cjeannette's reviews
569 reviews

Good Material by Dolly Alderton

funny sad slow-paced

• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? N/A
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.5

All the cringe moments and intrusive thoughts that happen when navigating a break-up are embodied in this book. I almost DNF’d this book a few times but stuck it out and the end somewhat made up the rest for me.

The main character was annoying and self-absorbed which made me kind of hate him and hating the main character makes a book  so much harder for me to read. 

I won’t say that this book closes with a happy ending or complete closure but I appreciate the evolution that happens in the last few chapters of the book.

The Inheritance of Orquídea Divina by Zoraida Córdova

emotional mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.25

There were hundreds of things Marimar wanted to know. Why is this happening? Why can't we stop it? Why didn't you try to tell me sooner? Who are you? Why do this? What broke your heart so completely that it's splinters found their way through generations.

A beautifully woven story of the love and conflict that can exist in family dynamics. As a Latina woman and daughter of immigrants, this story resonated with me deeply and I enjoyed seeing this story and its characters unfold.

The Happy Ever After Playlist by Abby Jimenez

emotional funny hopeful fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Loveable characters? Yes

4.5

A perfect rom-com for anyone looking to feel all the feels, which is my favorite kind of read. I love that Abby Jimenez delivers a heartwarming, funny, and emotional story that can stand on its own but also gives delightful glimpses into the lives of other characters we know and love. Sloan and Kristen’s friendship had me cackling, reminding me just how powerful and uplifting female friendships can be. A must-read for romance lovers who enjoy humor, heart, and following celebrity gossip. 

Next of Kin by Hannah Bonam-Young

emotional hopeful

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes

3.75

Next of Kin is a heartfelt story that delivers exactly what romance readers crave—a happy ending. While the storyline is a little predictable and a bit cheesy at times, the warmth and charm make up for it. If you're looking for an easy, comforting read with plenty of heart, this one is a great pick!

Velvet Was the Night by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

adventurous dark tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.0

As a longtime fan of Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s writing, I knew I had to pick this one up. Velvet Was the Night is a slow-burning, noir-inspired historical crime novel that transported me to 1970s Mexico, a time in history I wasn’t as familiar with but found fascinating. While the pacing starts slow and the main characters' naivete makes them harder for me to relate to at times, the rich atmosphere and political intrigue kept me engaged. This is a great pick for readers who enjoy historical fiction with a crime/mystery twist.

They Are All Me by Dominique Christina

emotional reflective medium-paced

4.75

Powerful and poignant, They Are All Me remains just as resonant a decade later. Dominique Christina’s poetry is raw, urgent, and deeply moving. I felt the grief and the strength in her words. A stunning testament to resilience and the power of language, this collection has stayed with me long after reading.

Funny Story by Emily Henry

emotional funny hopeful fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes

5.0

Emily Henry does it again! Funny Story is everything I love about her book - laugh-out-loud moments, deep emotional beats, and a romance that sweeps you off your feet. She makes me feel every moment alongside the characters, from their romantic highs to their most cringeworthy lows. This book had me laughing, crying, and completely immersed in its world. Henry’s storytelling is the perfect pick-me-up, delivering a heartfelt, feel-good escape that never disappoints. If you're looking for a book to lift your spirits, this is it!

The Paradise Problem by Christina Lauren

3.75

Christina Lauren delivers an entertaining escape as an everyday girl gets caught up in the glamorous, drama-filled world of the ultra-rich. The romance is charming, the banter is engaging, and the story has all the makings of a classic feel-good read. While it didn’t completely blow me away, it was an enjoyable, breezy book—great for when you’re in the mood for a fun, lighthearted rom-com. Perfect for fans of the fake dating trope. 

The Wishing Game by Meg Shaffer

emotional hopeful mysterious

4.0

Every reader has that one book series that shaped their childhood, and The Wishing Game captures the magic of that experience perfectly. Lucy's journey of seeing her beloved series come to life is both nostalgic and enchanting. With its touch of whimsy and easy, captivating flow, this book was exactly the lighthearted escape I needed. A delightful read for anyone who’s ever dreamed of stepping into the pages of their favorite stories.

Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros

adventurous dark 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? No

5.0

Onyx Storm delivers an unforgettable experience that left me eagerly anticipating what's to come. While the first half had slower pacing, the second half more than made up for it, ramping up the tension and emotional stakes. The rich world-building felt purposeful, laying a strong foundation for future books in the series. I laughed, cried, and sat on the edge of my seat, fully immersed in the twists and turns of the story. A must-read series for fans of gripping and well-crafted romantasy!