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ekcanales's reviews
17 reviews
Mistakes Were Made by Meryl Wilsner
emotional
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
*ARC copy received in exchange for a review*
Cassie Klein is not good with relationships, she's totally lost when it comes to all of that emotion and vulnerability. As a senior at Keckley College, Cassie is preparing for graduate school at CalTech and leaving her best friends in Virginia behind. One lonely night, Cassie picks up a one-night-stand at a bar, Erin: a gorgeous, confident, and alluring older woman who Cassie can't keep her hands off of. After a night of the best sex ever, the couple parts ways for good... until Cassie meets her best friend's mom on family weekend: ERIN! How will the couple navigate this relationship that is very wrong... but feels so right, especially when they keep finding themselves together again and again?
Mistakes Were Made is such a STUNNING, sexy novel with amazing representation, lovable and 3-dimensional characters, and undeniable sexual tension! Most notably, this novel is a wonderful piece of LGBTQ+ representation, with Cassie, Erin, and their relationship being a very realistic picture of sexuality in a person's life and experiences. There's also strong representation of a variety of racial, cultural, and social backgrounds that other novels often lack.
All of the characters throughout this novel are fully fleshed-out, lovable, and REAL! The motivations behind different characters' actions were always clear, justified, and sensible (even when I didn't really agree with the choices made). Despite their questionable decisions, each character had redeeming qualities that kept me rooting for them all the time. Cassie is strong and independent, yet struggles emotionally. Erin is successful and hardworking, but worries too much about what she SHOULD do. The one character I didn't enjoy was Parker, Erin's daughter and Cassie's best friend. She often acts spoiled and immature, pouting when things don't go her way and ghosting instead of talking about her problems. But overall, the characters are well-rounded and authentic in a way that let me really connect and empathize with them.
This is one HOT book, probably the sexiest one I've personally read. I love a spice in my reading, but at times it felt a little excessive, repetitive, and unrealistic at times. Like the whole plot stops for a sex scene, which could really take me out of the story. But the spicy scenes were extremely well-written and engaging, I thoroughly enjoyed them.
My biggest issue with Mistakes Were Made is the pacing. Through the first half of the book, I could NOT put it down! I absolutely raced through, reading whenever possible to follow the story. But, the middle of the book really slowed down and it got very difficult to engage with. It almost felt like I was trudging through the pages, struggling to continue reading.
TLDR: Mistakes Were Made is a very SPICY book with well-rounded, relatable characters with clear motivations. There is amazing representation for LGBTQ+ and other communities. But the pacing is inconsistent and can get very slow near the middle.
Cassie Klein is not good with relationships, she's totally lost when it comes to all of that emotion and vulnerability. As a senior at Keckley College, Cassie is preparing for graduate school at CalTech and leaving her best friends in Virginia behind. One lonely night, Cassie picks up a one-night-stand at a bar, Erin: a gorgeous, confident, and alluring older woman who Cassie can't keep her hands off of. After a night of the best sex ever, the couple parts ways for good... until Cassie meets her best friend's mom on family weekend: ERIN! How will the couple navigate this relationship that is very wrong... but feels so right, especially when they keep finding themselves together again and again?
Mistakes Were Made is such a STUNNING, sexy novel with amazing representation, lovable and 3-dimensional characters, and undeniable sexual tension! Most notably, this novel is a wonderful piece of LGBTQ+ representation, with Cassie, Erin, and their relationship being a very realistic picture of sexuality in a person's life and experiences. There's also strong representation of a variety of racial, cultural, and social backgrounds that other novels often lack.
All of the characters throughout this novel are fully fleshed-out, lovable, and REAL! The motivations behind different characters' actions were always clear, justified, and sensible (even when I didn't really agree with the choices made). Despite their questionable decisions, each character had redeeming qualities that kept me rooting for them all the time. Cassie is strong and independent, yet struggles emotionally. Erin is successful and hardworking, but worries too much about what she SHOULD do. The one character I didn't enjoy was Parker, Erin's daughter and Cassie's best friend. She often acts spoiled and immature, pouting when things don't go her way and ghosting instead of talking about her problems. But overall, the characters are well-rounded and authentic in a way that let me really connect and empathize with them.
This is one HOT book, probably the sexiest one I've personally read. I love a spice in my reading, but at times it felt a little excessive, repetitive, and unrealistic at times. Like the whole plot stops for a sex scene, which could really take me out of the story. But the spicy scenes were extremely well-written and engaging, I thoroughly enjoyed them.
My biggest issue with Mistakes Were Made is the pacing. Through the first half of the book, I could NOT put it down! I absolutely raced through, reading whenever possible to follow the story. But, the middle of the book really slowed down and it got very difficult to engage with. It almost felt like I was trudging through the pages, struggling to continue reading.
TLDR: Mistakes Were Made is a very SPICY book with well-rounded, relatable characters with clear motivations. There is amazing representation for LGBTQ+ and other communities. But the pacing is inconsistent and can get very slow near the middle.
Book Lovers by Emily Henry
adventurous
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Wow! Emily Henry does it again with a fantastic, poignant novel about family, responsibility, finding yourself, and love (of course)!
To Nora Stephens, a devoted NYC literary agent, there's a divide forming between her and her beloved sister Libby. So, when the opportunity for them to take a trip to Sunshine Falls, North Carolina together arises, Nora dives in headfirst, doing whatever she can to mend their bond and save their sisterhood. But she quickly gets sidetracked when she stumbles upon Charlie Lastra, a brooding editor Nora's worked with before, in this small town and he becomes inescapable. Will Nora be able to balance her work and personal lives, all while trying to figure out what's going on with Libby?
This is EASILY Henry's best novel yet (although Beach Read is a close second for me)! I absolutely adore all of the characters because they're so carefully crafted with a combination of lovable traits and flaws that create full-bodied, relatable people that jump off the page. Nora's selfless need to support her little sister evens out her endless dedication to work. Charlie's cold exterior hides a softie on the inside. Overall, each character grew and developed over the course of the novel as they work to open up, be vulnerable, and tell the truth.
The romance between Nora and Charlie is sweet and spicy and complicated in all of the best ways. I love the tension and will they, won't they dynamic that's complicated because they work together. I absolutely adore how they interact and flirt throughout the novel, as the tension and desire builds.
But, more than anything, I LOVE the sisterly relationship between Nora and Libby, how they bonded since they were young and grew through difficult childhoods together. I couldn't wait to learn more about their past together and see how it influenced both of them in the present. Their relationship warmed my heart and I loved it SO MUCH!
All in all, I cannot recommend this book enough, it was an absolute TREAT of a read and I'm sad it's over.
To Nora Stephens, a devoted NYC literary agent, there's a divide forming between her and her beloved sister Libby. So, when the opportunity for them to take a trip to Sunshine Falls, North Carolina together arises, Nora dives in headfirst, doing whatever she can to mend their bond and save their sisterhood. But she quickly gets sidetracked when she stumbles upon Charlie Lastra, a brooding editor Nora's worked with before, in this small town and he becomes inescapable. Will Nora be able to balance her work and personal lives, all while trying to figure out what's going on with Libby?
This is EASILY Henry's best novel yet (although Beach Read is a close second for me)! I absolutely adore all of the characters because they're so carefully crafted with a combination of lovable traits and flaws that create full-bodied, relatable people that jump off the page. Nora's selfless need to support her little sister evens out her endless dedication to work. Charlie's cold exterior hides a softie on the inside. Overall, each character grew and developed over the course of the novel as they work to open up, be vulnerable, and tell the truth.
The romance between Nora and Charlie is sweet and spicy and complicated in all of the best ways. I love the tension and will they, won't they dynamic that's complicated because they work together. I absolutely adore how they interact and flirt throughout the novel, as the tension and desire builds.
But, more than anything, I LOVE the sisterly relationship between Nora and Libby, how they bonded since they were young and grew through difficult childhoods together. I couldn't wait to learn more about their past together and see how it influenced both of them in the present. Their relationship warmed my heart and I loved it SO MUCH!
All in all, I cannot recommend this book enough, it was an absolute TREAT of a read and I'm sad it's over.
One of Us Is Next by Karen M. McManus
adventurous
challenging
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
4.25
In the wake of Simon Kelleher's death, Bayview High is still reeling, struggling to return to normal. Gossip flies like crazy and copycat blogs still plague the school. When a game of truth or dare turns deadly, is it just a mistake? or is there something more sinister going on in Bayview again?
I loved this book even MORE than the first one! We follow a new generation of Bayview High students, who are just as lovable and complex as those who came before. Even better, all of our favorite characters from the first book make their returns to Bayview, so we're still able to follow along on their journeys!
I love that this book focuses more on the day-to-day experiences and relationship building between the people of Bayview, while still adding in an intriguing level of mystery and investigation from our plucky teen heroes! This novel also explores some powerful topics, such as unlikely friendships, family relationships, and how difficult situations can bring people together.
I loved this book so much and I could NOT put it down! The characters were so engaging and endearing and watching them develop throughout the story kept me rooting for them. The plot was so intriguing, with interesting twists and turns that kept me on my toes, but the surprise ending still made sense!
I loved this book even MORE than the first one! We follow a new generation of Bayview High students, who are just as lovable and complex as those who came before. Even better, all of our favorite characters from the first book make their returns to Bayview, so we're still able to follow along on their journeys!
I love that this book focuses more on the day-to-day experiences and relationship building between the people of Bayview, while still adding in an intriguing level of mystery and investigation from our plucky teen heroes! This novel also explores some powerful topics, such as unlikely friendships, family relationships, and how difficult situations can bring people together.
I loved this book so much and I could NOT put it down! The characters were so engaging and endearing and watching them develop throughout the story kept me rooting for them. The plot was so intriguing, with interesting twists and turns that kept me on my toes, but the surprise ending still made sense!
The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood
emotional
funny
inspiring
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
This is the PERFECT lighthearted, romance that I could NOT put down! This book was filled with my favorite tropes from fake dating to pining to grumpy/sunshine. This feels like a classic romance novel, but the academia setting adds a whole new level of depth that I was absolutely obsessed with. This also allows the novel to explore the struggles that women in STEM face and delve into how this complicates the personal, professional, and romantic relationships they make in this field.
Additionally, the characters are SO loveable and I was rooting for them the whole time. There is an aspect of forbidden romance between Adam, a professor, and Olive, a graduate student, that creates tension throughout the novel and adds an interesting layer to their relationship.
At first, the relationship felt forced and a little cringy that made it slightly difficult to read; the fake dating arrangement felt uncomfortable, but it also adds an endearing quality to the relationship that kept me engaged as the relationship developed and flourished. By the end of the novel, I was in love with Olive and Adam and wanted nothing more for them to find happiness together.
The novel had a bit of a rocky start for me, but it truly flourished with lovable characters, an engaging plot, and endearing tropes that resulted in a very fantastic relationship by the end. This book also discusses some extremely important issues such as sexism, the struggles of academia, and discovering self-worth. I absolutely LOVED this novel and it truly warmed my heart as a lighthearted romance, with some extra depth.
Additionally, the characters are SO loveable and I was rooting for them the whole time. There is an aspect of forbidden romance between Adam, a professor, and Olive, a graduate student, that creates tension throughout the novel and adds an interesting layer to their relationship.
At first, the relationship felt forced and a little cringy that made it slightly difficult to read; the fake dating arrangement felt uncomfortable, but it also adds an endearing quality to the relationship that kept me engaged as the relationship developed and flourished. By the end of the novel, I was in love with Olive and Adam and wanted nothing more for them to find happiness together.
The novel had a bit of a rocky start for me, but it truly flourished with lovable characters, an engaging plot, and endearing tropes that resulted in a very fantastic relationship by the end. This book also discusses some extremely important issues such as sexism, the struggles of academia, and discovering self-worth. I absolutely LOVED this novel and it truly warmed my heart as a lighthearted romance, with some extra depth.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual harassment, Sexual content, and Sexism
Majesty by Katharine McGee
inspiring
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë
adventurous
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.0
Somehow, I both loved and hated this novel, but I can clearly see how this is widely regarded as a classic. This book takes a very intriguing dive into topics of religion, inequalities, and sexual desire, while investigating the effects of trauma on a person's development.
Although, I found the characters absolutely insufferable. Jane repeatedly makes poor decisions and creates issues for herself, which made her difficult to root for. But I also felt a lot of sympathy for her, due to the power dynamics and societal pressures that influenced everything she does. Mr. Rochester is also a terribly manipulative person and it often feels like he is just toying with Jane (and the other people in his life) purely for his own entertainment. I didn't enjoy these characters separately, and absolutely NOT together. I never once rooted for this couple.
I read this novel for a literature class and, I will admit, analysis and discussion makes this book so much more intriguing, interesting, and deep. Exploring the historical contexts and nuances of the book added a lot of value for me, but I still did not enjoy the novel itself. The characters were unlikable and the plot was confusing and disjointed at times.
Although, I found the characters absolutely insufferable. Jane repeatedly makes poor decisions and creates issues for herself, which made her difficult to root for. But I also felt a lot of sympathy for her, due to the power dynamics and societal pressures that influenced everything she does. Mr. Rochester is also a terribly manipulative person and it often feels like he is just toying with Jane (and the other people in his life) purely for his own entertainment. I didn't enjoy these characters separately, and absolutely NOT together. I never once rooted for this couple.
I read this novel for a literature class and, I will admit, analysis and discussion makes this book so much more intriguing, interesting, and deep. Exploring the historical contexts and nuances of the book added a lot of value for me, but I still did not enjoy the novel itself. The characters were unlikable and the plot was confusing and disjointed at times.
One of Us Is Lying by Karen M. McManus
adventurous
emotional
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
This book was full of interesting characters and has a vibe like "The Breakfast Club" meets a murder mystery. But, in all honesty, I was more interested in the characters' lives and relationships with each other than the murder plot itself.
This book starts out pretty slow, but really picks up the pace in the last half. I got very attached to the characters and their development though-out the novel and loved the idea of unlikely friendships between all of these very different people. There was also good representation throughout the book.
The character building was expertly done, but the plot left some to be desired. Overall, it was a good read with some underlying darkness.
This book starts out pretty slow, but really picks up the pace in the last half. I got very attached to the characters and their development though-out the novel and loved the idea of unlikely friendships between all of these very different people. There was also good representation throughout the book.
The character building was expertly done, but the plot left some to be desired. Overall, it was a good read with some underlying darkness.
Hook, Line, and Sinker by Tessa Bailey
challenging
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
Tessa Bailey does it again with another sweet, lighthearted, yet surprisingly poignant romance!
This story felt very similar to Piper and Brendan's in It Happened One Summer, but was different enough to keep the reader engaged and excited for more! I was so excited to get back into this universe and reconnect with these characters and check in on their lives after the first book ended and Bailey was masterfully able to incorporate new and existing characters, while still keeping the focus on Hannah and Fox.
The dual-perspective between the two really gives this romance a whole new depth and allows the reader to understand the tensions, desires, and challenges facing the relationship. This will-they-won't-they and forbidden romance is so well done, as the tensions slowly build throughout the novel. The side plot about Hannah's career and connecting to her father was really impactful and deep, which shows her independence and strength as a character as she learns to stand up for herself and pursue what she truly wants (in more ways than one). Learning about Fox's past allows the reader to better understand his actions and sympathize with his struggles, while adding a layer of difficulty to the relationship that forms throughout the book.
Overall, this book was a fast, easy romance with some tension and deeper elements that keep it interesting. Although, the romance feels similar to some of Tessa Bailey's other works.
This story felt very similar to Piper and Brendan's in It Happened One Summer, but was different enough to keep the reader engaged and excited for more! I was so excited to get back into this universe and reconnect with these characters and check in on their lives after the first book ended and Bailey was masterfully able to incorporate new and existing characters, while still keeping the focus on Hannah and Fox.
The dual-perspective between the two really gives this romance a whole new depth and allows the reader to understand the tensions, desires, and challenges facing the relationship. This will-they-won't-they and forbidden romance is so well done, as the tensions slowly build throughout the novel. The side plot about Hannah's career and connecting to her father was really impactful and deep, which shows her independence and strength as a character as she learns to stand up for herself and pursue what she truly wants (in more ways than one). Learning about Fox's past allows the reader to better understand his actions and sympathize with his struggles, while adding a layer of difficulty to the relationship that forms throughout the book.
Overall, this book was a fast, easy romance with some tension and deeper elements that keep it interesting. Although, the romance feels similar to some of Tessa Bailey's other works.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
Moderate: Sexual harassment
Good Girl, Bad Blood by Holly Jackson
adventurous
challenging
dark
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
This book was as artfully written as the first book in the series. The plot stays similar and connected to the first book, without feeling repetitive at all. It also helps tie up some of the lose strings and reveal consequences from the first book.
The characters are just as lovable, relatable, and realistic as ever. With this new plot, the reader learns much more about minor characters, such as Connor and Nat, which gives the case, setting, and community much more depth. Pip goes through some serious inner conflict and turmoil throughout the novel that deepens her character even more, leaning into some of her flaws and weaknesses.
In all honesty, the book began pretty slowly and it was hard to stay engaged. I had to force myself to pick the book back up and power through at times. About halfway through, the story really picks up again and grabs the reader until the very end, then I wasn't able to put it down!
The characters are just as lovable, relatable, and realistic as ever. With this new plot, the reader learns much more about minor characters, such as Connor and Nat, which gives the case, setting, and community much more depth. Pip goes through some serious inner conflict and turmoil throughout the novel that deepens her character even more, leaning into some of her flaws and weaknesses.
In all honesty, the book began pretty slowly and it was hard to stay engaged. I had to force myself to pick the book back up and power through at times. About halfway through, the story really picks up again and grabs the reader until the very end, then I wasn't able to put it down!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Gun violence, Blood, and Murder
Moderate: Child abuse and Child death
Minor: Addiction, Car accident, Confinement, Fire/Fire injury, and Rape
A Good Girl's Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson
adventurous
emotional
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
This was a FANTASTIC and gripping mystery novel! It kept me guessing and speculating the whole time as more information and leads came to light. The final conclusion is surprising and difficult to guess (which I enjoyed greatly), but still made sense with the story!
The characters of Pip and Ravi are so lovable and I love the conflicts Pip faces while trying to solve the case. The book is written in a perfect combination of Pip's self-written project log and third-person narration that allows the reader to fully understand all of the information, without dragging the novel along too much.
This was a well fleshed-out mystery full of twists and turns that kept me engaged until the very end. I'm excited to read the rest of this series!
The characters of Pip and Ravi are so lovable and I love the conflicts Pip faces while trying to solve the case. The book is written in a perfect combination of Pip's self-written project log and third-person narration that allows the reader to fully understand all of the information, without dragging the novel along too much.
This was a well fleshed-out mystery full of twists and turns that kept me engaged until the very end. I'm excited to read the rest of this series!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Suicide, Death, and Murder
Moderate: Adult/minor relationship, Kidnapping, and Animal death
Minor: Self harm