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exploring_with_books's reviews
41 reviews
On Dublin Street by Samantha Young
funny
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
I enjoyed this book; it is very likable. It was good but was not my favorite contemporary romance. On Dublin Street started strong. So strong that I could not put it down. That fizzled out towards the end of the book.
Characters are a big part of my rating system, probably even more than the plot for me. I need the character to interest me to be fully invested in the story. I loved Brandon but had a hard time with Jocelyn.
Jocelyn's character has flaws, a complicated past, and PTSD. Jocelyn's sad and devastating history has left her not wanting to get close to people. This is a big part of the book, which makes the book very unique. However, what made it hard for me was that Jocelyn was rude most of the time. She was tough to crack and super stubborn it didn't change much as the book went on.
Brandon was a great character. He was caring, family loyal, and persistent, which Jocelyn needed. An attractive male with his own past that wants to help and love Jocelyn. I didn't always agree with how he handled situations with Jocelyn. It may have helped if he went to some of Jocelyn's therapy sessions to handle situations better. I guess this is a book and not real life though.
If you like sexy male characters with a troubled past and a female character with flaws then this is the book for you. It does have some steamy parts. ;)
Characters are a big part of my rating system, probably even more than the plot for me. I need the character to interest me to be fully invested in the story. I loved Brandon but had a hard time with Jocelyn.
Jocelyn's character has flaws, a complicated past, and PTSD. Jocelyn's sad and devastating history has left her not wanting to get close to people. This is a big part of the book, which makes the book very unique. However, what made it hard for me was that Jocelyn was rude most of the time. She was tough to crack and super stubborn it didn't change much as the book went on.
Brandon was a great character. He was caring, family loyal, and persistent, which Jocelyn needed. An attractive male with his own past that wants to help and love Jocelyn. I didn't always agree with how he handled situations with Jocelyn. It may have helped if he went to some of Jocelyn's therapy sessions to handle situations better. I guess this is a book and not real life though.
If you like sexy male characters with a troubled past and a female character with flaws then this is the book for you. It does have some steamy parts. ;)
Wicked by Jennifer L. Armentrout
adventurous
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Oops, my bad; based on the cover, I thought I would read a book with mermaids in it. It's not about mermaids, but it does have some great fantasy aspects in it. Tink was by far the best character in this book. If you are going to read this book, read it for Tink. I enjoyed that the setting was in New Orleans; I think it was a very appropriate setting for the plot.
I loved the premise of the book but struggled with the characters. This book is a new adult book; however, I felt like the main character was in high school. Using words like "realsies" and not keeping a F****** secret just left me thinking that she was immature. I wanted so badly to like Ivy but couldn't bring myself to connect with her.
Here is some of Ivy's weird commentary: (at least for me)
"Kind of tacky to bring a gun to a knife fight" (maybe you should have brought a gun) ... "chopping heads off was messy and gross" (well, duh)
I was not invested in the love connection between the characters. It felt rushed, but I think it will get better throughout the series.
I thought it was predictable, but it has the potential to be amazing. I'll probably continue with the series, but so far, it is not my favorite. This time when I see the underwater cover, I will know it is not about mermaids.
I loved the premise of the book but struggled with the characters. This book is a new adult book; however, I felt like the main character was in high school. Using words like "realsies" and not keeping a F****** secret just left me thinking that she was immature. I wanted so badly to like Ivy but couldn't bring myself to connect with her.
Here is some of Ivy's weird commentary: (at least for me)
"Kind of tacky to bring a gun to a knife fight" (maybe you should have brought a gun) ... "chopping heads off was messy and gross" (well, duh)
I was not invested in the love connection between the characters. It felt rushed, but I think it will get better throughout the series.
I thought it was predictable, but it has the potential to be amazing. I'll probably continue with the series, but so far, it is not my favorite. This time when I see the underwater cover, I will know it is not about mermaids.
Kingdom of the Wicked by Kerri Maniscalco
adventurous
dark
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
I enjoyed this book and honestly was so mad it was so short. I want to know what is going to happen. That is just me being impatient. The writing was good, and it had me sucked in from the start. I liked how Kerri Maniscalco incorporated the seven deadly sins.
Emilia, at times, drove me crazy. I sometimes wish she would listen and think her plans through. I couldn't tell if Emilia was brave or stupid. I hope she grows in the next book. I want to love her as a character, not just like her. There was not a lot of character building with Wrath, but boy did I like him. I am excited to see what happens with Wrath in the next book.
I am invested in the characters and the plot; I can not wait to meet the other sins. I am hoping that the next book is longer and has a little bit more diversity. I heard the next book is going to be more New Adult. ;)
Emilia, at times, drove me crazy. I sometimes wish she would listen and think her plans through. I couldn't tell if Emilia was brave or stupid. I hope she grows in the next book. I want to love her as a character, not just like her. There was not a lot of character building with Wrath, but boy did I like him. I am excited to see what happens with Wrath in the next book.
I am invested in the characters and the plot; I can not wait to meet the other sins. I am hoping that the next book is longer and has a little bit more diversity. I heard the next book is going to be more New Adult. ;)
Circe by Madeline Miller
adventurous
challenging
emotional
hopeful
informative
sad
slow-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
"It is a common saying that women are delicate creatures, flowers, eggs, anything that may be crushed in a moment's carelessness. If I had ever believed it, I no longer did. "
Madeline Miller has such a way with words. A story about Greek Mythology, complex heroines, adventures, betrayals, magic, learning to love yourself, and a mother's love. If you love those things, then it's time to pick up this book.
It's great to hear a story in Greek Mythology that is not as popular. I love when someone picks a story that people don't always know a lot about. Miller keeps to the Greek Mythology feel in this poetic, descriptive atmosphere.
This book started a little slow for me. It begins by telling the story of the years that shaped Circe's personality. Circe was such a fantastic main character. The growth of her character was truly amazing. When she was young, she was very naive and trusting (at times, this would irritate me, this can be a sign of a good book, though), but she grew up to be a strong, loving, and independent woman.
I did enjoy the audio more than the physical book. I stopped reading the physical book and fell in love with the audio. It was beautifully done.
Madeline Miller has such a way with words. A story about Greek Mythology, complex heroines, adventures, betrayals, magic, learning to love yourself, and a mother's love. If you love those things, then it's time to pick up this book.
It's great to hear a story in Greek Mythology that is not as popular. I love when someone picks a story that people don't always know a lot about. Miller keeps to the Greek Mythology feel in this poetic, descriptive atmosphere.
This book started a little slow for me. It begins by telling the story of the years that shaped Circe's personality. Circe was such a fantastic main character. The growth of her character was truly amazing. When she was young, she was very naive and trusting (at times, this would irritate me, this can be a sign of a good book, though), but she grew up to be a strong, loving, and independent woman.
I did enjoy the audio more than the physical book. I stopped reading the physical book and fell in love with the audio. It was beautifully done.
Beard in Mind by Penny Reid
emotional
funny
lighthearted
relaxing
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
Love is about supporting each other, not about fixing the other and lending a listening ear and understanding and accepting the flaws and strengths of the other. Beau and Shelly worked well together. They overcame obstacles to become strong, brave, and beautiful.
I loved Shelly, but she might not be for everyone. She struggles with OCD making it hard for her to show affection because of her irrational fears. She comes across as rude and unfriendly until you learn more about her. Even though she has these struggles, she is brilliant, creative, and sensitive. She has a beautiful soul.
Beau has things he needs to work on as well. He is learning how to lean on others and share his thoughts and feelings. Beau, on the outside, seems flirtatious and easy-going but is very complex. I love that he was so willing to go to therapy with Shelly to support her.
Penny Reads message in the back of the book was beautiful. She acknowledges the people that helped explain their struggles with OCD, and she talked about her struggles with OCD and Depression as well. What a lovely message and so open.
I loved Shelly, but she might not be for everyone. She struggles with OCD making it hard for her to show affection because of her irrational fears. She comes across as rude and unfriendly until you learn more about her. Even though she has these struggles, she is brilliant, creative, and sensitive. She has a beautiful soul.
Beau has things he needs to work on as well. He is learning how to lean on others and share his thoughts and feelings. Beau, on the outside, seems flirtatious and easy-going but is very complex. I love that he was so willing to go to therapy with Shelly to support her.
Penny Reads message in the back of the book was beautiful. She acknowledges the people that helped explain their struggles with OCD, and she talked about her struggles with OCD and Depression as well. What a lovely message and so open.
Beard Science by Penny Reid
emotional
funny
lighthearted
relaxing
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
5.0
Beard Science might be one of my favorite contemporary romances now. Not judging people on the outside, and realizing every person is complex and going through shit (excuse the language) is the book's premise. Cletus will always be my favorite Winston brother. He has been my favorite since book one. I would say that this is the best of the series...but it's only book number 3, and I have 4 more to go.
I got sucked into this book so fast. I was captivated and finished it in record time. I love the witty and intelligent dialog. Both characters had me smiling as I read. I enjoyed the character growth in this book, and it was empowering to see. The characters have such mutual respect for each other.
It is loveable, steamy, sweet, and I am in love with these books. I enjoy the quotes before the start of each chapter. Penny Reid has been including quotes since book 1. The quotes relate to the theme of the book.
I got sucked into this book so fast. I was captivated and finished it in record time. I love the witty and intelligent dialog. Both characters had me smiling as I read. I enjoyed the character growth in this book, and it was empowering to see. The characters have such mutual respect for each other.
It is loveable, steamy, sweet, and I am in love with these books. I enjoy the quotes before the start of each chapter. Penny Reid has been including quotes since book 1. The quotes relate to the theme of the book.
Grin and Beard It by Penny Reid
funny
lighthearted
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
I didn't like this one as much as the first book in the Winston Brothers series.
It is still sweet, cute, and funny. I love the family dynamics, and the Winston Brothers and Jessica still had me laughing.
I think where I struggled was the relationship in this one did not feel as developed and it was just not as eventful as the one before. I might not like the celebrity falling in love trope. It has always been a little hard for me.
I will continue reading the series because I want to enjoy all the brother's stories.
...For more perspective, I started to like these main characters as the series moved on. They are included in the other stories.
It is still sweet, cute, and funny. I love the family dynamics, and the Winston Brothers and Jessica still had me laughing.
I think where I struggled was the relationship in this one did not feel as developed and it was just not as eventful as the one before. I might not like the celebrity falling in love trope. It has always been a little hard for me.
I will continue reading the series because I want to enjoy all the brother's stories.
...For more perspective, I started to like these main characters as the series moved on. They are included in the other stories.
Truth or Beard by Penny Reid
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
If you are in the mood for a sweet, light, humorous, sexy, love story, look no further. I see thy people fall in love with the Winston brothers. Each brother stands out and is unique and loveable. They are a quirky and fun bunch. I love that this book was centered around family.
The book is written as a dual POV, which is well done. I love hearing both main character's POVs. Jessica made me laugh out loud so many times. I felt like I could relate to her adventurous spirit. I love that their primary goal in their relationship is helping the other succeed in their dreams.
The story is steamy but not overly graphic. Penny Reid still had me laughing during some of the steamy parts. It felt like a very normal and down-to-earth relationship. I think people could relate to this relationship.
The book is written as a dual POV, which is well done. I love hearing both main character's POVs. Jessica made me laugh out loud so many times. I felt like I could relate to her adventurous spirit. I love that their primary goal in their relationship is helping the other succeed in their dreams.
The story is steamy but not overly graphic. Penny Reid still had me laughing during some of the steamy parts. It felt like a very normal and down-to-earth relationship. I think people could relate to this relationship.
The Finish Line by Kate Stewart
dark
hopeful
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
It was an okay read. I wasn't invested in a large portion of this book. It felt like a filler even though it was the last book. It felt more like a recap. I think for die-hard fans that this is perfect because you get more of Tobias's POV. However, I caught myself skimming some parts, which is never a good sign. In my opinion, the second book, Exodus, is probably the best book out of the series. Exodus was terrific, and I think I would have been fine finishing with Exodus. The ending in the second book fulfilled me.
Tobias was in the doghouse for most of this book. I just wanted to slap both of them and tell them to fucking communicate. They both suck at communication. That is probably the whole point of the book. So the author's writing is good if it gets emotions out of me.
I loved the last 20% of the book. Cecilia finally became more likable to me. I can see how this appeals to people. It is a wild ride.
Tobias was in the doghouse for most of this book. I just wanted to slap both of them and tell them to fucking communicate. They both suck at communication. That is probably the whole point of the book. So the author's writing is good if it gets emotions out of me.
I loved the last 20% of the book. Cecilia finally became more likable to me. I can see how this appeals to people. It is a wild ride.
Exodus by Kate Stewart
dark
emotional
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Best book of the series. I enjoyed this one.
The one thing I struggled with was her explanation of Simon and Garfunkel's song "Cecilia"
I don't know why this bugged me, but the song "Cecilia" by Simon and Garfunkle is not about a promiscuous girl. Simon wrote it about the patron saint of music and struggling with writer's block. The general meaning is about a girlfriend breaking up with her boyfriend "when I come back to bed someone's taken my place," but later in the song, they get back together " jubilation, she loves me again." I had a hard time understand why she was so upset with the song.
That is just a rant, it did not change my opinion of the book.
The one thing I struggled with was her explanation of Simon and Garfunkel's song "Cecilia"
I don't know why this bugged me, but the song "Cecilia" by Simon and Garfunkle is not about a promiscuous girl. Simon wrote it about the patron saint of music and struggling with writer's block. The general meaning is about a girlfriend breaking up with her boyfriend "when I come back to bed someone's taken my place," but later in the song, they get back together " jubilation, she loves me again." I had a hard time understand why she was so upset with the song.
That is just a rant, it did not change my opinion of the book.