gnomepatronus's reviews
306 reviews

Reaper's Wish by S.A. Burd

adventurous emotional funny hopeful lighthearted mysterious sad tense fast-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? It's complicated

3.5

I have mixed feelings about this book, so buckle up because this review is going to be all over the place.

The only thing I knew going in was that it was MM and that a friend recommended it. I saw the cover, knew the title, and for some reason assumed it had a steampunk vibe. (Spoiler alert: I was so wrong.)

What I actually got was a world filled with gods, goddesses, witches, soothsayers, reapers, genies, werewolves, vampires, brownies, and probably a bunch of other creatures I’m forgetting.

Let’s talk about the start: it opens with a bit of an info dump to explain the gods and their connections to the story. Personally, that’s not my jam, and I found myself skimming after my eyes glazed over. BUT if you’re someone who loves having all the background info upfront, this might work better for you.

Now, onto the good stuff: Jamie. I absolutely adored him. He’s a Djinn (think genie) who becomes completely smitten after someone kisses his knuckles—a sweet gesture that makes your heart melt for him immediately. As you learn why that tiny moment means so much to him, your heart will break. Jamie has spent his life being used for his magic, with no say over how it’s wielded (cue the tears). Watching him let down his walls and trust someone so deeply and quickly is both terrifying and beautiful.

Then there’s Dumah, our older, confident, protective reaper. From the moment he meets Jamie, he knows there’s something different about him. The knuckle kiss? Dumah initiated it (swoon). When they cross paths again, Dumah can’t resist testing the connection he feels with Jamie. He’s immediately protective and sweet in a way that’s completely unexpected, and his sole focus becomes Jamie. Without spoiling anything, the complications thrown at Dumah are deliciously intense.

Here’s where I struggled: this standalone fantasy is short, and it shows. The pacing felt rushed, and I would have loved more depth—especially with Jamie’s trauma. Dumah handled things so beautifully that I understand Jamie’s instant trust, but I wish there had been more space for Jamie to process and heal. The resolution came so quickly after all the buildup that I felt a little let down.

That said, I loved the plot and characters. If the author ever decided to expand the story, I’d 100% do a full reread.

If you’re into standalone fantasy/paranormal books with a contemporary romance story structure, (don’t worry, no third-act breakup here), this could be a great fit. If you’re a hardcore fantasy fan, you might find it a bit rushed, but I promise it’s still worth the read.

Blindsided by Eden Finley

funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted 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? It's complicated

4.75

Am I about to gush? 100%! Did this story completely take me by surprise? 1000%!

I honestly didn’t think any book in this series could win me over like Deke did… but Rebound? Oh, it’s fighting hard for that top spot!

These two best friends—Miller and Talon—had me hooked from page one. Not once did I want to smack their heads (a rarity), but even when they were being ridiculous, I loved every single thing they did.

Let’s break it down: Miller and Talon were college friends, so the foundation of their friendship is rock solid from the start, and they’ve never let that go. Now, they’re both professional football players. Miller? He knows and is comfortable with his sexuality… except when it comes to his best friend Talon. The internal tug-of-war Miller goes through—balancing what he feels, what he thinks he needs, and how to protect Talon—is beautifully handled. Seriously, this book nails the emotional highs and lows without ever feeling heavy, and the characters are so well-rounded and complex.

Now, Talon. On the surface, he’s all golden retriever energy—cute, a little goofy, and full of charm. But dig deeper, and there’s so much more to him. He’s confident in what he knows, and he doesn’t second-guess himself. But the layers! The way he processes, contemplates, and factors in everyone’s best interest before making a confident decision? Brilliant. And when he realizes he’s made a mistake and has to backtrack? The growth! Watching him evolve is so satisfying and makes his character feel incredibly real.

For a book as compact as this one, it packs a ton of character development, emotional depth, and storyline magic. Eden Finley absolutely crushed it with Rebound. If you’re looking for a story that’s low angst but packed with emotional connection and growth, this is a must-read!

Winning You by Eden Finley

adventurous funny hopeful lighthearted fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.75

When I first started reading, I was so confused about who these people were and why this book was next in the Sadenverse lineup. Like, was I missing something? But by chapter two, I completely forgot all of that because I was too busy lovingthe story.

This novella? Fast-paced and addictive. It starts with the intention of a one-night stand but quickly spirals into infatuation, longing, and—yep—love. Of course, when you fall for the characters, you always want more of their story (longer books, please!), but honestly, this one gave us exactly what we needed to bridge from Book 4 to Book 5 in the Sadenverse.

If you want a quick, feel-good MM novella, grab this one. Seriously, you don’t even need to read the other books to enjoy it! BUT, if you’re already into the Fake Boyfriends series or the Sadenverse, you cannot skip this. It’s packed with all the good stuff: opposites attract, both characters having ulterior motives, a sweet little age gap (and OMG how they play off of it is adorable). Plus, they’re already confident in their sexuality, so the focus is purely on building their relationship. Chef’s kiss.

Also, a quick shoutout to the dual narration—if you’re an audiobook fan, run to Hoopla because all three of the “.5s” in this series are bundled in one audiobook. The narrators absolutely crushed it, giving each character such distinct voices that you’ll be laughing and swooning your way through the entire thing.

Now You're Mine by Morgan Bridges

0.5

Twilight, but make it worse

It's Complicated by Eden Finley

funny hopeful fast-paced

3.0

I’m a little conflicted about this one. If I had read it as a standalone novella, completely separate from the rest of the series, I probably would’ve loved it. For the length of the story, it had everything: a whirlwind pace, the “wrong place, wrong time” trope, childhood crushes that grow into love, forbidden romance with a brother’s ex, and a chaotic, over-the-top family dynamic. All of that together made for such a fun, spicy, and quick read.

But I didn’t read this as a standalone—I read it in order, right after Deke. In that book, we already met Ash and Max, and their personalities in Deke just don’t line up with how they came across in this novella. I get that maybe it’s because Dekeshowed them from someone else’s perspective, and seeing their story through their own eyes is naturally going to feel different. But even so, I didn’t connect with them the way I’ve connected with the other characters in the series.

It’s not a bad novella by any means—it’s fun and hits all the right beats—but for me, it didn’t quite hit. 

Rebound by Eden Finley

funny hopeful lighthearted fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.25

What an adorable novella! I love when we get little gems like this that don’t leave us hanging on side characters from the series. It’s like getting the bonus content you didn’t know you desperately needed.

This story was the perfect balance—giving us just enough to finally know what really happened without feeling like we’ve committed to a whole deep dive into characters who aren’t front and center in the main series. But honestly? If they decided to go all in and expand Wyatt and Aron’s story, I would not complain. At all.

Wyatt and Aron are just so ridiculously cute together. Their dynamic is everything—sweet, playful, and full of those little moments that make you want to grab them both and squish them into a hug. (Can I adopt them? Is that allowed?)

This novella hit the sweet spot between giving closure and leaving me wanting more in the best way. It’s a perfect little slice of happiness, and I loved every second of it!

Deke by Eden Finley

funny hopeful lighthearted fast-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

4.75

This review is not going to do this book justice, I wish it would but I know it won’t…no way, no how! I picked this up because I needed something to make my heart happy, and based on the first two books in the series, I knew this one would deliver. Spoiler alert: it did. Big time.

I mean, come on: saving a stranger by pretending to be their boyfriend? Classic. But —plot twist—they’re the absolute worst match ever. A closeted professional hockey player and a sports journalist? Disaster vibes. This setup could’ve gone full angst fest, but nope! It stayed lighthearted in the best way.

And don’t even get me started on the hockey player’s family. They’re not just supportive, they’re overboard. Like, hilariously, adorably over-the-top. It’s refreshing to see a family dynamic like this worked into a story. The dad’s dry humor? Perfect. The mom? Oh, the mom. She’s so ridiculously loving and supportive that you’re torn between wanting to shake your head at her and wanting to protect her at all costs. And the brothers? They’re basically tall, sexy gods. If you lived with them, you’d want to wrestle them, smack them upside their heads and be annoyed with every breath; if you didn’t, you’d just… stare, drool, and stare. (Yes, I’m obsessed with his family. No shame.)

There were so many laugh out loud moments. The moments going into the treehouse, and especially getting out of it—had me in stitches. OH and breakfast after the attic!!! Seriously!! I may have read that part twice!!

Honestly, this book was exactly what I needed: lighthearted, funny, romantic, spicy, and just fun. The banter was perfect. The romance hit just right. If you’re looking for a book to brighten your day, this is it.

The Moon & His Tides by Giana Darling

challenging hopeful tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

I’m going to try to keep this review as coherent as possible, but honestly, it might come off as a bit rant-like because everything I love about this book is also why I’m so upset about it.

The story centers on a seemingly perfect couple: they’re rich, beautiful, and wildly successful in the entertainment industry. Then, there’s Sebastian, an 18-year-old half-Italian, half-Russian limo driver working tirelessly to support his family. Despite his age, his internal monologue feels so mature you’d think he was 30.

Let’s start with Savannah—the wife. I don’t like her. Honestly, I just don’t. Even in hindsight, my feelings haven’t changed. She’s cold, selfish, and downright ruthless. But here’s the thing: she owns it. She knows who she is, she doesn’t hide it, and everyone around her—including her husband and Sebastian—accepts that’s exactly who she is.

Now, Adam—the husband. I love Adam, but he drives me crazy. I desperately want more of his backstory because it feels like the root of so much of his behavior. He holds back, constantly giving his selfish wife everything she wants, sacrificing his own desires, and in doing so, ends up causing pain to others. He’s willing to give up everything for essentially nothing, and it’s maddening.

And then there’s Sebastian. Oh, Sebastian. He’s a romantic at heart, giving away pieces of himself to different people just to experience the smallest moments of love. He’s willing to stay in the shadows, to live on stolen moments behind closed doors, just to have something. The power dynamics, the age gaps—it’s all there, and it’s complicated and messy.

These characters are so frustrating, but they’re written that way on purpose. Every decision they make fits perfectly with who they are, their development (or lack thereof), and their flaws. It’s so realistic, and that’s why it’s so irritating in the best way. I’ve never been so irrationally annoyed by a book, nor have I ever been so frustrated that it ended. I need more.

Prisoner of the Heart by H.E. Gober

adventurous emotional hopeful fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

Little Bird. Yep, we’re back with that nickname, and I still have a love-hate relationship with it. Because COME ON ALREADY!!! The story picks up right where book one left off (so YES, you must read book one first to understand the emotional chaos these characters are wading through). Book one left me rooting for Kali to push through the physical trials and discover her inner strength. But book two? Oh, this is where it all gets torn down. It’s a cocktail of self-destruction, denial, depression, doubt, determination, discovery, and devotion. That’s a lot of D’s—and trust me, there’s some of that too. 👀

Anyway, back to the book. The tension in this story is chef’s kiss—you’ll feel like that thread holding it all together is about to snap at any moment. And honestly, if it doesn’t, you might want to snap at Kali yourself. That girl, woman, FEMALE—whatever you want to call her—needed a good smack more than once. But let’s not dump all the blame on her, because there’s Jax. WAIT. Nope. I refuse to drag my man Jax through the mud. He’s perfect and can melt the ice around my heart anytime. Instead, let’s turn our attention to bird boy—yes, that one. Bird-brained, feather-shedding, arrogance-on-legs. Some of you will love his cocky attitude, but for me? Nah. Team Jax all the way.

The author nailed the high fantasy elements, weaving in new creatures and lore without ever feeling like an info dump. The emotional complexity of Kali, as she battles her own instincts to protect herself while learning to let people in, is painfully relatable—whether you’re in this fantasy world or not.

If you love easy-to-read fantasy packed with trials of the physical, emotional, and mental variety (and some serious slow burn), this is the series for you. While there’s a book three on the way, you could absolutely stop at books one and two and feel satisfied (unless you’re nosy like me and NEED all the details for every single character). So what are you waiting for? Go read it. You know you’re curious about this bird-brained mess of a world. 🖤

The Unexpected Match by L. Clara

challenging emotional hopeful inspiring fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

I went into this book 100% blind, knowing nothing except that the author was incredibly kind when I met her at a book convention in Lexington KY and that one of those January Instagram challenges listed her as a “must read.” So imagine my head tilt when I hit chapter one and saw the words “Open Marriage.”

Now, don’t get me wrong, I’ve read plenty of books where marriage comes with no doors—or where things start closed and one thing leads to a bed that’s suddenly much more crowded. But this guy? Oh, this jerk (don’t worry, we know right away he’s a jerk) takes his wife to their go-to restaurant, the one they’ve gone to for years, for their anniversary dinner and drops the bomb that he isn’t fulfilled and wants an open marriage. Like, SIR. What the hell?

Needless to say, Hadley (our FMC) is blindsided. But here’s the thing: this asshat is her high school sweetheart, the love of her life, and the only man she’s ever been with. She’s heartbroken, devastated, and clinging to the hope of saving her marriage, so she says yes. I know, I know, I KNOW…you’re probably thinking, “She should just dump him.” And trust me, I feel that. But I can also see why someone might take less than they deserve, holding on to the faint hope that it’ll bring them the love they’re wishing for.

That said, Hadley’s friends? ICONS. These women convince her that an open marriage means she gets to play too, and oh boy, does she play. Enter Connor—the accent alone is enough to melt panties. And watching Hadley step into her own power? Chef’s kiss.

I do wish the book had an extra 100 pages to fully explore Hadley’s emotional complexity, her inner turmoil, societal expectations, and the rawness of finding herself again. Some twists felt a little rushed, but one thing I loved was that Hadley fought to save herself. No one did it for her. The bonus journal entries from Hadley’s perspective were stunning and added such depth to her journey. I hope those eventually get worked into the main story because they complete her emotional arc beautifully.

While the pacing wasn’t perfect, there was so much about this story that felt raw and real. It’s a tale that’s relatable to so many, and if you don’t need the why explained to you—well, I’m sorry you understand it so deeply. For those who can’t relate, remember that not everyone makes the same choices, and if you haven’t been in those shoes, sometimes you just need to listen without judgment.