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francineh98's reviews
222 reviews
Matefinder by Leia Stone
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
✅ Indian culture
✅ No spice
✅ Werewolves, witches & vampires
Might not be for you if you hate:
❌ 1st person POV
❌ Rushed ending
Content Warnings
Graphic: Domestic abuse, Infertility, Violence, Blood, Murder
Moderate: Child abuse, Child death, Physical abuse
Minor: Alcoholism, Cancer, Torture, Pregnancy
The Boyfriend by Freida McFadden
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.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Gore, Blood, Stalking, Murder, Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Alcoholism, Physical abuse, Sexual harassment
Minor: Animal death, Torture
Falling Embers by Catherine Cowles
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.
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.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Blood, Stalking, Car accident, Sexual harassment
Moderate: Gun violence, Sexual content
Minor: Drug abuse, Mental illness, Toxic relationship, Fire/Fire injury
Tattered Stars by Catherine Cowles
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!
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!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Gun violence, Mental illness, Misogyny, Kidnapping
Moderate: Animal cruelty, Sexual content, Blood, Fire/Fire injury
Minor: Cancer, Stalking, Death of parent
Everything You Ever Wanted by Luiza Sauma
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.
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.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Cursing, Mental illness, Suicidal thoughts, Suicide, Vomit, Grief, Suicide attempt, Death of parent, Pregnancy, Alcohol