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hobbithopeful's reviews
220 reviews
Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
adventurous
challenging
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? No
5.0
This is just an incredibly fun and nostalgic read. Plus dragons! Honestly I adored this book, it felt very nostalgic to me when I read it. It reminds me of all of those dystopian books I loved to read as a teen like [book:The Hunger Games|2767052] ! The inclusion of disability rep in fantasy was so great to read, I love how Violence used it to her advantage and worked with it.
Every book should have dragons. Seriously what is it about dragons that takes us right back to our childhood!
Also for romance lovers, the romance straight ROMANCED. It was exquisite to read. Plus they destroy a room during sex...so like yes it's excellent.
Also Tairn and his little petty comments gave me life I love him so much.
The twist was A TWIST! I thought I knew what was going to happen but I was so wrong.
THE ENDING KILLED ME! If I see the author it is on sight and I'm throwing hands.
I HIGHLY recommend this book,it's fun, fantasy, romance, and just a great time.
Every book should have dragons. Seriously what is it about dragons that takes us right back to our childhood!
Also for romance lovers, the romance straight ROMANCED. It was exquisite to read. Plus they destroy a room during sex...so like yes it's excellent.
Also Tairn and his little petty comments gave me life I love him so much.
The twist was A TWIST! I thought I knew what was going to happen but I was so wrong.
THE ENDING KILLED ME! If I see the author it is on sight and I'm throwing hands.
I HIGHLY recommend this book,it's fun, fantasy, romance, and just a great time.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Murder, War, Medical content, Gore, Blood, Ableism, Injury/Injury detail, Violence, Grief, Fire/Fire injury, and Bullying
Minor: Death of parent
Up in Flames by Hailey Alcaraz
challenging
emotional
inspiring
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
4.0
Thank you Penguin for this ARC
A powerful read about leaving your bubble of privilege, and how undocumented immigrants are affected by natural disasters.
I very much enjoy how Ruby knows how to best use her appearance and beauty to her advantage. The way she dealt with Frank made my heart break a bit for her, but at the end of the day she was doing what was needed to survive.
Ruby grows a lot in this story, and watching a very spoiled character realize there is more to the world then just what she is dealing with is always a thought-provoking read. She really had to step up for her family, and even though she starts off ignorant, by the end of the book she really is a different person.
I am always wary to read a Latine book regarding topics of immigration and ICE because of the large amount published compared to more "cozy" stories. It does push a certain societal narrative and stereotype around our culture, and I do feel the need to mention publishers choosing certain themes to publish over others. I do like how it was handled here, even though it was almost a bit too rainbows and sunshine with how everything worked out perfectly for the undocumented immigrants. (An unrealistic portrayal to be frank)
I did find this book extremely prose heavy, the only reason this isn't a five star book for me. There are so many inner monologues and summaries, and just it reads very fast-paced at times. Every time I thought we were going to have a scene or conversation, instead sometimes it will go for pages of just inner monologue or summarizing with no dialogue or anything else whatsoever. I do think I would have liked it if it was longer and spent more time showing the dialogue instead of just summarizing character interactions.
I do think I enjoyed the first half of the book a lot more then the second.
The ending was fine? I was very confused by some of the characters. Remy seems to alternate between being mature and smart, to being incredibly immature especially for someone of his age and responsibilities. Ambiguous endings can work in certain situations, but it seems that Ruby is just chasing after another guy so I didn't quite enjoy that fact. (Though hey I am super happy to see a BIPOC character not end up with the white guy!)
I did feel like certain men were forgiven too easily by other characters, I almost wish the woman each had a bit more self respect in how they were treated. Or at least came to the realization that IT'S OKAY TO BE ALONE!
I would recommend this book, and I would read more from Hailey Alcaraz. This is her debut novel and I am excited to see more from her.
A powerful read about leaving your bubble of privilege, and how undocumented immigrants are affected by natural disasters.
I very much enjoy how Ruby knows how to best use her appearance and beauty to her advantage. The way she dealt with Frank made my heart break a bit for her, but at the end of the day she was doing what was needed to survive.
Ruby grows a lot in this story, and watching a very spoiled character realize there is more to the world then just what she is dealing with is always a thought-provoking read. She really had to step up for her family, and even though she starts off ignorant, by the end of the book she really is a different person.
I am always wary to read a Latine book regarding topics of immigration and ICE because of the large amount published compared to more "cozy" stories. It does push a certain societal narrative and stereotype around our culture, and I do feel the need to mention publishers choosing certain themes to publish over others. I do like how it was handled here, even though it was almost a bit too rainbows and sunshine with how everything worked out perfectly for the undocumented immigrants. (An unrealistic portrayal to be frank)
I did find this book extremely prose heavy, the only reason this isn't a five star book for me. There are so many inner monologues and summaries, and just it reads very fast-paced at times. Every time I thought we were going to have a scene or conversation, instead sometimes it will go for pages of just inner monologue or summarizing with no dialogue or anything else whatsoever. I do think I would have liked it if it was longer and spent more time showing the dialogue instead of just summarizing character interactions.
I do think I enjoyed the first half of the book a lot more then the second.
The ending was fine? I was very confused by some of the characters. Remy seems to alternate between being mature and smart, to being incredibly immature especially for someone of his age and responsibilities. Ambiguous endings can work in certain situations, but it seems that Ruby is just chasing after another guy so I didn't quite enjoy that fact. (Though hey I am super happy to see a BIPOC character not
I did feel like certain men were forgiven too easily by other characters, I almost wish the woman each had a bit more self respect in how they were treated. Or at least came to the realization that IT'S OKAY TO BE ALONE!
I would recommend this book, and I would read more from Hailey Alcaraz. This is her debut novel and I am excited to see more from her.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Deportation, Racism, and Xenophobia
Minor: Death of parent
Forgive Me Not by Jennifer Baker
challenging
emotional
sad
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
3.0
Thank you Penguin for this ARC
A great concept and message, but the execution of it fell flat for me.
I did like the characters, and found the story incredibly relatable. I most enjoyed the beginning of the book, all the uncertainty and strife made for many tense scenes.
I really had a hard time with the dual POV. Every time it went to Vince's pov, I just kinda sighed and was hoping it would go back to Violetta's. I know the author is trying to show how the justice system impacts families and those on the outside, but I truly wish we had gotten less of Vince, or ideally just stuck with Violetta's pov. It felt like it didn't add much to the story, and the pacing of it slogged on for me. There were several times I kept "waiting" for something to happen.
I really liked the premise and concept of what the author was trying to show and the point she is trying to make, but the execution of it fell flat for me, and by the end I truly think it is a swing and a miss. By the end of the story there truly isn't a major point made. I do think it would have had a bigger impact and stronger message if Violette ended up with an endless trial, or just committed another crime. Because at the end of the day the way the justice system is set up it is set up for people to just end up back in jail, and truly isn't one of rehabilitation. I really thought we were going to learn more about the trials, and have more of a commentary on how minority communities are unfairly and unjustly targeted for such laws but that didn't happen either. There is so much talk about how terrible the Trials are, and how traumatic, and I honestly expected Violette to have to go through something akin to the endurance trial, or just show how what she went through impacted her to reoffend again. Instead she just ends up going to therapy. Which yay is a great ending, but also again just doesn't fit the tone and message of the book.
With a story and concept like this the bittersweet ending came off too happy and hopeful for the message it was trying to get across. I'm glad I'm not a blubbering mess after reading this, but it didn't stick in my head and make me keep thinking about it.
I would definitely read others books by Jennifer Baker, and if you're interested in the premise I would say check this one out and see if you like it! But I wouldn't personally say this is a book I would recommend.
A great concept and message, but the execution of it fell flat for me.
I did like the characters, and found the story incredibly relatable. I most enjoyed the beginning of the book, all the uncertainty and strife made for many tense scenes.
I really had a hard time with the dual POV. Every time it went to Vince's pov, I just kinda sighed and was hoping it would go back to Violetta's. I know the author is trying to show how the justice system impacts families and those on the outside, but I truly wish we had gotten less of Vince, or ideally just stuck with Violetta's pov. It felt like it didn't add much to the story, and the pacing of it slogged on for me. There were several times I kept "waiting" for something to happen.
I really liked the premise and concept of what the author was trying to show and the point she is trying to make, but the execution of it fell flat for me, and by the end I truly think it is a swing and a miss. By the end of the story there truly isn't a major point made. I do think it would have had a bigger impact and stronger message if Violette
With a story and concept like this the bittersweet ending came off too happy and hopeful for the message it was trying to get across. I'm glad I'm not a blubbering mess after reading this, but it didn't stick in my head and make me keep thinking about it.
I would definitely read others books by Jennifer Baker, and if you're interested in the premise I would say check this one out and see if you like it! But I wouldn't personally say this is a book I would recommend.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Toxic relationship, Drug abuse, Bullying, Racism, and Forced institutionalization
Minor: Sexual violence, Sexual assault, Suicide attempt, and Sexual harassment
The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood
funny
lighthearted
medium-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
5.0
DON'T ASK ME WHY I CONTINUE TO EAT THESE BOOKS UP OKAY!
I love them and will not take no complaints or questions!
I love them and will not take no complaints or questions!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Misogyny, Sexual content, and Sexual harassment
Tastes Like Shakkar by Nisha Sharma
emotional
funny
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? Yes
4.5
4.5 stars
Another sweet and spicy read from Nisha Sharma, thoroughly enjoyable and oh so comforting.
May I just say Benjamin owns ropes and he knows how to use them! Seriously adore how Sharma writes spicy scenes, I always know when I read one of her books I'll be laughing one page, and blushing the next!
I continue to adore how relatable the stories and characters are, I just see so much of myself and my experiences in every book Sharma writes.
I love that we get a plus sized fmc, and done so well! She is confident and a badass, and I love how she stands up for herself and takes no crap from anyone.
The Aunties never fail to crack me up, they truly are master sleuths, and master meddlers.
I didn't quite enjoy this as much as the first one, I do feel like their relationship is pretty fast-paced and goes from zero to 100. But it is such a negligible amount it's hardly worth mentioning.
Another must read from Nisha Sharma, I adore her books!
Another sweet and spicy read from Nisha Sharma, thoroughly enjoyable and oh so comforting.
May I just say Benjamin owns ropes and he knows how to use them! Seriously adore how Sharma writes spicy scenes, I always know when I read one of her books I'll be laughing one page, and blushing the next!
I continue to adore how relatable the stories and characters are, I just see so much of myself and my experiences in every book Sharma writes.
I love that we get a plus sized fmc, and done so well! She is confident and a badass, and I love how she stands up for herself and takes no crap from anyone.
The Aunties never fail to crack me up, they truly are master sleuths, and master meddlers.
I didn't quite enjoy this as much as the first one, I do feel like their relationship is pretty fast-paced and goes from zero to 100. But it is such a negligible amount it's hardly worth mentioning.
Another must read from Nisha Sharma, I adore her books!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content, Fatphobia, and Misogyny
Hunted by Jaylee Fields
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
5.0
Thank you to the author for this ARC
Spicy, sweet, and did I mention SPICY?!!
Hunted is an erotic novella that is such a TREAT to read!
Listen we all know why we're here, it's for some good good smut. And my oh my did Jaylee Fields deliver! I love the relationship between Wendell and Emerald, it is a testament to the quality of the writing that we are able to see so much of their relationship and chemistry in such a short story. PLUS ALL THE SPICY SCENES 10000000/10!! Do NOT read this in public because your face will be tomato red, and you'll be giggling kicking your feet.
Truly over all too soon, my only complaint is I want more of them immediately! Give me a whole series because I want to know everything about their backstories, lore, and the world they inhabit.
I love the content warnings at the beginning, I believe every reader should always be able to make an informed decision before reading, without requiring an internet deep dive. I've read a lot of smutty books, and even dom/sub ones. This is the first one I've read where the more dominant in the pair is actually the younger one, and may I just say I'm HOOKED. I did also like how the author referenced and gave books for MM romance by own voices, I've never seen an author do that before. I do think no author should ever feel the need to have to "come out" or be clear about their sexuality on page in order to justify their writing.
I read a lot of books, too many some might say. (You guys I'm literally vitamin D deficient because I don't go outside enough!) It is very easy to tell when an author "has it" or not. You can tell from the very first chapter (really the first page!) if you are going to have a new favorite or not. I can easily say Jaylee Fields is now on my list of authors to watch out for, and I can't wait to read what she writes next.
Highly recommend, especially if you're looking for SMUTTY books!
Spicy, sweet, and did I mention SPICY?!!
Hunted is an erotic novella that is such a TREAT to read!
Listen we all know why we're here, it's for some good good smut. And my oh my did Jaylee Fields deliver! I love the relationship between Wendell and Emerald, it is a testament to the quality of the writing that we are able to see so much of their relationship and chemistry in such a short story. PLUS ALL THE SPICY SCENES 10000000/10!! Do NOT read this in public because your face will be tomato red, and you'll be giggling kicking your feet.
Truly over all too soon, my only complaint is I want more of them immediately! Give me a whole series because I want to know everything about their backstories, lore, and the world they inhabit.
I love the content warnings at the beginning, I believe every reader should always be able to make an informed decision before reading, without requiring an internet deep dive. I've read a lot of smutty books, and even dom/sub ones. This is the first one I've read where the more dominant in the pair is actually the younger one, and may I just say I'm HOOKED. I did also like how the author referenced and gave books for MM romance by own voices, I've never seen an author do that before. I do think no author should ever feel the need to have to "come out" or be clear about their sexuality on page in order to justify their writing.
I read a lot of books, too many some might say. (You guys I'm literally vitamin D deficient because I don't go outside enough!) It is very easy to tell when an author "has it" or not. You can tell from the very first chapter (really the first page!) if you are going to have a new favorite or not. I can easily say Jaylee Fields is now on my list of authors to watch out for, and I can't wait to read what she writes next.
Highly recommend, especially if you're looking for SMUTTY books!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
Thieves' Gambit by Kayvion Lewis
adventurous
challenging
mysterious
tense
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
4.5
4.5 stars
Thank you Penguin for this ARC
Heist books are always so fun to read and this was no exception. Every heist, plan, and sneaky thief move had my heart pounding, and was just so exciting to read.
Ross and her Mom regularly perform heists, while they are very good at it, it is a lonely life. Ross's Mom constantly hammers into her brain the importance of never trusting anyone, and as a result Ross is incredibly lonely. Her plan to get away and make some friends is quickly botched when her Mom ends up getting kidnapped. Her only solution to get one billion dollars for the ransom is to enter in a cut throat competition between thieves.
This is a really enjoyable book, and truly is such a fun read. I would never have made it past round 0, I would definitely have failed and gotten stuck in the first room. It is so fascinating to see how different characters came up with different plans and ways to steal and lie. I would never have been able to think of a quarter of what they came up with!
There is of course a bit of romance, and while it did feel a bit fast-paced, I enjoyed their chemistry. Devroe is very persistent. I almost thought there was going to be a sapphic romance between Ross and Noelia because of the chemistry the two of them had, and their past.
I absolutely adored how diverse this book is, it's so rare to see this type of genre have this set of characters. Everyone felt so fleshed out and actually read as BIPOC.
Bad parents continue to be one of my favorite elements for books to have, I love that we are getting to see more morally grey or just truly sucky parents in books. (Seriously guys, I hate the trope of parents being infallible)
At times it did read more like it was made for a movie, then if it was made for a book. (This is odd, but does this make sense) I almost think it might make certain scenes easier to follow along when watching then when reading.
The ending was a bit of a let down, it was one twist then another. With two back to back twists it was hard to be invested and still find care for how everything went down. I also was a bit confused by some of the later events in the big just plot wise, there were a few holes. (Like the fact Ross has never worn an evening dress or similar attire but can walk in heels easily) The ending definitely felt a bit abrupt, I still have tons of questions.
I can't wait for the next book, and I would definitely read more of Kayvion Lewis's writing.
Highly recommend, perfect for fans of heist books similar to Ocean's Eleven.
Thank you Penguin for this ARC
Heist books are always so fun to read and this was no exception. Every heist, plan, and sneaky thief move had my heart pounding, and was just so exciting to read.
Ross and her Mom regularly perform heists, while they are very good at it, it is a lonely life. Ross's Mom constantly hammers into her brain the importance of never trusting anyone, and as a result Ross is incredibly lonely. Her plan to get away and make some friends is quickly botched when her Mom ends up getting kidnapped. Her only solution to get one billion dollars for the ransom is to enter in a cut throat competition between thieves.
This is a really enjoyable book, and truly is such a fun read. I would never have made it past round 0, I would definitely have failed and gotten stuck in the first room. It is so fascinating to see how different characters came up with different plans and ways to steal and lie. I would never have been able to think of a quarter of what they came up with!
There is of course a bit of romance, and while it did feel a bit fast-paced, I enjoyed their chemistry. Devroe is very persistent. I almost thought there was going to be a sapphic romance between Ross and Noelia because of the chemistry the two of them had, and their past.
I absolutely adored how diverse this book is, it's so rare to see this type of genre have this set of characters. Everyone felt so fleshed out and actually read as BIPOC.
Bad parents continue to be one of my favorite elements for books to have, I love that we are getting to see more morally grey or just truly sucky parents in books. (Seriously guys, I hate the trope of parents being infallible)
At times it did read more like it was made for a movie, then if it was made for a book. (This is odd, but does this make sense) I almost think it might make certain scenes easier to follow along when watching then when reading.
The ending was a bit of a let down, it was one twist then another. With two back to back twists it was hard to be invested and still find care for how everything went down. I also was a bit confused by some of the later events in the big just plot wise, there were a few holes. (Like the fact Ross has never worn an evening dress or similar attire but can walk in heels easily) The ending definitely felt a bit abrupt, I still have tons of questions.
I can't wait for the next book, and I would definitely read more of Kayvion Lewis's writing.
Highly recommend, perfect for fans of heist books similar to Ocean's Eleven.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Gaslighting and Kidnapping
Minor: Violence and Racism
This Is Why They Hate Us by Aaron H. Aceves
emotional
funny
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
4.5
The best way to get over someone, is to get under someone else...right?
Enrique (Quique) is trying to get over a one-sided crush on his friend Saleem by having a hot slut summer. Quique's parents don't know that he is bisexual, and he has zero dating skills but that doesn't stop him from pursuing 3 different guys. All with very different results.
I love how sex positive this book is, people who don't like those elements always confuse me. Let's think back to when we were all teenagers okay? Hormones and horniness doesn't magically appear when you become an adult!
One of my biggest issues with reading YA books is sometimes the teenagers don't read like teenagers. This was not the case here, Quique is messy and just trying to figure himself out. I love the friendship he has with Fabiola, and how supportive his parents try to be with his mental health.
I am so grateful that Quique didn't end up with the white guy! I never know why so many BIPOC authors love having their characters have multiple love interests and then always end up with that specific person. MAJOR props to Aceves for actually writing the white character how a white person...well you'll see when you read it.
I've had this book on my tbr for a long time, I put off reading it because I was afraid the content was going to be too heavy for me. There are discussions around mental health, and biphobia, but nothing at all what I thought it might be about. I wish I had read it sooner.
The only reason this isn't 5 stars for me, I did have a few problems with some of the pacing at time, I felt like I kept waiting for the plot to move forward. I also had trouble caring about some of Quique's love interests.
All in all I really I enjoyed this book, I always love reading stories by chicano authors.
Highly recommend, perfect for fans of queer diverse stories with messy main characters! This is my first book by Aaron H. Aceves, and I will definitely read more of his writing.
Enrique (Quique) is trying to get over a one-sided crush on his friend Saleem by having a hot slut summer. Quique's parents don't know that he is bisexual, and he has zero dating skills but that doesn't stop him from pursuing 3 different guys. All with very different results.
I love how sex positive this book is, people who don't like those elements always confuse me. Let's think back to when we were all teenagers okay? Hormones and horniness doesn't magically appear when you become an adult!
One of my biggest issues with reading YA books is sometimes the teenagers don't read like teenagers. This was not the case here, Quique is messy and just trying to figure himself out. I love the friendship he has with Fabiola, and how supportive his parents try to be with his mental health.
I am so grateful that Quique didn't
I've had this book on my tbr for a long time, I put off reading it because I was afraid the content was going to be too heavy for me. There are discussions around mental health, and biphobia, but nothing at all what I thought it might be about. I wish I had read it sooner.
The only reason this isn't 5 stars for me, I did have a few problems with some of the pacing at time, I felt like I kept waiting for the plot to move forward. I also had trouble caring about some of Quique's love interests.
All in all I really I enjoyed this book, I always love reading stories by chicano authors.
Highly recommend, perfect for fans of queer diverse stories with messy main characters! This is my first book by Aaron H. Aceves, and I will definitely read more of his writing.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Biphobia and Mental illness
Moderate: Sexual content
Minor: Homophobia and Racism
The Name-Bearer by Natalia Hernandez
adventurous
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
4.25
Magic, fantasy, badass ladies, and oh so queer, The Name-Bearer has been on my tbr forever, and I am so happy I finally got to read it.
A LATINX FANTASY! Take all my money! I feel like I am so incredibly biased because I was so excited to read a book with such inclusion of culture and diversity. Reading a book that includes your own culture always just feels so special and comforting. The rich food descriptions and detailed clothing made it feel like I was stepping into the world and experiencing everything that the name-bearer did. My favorite part of the book is when she is training with her friends and finally having that family she's always wanted. I like how everyone has their own strengths, and she isn't just immediately the best at everything.
I think the biggest issue for me is the writing. There is so much telling going on rather than showing, it made it hard at times to stay engaged with the plot and the writing. It is a big bookish peeve of mine that I have to read summaries of events instead of actually reading the event itself. There are also so many times in every chapter where a character will do something and then it will explain itself further. For example:
"The wizard brought a long,tapered finger to his lips to indicate that she should be silent". The reader can easily deduce the fact he wants her to be silent because of him just putting his finger to his mouth, explaining it further is just redundant and unnecessary. However I know this is an indie book, and I always take into consideration the resources available to indie authors when they self publish.
The viewpoint that Hernandez writes from primarily focuses on the name-bearer, but at certain moments when she interacts with other characters it will focus on their inner monologue, or further explain their actions. The ending is very unexpected, it kinda felt like it came out of nowhere.
I enjoyed this book, it has a rich environment, and incredible lore. I am excited to read the next one!
I would recommend this book!
The book cover is absolutely gorgeous and I am so obsessed with it.
A LATINX FANTASY! Take all my money! I feel like I am so incredibly biased because I was so excited to read a book with such inclusion of culture and diversity. Reading a book that includes your own culture always just feels so special and comforting. The rich food descriptions and detailed clothing made it feel like I was stepping into the world and experiencing everything that the name-bearer did. My favorite part of the book is when she is training with her friends and finally having that family she's always wanted. I like how everyone has their own strengths, and she isn't just immediately the best at everything.
I think the biggest issue for me is the writing. There is so much telling going on rather than showing, it made it hard at times to stay engaged with the plot and the writing. It is a big bookish peeve of mine that I have to read summaries of events instead of actually reading the event itself. There are also so many times in every chapter where a character will do something and then it will explain itself further. For example:
"The wizard brought a long,tapered finger to his lips to indicate that she should be silent". The reader can easily deduce the fact he wants her to be silent because of him just putting his finger to his mouth, explaining it further is just redundant and unnecessary. However I know this is an indie book, and I always take into consideration the resources available to indie authors when they self publish.
The viewpoint that Hernandez writes from primarily focuses on the name-bearer, but at certain moments when she interacts with other characters it will focus on their inner monologue, or further explain their actions. The ending is very unexpected, it kinda felt like it came out of nowhere.
I enjoyed this book, it has a rich environment, and incredible lore. I am excited to read the next one!
I would recommend this book!
The book cover is absolutely gorgeous and I am so obsessed with it.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Violence, Death, and Blood
Minor: War and Sexual harassment
The Kraken's Prize by Luna Joya
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
Sweet, steamy, and over all too soon, The Kraken's Prize is a must for any fans of tentacle based romance.
We follow Ava, she has an overbearing mother because of her TBI, and all she wants to do is explore the world. Seb is a feared kraken pirate captain, who will stop at nothing to find the sea witch who cursed him and his crew. Of course his plans get a bit derailed when he has to save Ava's life..
This is the second book in the series, and I actually liked this more than the first! Any hang-ups or nitpicky issues I had with the first one, are non existent here. I wish it was longer because I was enjoying the characters, the story, and the relationship between Seb and Ava.
I really like the illustration inclusion at the end of all the "adorable" guardians that the girls have bonded with so far! (And a sneak peek at upcoming cuties!) I especially enjoy the new "found family" Ava has with the crew, and how they all make pictures for her to help remember. As a proud member of the cute journals and pens community, it was cool to see that included as one of her hobbies.
It is so rare to see romance, especially monster romance with disability rep, and The Kraken's Prize shows how masterfully it can be done. Seb never infantalizes her, but provides support and care, understanding that she is perfectly capable of knowing her needs and wants.
Of course there is some lovely tension between Ava and Seb, let's just say he has tentacles and knows how to use them! There's something about reading fated mates that is always so comforting, maybe the fact the person is going to stand by you no matter what. There's a reason I always save monster romance for when I'm feeling particularly down, they just always cheer me up and are so fun to read.
Perfect for fans of tentacles, monster romance, or just good books in general, I definitely recommend this book! I am so excited that with each book that comes out they keep getting better and better, I can't wait to read what Luna Joya writes next.
Thank you to the author for this ARC
We follow Ava, she has an overbearing mother because of her TBI, and all she wants to do is explore the world. Seb is a feared kraken pirate captain, who will stop at nothing to find the sea witch who cursed him and his crew. Of course his plans get a bit derailed when he has to save Ava's life..
This is the second book in the series, and I actually liked this more than the first! Any hang-ups or nitpicky issues I had with the first one, are non existent here. I wish it was longer because I was enjoying the characters, the story, and the relationship between Seb and Ava.
I really like the illustration inclusion at the end of all the "adorable" guardians that the girls have bonded with so far! (And a sneak peek at upcoming cuties!) I especially enjoy the new "found family" Ava has with the crew, and how they all make pictures for her to help remember. As a proud member of the cute journals and pens community, it was cool to see that included as one of her hobbies.
It is so rare to see romance, especially monster romance with disability rep, and The Kraken's Prize shows how masterfully it can be done. Seb never infantalizes her, but provides support and care, understanding that she is perfectly capable of knowing her needs and wants.
Of course there is some lovely tension between Ava and Seb, let's just say he has tentacles and knows how to use them! There's something about reading fated mates that is always so comforting, maybe the fact the person is going to stand by you no matter what. There's a reason I always save monster romance for when I'm feeling particularly down, they just always cheer me up and are so fun to read.
Perfect for fans of tentacles, monster romance, or just good books in general, I definitely recommend this book! I am so excited that with each book that comes out they keep getting better and better, I can't wait to read what Luna Joya writes next.
Thank you to the author for this ARC
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
Moderate: Ableism
Minor: Violence and Toxic relationship