jessread_s's reviews
493 reviews

Rule of the Aurora King by Nisha J. Tuli

adventurous emotional mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

Review: I’ve come to the unfortunate conclusion that this series just isn’t for me and that’s okay. 

 

“Rule of the Aurora King” follows Lor as she teams up with Nadir, the Aurora Prince and her captor, to search for a lost item that holds the key to her past and her future. With the Sun King determined to reclaim her and the Aurora King looking to destroy her, Lor must keep on the move. But nowhere is safe and she soon learns that the future of Ouranos depends on much more than avenging her shattered legacy.  

 

I wasn’t really a fan of the writing in the first book and was hoping for a different outcome with this one, but that didn’t happen. As a fantasy reader that loves to experience the story through sensory details and actions, I got bogged down by the inner monologues, which were very heavy on exposition. Don’t get me wrong, this book definitely has its moments—I really liked how some chapters were written as flashbacks to show what happened to the Queendom of Heart—but they are ultimately overpowered by Lor and Nadir’s tumultuous relationship in my opinion, and I did not prefer their constant back and forth. I’m trying to get into the practice of putting down books that I’m just not loving, so I probably won’t pick up the next installment, but I think that those who are new to romantasy will enjoy this. 

The Paradise Problem by Christina Lauren

adventurous emotional funny hopeful lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Review: I loved every single page of this one! 

 

“The Paradise Problem” follows Liam West, the heir of a grocery chain, and Anna Green, his free-spirited artist ex, as they pretend to be married in order to receive a massive inheritance. 

 

Part of why I enjoyed this book so much is because I adored the characters and their starkly different personalities. Anna is very quirky, hilarious, and grounded. I admire her for abandoning a career path guaranteeing security to follow her dreams, even if that means living paycheck to paycheck. Liam, conversely, is an uptight, chronic overthinker who internalizes the pressure he experiences in trying to live up to his father’s expectations and make something of himself. They are truly opposites, but the circumstances surrounding their fake marriage only push them closer together. They learn to open up about their insecurities, acknowledge their irresistible chemistry, and eventually give themselves over to each other completely to survive Liam’s one-percenter parents. Christina Lauren outdid themselves in creating a paradise tinged by outlandish familial drama. The tense atmosphere only made Anna and Liam’s witty, humorous banter even more entertaining. When I tell you I audibly laughed out loud…this book was just so fun to read and I didn’t want it to end despite everything wrapping up nicely! 

Fate Breaker by Victoria Aveyard

adventurous dark emotional hopeful tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

Review: I found myself holding my breath at all times while reading this book! 

 

With the realm hanging in the balance “Fate Breaker” follows the Companions as they race to reunite while they rally old allies and seek unexpected new ones, in one final push against darkness. 

 

Though the Companions spend a majority of the book apart, Aveyard manages to create captivating storylines for each character that advance the plot of “Fate Breaker” forward. With the Companions separated, their different points-of-view allow the reader to explore different regions of the ward and see how they have been affected by Erida’s reign. As always, Aveyard completely immersed me in her complex world with her detailed descriptions of each region and its customs. At the same time, Aveyard further develops her characters. With war on the horizon, I really enjoyed watching Corayne step into her role as the Breaker of Fates. I was also fascinated by Erida’s character  as she descended into darkness to achieve her goals. Above all else, I LOVED chapters written from either Sorasa or Domacridhan’s perspectives. Their chemistry is top tier, their dynamic is entertaining, and the shenanigans they get up to only strengthen their bond. 

 

Once the Companions reunited, the epic battle at the novel’s end was everything I wanted it to be and more! The elaborate action sequences blew me away, the betrayals were a punch to the gut, and my poor fingernails went through it as the lives of favorite characters were threatened. In the end, I was left feeling satisfied (perhaps also a tad horrified). I cannot thank Aveyard enough for the bonus scene starring my favorite ship *squeals* in the Barnes & Noble exclusive edition. Enduring all the pain and one of the slowest burning romance subplots I’ve ever read was so beyond worth it. 

Powerful by Lauren Roberts

adventurous emotional funny hopeful sad 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

Review: I’m pretty sure this book broke me…if only you could hear my deep guttural sobs. 

 

“Powerful” follows Adena as she attempts to survive on the streets of Loot and navigate her newfound relationship with a mysterious—and dangerous—Elite. 

 

Having been introduced to Adena in “Powerless”, I was so excited to read from her perspective and gain more insight into her as a character. I absolutely adore her warm, bubbly personality in this novella. She is so loving and optimistic, a bright light in a world that is so cutthroat and corrupt. 

 

Adena’s love story with Mak is so sweet and I am so glad that she found her person! I did not want the book to end because of how much I loved watching their unexpected friendship bloom into something more. Roberts does a great job creating romantic tension through their banter and mutual pining, which further invested me in their relationship development. Despite their opposite personalities, they have such great chemistry and watching them come to that realization slowly over time was everything! 

 

Because I read “Powerless”, I knew how “Powerful” would end, but that did not stop the tears from falling. Getting to know Adena throughout the novella and how she has impacted Mak and Paedyn made what eventually happens even more devastating. I’m still holding out hope that there is more to her story.

The Atlas Complex by Olivie Blake

challenging dark emotional mysterious reflective tense slow-paced

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

4.25

Review: This book turned my brain into scrambled eggs and I’m honestly okay with that. 

 

The conclusion to “The Atlas” series follows Callum, Reina, Parisa, Libby, Nico, and Tristan as they fight to survive the lethal terms of their initiation and face the consequences of limitless power. 

 

The beginning of the “Atlas Complex” is so slow I nearly gave up on it, but if you find yourself in the same position, do NOT do it! Blake intentionally takes her time leading up to the novel’s explosive ending so as to focus on how the characters develop when they are given endless knowledge and power. I was gripped by each character’s point-of-view as they become corrupted by Atlas’ promise of making their wildest dreams come true—the cost of which was losing themselves and even then that proved to not be enough, a realization that came too late. Gone are the people they once were in “The Atlas Six”. Callum is consumed by obsession, Reina devotes herself to things she cannot control, Parisa sheds her vanity, Libby loses her moral compass, Nico becomes too trusting, and Tristan wants for too much. Their fates were sealed once the Society, the Archives, and the Forum became a part of their lives and this just goes to show that human beings will do anything to achieve greatness, even if that means compromising their goodness. Blake’s commentary is haunting and will make you reflect on your own choices and question what you would do and who you would betray for glory. The final chapters are an emotional overload as each character is confronted by the repercussions of their actions. It’s utter chaos…just as it should be. There was never going to be a “happily ever after”.

Bespelled by Laura Thalassa

adventurous dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

Review: The sequel to “Bewitched” not only exceeds all expectation, but is more magical than its predecessor!

“Bespelled” picks up where book 1 leaves off—with Selene Bowers trying to make sense of her restored memories and the unbreakable marriage pact she was coerced into by her soul mate Memnon. However, once Memnon learns the truth behind why Selene betrayed him long ago, he is horrified by his own actions and desperate to make amends, Memnon offers Selene the unthinkable: a magic bond that will give her full control over his will. And Selene is desperate enough to accept it. There’s still a killer out there targeting the witches at Henbane Coven and if Selene wants to stop them, she’ll need Memnon’s help.

I love books with groveling and grovel Memnon did! Once Selene retained her memories, she put him in his place and I thoroughly enjoyed watching him make up for his mistakes. While I didn’t necessarily like that Memnon relinquished his free will to Selene (it made me question what was consensual), I did like how he gave her the space she needed to sort through her feelings while also being by her side when she needed him most. He is protective of her, but also constantly reminds Selene of how fierce and capable she is on her own. Their dynamic of being caught between hate and love is incredibly entertaining and I adored that they eventually found a way to unite their pasts and present selves to rekindle their romance. 

Heartbreaking as it was, I really liked the direction this book took with regard to the murder mystery sub-plot. Thalassa handles sensitive subjects (specifically pertaining to the victims) with care and adds elements of suspense, both of which further invested me in the storyline. With the introduction of new supernatural creatures and villains, I am interested in seeing how things play out in book 3. 

Savor It by Tarah DeWitt

emotional funny hopeful inspiring 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

4.5

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Review: DeWitt’s latest release is the perfect recipe for an emotion-packed rom-com!

“Savor It” follows Sage Byrd—a social studies teacher who has lived in the coastal town of Spunes, Oregon her entire life—and Fisher Lange—a Michelin-starred chef grieving the loss of his sister and navigating his rocky relationship with his teenage niece Indy. After a memorable middle of the night first meeting, Sage and Fisher agree to help each other achieve their goals just for the summer. Soon their partnership gets passionate, but they start to realize that summer is racing by much faster than they would like...

I have a special place in my heart for Sage and Fisher. Both are going through tough times. That make them feel real and relatable. I love Sage for how funny, strong, and kind she is. She prioritizes herself and the happiness she finds in the small things in life. I connected with Fisher and his efforts to reignite his passion. His relationship with Indy is incredibly endearing and I was pleased to see them grow closer as the story progressed. Sage and Fisher are very layered and that is why both of their points-of-view were equally compelling to me. I truly tried to savor each chapter.

Sage and Fisher’s relationship is so complex and I love how it developed. I especially admired how they didn’t try to fix or heal each other, but instead talked through their struggles and acknowledged their imperfections in an effort to better understand one another. In being vulnerable and honest, they were able to love each other fully and their love felt more authentic to me as a reader as a result. 

Not only did I fall in love with the characters, but I fell in love with the small town of Spunes, Oregon. Even though there were many brief appearances by locals, I still felt like I knew all of the residents because DeWitt gives them each distinctive personalities. She also does such a great job acquainting the reader with important places that transport you to her fictional setting. 

Reckless by Elsie Silver

emotional funny hopeful inspiring 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

4.75

Review: I honestly didn’t think anyone could ever make the surprise baby trope work, but Elsie Silver is truly exceptional! 

 

Winter is a very layered and complex character. In the other books in this series, she was portrayed as villain of sorts, but I quickly became heartbroken when I learned that her icy exterior developed as a result of being made to feel unloved by her awful ex-husband, her spiteful mother, and her absent father. It made me so happy when Theo came into the picture because he gave her the attention she deserved, became someone she could lean on, and helped her open up about her struggles. I loved watching her character develop the closer she became with Theo. I think motherhood played a huge role in her development as well. Her relationship with her daughter Vivi is so wholesome and in a way it helped Winter reconnect with her half-sister Summer. I enjoyed watching her grow as a person and heal.  

 

Theo! Dale! Silva! This man is the blueprint! He is such a great father and partner. It was truly devastating to see him come to the realization that he had missed out on so many “firsts” with his daughter—including her birth—all because of miscommunication, but he didn’t let that get in the way of stepping up to be a fully present father and I admire him so much for that. He also steps up for Winter too. He is protective of her, prioritizes her, and makes her feel lovable. I appreciate that he actively avoided being controlling (unlike her ex-husband) and came to her defense when she needed him to. He made sure Winter knew that she didn’t need to change or fix any aspect of herself by loving her unconditionally. 

 

The exploration of motherhood, self-acceptance, finding happiness, forgiveness, and moving forward is what makes “Reckless” so much more than a cowboy romance and set this book in cement as my favorite of the Chestnut Springs series.

A Crane Among Wolves by June Hur 허주은

adventurous challenging dark emotional hopeful mysterious sad tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

Review: A gripping murder mystery and swoonworthy romance set against the backdrop of a brutal period in Korean history. 

 

“A Crane Among Wolves” follows Iseul, a sheltered, privileged teenager, as she embarks on a dangerous journey to save her sister, who has been kidnapped by the tyrant King Yeonsan. Prince Daehyun, who is disgusted by his half-brother’s rampant abuse of the common folk, wants nothing more than to overthrow him.  Despite their initial disdain for each other, Iseul and Daehyun’s mutual hatred for the king results in a reluctant alliance to stage a coup. 

 

June Hur’s historical reimagining centers around the fall of the Joseon dynasty in the Korean peninsula. As someone unfamiliar with this dark period in history, I was captivated and devastated by the widespread atrocities Hur’s characters navigated and the sacrifices they had to make to survive the abuse, kidnapping, enslavement, and execution that was prevalent during this time under King Yeonsan’s reign. I especially admired Iseul’s strength and her devotion to her sister. She goes to extreme lengths to save her sister from Yeonsan’s clutches and I enjoyed watching her develop from a spoiled girl to a selfless revolutionary. 

 

I really enjoyed the murder mystery sub-plot woven into the story. It further drew me in and the suspense kept me on my toes. I tried and failed to identify the killer, but I loved trying to make sense of the clues Hur left throughout. 

 

Iseul and Daehyun’s begrudging allies-to-lovers romance had me in a chokehold! Their relationship development is very gradual with the two prioritizing their cause (usurping the king) over each other. Still,  they cannot resist giving in to their desires and I loved watching that play out from both of their perspectives. The tension, angst, and mutual pining Hur writes into their relationship made it all the better! 

They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera

adventurous emotional hopeful inspiring reflective sad 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

Review: A beautiful, yet devastating story on love, loss, and taking risks. 

 

“They Both Die at the End” follow Rufus and Mateo, total strangers that find friendship in each other as they spend their last day trying to live a lifetime. 

 

Silvera immediately captivated me with his unique and distinctive characters. Some are central to the storyline and others are more periphery, but each has their own voice and I enjoyed getting a glimpse into their lives in reading from their perspective. 

 

I especially gravitated towards chapters written from Mateo’s point-of-view because as a professional overthinker, I saw a lot of myself in his character. I loved watching him develop throughout the novel and get to a point where he could make the most out of his last day and be his most authentic self with Rufus at his side. I’m so glad he got to experience love and odd as it sounds, his journey gave me hope for myself. 

 

Despite knowing what would happen (as made clear by the title) I was still gripped by emotion. The build-up to the novel’s climax is slow and mundane, making the ending more jarring in my opinion. The bonus story in the collector’s edition is what really tipped me over the edge. I sobbed uncontrollably and I anticipate that the other two books in the series will make me do the same.