francineh98's reviews
215 reviews

The Love Haters by Katherine Center

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emotional funny reflective 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

3.0

I really enjoyed this book! Katie’s body image struggles and self-love journey were relatable and added depth to her relationship with Hutch. However, my favorite moments by far were the funny and heartfelt interactions between Katie and Hutch’s aunt, Rue, along with the time spent with Hutch’s dog, George Bailey. 

That said, I felt like the pacing towards the end seemed off. I also wasn’t a fan of Cole’s character; the drama he created between him and his brother felt forced, and I believe there were better ways to move the plot forward.

I did listen to the audiobook, which kept me engaged all the way through. Patti Murin did a fantastic job bringing the characters to life.

Overall, I recommend The Love Haters to anyone looking for a quick rom-com to read this summer!

What to Expect:
🌺 forced proximity
🌺 0/5 spice
🌺 found family
🌺 lovable doggo 🐶 

A huge thank you to the author, Macmillan Audio, and NetGalley for the ALC in exchange for an honest and independent review.
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A Curse So Dark and Lonely by Brigid Kemmerer

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adventurous emotional 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

4.5

A Curse So Dark and Lonely by Brigid Kemmerer has truly exceeded my expectations! 

I loved that the author portrayed the main character, Harper, as having cerebral palsy (CP). It was a refreshing and empowering choice. You don’t often see a protagonist with a disability in a fantasy novel, and I think it made Harper's character stand out even more.
The romance is definitely a big part of the story, but what really sets it apart is how Harper’s strength shines through and how she connects with the people around her.

Pick this book up if you like:
✅ beauty & the beast retellings 
✅ Dual POV
✅ strong FMC
✅ cerebral palsy rep
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Vows & Ruins by Helen Scheuerer

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adventurous dark mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes

4.0

spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

After finishing Blood & Steel, I was eager to dive into Vows & Ruins, and while I did enjoy it, there were a few elements that didn't quite hit the mark for me.

The world-building continues to be a highlight of the series. We get a deeper look at the realm and the magical events unfolding, with new insights into the kingdoms surrounding Thezmarr. However, while the expanded world is fascinating, I did feel that some parts were just filler. The plot didn’t truly pick up pace until the final 20%.

I appreciated how the relationship between Althea and Wilder developed, but some of the romantic or “spicy” scenes felt unnecessary. I would have preferred more moments that explored their connection on a deeper emotional level. That said, my favorite interactions were between Thea, Kipp, and Cal—their dynamic is truly a joy. Kipp, in particular, is my favorite character; his humor and obsession with The Laughing Fox tavern add a much-needed lightness to the story.

That ending, omg! Although it was predictable, the author executed it with such skill that it still left my heart aching.

Overall, despite a few drawbacks, I really enjoyed Vows & Ruins and am definitely picking up the next book in the series!

Pick this book up if you like:
✅ Spice
✅ Forbidden love
✅ Found family
✅ Dual POV
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Matefinder by Leia Stone

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adventurous emotional tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

2.75

Matefinder by Leia Stone follows Aurora, a newly turned werewolf, as she navigates pack life, confronts her past, and avoid those seeking to exploit her unique power.

The plot is engaging and kept me hooked, but I found some aspects lacking. There were moments when the pacing felt off, with too many events happening at once, especially toward the end. The characters also lacked depth, and while the pack’s ranking system and the way mates find each other was fascinating, I couldn’t help but wish we had more insight into the supporting characters. Since this is the start of a series, I’m hopeful that these gaps will be filled in later books.

While the writing style didn’t fully resonate with me, I can see how fans of fast-paced paranormal romance with a strong, independent FMC and a protective MMC would enjoy this story. If that’s your thing, I’d definitely recommend giving Matefinder a try. However, I personally won’t be continuing the series at this time.

Pick this book up if you like:
✅ Instalove
✅ Fated mates
✅ Indian culture
✅ No spice
✅ Werewolves, witches & vampires

Might not be for you if you hate:
❌ 1st person POV
❌ Rushed ending
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The Boyfriend by Freida McFadden

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mysterious tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

I’m so frustrated it took me this long to discover McFadden’s work!

In The Boyfriend, we follow Sydney, who has been struggling with online dating but finally meets someone who seems perfect. However, as murders begin to unfold around the city, she starts questioning everything.

Initially, it took me a little while to get into the story, but after a few chapters, I was completely hooked. The unsolved murders, dual timeline, and suspense were executed brilliantly. I kept thinking I had figured out the twist, only for another one to surprise me. My only issue was the main character's shocking disregard for her own safety, though it does shed light on the dangers of online dating.

Victoria Connolly and Adam Blanford did an incredible job with their narration, and they’re a big reason why I kept listening. I’ll definitely be on the lookout for more of their work!

I highly recommend this book, especially the audiobook, to anyone looking for a story that keeps you guessing until the very end.
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In Cold Blood by Truman Capote

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4.5

The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck

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4.0

Falling Embers by Catherine Cowles

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adventurous emotional mysterious fast-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

3.5

Spice: 🌶️.5

Hadley and Calder's story truly tugged at my heartstrings. I really enjoyed this FMC—her determination to keep pursuing the things that make her feel free, no matter the obstacles. Catherine Cowles did an incredible job with both the suspense and character development.

While I did wish there was a bit more of that intense yearning between the characters, it was still a fantastic story overall.
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Tattered Stars by Catherine Cowles

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emotional mysterious 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? It's complicated

3.0

Spice: 🌶️.5

The enemies-to-lovers trope didn't quite hit the mark for me, but in this story, it actually worked well with the plot. I found the suspense enjoyable, even though I saw the twist coming pretty early on. 

Overall, it was a fun read, and I'm definitely looking forward to continuing the series!
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Everything You Ever Wanted by Luiza Sauma

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dark emotional reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated

3.5

This story is deeply thought-provoking, offering a raw and emotional look into the mind of a protagonist grappling with the idea of starting over in a new place, hoping that life would improve away from their current circumstances. The exploration of depression and the longing for escape is both poignant and relatable, capturing the internal struggle of wanting something better but not knowing how to achieve it. It also touches on how we often take the small things in life for granted, only realizing their value when it's too late. 

However, while the protagonist’s journey is engaging, the ending feels too ambiguous to me (I know it’s for us to draw our own conclusion).  The lack of closure leaves a sense of longing for more, especially regarding what became of the other characters. Despite this, the story is emotionally resonant and leaves you with a lot to reflect on. 
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