even as I read along, I’m always surprised at who ends up being the “bad guy” or other grand reveal that adds another layer of suspense to the story. Definitely love Catherine’s writing and how she continues to keep me hooked and immersed in her stories. I’m really excited to see how the rest of the series plays out, and this is the type of series I wanna take my time with because, I don’t want it to end! Loved seeing more of the found family in this book, and seeing Anson and Rhodes again! Thea was embraced by Shep’s family and I felt the love! (Sigh) another great book, and I loved it! 

Fragile Sanctuary by Catherine Cowles

dark emotional funny hopeful mysterious sad 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

4.5

4.5⭐️/ 3🌶️

A first time reader of Catherine Cowles and what better way to start my reading journey of her books than to start with this story. A grumpy former FBI profiler MMC, a woman who experienced a traumatic event at a young girl age, set in a small town, found family, and a bit of suspense…SIGN ME UP! Catherine Cowles’s story, “Fragile Sanctuary”, followed, Rhodes and Anson as the two meet while reconstructing Rhode’s childhood home years later. Now, twenty-seven years old, Rhodes was ready to fix up her former home after many years had passed when a horrible fire broke out and unfortunately lost her family in the midst of it. Coming to terms with the loss of her family was something that Rhodes would never forget, but thankfully found a new home with her best friend, and their adopted siblings. Anson was a grumpy MMC who didn’t like socializing with others, and had a mysterious past that played into his observant behavior and keen sense of purpose. Anson and Rhodes were from different upbringings, and yet, they both shared the knowledge and experience of having lost someone precious to them. As a big fan of small town romances, Catherine had me intrigued right from the beginning with the element of suspense, mystery, and danger against the backdrop of the town, Sparrow Falls. 

As far as this being my first book to read by, Catherine Cowles, I really enjoyed it! I love a romance book, but adding the occasional twist to it like for instance an element of suspense and mystery, and I’m all for it. From the beginning, getting to learn about  Rhodes’s past was sad, but also gave more insight as to how her past affected her present day life. As Rhodes tried to move forward in her life, especially with the reconstruction of her Victorian childhood home, it meant a lot of memories were brought up, and the memories of her family. Rhodes’s story wasn’t one that was simply happy, it also had elements of grief, loss, and trying to work through her anxiety that surfaced occasionally when remembering her past. With Anson, he was also someone that had been a devastating loss in his life, and that changed him into the distant, grumpy man we saw in this story. In some ways, both Anson and Rhodes were no stranger to feeling loss and sadness, but through them being near each other (*Anson helped with the reconstruction and was Rhodes’s brother’s best friend) and gradually spending more time together, a deep connection was formed that I really liked.

Overall, this was both a great start to this series, and cemented my adoration for Catherine Cowles stories. Rhodes and Anson were no strangers to tragedy, but throughout the book illustrated some of the changes they experienced along the way. Rhodes was trying to rebuild her home, and bring a sense of peace from it. I really liked both Rhodes and Anson, they were a perfect match and really gave off great tension as well. I think if you’re a fan of romantic suspense books or looking to jump into Catherine Cowles for the first time or wanting an interesting plot line, then this is the book to read. I love a protective, grumpy MMC and that was exactly how Anson was. In the end, the big reveal of who was basically the bad guy was someone I didn’t even consider to be! Looks can be deceiving! Anyways, great book to start off and Catherine Cowles has convinced to get the second book and read it right away! 

Bridesmaid Undercover by Meghan Quinn

funny hopeful lighthearted 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

4.25

4.25⭐️/ 3🌶️

The wedding business is a busy one that entails many steps before the big day, but luckily having a Bridesmaid for hire can help make the process run smoothly. Everly Plum was equally organized, and determined to make someone’s wedding a dream come true alongside her boss, Maggie, whom you might remember from the first book, “Bridesmaid for Hire”. Everly loved her job, and the ideas she came up with, but for all her growing success the only thing she had felt missing was, love. Hardy Hudson was a successful businessman, basically a billionaire, and a perfectly packaged man that any woman would want! With Hardy’s best friends getting married, and everyone around him settling down, he felt like maybe he should give it another try with his ex girlfriend, a.k.a. The maid of honor. With Hardy wanting to figure out and wanting a second chance with his ex, he asked Everly to not only help out with the wedding, but also help him win over his ex. A bit of shenanigans in true Meghan Quinn fashion, romance, lovable characters, and two characters finding love in the most unexpected way, this was a fun, and entertaining book to read. 

The first book in this series was an ok book for me so, going into this book I just hoped it would be better which it actually ended up being. I really love how whenever I read a book by Meghan Quinn, I’m always immediately honed in on the story, and following along like I can see it all vividly in my mind. Everly and Hardy were great characters from the start, and it wasn’t a dull moment. 

Everly was looking for love, but it was a bit difficult between the disastrous blind date her sister set her up on to still having a long held crush for the hunky billionaire, Hardy. There was a tiny bit of hinting at Everly having a crush on Hardy in the first book, and even in this story it was still clear she had feelings for him. Even while reading I found myself thinking, “maybe Hardy will realize that he too wants to make things official with Everly”. Instead, Everly got the shock of her life when Hardy asked her to help him win back his ex, or more like go undercover and help him figure out if there was still hope for rekindling that romance. Not going to lie, I felt a bit of pain for Everly because, she went ahead and HELPED HIM. Just goes to show that for Everly she was willing to do anything for Hardy, even if that meant helping him get with someone that wasn’t her. 

Hardy Hooper was an interesting character who I immediately liked! Compared to other billionaires, Hardy was one who much preferred an easy going life and casual attire. When he want wearing suits at the office, Hardy enjoyed his time at his farm where he helps grow the almonds used for Hooper’s Almonds, his business. Now, for Hardy, his biggest thing in this book was trying to find his person to settle down with, and who better to try that with than with the girl he dated in college! Things weren’t easy for Hardy as his ex girlfriend, Maple, apparently wanted nothing to do with him, which made things a bit more difficult for Hardy. Thankfully, Hardy had Everly to help him out. Again, Everly had a major crush on Hardy, and yet she still helped him with his romantic dilemma, (sigh) oh Everly you were so kind to do that for Hardy, but Lowkey I saw the pain you experienced seeing the man you wanted with his ex. 

Ok so, this book gave me the lighthearted feels, humor, and easy fun loving vibes I usually get whenever I read Meghan Quinn’s books. Compared to the first one, I enjoyed Hardy and Everly’s story more. Even though I liked this story more than the first, there was still a tiny thing I didn’t like. The only issue I had was when Hardy was back and forth on wanting to be with Everly. Once Hardy realized that Everly was the woman he actually had feelings for, he went about trying to explain to Everly how much he wanted her, but at the same time couldn’t be with her because of her being his sister, Haisley’s employee and what not. For a smart man, Hardy kind of got himself in a sticky situation that resulted in a bit of a mess with Everly. Nonetheless, Everly and Hardy were able to resolve their issues, and FINALLY got together as they were meant to be! Aside from that minor issue, I liked both Hardy and Everly, those two had great chemistry, funny banter, had a good dynamic of going from acquaintances to friends to lovers. I liked seeing Hardy be the fumbling mess this time around haha. Everly was lovely, composed, and a kind person. Seeing other characters from other series such as, the Cane brothers was a happy and well loved moment to see them again. Also, JP Cane trying to save the pigeons, and now flamingos?! Hahaha oh JP. Anyways, good follow up story in this series, and with the little sprinkles of Hudson (Hardy’s brother) it’s clear that the next book will center on him and a certain someone’s LITTLE SISTER! A good book to read and Meghan Quinn always makes me smile. 

June First by Jennifer Hartmann

dark emotional hopeful reflective sad 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

4.5

*Check trigger warnings before reading.

4.5⭐️/ 3-4🌶️

Jennifer Hartman always writes such intriguing, unique, and dare I say sometimes taboo stories that just work? Well, in this story it was one that definitely had a taboo element, but never fear it’s not what you might think it is. This story followed, Brant as one night changed their direction of his life entirely, and how he became part of the Bailey’s family, as well as a big part of June Bailey’s life. In true Jennifer Hartman style, she wrote this story with emotional depth, sadness, and the occasional brightness that emanated from Brant and June’s lives through out the years. Definitely a book I had been wanting to read for quite some time, and as per usual, Jennifer didn’t disappoint with her amazing writing and captivating storytelling.

First and foremost, this story is a taboo romance between foster siblings. No, the characters are not blood related therefore it’s not incest, they are just referred to as siblings since, Brant was adopted by June’s family when he was a kid. Brant joined the Bailey family after the horrific death’s of his parents, and had nowhere else to go. Luckily, Brant’s best friend’s family adopted him as one of their own, and was fully embraced as part of the family. Even when Brant was adopted, he just saw his best friend, Theo the same way, and never saw June as his sister, just someone who he cared deeply about and swore to always protect. I can see why some people had issues with this book, but I honestly had no issue while reading this book. If you’re not a fan of taboo romances then, this book won’t be for you. Just wanted to clear that up before people start saying this is an entirely different story that actually isn’t. 

Anyways, I really loved the way the story was set up. From the beginning, middle, and end, this story spanned over the years as Brant was six years old experiencing a traumatic tragedy, June being the newest addition to the Bailey family, and Brant becoming a part of a new family who loved him just as much as if he were their own. Seeing Brant’s life change overnight was crazy to me, especially reading what he experienced at a young age, it’s no surprise why he was so shocked by the events that occurred. Reading this book in the different ages of both Brant and June really illustrated them both growing up, as well as seeing their mindset at different points in their lives. As Brant got older, his life started to become more about figuring out his next moves, but also still being one hundred percent supportive of June. For June, seeing her go from the most adorable little baby to a preteen/teenage, to finally a woman really made a difference in seeing June go through different stages of her life. I will say even early on, seeing Brant and June start to form and later have their strong bond was heartwarming to see, especially as June was two years old, and Brant being so sweet and endearing with June. 

I should have known that Jennifer Hartman was going to emotional crush me with this book, and yet I shockingly wasn’t prepared for the water works that occurred when reading this story. In true Jennifer Hartman style, the middle half of the story took a turn in which something devastating happened, and it involved a character I didn’t expect to have such a visceral response to. The way my heart broke reading that specific chapter, and seeing the other characters reactions was heartbreaking and sad. Dang, Jennifer really knows how to make me cry! (Sigh) goes to show that even in the midst of June and Brant’s story, there was still other aspects that played into this emotional driven story. 

I KNEW going into this book it was going to be centered around foster siblings, and yet, I was still a bit unsure of when things started to switch into the romance part of this story. I think the way Jennifer wrote this book illustrated the initial guilt, shame, and distance Brant had when he started to realize his feelings for June weren’t the ones he should have been having for someone who was basically considered his family. *AGAIN THEY WERE NOT BLOOD RELATED! Even June came to the realization that the man she considered her brother was someone she secretly knew she shouldn’t be viewing as someone in a romantic way. The taboo element of the story was a gradual build up, a slow burn in a way that really honed in on both June and Brant fighting against their feelings for each other, but also wishing they could be more. 

Wow, this story really surprised me, and it was good. I will say that, this type of book may not be for everyone and that’s ok. I have read some taboo romances before, but never one that had this specific storyline of being foster siblings/ adopted siblings. I’ll admit, when things started to get romantic between Brant and June, I was a bit conflicted for certain reasons. Even when things started to take a turn when Brant and June were discovered being together, it was a bit of a mess and shock while reading. Just like any Jennifer Hartman book, she knows how to write captivating, emotionally stories, and oh boy did Jennifer wreck me during the middle portion of this book! I’m talking ugly sobbing, and feeling heartbroken! For me to cry, goes to show that I had a visceral reaction to the writing and characters in this book. Even towards the ending, and epilogue I found myself getting choked up over the beautiful ending Brant and June finally got. Through the ups and downs of life from losing loved ones, experiencing a forbidden love, and trying to navigate life itself, June and Brant fought to be together, and finally managed to get to a place where they were both ready to be together without losing sight of themselves. Jennifer wrote a taboo romance that was emotional, but also took into account the things that even the people in Brant and June’s lives weren’t automatically in favor of them being together, but it was more of a gradual progression that they learned to accept. Still not one hundred percent sure if I was a fan of the romance, but there were some aspects I liked about it. As a whole, I liked the emotional connection I experienced while reading, seeing the inner turmoil Brant experienced in trying to avoid falling further for June, and seeing June spreading her wings of independence. The ending and epilogue were written beautifully to end off Brant and June’s story together, sentimental and heartfelt that included the other characters too. 

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Death, Sexual content, and Death of parent

The Wrong Heart by Jennifer Hartmann

dark emotional hopeful reflective sad tense 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? Yes

5.0

5⭐️/ 3-4🌶️

*Check Trigger warnings before reading.

Been a while since I’ve read a book by, Jennifer Hartman, and I’m glad I picked up this book by her. Not only was it nice to read a story written by, Jennifer, but it was also an interesting storyline involving the loss of a loved one, but with a twist. When she lost the love of her life, Melody lost a part of herself, lost that sunshine aura she always had around her. After the tragic death of her husband, Melody dealt with grief, sadness, and a darkness that led to her life almost ending. At a counseling support group, Melody went after her attempt to end her life, and there she met, Parker. Parker was a grumpy, rude, reserved man who didn’t like people, and didn’t participate at all in the group sessions, but only went for the sake of his foster sister. Both, Parker and Melody had faced something dark in their lives, but somehow felt a gravitational pull towards one another. This story was emotional, sad, heavy, and by no means a lighthearted romance. Jennifer Hartman wrote a unique story that hit the heartbreaking moments in both Melody and Parker’s story. 

From beginning, middle, and end, this story had me hooked and literally getting that five star feeling while I read! Parker and Melody were two different people, from different backgrounds, and the opposites of each other, and yet they shared a deep connection that grew more intimate and significant over the course of this book. Melody and Parker met under unique circumstances, but unbeknownst to them in the beginning half was that, Parker was the recipient of Melody’s husband heart after he died. Melody and Parker were pen pals of sorts after Melody sent Parker a message wanting to talk to him. Keeping things private and not disclosing personal information, Melody and Parker’s messages were anonymous, and little by little started finding a sense of joy in talking to each other. Ironically enough, Melody and Parker were in the same support group and were face to face with each other without realizing they were each other’s anonymous pen pals! Needless to say, between the messaging, and being in the same support group, Parker and Melody started to form a unique connection in person as well. 

I love the grumpy/sunshine trope, and the way Jennifer Hartman writes it just hits the spot in a way that I don’t mind when the male leads are being a bit too rude lol. What I mean by that is, Parker wasn’t always the nicest…ahem well he wasn’t all sunshine and kindness to most, and preferred his solitude compared to being surrounded by people and talking to them. The beginning half of the book showed Parker being distance, grumpy, basically being a bit of an A-hole to others including, Melody. Even as Melody was dealing with her grief, and the aftermath of suicide attempt(s) she still tried to befriend Parker despite his surly and rude behavior. Parker had his own issues that went back as far as his childhood and when it was revealed in his chapters what he went through, it made me empathize with his character and realize he wasn’t rude just for the sake of it, it was more so a sense of protection from others. I would say that don’t be quick to judge Parker was a mean, stand-offish character, just remember that he had his reasoning for acting and responding the way that he did. Once I got to learn more about Parker’s backstory, I could understand how his past affected his connection with Melody. As much as Parker was a grump, there were moments that endeared me to him, and I wanted to hug him and let him know he was safe. (Sigh) I loved him even with all his grumpiness and loved seeing him unravel over Melody. 

Melody was also a character I really loved through out this book. Melody was always known as being a sunshine person who smiled a lot, and her personality naturally attracted others to her, but with the tragic loss of her husband, her brightness dimmed. Through grief, and her darkness points of almost leaving the world, Melody went on a journey of finding herself in the new world she was in as a widow. Obviously grief isn’t something that happens over night, and while Melody made small strides to go about living her life, she would occasionally still think of her husband, and the plans they had for their future. The one thing that I wasn’t expecting but was an interesting concept to this book was the whole messaging her husband’s heart recipient. Sounds a bit unusual and maybe not the best idea when trying to move on, but it turned out to be something more when it made Melody feel excited when messaging back and forth with her anonymous friend. 

This story took a turn I was not expecting AT ALL! I was minding my own business when out of nowhere a plot twist happened and I suddenly remembered why some people were flabbergasted when they read this book! In some ways, I can see the dramatic appeal with the plot twist and ironically enough it kind of plays into the whole concept of the title, but I wasn’t sure how I felt afterwards when I read it. Regardless, I still very much loved the characters, their stories, and how the romance occurred.

Overall, this was an emotionally packed romance that was unique, immersive, heartbreaking, and ultimately worth the read. Melody and Parker were interesting characters whose journeys over the course of this book changed and grew with the things they experienced and moved forward in their lives. Parker was a man who initially wasn’t the nicest of people, but his backstory revealed a lot about why the way he was, and it really made me feel protective and endeared to him. Melody was a sunshine, even when she momentarily lost her shine, she managed to find a new way to happiness, and moving forward in her life after the loss of her husband. Parker and Melody’s romance was emotionally charged, tension filled, and healing. I genuinely felt like Parker and Melody together were perfect even with all the bumps they faced along the way. Now, would I say I was a fan of the plot twist?…mmm…ummm…not entirely but I could kind of see the appeal for others. As a whole, I was more happy once things settled down, and ultimately Parker and Melody got their happily ever after together. The ending and epilogue really illustrated a happy beginning and future in Parker and Melody’s lives as they enjoyed their marriage, children, and family and friends around them. Also, the EPILOGUE WAS SO EMOTIONAL AND SENTIMENTAL AND UGH I HAD TO HOLD BACK MY SOBS BECAUSE IT WAS BEAUTIFULLY WRITTEN! I really enjoyed this book, and loved Parker and Melody. I couldn’t not give this book five stars, even with my initial mixed feelings on the plot twist, I still adored this book, and it deserves the five stars for bringing Parker and Melody to life within these pages.

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Death, Sexual content, Suicidal thoughts, and Suicide attempt

A Kingdom of Blood and Betrayal by Holly Renee

adventurous emotional hopeful tense fast-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? Yes

4.25

*Check content warnings before reading.

4.25⭐️/ 3-4🌶️

I’m going to keep this review short and simple (never thought I’d write that, but oh well). This book started off with the continuation of the cliffhanger from the first book, and very much saw Adara coming to terms with her feelings for Evren, but also feeling conflicted about the truths she was exposed to. In the first book, Adara fought against the reality her life was going to be with Gavril, but also the growing connection with Evren. Evren and Adara’s connection came to fruition especially with the grand reveal of the two of them being mates. If you love the fated mates trope, then you’ll enjoy that trope in this series. Throughout this book, I got to see the Blood Court and much like Adara, I was surprised by how beautiful and not desolate and dark as I originally imagined. Evren was loved by his court and its citizens and it extended to Adara when she arrived. I especially liked seeing Adara learn to control her new found powers, train alongside Thalia and Sorin. Meeting new characters was nice and gave a bit more insight into those close friends that Evren had. 

While this book was good, I will say I did feel like there was a bit back and forth between Adara being mad at Evren and then almost making up to then return to being angry at him. I’m not saying Adara didn’t have the right to feel angry over the events that transpired, but at times it did seem overdone when things could have progressed even more in the romance department. That being said, when it came to the romance, things definitely progressed and hey, the spice was always a nice added touch. When Adara finally made up with Evren and accepted being his mate, was when I started feeling hopeful for the two of them. Although, famous last words for me since, just as things seemed to be settling down, Adara and Evren were smacked with the message of Gavriel coming to the Blood court for Adara. As if things weren’t bad enough, the plot twist at the end of this book showed Adara finding out the long held secret of someone she never knew was STILL ALIVE! Ahhh! Needless to say, there was another cliffhanger and I needed answers pronto! Compared to the first book, this was still a good book but at certain points it left me wanting more. I’m still going to continue this series, just might take a small mini break in between. As a whole, I would still say this series is a great choice when wanting to read a fantasy romance, but not with the whole long series feeling that other books have. A fast paced, fantasy romance with magic, some politics, and a spicy romance between mates, and ta-da a good story to read! 

A Kingdom of Stars and Shadows by Holly Renee

adventurous dark hopeful mysterious fast-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? Yes

4.5

*Check content warnings before reading.

4.5⭐️/ 3-4🌶️ 

She was meant for greatness, a future in which she played a significant role for the far royalty because, she wasn’t just a young woman who was betrothed to the prince, she was Starblessed, and her name was, Adara. Adara had now from a young age that she was going to marry the fae prince because, with her being Starblessed, it was foretold that the blood running through her veins would give the prince stronger powers than the ones he possessed. The day finally came when Adara was taken from her home and thrusted into the palace of her soon to be husband and his family…as well as his brother, Evren, whom Adara couldn’t stop thinking about. Holly Renee wrote a fast paced, tension filled romance with a unique plot line that really made this fantasy romance entertaining and enjoyable to read from beginning to end. 

I have been eyeing this book for quite some time and I finally read it! Adara and Evren’s story was a unique one that had the fantasy elements, magic, royalty, fae, vampires, and a romance that absolutely oozed TENSION! Evren was the perfect male lead/ love interest foe Adara with his strong powerful aura, but also a man who very much said, “hurt her and I will hunt you down, and unalive you,” vibes. 

My understanding of the plot was that, Adara was, “Starblessed”, which meant that she had magic coursing through her blood, and stars marked on her body as a physical manifestation of said power. Apparently being Starblessed was a big deal, and for Adara it meant that she was to marry the prince of Citlali, and provide him with her blood for him to grow  more powerful than all the faes. Although, the faes weren’t the only ones after Adara’s powers, it was also the Blood court a.k.a. The vampires that were after it too. Adara’s whole life had basically been planned out for her, and she never truly had a sense of freedom since everyone around her had their own agendas and used her for their own. At every turn, it seemed like everyone wanted to use Adara for their own benefit, but through it all, she managed to find an ally of sorts in the broody, dark, and at times flirtatious captain of the guard, Evren.

Evren and Adara had great chemistry from the beginning! Keep in mind that this story was fast paced, but it never felt rushed in terms of the romance between Adara and Evren. The whole time while I was reading, I could feel the tension emanating between Adara and Evren as well as the passion that kept building. There was never a dull moment while reading and it was hugely in part due to Adara and Evren having such a strong connection. I really enjoyed seeing the romance progress over the course of the story as well as the spice! I genuinely think that with the spice it also had an underlying feeling of trust being built between Adara and Evren as well as the deeper meaning of why they felt such a strong pull towards one another. Evren was the captain of the guard, but throughout each chapter, his resolve to protecting Adara and making it known that no one could hurt her without suffering the consequences was really hot to me! Plus, reading about a man going feral with jealousy or just wanting to make her his is always makes me excited! Adara may have initially being unsure of Evren’s loyalties, but he sure made it clear plenty of times how much he wanted her, and wanted to ensure her safety at all times. (Sigh) Evren was THE MAN! 

You know, funny enough, when it came down to loyalties this book ended on quite the cliffhanger that made Adara’s trust in Evren change with the plot twist she got. This story was fast paced, and had everything you could want in a fantasy romance, but it also had a good plot twist to keep the story going into the next book. I think Evren’s backstory will be explored more in the next book, as well as show how the events that transpired in the ending will have changed the dynamics between Adara and Evren at least for a bit before hopefully the two of them make up. There’s also the fact of dealing with Gavril and the rest of the fae court so, potentially there might be a war or some type of battle that will break out in the next book. Overall, this was a good start to the series, and it was the perfect fantasy book for me to read! If you’re looking for a fantasy romance that is too long, is fast paced, has romance, spice, a male lead that will unalive and protect his love interest, have passion, tension, and a plot twist, then I would highly recommend this book! 

Under Loch and Key by Lana Ferguson

funny hopeful lighthearted mysterious 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

4.25

4.25⭐️/ 3-4🌶️

Lana Ferguson is one of my all time favorite authors, and once again I couldn’t wait to get my hands on her newest release! This paranormal romance was set in Scotland where, Keyanna “Key” Mackay went to visit family on her father’s side to get to know them and all things related to her father. Key knew that things weren’t going to be easy when seeking out her grandparents, and it wasn’t made any easier with the grumpy yet extremely attractive farmhand who worked on her grandparents home by the name of, Lachlan. Lachlan had his own reasonings for working on the Mackay farm, and it seemed that even the grumpy Scot was hiding even more secrets than anyone could have imagined. Lana Ferguson wrote the type of paranormal romance that oozed with her sense of humor, banter, charm, and the kind of romance that was unique, and entertaining the whole way through. Never in my mind did I ever imagine reading this type of paranormal romance, but alas, anything my Queen Lana Ferguson writes, I’m buying and reading it! 

Key was someone who was going through grief, a spontaneous trip that involved meeting her grandparents, and discovering a hidden secret that she literally didn’t see coming. Within the first few pages, Key struck me as the type of woman who was trying to connect with the only other family she had left, especially after the loss of her father. I can imagine it took a lot of strength to muster up the courage to seek out her grandparents, and be in a place she didn’t know much about. Thankfully, Key arrived in Scotland fairly well, and met a grumpy Scot’s man who wasn’t the kindest at first. Nonetheless, Key was thrusted into a new kind of journey that wasn’t just focused on her father, but also with the mystery behind the grumpy man who AGAIN was handsome!

I never get tired of reading the type of scenes that introduce the grumpy male lead! Lachlan was grumpy alright, and his first impression of Key resulted in him calling her, “stupid”…yup…I know! Not exactly the kind of romance you’d imagine, but these things take time even in a romance book! Lachlan wasn’t entirely sure what to make of Key at first, but upon hearing what her last name was, and more specifically whose family she was part of, it became a thing that meant more to Lachlan than it did to me. Little by little, it seemed that Lachlan was hissing something, and had ulterior motives for working on the Mackay farm. I had my suspicions about Lachlan, and lo and behold, it was revealed the truth behind Lachlan, and more aptly…WHAT HE WAS! 

If you couldn’t figure it out already from the title, this story was centered on a paranormal romance involving the Loch Ness monster. Yeah, you read that right! LOCH NESS MONSTER! Throughout this book, there’s an element of mystery in which both, Key and Lachlan find themselves teaming up in order to uncover the truth behind the answer they were searching for. Plus, along the way, YOU ALREADY KNOW LANA WAS COOKING UP SOME DELICIOUSLY GOOD TENSION BETWEEN KEY AND LACHLAN! YES! Although in the beginning, Lachlan and Key weren’t each other’s biggest fans, little by little with the close proximity, and working together, those two formed a connection that was so satisfying and entertaining to watch unfold! By the time I got to Key and Lachlan’s first kiss, I was internally cheering and excited for them! All that tension was built up to make it more enjoyable once things started to progress in the romance department. 

Lana, my dear, you wrote a fun, spicy, sweet, and entertaining romance that was unique. Key and Lachlan’s story had a bit of mystery with the answers they were searching for, and their family lineage playing a role in it. Never ever did I imagine to read a story about the Loch Ness monster, but hey! Lana wrote it so I obviously read it and it was entertaining the whole time. I really liked Key and Lachlan, they were great together, had good chemistry and tension. At the beginning of this book, Key and Lachlan were at odds with another one, but managed to then come to an agreement to work together and solve the mystery that Lachlan needed help with in terms of his…predicament. I liked how the story added a few fun surprises with Key’s backstory and how it all connected back to Key and Lachlan’s ancestors. Towards the end of the book, things started to get good from the romance, little twist, and a satisfying ending. All in all, it was a good paranormal romance that hit its mark with it being an enjoyable and entertaining reading experience.