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janane's reviews
63 reviews
How to Kill a Guy in Ten Ways by Eve Kellman
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.0
A vigilant FMC tries to avenge her sister's situation that takes unexpected turns, ending in multiple murders; turning her into a serial killer.
Pick it if you want to read an extraordinaire FMC tackling abusive issues in a way that needs to be done.
There are few books I just picked for the title, this one comes under that category. As a huge fan of books that have a similar story line, I was so excited to read this. And it didn't disappoint me.
Books like these have some unimaginable power to make my heart ache & love the FMC fiercely.
Millie works in frame shops, but that's not what defines her life. It's her "Message M" service that she runs out of guilt (though she doesn't need to feel that, but I can understand where she is feeling those emotions from). It's not as surprising the encounter she faces in each situation, I'm sure to readers either one of them will be related even in today's era (which is really sad).
One night, an expected situation leads her into an unexpected path; from which her spear of killing starts. Initially she is determined to find the person responsible for Katie's situation, the journey she takes leads to different circumstances where woman are affected cruely; that quickly escalates to murders disguised as suicides.
She even questions herself in every thing she does, yet before she convinces me through her words; I ended up standing up for her in my mind subconsciously.
I loved her so I wanted her to have a better life than the one she was living. So when James came into the picture, I really thought maybe this is what will make her stop things. But the twist was something else which I definitely didn't expect to see. Though I felt bad for him. I'm a sucker for happy ends for the people I love, so though Millie found that happiness somehow (not stereotyping)
Every female in this story is a victim in their own way. Maybe including the ones reading this one.
Nina, everyone deserves someone like her. She just had my respect & love through the last few pages. Friendships like these pull my heart strings & make my eyes shed tears.
Pick it if you want to read an extraordinaire FMC tackling abusive issues in a way that needs to be done.
There are few books I just picked for the title, this one comes under that category. As a huge fan of books that have a similar story line, I was so excited to read this. And it didn't disappoint me.
Books like these have some unimaginable power to make my heart ache & love the FMC fiercely.
Millie works in frame shops, but that's not what defines her life. It's her "Message M" service that she runs out of guilt (though she doesn't need to feel that, but I can understand where she is feeling those emotions from). It's not as surprising the encounter she faces in each situation, I'm sure to readers either one of them will be related even in today's era (which is really sad).
One night, an expected situation leads her into an unexpected path; from which her spear of killing starts. Initially she is determined to find the person responsible for Katie's situation, the journey she takes leads to different circumstances where woman are affected cruely; that quickly escalates to murders disguised as suicides.
She even questions herself in every thing she does, yet before she convinces me through her words; I ended up standing up for her in my mind subconsciously.
I loved her so I wanted her to have a better life than the one she was living. So when James came into the picture, I really thought maybe this is what will make her stop things. But the twist was something else which I definitely didn't expect to see. Though I felt bad for him. I'm a sucker for happy ends for the people I love, so though Millie found that happiness somehow (not stereotyping)
Every female in this story is a victim in their own way. Maybe including the ones reading this one.
Nina, everyone deserves someone like her. She just had my respect & love through the last few pages. Friendships like these pull my heart strings & make my eyes shed tears.
Love Contract by Sophie Lark
lighthearted
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
3.5
Introduced as high school enemies; years later FMC is blackmailed into dating the MMC which turns into full fledged fake dating & to love.
Pick it if you want to read a book about romance but not fully romance; & a story about a billionaire who is trying to do whatever he wants.
I completely went in blind just by reading the blurb; I had no clue about the author or her previous books. In fact, I was assumed this was the debut book of the author. After completing it, I saw who the author was & realised I have seen quite a lot of her books in book insta but unfortunately I was not able to connect with them.
Anyway this was the first book I read, written by Sophie Lark.
As I said, went in without expectations; so even though it turned out to be bit disappointing, it was a okaish read.
Theo is well talented chef but working as full fledged PA for a world class arrogant billionaire, in the hopes of him helping her to start a restaurant. She has a secret which might end her career. We get to see glimpses into her high school life where she definitely didn't stand out much. Other than that, we get to see her being optimistic, bit quirky & so loyal.
Sullvian comes off a responsible son & brother; with his own issues due to the trauma their family carries. He sees a way, he takes it; and in a very charming way he does that. He has a goal & his principal to achieve the same, which he strongly believes in.
Theo & Sullivan's relationship starts as a facade, and slowly progresses to little moments of affection, care, friendship & love. It really started off good, with cute & sassy banters. But instead of building the chemistry between the MCs, I felt the book went off track trying to focus on other storylines. And definitely it was not blended well with the important romance plot.
At one point I felt, I was reading a book about Agnus & his endeavours.
And another thing that definitely didn't work out for me was, the twin movie thing. It was not me :/
I'm not sure I will be picking up anything by her as of now. But maybe in the future if the synopsis seemed interesting enough.
Pick it if you want to read a book about romance but not fully romance; & a story about a billionaire who is trying to do whatever he wants.
I completely went in blind just by reading the blurb; I had no clue about the author or her previous books. In fact, I was assumed this was the debut book of the author. After completing it, I saw who the author was & realised I have seen quite a lot of her books in book insta but unfortunately I was not able to connect with them.
Anyway this was the first book I read, written by Sophie Lark.
As I said, went in without expectations; so even though it turned out to be bit disappointing, it was a okaish read.
Theo is well talented chef but working as full fledged PA for a world class arrogant billionaire, in the hopes of him helping her to start a restaurant. She has a secret which might end her career. We get to see glimpses into her high school life where she definitely didn't stand out much. Other than that, we get to see her being optimistic, bit quirky & so loyal.
Sullvian comes off a responsible son & brother; with his own issues due to the trauma their family carries. He sees a way, he takes it; and in a very charming way he does that. He has a goal & his principal to achieve the same, which he strongly believes in.
Theo & Sullivan's relationship starts as a facade, and slowly progresses to little moments of affection, care, friendship & love. It really started off good, with cute & sassy banters. But instead of building the chemistry between the MCs, I felt the book went off track trying to focus on other storylines. And definitely it was not blended well with the important romance plot.
At one point I felt, I was reading a book about Agnus & his endeavours.
And another thing that definitely didn't work out for me was, the twin movie thing. It was not me :/
I'm not sure I will be picking up anything by her as of now. But maybe in the future if the synopsis seemed interesting enough.
The Girls Who Disappeared by Claire Douglas
adventurous
dark
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
Another well written psychological thriller from claire douglas that definitely lives up to its story line.
Pick it up if you want to read an intriguing thriller with twisted characters & in an equally twisted town that gives you chill vibes down your spine.
At this point, I can be so confident that if I pick up any book written up by her I would not end up disappointed. She is that good with story lines & characters; and on the top of these her writing just makes me hooked to the pages & literally drags me into the story atmosphere that actually feels like I'm seeing all the things play out in front of my eyes. That skill right there makes her books so good.
This book delves right into the plot from the very first page.
We get to witness the day of the accident that Olivia survived. Keeping us looking for any clues from the start.
Jenna is a journalist who comes to the spooky cabin in this mysterious town to interview for the podcast. We get intertwined versions of her personal life & what she is doing. In the span of five days, She is not keen on finding the truth; but just trying to find out what happened which eventually leads to the truth.
Something about Olivia's character, didn't make me doubt her for a second. Even though we get glimpses into what everyone thinks of her; that was definitely not enough for me to think she was guilty of something wrt to the accident. But I was wrong though she definitely was guilty of something (read to know :p)
You get to read another story line that's happening in Thailand from another person's point of view. It felt like I was reading another story altogether & again the author knew how to tie them at the end to give a fitting reveal. I loved the reveal more than the actual climax.
The town Wilshire itself was presented as a character in its own; with its devil's corridor, little boutiques selling mystical ornaments & tarot reading shop, combined with people who gossip endlessly.
I just felt the ending would have been a little different.
But overall a good read! And I'm happy to cross another one of my TBR by her off my list.
Pick it up if you want to read an intriguing thriller with twisted characters & in an equally twisted town that gives you chill vibes down your spine.
At this point, I can be so confident that if I pick up any book written up by her I would not end up disappointed. She is that good with story lines & characters; and on the top of these her writing just makes me hooked to the pages & literally drags me into the story atmosphere that actually feels like I'm seeing all the things play out in front of my eyes. That skill right there makes her books so good.
This book delves right into the plot from the very first page.
We get to witness the day of the accident that Olivia survived. Keeping us looking for any clues from the start.
Jenna is a journalist who comes to the spooky cabin in this mysterious town to interview for the podcast. We get intertwined versions of her personal life & what she is doing. In the span of five days, She is not keen on finding the truth; but just trying to find out what happened which eventually leads to the truth.
Something about Olivia's character, didn't make me doubt her for a second. Even though we get glimpses into what everyone thinks of her; that was definitely not enough for me to think she was guilty of something wrt to the accident. But I was wrong though she definitely was guilty of something (read to know :p)
You get to read another story line that's happening in Thailand from another person's point of view. It felt like I was reading another story altogether & again the author knew how to tie them at the end to give a fitting reveal. I loved the reveal more than the actual climax.
The town Wilshire itself was presented as a character in its own; with its devil's corridor, little boutiques selling mystical ornaments & tarot reading shop, combined with people who gossip endlessly.
I just felt the ending would have been a little different.
But overall a good read! And I'm happy to cross another one of my TBR by her off my list.
Sable Peak by Devney Perry
emotional
lighthearted
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
A magical journey of unrequited love of FMC, who carries a lot of trauma & a single dad MMC 💜
Pick it if you want to read a story of romance, an old murder case dragged up & a cozy family of Edens.
When I was disappointed with crimson river, I picked up this one immediately as I really wanted this to be a good read so that I can finish off the series on a good note. I'm so happy it turned out to be a good read.
Writing an unrequited love from FMC perspective is bit tricky; but it was written well & Vera's character carried it off in the way that makes the readers feel for her.
Vera is someone who has been through a lot at a very young age; that has made her so strong & vulnerable about herself. The journey she goes through to be the best version of herself in spite of everything is inspiring in one way. I loved her a lot; I think she might be my 3rd favourite FMC in this series (✷‿✷)
Mateo clearly comes off as clueless in what he wants or is doing. Adding to the top of that, he discovers he has a kid. So it's a whole lot of mess in his life. The first part of the book focuses on his life & how Vera is his life even without being in a relationship.
Vera & Mateo's relationship starts with them being friends; all those small conversations & gestures that eventually don't lead up to anything until Vera does something drastic. It's like a classic; every one around them knows how Vera is head over heels for Mateo except him. This storyline added a few fun elements too that I enjoyed a lot. But once they were in a relationship it was beautiful & clear and a million.
The other story line that has linked to Vera's personal trauma was written & blended with the romance storyline. Though if I could have not read crimson river & known what had happened this book could have made a perfect read combining both genres. But nevertheless it was written in a way to take the story forward & there was lots of hiking involved which I kind of got bored reading.
Alaina's presence was cute.
And I completely loved the epilogue. I really have a bitter sweet feeling with the series ending. It was indeed a wild ride 💛
Pick it if you want to read a story of romance, an old murder case dragged up & a cozy family of Edens.
When I was disappointed with crimson river, I picked up this one immediately as I really wanted this to be a good read so that I can finish off the series on a good note. I'm so happy it turned out to be a good read.
Writing an unrequited love from FMC perspective is bit tricky; but it was written well & Vera's character carried it off in the way that makes the readers feel for her.
Vera is someone who has been through a lot at a very young age; that has made her so strong & vulnerable about herself. The journey she goes through to be the best version of herself in spite of everything is inspiring in one way. I loved her a lot; I think she might be my 3rd favourite FMC in this series (✷‿✷)
Mateo clearly comes off as clueless in what he wants or is doing. Adding to the top of that, he discovers he has a kid. So it's a whole lot of mess in his life. The first part of the book focuses on his life & how Vera is his life even without being in a relationship.
Vera & Mateo's relationship starts with them being friends; all those small conversations & gestures that eventually don't lead up to anything until Vera does something drastic. It's like a classic; every one around them knows how Vera is head over heels for Mateo except him. This storyline added a few fun elements too that I enjoyed a lot. But once they were in a relationship it was beautiful & clear and a million.
The other story line that has linked to Vera's personal trauma was written & blended with the romance storyline. Though if I could have not read crimson river & known what had happened this book could have made a perfect read combining both genres. But nevertheless it was written in a way to take the story forward & there was lots of hiking involved which I kind of got bored reading.
Alaina's presence was cute.
And I completely loved the epilogue. I really have a bitter sweet feeling with the series ending. It was indeed a wild ride 💛
The Rule Book by Sarah Adams
emotional
funny
lighthearted
medium-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? No
5.0
College exes to professionals who wanted to hate each other to getting accidentally married in LA to the forever kind of love story 🩵
Pick it up if you want to read fun closed door romance with adorable characters who you can't stop falling in love with ♥️
I noticed this book has lots of tropes interlinked which I sure would not have been my favourite if it was not for Derek & Nora or if it was not Sarah Adam's writing. She knows how to pull me into a fictional world yet talking about some important topics & fall in love with her characters forever.
I mean it. "The Cheat Sheet" till now remains my favourite book when it comes to romance that made my heart go fluttering & literally gave me butterflies. From there on I have made sure to read all her books & when this one was announced I was screaming as I got to see another story in my favourite universe.
Derek was an absolute trouble but a good one. From his stupid things he did to keep Nora away to what he did at the end to make sure she was not dragged through the mess; he was everything. He was understanding & considerate of her choices; which was really admirable. I loved him ♥️
Nora what can I say. You have conquered the world in a way everyone of us reading would like to do it; you broke all the standards & you were breathtaking to know Nora. I'm forever going to hold you close to my heart. You are an inspiration (♡ω♡ ) ~♪
Derek & Nora's relationship was not perfect. But definitely they are lucky to have experienced first love to forever together. Nora's choices show the subtle reality that makes me appreciate it more. And I would give anything to read their banter again for the first time it was so much fun!
Nicole was one of the best characters ever written in a romance book. I loved her so much. The way she has written this character & the things she talks about in this book so good & much needed (which is sad) but yet another reason to pick this one up.
I was so happy to see Bree & Nathan. Yes I was screaming.
The only thing was I would have really wished to see the gang more often like I saw them in the cheat sheet.
Pick it up if you want to read fun closed door romance with adorable characters who you can't stop falling in love with ♥️
I noticed this book has lots of tropes interlinked which I sure would not have been my favourite if it was not for Derek & Nora or if it was not Sarah Adam's writing. She knows how to pull me into a fictional world yet talking about some important topics & fall in love with her characters forever.
I mean it. "The Cheat Sheet" till now remains my favourite book when it comes to romance that made my heart go fluttering & literally gave me butterflies. From there on I have made sure to read all her books & when this one was announced I was screaming as I got to see another story in my favourite universe.
Derek was an absolute trouble but a good one. From his stupid things he did to keep Nora away to what he did at the end to make sure she was not dragged through the mess; he was everything. He was understanding & considerate of her choices; which was really admirable. I loved him ♥️
Nora what can I say. You have conquered the world in a way everyone of us reading would like to do it; you broke all the standards & you were breathtaking to know Nora. I'm forever going to hold you close to my heart. You are an inspiration (♡ω♡ ) ~♪
Derek & Nora's relationship was not perfect. But definitely they are lucky to have experienced first love to forever together. Nora's choices show the subtle reality that makes me appreciate it more. And I would give anything to read their banter again for the first time it was so much fun!
Nicole was one of the best characters ever written in a romance book. I loved her so much. The way she has written this character & the things she talks about in this book so good & much needed (which is sad) but yet another reason to pick this one up.
I was so happy to see Bree & Nathan. Yes I was screaming.
The only thing was I would have really wished to see the gang more often like I saw them in the cheat sheet.
Crimson River by Devney Perry
dark
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
3.5
A long dragged murder case that unites a law enforcement officer obsessed with it for personal reasons and a small town baker who is dragged into it.
Pick it up if you want to read a book with lots of hikes to find a believed criminal with MCs that better might have chance to come off as good friends rather than being in a relationship.
But if you are not a control freak like me you can skip this one in this series & read "Sable Peak"
When I read Indigo Ridge first & decided to pick up this series; I went I read all the synopsis of the books & the one I loved the most was Crimson River's. And after I read the other books & even didn't like Garnet Flats much but kept going so that I could read this. I was so sure this would turn out to be my favourite of the series but unfortunately it didn't.
I thought this could have a perfect blend of mystery & romance like Indigo Ridge the reason I fell in love with that book.
When it comes to the mystery part it was perfect. A case that is shown to us in bits & pieces; why was Vance obsessed with it. The mystery reveal. Everything was too good.
Now I think about it if you take out the other parts it could have been a great mystery genre.
But the other side of it; the characters & their relationship; if lucky a good storyline for that. That was terribly missing in this book.
Lyla's character deserved so much more than being simply attracted to the grumpy officer that is new in town which should have just been a part of a story rather than their whole relationship.
Vance is introduced to us in the scene where he brokes up with his girlfriend & moves across chasing a lead. And with his troubled relationship with his family. He just came off someone whp runs away towards what he wants to avoid his other part of his life. I don't know it didn't sit with me.
And honestly at no point I felt any kind of chemistry nor the connection between them. And I really tried hard to connect with their emotions but was so frustrated at one point I just wanted to finish it.
So I have come to a conclusion Deveny Perry's books are kind of either hit or miss for me.
Pick it up if you want to read a book with lots of hikes to find a believed criminal with MCs that better might have chance to come off as good friends rather than being in a relationship.
But if you are not a control freak like me you can skip this one in this series & read "Sable Peak"
When I read Indigo Ridge first & decided to pick up this series; I went I read all the synopsis of the books & the one I loved the most was Crimson River's. And after I read the other books & even didn't like Garnet Flats much but kept going so that I could read this. I was so sure this would turn out to be my favourite of the series but unfortunately it didn't.
I thought this could have a perfect blend of mystery & romance like Indigo Ridge the reason I fell in love with that book.
When it comes to the mystery part it was perfect. A case that is shown to us in bits & pieces; why was Vance obsessed with it. The mystery reveal. Everything was too good.
Now I think about it if you take out the other parts it could have been a great mystery genre.
But the other side of it; the characters & their relationship; if lucky a good storyline for that. That was terribly missing in this book.
Lyla's character deserved so much more than being simply attracted to the grumpy officer that is new in town which should have just been a part of a story rather than their whole relationship.
Vance is introduced to us in the scene where he brokes up with his girlfriend & moves across chasing a lead. And with his troubled relationship with his family. He just came off someone whp runs away towards what he wants to avoid his other part of his life. I don't know it didn't sit with me.
And honestly at no point I felt any kind of chemistry nor the connection between them. And I really tried hard to connect with their emotions but was so frustrated at one point I just wanted to finish it.
So I have come to a conclusion Deveny Perry's books are kind of either hit or miss for me.
King of Sloth by Ana Huang
emotional
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
A opposite attracts romance trope that has reversed MCs than the usual; grumpy FMC paired with sunshine MMC 💛
Pick it up if you want to read how a handsome billionaire tries to make the best publicist fall in love with him; and you too.
This is one of the best books of Ana Huang’s in terms characters, storyline & writing. Especially with respect to MCs. At this point, I have read all her books, and have loved them all. But this one was good. It has her touch, yet it is so different from her other books that makes this book so good.
Xavier is an heir to a billionaire; having a facade of being a spoilt rich kid but is actually suffering from immense trauma over losing his mom & having a troubled relationship with his dad due to that. He is the softest MMC I have read in lines of her books. He is so sweet & tries so hard to be someone who he is not just to anguish his dad.
Sloane is a badass; she is true to herself in wanting what she is passionate about. She doesn't care about fitting in any kind of box this society defines. She takes pride in what she does & yet when it comes to love she ends up doubting herself (we have all been there right?).
Xavier & Sloane's relationship was built on Xavier's assurance of his love towards her. He started doing that; and kept on doing that till she started seeing herself worthy of this kind of love. From asking her to date him to planning each of them perfectly to making her fall for him; he was so wholesome & had my heart.
The other story line of his inheritance on the line; him finding his passion towards blinding a bar was entertaining enough to keep the book going. And It's always great and I'm happy to see other characters from her books appearing. This was cheery on the top for this book. Every other character of her other books were there & it was so beautifully tied to the story line. I was literally giggling & screaming when few of my favourites were mentioned (｡♡‿♡｡)
I loved reading about Sloane's relationship with her sister. It was so cute & heartwarming; definitely made me cry too.
Overall, loved Xavier & Sloane
And wait for Striker begins.
Pick it up if you want to read how a handsome billionaire tries to make the best publicist fall in love with him; and you too.
This is one of the best books of Ana Huang’s in terms characters, storyline & writing. Especially with respect to MCs. At this point, I have read all her books, and have loved them all. But this one was good. It has her touch, yet it is so different from her other books that makes this book so good.
Xavier is an heir to a billionaire; having a facade of being a spoilt rich kid but is actually suffering from immense trauma over losing his mom & having a troubled relationship with his dad due to that. He is the softest MMC I have read in lines of her books. He is so sweet & tries so hard to be someone who he is not just to anguish his dad.
Sloane is a badass; she is true to herself in wanting what she is passionate about. She doesn't care about fitting in any kind of box this society defines. She takes pride in what she does & yet when it comes to love she ends up doubting herself (we have all been there right?).
Xavier & Sloane's relationship was built on Xavier's assurance of his love towards her. He started doing that; and kept on doing that till she started seeing herself worthy of this kind of love. From asking her to date him to planning each of them perfectly to making her fall for him; he was so wholesome & had my heart.
The other story line of his inheritance on the line; him finding his passion towards blinding a bar was entertaining enough to keep the book going. And It's always great and I'm happy to see other characters from her books appearing. This was cheery on the top for this book. Every other character of her other books were there & it was so beautifully tied to the story line. I was literally giggling & screaming when few of my favourites were mentioned (｡♡‿♡｡)
I loved reading about Sloane's relationship with her sister. It was so cute & heartwarming; definitely made me cry too.
Overall, loved Xavier & Sloane
And wait for Striker begins.
Wild Love by Elsie Silver
emotional
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5
A romance story between childhood frenemies who end up in rose hill due to different circumstances ♥️
Pick it up you want to struggle reading a shallow story line with potentially good MCs & other characters.
Elise silver made me a fan of cowboy romances. For someone who was so sure that I won't like the cowboy romance genre. It all changed when I read flawless, her writing & stories had that kind of influence.
When I finished the chestnut spring series, I was waiting to read what she is writing next. So, imagine my expectations when I picked up wild love. I don’t know, maybe that was the problem.
Rosie lands in rose hill jobless after getting fired from her high-end city job she worked hard for, she is at the stage where she is questioning every decision of her life & trying to figure out what she wants to do. Her personal life is more complicated. Amidst this chaos, she is emotionally very vulnerable & tries to find solace in her childhood town.
After becoming a billionaire, Ford returns to Rose hill to start a business in music production. And he is dad. It might not be a shock to the readers but it is definitely a revelation to him. He is trying to balance his sudden parental responsibilities & his long lasting feelings for rosie.
On paper, this seems like a really good love story with interesting MCs; & with Elsie Silver's kind of writing it could have been a good read too. But in the process of the execution somewhere along the line the book didn't work out for me.
Rosie & Ford's relationship starts right off with banter & slowly progresses to revealing each other's childhood hidden gestures that show their love & care they had/have for each other. Through all this the chemistry between them was off somewhere; they didn't seem to come off as a couple head over heels in love or longing with.
Add to this, a mix of 12 year old child's sassy comment & parents "I know so" & "I told you" reactions. Cora's presence is somewhat refreshing & the only thing I enjoyed about this book.
I'm really not getting the vibe of the second book after reading the sneak peak but let's see (fingers crossed).
Pick it up you want to struggle reading a shallow story line with potentially good MCs & other characters.
Elise silver made me a fan of cowboy romances. For someone who was so sure that I won't like the cowboy romance genre. It all changed when I read flawless, her writing & stories had that kind of influence.
When I finished the chestnut spring series, I was waiting to read what she is writing next. So, imagine my expectations when I picked up wild love. I don’t know, maybe that was the problem.
Rosie lands in rose hill jobless after getting fired from her high-end city job she worked hard for, she is at the stage where she is questioning every decision of her life & trying to figure out what she wants to do. Her personal life is more complicated. Amidst this chaos, she is emotionally very vulnerable & tries to find solace in her childhood town.
After becoming a billionaire, Ford returns to Rose hill to start a business in music production. And he is dad. It might not be a shock to the readers but it is definitely a revelation to him. He is trying to balance his sudden parental responsibilities & his long lasting feelings for rosie.
On paper, this seems like a really good love story with interesting MCs; & with Elsie Silver's kind of writing it could have been a good read too. But in the process of the execution somewhere along the line the book didn't work out for me.
Rosie & Ford's relationship starts right off with banter & slowly progresses to revealing each other's childhood hidden gestures that show their love & care they had/have for each other. Through all this the chemistry between them was off somewhere; they didn't seem to come off as a couple head over heels in love or longing with.
Add to this, a mix of 12 year old child's sassy comment & parents "I know so" & "I told you" reactions. Cora's presence is somewhat refreshing & the only thing I enjoyed about this book.
I'm really not getting the vibe of the second book after reading the sneak peak but let's see (fingers crossed).
First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston
adventurous
dark
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
A story of a con artist trying to escape the world she is struck in with her meticulously crafted planning & intelligence.
Pick it up if you want to read what happens if someone sets their eyes on something; how far they can go to achieve that.
I didn't read the blurb of this book. Thought whatever was behind the book was the blurb but got to know there is proper blurb for this in goodreads. That made this book a good read & might have been a downfall too if it was not written properly.
I think this book was more satisfying for me for that reason too. I went in completely blind expecting something intriguing & maybe had different thoughts in terms of the story line.
It surprised me with a different story line which was a win.
And the writing made the book so much better.
These combined made this psychological thriller book a truly a great read.
We get introduced to the protagonist when she is just about to move in with her boyfriend & is being testing the waters with his friends. The first few chapters gives a vibe of "she is hiding something" which was perfect to keep the reader hooked. And slowly she pulls us into her orbit by giving glimpses into her life.
The story goes back & forth with different emotions being potaryed. It tries make you suspicious of everyone we get introduced along the line. But not in one place you get a strong felling of this is what is happening. The author has written in the way everything is being told but on a surface level like the information is all floating around you but yet you can't figure out what is happening.
For me when I finished the book & turned back to see the story, it actually felt like a simple story of human emotions tangled.
So what made this a great read if you ask? The writing is what.
For a story like this with a varying timeline with varying personalities with varying sub story lines : it can really get confusing & messy if not properly executed through a neat writing. Ashley Eston did that flawlessly ♥️
For that I think this book deserves all the appreciation & should be picked up by you if you want to read a good thriller book.
Pick it up if you want to read what happens if someone sets their eyes on something; how far they can go to achieve that.
I didn't read the blurb of this book. Thought whatever was behind the book was the blurb but got to know there is proper blurb for this in goodreads. That made this book a good read & might have been a downfall too if it was not written properly.
I think this book was more satisfying for me for that reason too. I went in completely blind expecting something intriguing & maybe had different thoughts in terms of the story line.
It surprised me with a different story line which was a win.
And the writing made the book so much better.
These combined made this psychological thriller book a truly a great read.
We get introduced to the protagonist when she is just about to move in with her boyfriend & is being testing the waters with his friends. The first few chapters gives a vibe of "she is hiding something" which was perfect to keep the reader hooked. And slowly she pulls us into her orbit by giving glimpses into her life.
The story goes back & forth with different emotions being potaryed. It tries make you suspicious of everyone we get introduced along the line. But not in one place you get a strong felling of this is what is happening. The author has written in the way everything is being told but on a surface level like the information is all floating around you but yet you can't figure out what is happening.
For me when I finished the book & turned back to see the story, it actually felt like a simple story of human emotions tangled.
So what made this a great read if you ask? The writing is what.
For a story like this with a varying timeline with varying personalities with varying sub story lines : it can really get confusing & messy if not properly executed through a neat writing. Ashley Eston did that flawlessly ♥️
For that I think this book deserves all the appreciation & should be picked up by you if you want to read a good thriller book.
Between Commitment and Betrayal by Shain Rose
emotional
lighthearted
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
A forced arranged marriage based on contracts between ceo and his partner's long lost daughter (✿ ♡‿♡)
Pick it up if you want to read a decent billionaire romance with so many characters & plot lines; that also has a sensitive topic discussed.
To be honest, I really thought I would like this book because when I read the synopsis it felt like my kind of read. A relationship story of perfect combination of a strong FMC & a possessive MMC; both equally stubborn (≧▽≦)
It literally had everything to be a great book
Fake/ Arranged Marriage ✅
So much of Angst ✅
Can't literally stand each other ✅
He melting for her ✅
But from the start I really felt something was not in place.
Everly is one of the strongest FMC I have read. She stands tall amidst all the circumstances & considering her past. She chooses herself every time, that made me actually admire her more. She was really a one of a kind ♥️
Declan Hardy is a typical billionaire, so confident and arrogant in what he wants. He is retired NFL player turned CEO who has values & loves his family from the glimpses we get in between the pages ( ꈍᴗꈍ)
Everly & Declan's relationship is as complicated as it gets. He just can't resist her, someone who is definitely not from his world that intrigues him & pulls him towards her. Unfortunately for the same reason she tries hard to stay away but can't. The chemistry was on and off between them, which I feel was the problem. And at a point the storyline of the contract didn't fit properly which should have fueled their relationship.
I felt this to be 3.5 read for me but second half of the book changed my rating for discussing something so important.
And there were many plot lines that felt unfinished.
Honestly I'm not able to pin point what was wrong in terms of writing, but it didn't reach me like it was supposed to.
Overall, a potential to be great read that felt under cooked at many points that ended up making it a decent read.
And I'm gonna to pick up the next one in the series hoping the 2nd one of the series is always much better than the 1st one 🤞🏻
Pick it up if you want to read a decent billionaire romance with so many characters & plot lines; that also has a sensitive topic discussed.
To be honest, I really thought I would like this book because when I read the synopsis it felt like my kind of read. A relationship story of perfect combination of a strong FMC & a possessive MMC; both equally stubborn (≧▽≦)
It literally had everything to be a great book
Fake/ Arranged Marriage ✅
So much of Angst ✅
Can't literally stand each other ✅
He melting for her ✅
But from the start I really felt something was not in place.
Everly is one of the strongest FMC I have read. She stands tall amidst all the circumstances & considering her past. She chooses herself every time, that made me actually admire her more. She was really a one of a kind ♥️
Declan Hardy is a typical billionaire, so confident and arrogant in what he wants. He is retired NFL player turned CEO who has values & loves his family from the glimpses we get in between the pages ( ꈍᴗꈍ)
Everly & Declan's relationship is as complicated as it gets. He just can't resist her, someone who is definitely not from his world that intrigues him & pulls him towards her. Unfortunately for the same reason she tries hard to stay away but can't. The chemistry was on and off between them, which I feel was the problem. And at a point the storyline of the contract didn't fit properly which should have fueled their relationship.
I felt this to be 3.5 read for me but second half of the book changed my rating for discussing something so important.
And there were many plot lines that felt unfinished.
Honestly I'm not able to pin point what was wrong in terms of writing, but it didn't reach me like it was supposed to.
Overall, a potential to be great read that felt under cooked at many points that ended up making it a decent read.
And I'm gonna to pick up the next one in the series hoping the 2nd one of the series is always much better than the 1st one 🤞🏻