duckyreads's reviews
215 reviews

Mobsters in Love, Vol. 1 by Chiyoko Origami

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fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No

3.75

The Shots You Take by Rachel Reid

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emotional reflective medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Rachel Reid knows how to write a contemporary romance! The Shots You Take is a beautiful exploration of grief, relationships, and communication. Since both Riley and Adam are older, retired hockey players, it was refreshing for them to talk through their issues.

Compared to her previous sports romance, this new standalone is more hockey-adjacent. Rachel gives the audience brief glances into her knowledge of hockey, and how athletes are fueled by youth and adrenaline to put their bodies on the line.

The Shots You Take is a heartwarming exploration centering on mental health, friendship, grief, and growth.

Thank you to Carina Adores and NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

Content Warnings

Royal Scoundrel by Iggy Toma, Alexander Cendese, Saxon James

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3.75

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The Other World's Books Depend on the Bean Counter, Vol. 1 by Kazuki Irodori, Yatsuki Wakatsu

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adventurous funny fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot

4.5

A Tropical Rebel Gets the Duke by Adriana Herrera

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adventurous emotional funny hopeful inspiring 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

Adriana Herrera is masterful at crafting a gripping historical romance. A Tropical Rebel Gets the Duke is the best example of fiction narratives mirroring and providing examples of what happens in the real world. Both the Apollo and the Aurora are dynamic characters that are very relatable and have you rooting for their entire relationship. Even greater than the love story, there is so much reassurance for women and the work that we are capable of accomplishing. Strength continues to guide us, but this story is a reminder that we can depend on others and it does not diminish what we can accomplish.

Our merry cast of Leonas continues to be the most supportive friend group. I'm going to miss this entire series, but Adriana will continue to remain an auto-buy author for me!

Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing and NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

Content Warnings