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josie_bookstagram's Reviews (288)
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
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
"I’m literally cooped up in a tower here like a sparkly Rapunzel." 🦄
OMG!!! Shadow Princess just blew me away. From the moment I dove back into the chaos at Zodiac Academy, I was snagged and refused to let go. This installment cranks up the dark fae magic, introducing the urgent theme of mastering the elusive fifth element—those shadows slithering beneath Darcy and Tory’s skin had me on edge the entire time. Their struggle with this new power feels visceral and compelling, a perfect blend of magical training, sisters united through trauma, and hidden lineage. I love the twin dynamics—Darcy’s quiet strength and emotional growth stand in sharp contrast to Tory’s rage-fueled stubbornness. Watching them stumble, hurt each other, but still find that unbreakable bond? Brilliant! The tension with Darius and Orion deepens everything: Darcy and Orion’s connection is electrifying and tender; Tory and Darius remain enemies-to-more with so many explosive screentime moments. Yet Tory’s decision at the end… UGH, I’m in shock. That cliffhanger is BRUTAL.
The world-building hits hard. The Orders, their unique fae forms, and the addictive horoscope-world-building elements bring the magic vividly to life. The Palace of Souls revelation—finally a glimpse into their parents’ legacy, the weight of “home,” and gruesome secrets—just elevates the stakes.
This book is dark, twisted, steamy, and emotionally volcanic. Bully romance, slow burn, fae magic, sisterhood, forbidden love, and shock-ending cliffhangers—it has everything. I’m officially obsessed and pacing until the next book. Seriously authors—how dare you leave it like that? I need the next one now.
OMG!!! Shadow Princess just blew me away. From the moment I dove back into the chaos at Zodiac Academy, I was snagged and refused to let go. This installment cranks up the dark fae magic, introducing the urgent theme of mastering the elusive fifth element—those shadows slithering beneath Darcy and Tory’s skin had me on edge the entire time. Their struggle with this new power feels visceral and compelling, a perfect blend of magical training, sisters united through trauma, and hidden lineage. I love the twin dynamics—Darcy’s quiet strength and emotional growth stand in sharp contrast to Tory’s rage-fueled stubbornness. Watching them stumble, hurt each other, but still find that unbreakable bond? Brilliant! The tension with Darius and Orion deepens everything: Darcy and Orion’s connection is electrifying and tender; Tory and Darius remain enemies-to-more with so many explosive screentime moments. Yet Tory’s decision at the end… UGH, I’m in shock. That cliffhanger is BRUTAL.
The world-building hits hard. The Orders, their unique fae forms, and the addictive horoscope-world-building elements bring the magic vividly to life. The Palace of Souls revelation—finally a glimpse into their parents’ legacy, the weight of “home,” and gruesome secrets—just elevates the stakes.
This book is dark, twisted, steamy, and emotionally volcanic. Bully romance, slow burn, fae magic, sisterhood, forbidden love, and shock-ending cliffhangers—it has everything. I’m officially obsessed and pacing until the next book. Seriously authors—how dare you leave it like that? I need the next one now.
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
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
"For what it’s worth… In Solaria blue means royal. And to me, blue means you." ♐
I can’t stop reading this series!!! The Reckoning was another great installment! Every time I promise myself just one chapter, suddenly it's 2am. This book absolutely delivers on everything that drew me in—enemies-to-lovers tension, slow-burn romance, magical academia high stakes, and a sister bond that’s as fierce as it is heartwarming. From page one, Hell Week grips you in its sadistic charm: older students mercilessly tormenting freshmen to test their resilience before the Reckoning. It's brutal, yes—but it also makes the twins’ climb all the more satisfying. Tory and Darcy aren’t just survivors—they’re elemental powerhouses, and discovering their mythical Order felt like the most badass moment. The puzzle pieces the authors sowed earlier are finally snapping into place too and I am very much enjoying the Easter Eggs from the Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac series too!
The romantic tension is untouchable. Darcy and Orion’s dynamic? It’s a textbook case of slow-burn meets forbidden professor-student chemistry, crackling with jealousy, possessiveness, and emotional payoff. Tory’s arc is just as compelling, especially as she navigates her fraught triangle with Darius and Caleb. The emotional gravity between them pulses in every charged glance. And that ending... Wow!!! It shifts everything: the twins’ fates, the school’s power dynamics, the emotional trajectories of all the characters. Absolutely brilliant. I need the next book NOW!! I’m officially obsessed.
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
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
"What's the point in having all of your power if you can't even have happiness with it?" ♒
Ruthless Fae was an absolute roller coaster from start to finish, and I loved every minute of it. I was on the edge of my seat nearly the entire time, swept up in a world where magic, danger, and secrets collide. The pacing was fantastic—never dull, always full of twists that kept me guessing and eager to turn the page.
The mix of fantasy and suspense worked brilliantly, with the fae mythology adding such an extra layer to the story. I especially appreciated the complex characters, each with their own hidden motives and fierce determination. The tension between them was electric, driving the emotional stakes higher with every chapter. It’s not just about magic; it’s about loyalty, betrayal, and finding your place in a world that feels both enchanting and ruthless. And can we talk about Geraldine? I seriously had no idea I was going to love her as much as I did—she’s such a force of nature in this book!
I also loved how the book balanced intense action scenes with moments of vulnerability and growth. The friendships and alliances felt real and earned, making the characters’ struggles hit even harder. And the romantic undertones were beautifully woven in—not overpowering, but adding depth to the story’s emotional core. I couldn’t put it down, and I’m ready to start book three, eager to see how everything unfolds!!
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
"But that was the way of death, sometimes it crept out of the shadows and stole away loved ones without warning." ♌
Reading Zodiac Academy: The Awakening as Told by the Boys right after book one was an eye-opening experience. I’ve decided to read this series in chronological order, and while part of me wishes I’d tandem-read this alongside the girls’ version, experiencing it on its own was still rewarding. Getting inside the boys’ heads gave a fresh perspective on scenes I already knew, adding layers of depth, tension, and emotion I didn’t realise were there.
I loved seeing the vulnerability behind the bravado — those moments where their arrogance cracked just enough to reveal the loyalty, fear, and fierce protectiveness beneath. The morally grey edges felt sharper here, and I found myself unexpectedly sympathetic towards characters I’d been ready to dislike. Their relationships with each other are just as fascinating as their tangled connections with Tory and Darcy — brotherhood, rivalry, and unspoken bonds all woven together.
The tropes that shine through are enemies-to-lovers, found family, slow burn romance, and the all-important fated mates pull that adds that addictive tension. There’s also the dark academia feel of Solaria’s magical world, political intrigue simmering beneath every interaction, and the constant high-stakes danger that keeps you turning the pages. This isn’t just a repeat of book one — it’s a richer, grittier companion that makes the whole story feel more complete. Now, I can’t wait to continue, knowing I’ve seen both sides of the coin. It’s clever, emotional, and utterly addictive — everything I want from this series.
Reading Zodiac Academy: The Awakening as Told by the Boys right after book one was an eye-opening experience. I’ve decided to read this series in chronological order, and while part of me wishes I’d tandem-read this alongside the girls’ version, experiencing it on its own was still rewarding. Getting inside the boys’ heads gave a fresh perspective on scenes I already knew, adding layers of depth, tension, and emotion I didn’t realise were there.
I loved seeing the vulnerability behind the bravado — those moments where their arrogance cracked just enough to reveal the loyalty, fear, and fierce protectiveness beneath. The morally grey edges felt sharper here, and I found myself unexpectedly sympathetic towards characters I’d been ready to dislike. Their relationships with each other are just as fascinating as their tangled connections with Tory and Darcy — brotherhood, rivalry, and unspoken bonds all woven together.
The tropes that shine through are enemies-to-lovers, found family, slow burn romance, and the all-important fated mates pull that adds that addictive tension. There’s also the dark academia feel of Solaria’s magical world, political intrigue simmering beneath every interaction, and the constant high-stakes danger that keeps you turning the pages. This isn’t just a repeat of book one — it’s a richer, grittier companion that makes the whole story feel more complete. Now, I can’t wait to continue, knowing I’ve seen both sides of the coin. It’s clever, emotional, and utterly addictive — everything I want from this series.
medium-paced
"You’ll probably find that you get a lot of attention from the vamps while they’re able to overpower you so you might wanna get used to it.” “Perfect. I always wanted to be a walking packed lunch." ♊
Zodiac Academy: The Awakening was a wild ride from the very start! I really enjoyed this as an introduction to the series – it instantly pulled me into the magical world of Solaria with its addictive mix of danger, drama, and fantasy. That said, I do feel like there was a lot going on, and at times I felt like I was scrambling to keep up. But weirdly, I liked that! It made me even more excited to dive into the next book and see things from the Boys’ perspective—I’m hoping it’ll fill in some of the blanks and give me a better grasp of the power dynamics and hidden motivations.
Tory and Darcy are such intriguing protagonists—thrown into a completely new world and trying to find their place while being tested (and tormented!) at every turn. I’m a sucker for dark academia settings and enemies-to-lovers tension, and this had both in spades. The elemental magic, the celestial houses, the secrets, the bullies… it’s like Harry Potter meets Mean Girls with a side of Vampire Diaries.
The fae world is brutal, but that’s part of what makes it so addictive. There’s mystery, magical trials, betrayal, and the beginning of some seriously complicated romantic tension. It’s intense, dramatic, and over the top—but in the best way. So far, so good—and I can’t wait to see what happens next. I get the feeling this is only just the beginning.
Zodiac Academy: The Awakening was a wild ride from the very start! I really enjoyed this as an introduction to the series – it instantly pulled me into the magical world of Solaria with its addictive mix of danger, drama, and fantasy. That said, I do feel like there was a lot going on, and at times I felt like I was scrambling to keep up. But weirdly, I liked that! It made me even more excited to dive into the next book and see things from the Boys’ perspective—I’m hoping it’ll fill in some of the blanks and give me a better grasp of the power dynamics and hidden motivations.
Tory and Darcy are such intriguing protagonists—thrown into a completely new world and trying to find their place while being tested (and tormented!) at every turn. I’m a sucker for dark academia settings and enemies-to-lovers tension, and this had both in spades. The elemental magic, the celestial houses, the secrets, the bullies… it’s like Harry Potter meets Mean Girls with a side of Vampire Diaries.
The fae world is brutal, but that’s part of what makes it so addictive. There’s mystery, magical trials, betrayal, and the beginning of some seriously complicated romantic tension. It’s intense, dramatic, and over the top—but in the best way. So far, so good—and I can’t wait to see what happens next. I get the feeling this is only just the beginning.
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
"If you go into a situation expecting the worst, it may cloud your ability to see what good can come from it." 🌊
Somewhere Beyond the Sea was such a fun, heartfelt, and surprisingly emotional read. It’s the kind of book that wraps you up in warmth while also making you reflect deeply on what it means to belong, to be different, and to be loved for exactly who you are.
I absolutely adored getting back into this world, and it did not disappoint. The balance between whimsical fantasy and real-world issues like identity, self-worth, and prejudice was handled so well. It was thought-provoking but never heavy. TJ Klune has such a gift for writing quirky characters that feel completely real, and none more so than Chauncey. Oh. My. Goodness. Chauncey! My absolute favourite. He’s sweet, hilarious, endearing, and so full of heart. I honestly want to take him home with me. Arthur and Linus’s relationship continues to evolve beautifully, and I found the moments between them touching and meaningful. Watching them navigate their new life while learning to parent with compassion, humour, and sometimes a bit of chaos, was just lovely.
The book also dives deeper into themes of found family, acceptance, and letting go of fear. There’s a sense of magic—not just the literal kind, but the emotional magic that comes from being truly seen. I laughed, I teared up, and I closed the book with a full heart. This is a story about being brave in your own skin, loving what makes you different, and never underestimating the power of kindness. Wholesome, uplifting, and beautifully weird. 💙
Somewhere Beyond the Sea was such a fun, heartfelt, and surprisingly emotional read. It’s the kind of book that wraps you up in warmth while also making you reflect deeply on what it means to belong, to be different, and to be loved for exactly who you are.
I absolutely adored getting back into this world, and it did not disappoint. The balance between whimsical fantasy and real-world issues like identity, self-worth, and prejudice was handled so well. It was thought-provoking but never heavy. TJ Klune has such a gift for writing quirky characters that feel completely real, and none more so than Chauncey. Oh. My. Goodness. Chauncey! My absolute favourite. He’s sweet, hilarious, endearing, and so full of heart. I honestly want to take him home with me. Arthur and Linus’s relationship continues to evolve beautifully, and I found the moments between them touching and meaningful. Watching them navigate their new life while learning to parent with compassion, humour, and sometimes a bit of chaos, was just lovely.
The book also dives deeper into themes of found family, acceptance, and letting go of fear. There’s a sense of magic—not just the literal kind, but the emotional magic that comes from being truly seen. I laughed, I teared up, and I closed the book with a full heart. This is a story about being brave in your own skin, loving what makes you different, and never underestimating the power of kindness. Wholesome, uplifting, and beautifully weird. 💙
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
"Dad always says that if you’re going to do something wrong, at least be smart enough not to let anybody see you do it." 🔒
I just love Freida McFadden’s books her writing is so clever—she completely messes with my head in the best possible way. I genuinely thought I had it all figured out more than once, but every time I was wrong. And not just slightly wrong—completely off. The final twist made my jaw droo, I never saw that coming. That’s what makes her thrillers so addictive: they’re unpredictable, smart, and somehow still feel grounded in real emotions.
This one had all the juicy psychological thriller elements I adore—family secrets, a dark past, a main character who you’re not sure if you can trust, and just enough clues to keep you doubting everyone. I loved the locked room mystery vibes and the unreliable narrator trope. The main character, Nora, is a surgeon with a horrifying family legacy—her father is a serial killer. Already, you know you’re in for something wild. She’s done everything she can to bury the past, but when someone starts killing again in a similar way, she becomes the prime suspect. The way her personal and professional life starts to unravel is so gripping to watch unfold.
The pacing is absolutely perfect too. The short, punchy chapters kept me saying "just one more" until it was suddenly 2am. The book played with my assumptions so well—one minute I’d suspect a certain character, then I’d second-guess myself, and by the end I realised I’d trusted all the wrong people. Five stars, no question. If you enjoy twisty psychological thrillers with smart plotting, red herrings, and genuinely shocking reveals, this one is a must-read!
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
mysterious
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
"And as much as I loved a good 🍆 sandwich, there was really no nutritional value to that meal." 🤣
Absolutely loved Warrior Fae! As the final book in the Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac series, it was everything I hoped for and more. After such an intense journey with these characters, this conclusion felt truly satisfying. I laughed, I teared up, and I turned the last page with a full heart. One of the things that stood out most to me was how well Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti wrapped everything up while staying true to the chaotic, magical, and romantic energy that’s defined the series. Yes, it was a long read—but honestly, I didn’t mind at all. The length gave space for real emotional closure, plenty of twists and turns, and the kind of epic character moments you wait several books for.
This book is packed with lots of enjoyable tropes: reverse harem, found family, enemies-to-lovers, fated mates, secret identities, and a strong female lead who absolutely owns her power. Elise is such a brilliant protagonist—strong, funny, emotional, and unapologetically fierce. Watching her fully embrace her magic and her role as a leader was such a proud moment, especially after everything she’s been through.
The guys—Ryder, Gabriel, Leon & Dante each brought something special to the story, and I really appreciated how much character growth we got from all of them. Their dynamics with Elise felt authentic, messy, and real in the best way. The emotional moments hit just as hard as the steamy ones, and I loved how deep their bonds had become by the end. There were also loads of laugh-out-loud moments sprinkled through the drama, which kept the tone from getting too heavy. The balance between humour, heartbreak, magic, and mayhem was spot on. And the happily ever after was so worth the wait!! 💕
Absolutely loved Warrior Fae! As the final book in the Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac series, it was everything I hoped for and more. After such an intense journey with these characters, this conclusion felt truly satisfying. I laughed, I teared up, and I turned the last page with a full heart. One of the things that stood out most to me was how well Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti wrapped everything up while staying true to the chaotic, magical, and romantic energy that’s defined the series. Yes, it was a long read—but honestly, I didn’t mind at all. The length gave space for real emotional closure, plenty of twists and turns, and the kind of epic character moments you wait several books for.
This book is packed with lots of enjoyable tropes: reverse harem, found family, enemies-to-lovers, fated mates, secret identities, and a strong female lead who absolutely owns her power. Elise is such a brilliant protagonist—strong, funny, emotional, and unapologetically fierce. Watching her fully embrace her magic and her role as a leader was such a proud moment, especially after everything she’s been through.
The guys—Ryder, Gabriel, Leon & Dante each brought something special to the story, and I really appreciated how much character growth we got from all of them. Their dynamics with Elise felt authentic, messy, and real in the best way. The emotional moments hit just as hard as the steamy ones, and I loved how deep their bonds had become by the end. There were also loads of laugh-out-loud moments sprinkled through the drama, which kept the tone from getting too heavy. The balance between humour, heartbreak, magic, and mayhem was spot on. And the happily ever after was so worth the wait!! 💕
adventurous
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
mysterious
reflective
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
"Without pain, we cannot know pleasure, without sadness, we cannot appreciate joy." 🖤
Oh my word, this series truly does get better with every book! This book has become my favourite of the series so far; my head is still spinning from all the surprises, revelations, and shocks. It's safe to say I cannot wait to get stuck into the final book in this series and discover how it all ends. Wow. Just wow!
One of the standout elements for me was the intricate plot full of twists and turns, which felt incredibly well-executed. The narrative was expertly woven throughout, revealing layers of deception and hidden truths that kept me constantly guessing. There were so many instances where I was on the edge of my seat, desperate to see how each shocking revelation would impact the characters and their mission. The way the authors handled the unfolding mysteries was brilliant; it never felt rushed, allowing the emotional and plot-driven depth to truly resonate.
The found family theme also shone brightly. Seeing these characters, initially so fractured and isolated, gradually form an unbreakable bond was genuinely heartwarming. Their loyalty to one another, despite facing unimaginable odds and betrayals, was a powerful reminder that family isn't always about blood.
Moreover, the dark fantasy setting continued to impress. The world-building is rich and immersive, pulling you deeper into its intricate lore with each chapter. The dangers felt incredibly real, and the stakes were higher than ever, keeping me utterly gripped. The plot twists were relentless, each one more unexpected than the last, ensuring there was never a dull moment. It's rare to find a series that maintains such a high level of excitement and intrigue, but Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti have absolutely nailed it with Broken Fae.
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
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
“Words don’t mean anything. Anyone can promise me the moon, but I’ve never seen anyone pull it from the sky.” 🌜
Book 3 of this series and I must say this book truly delivered! I continued to be engrossed in Elise's journey as she continues her hunt for her brother's killer. The main tropes here, the 'reverse harem' and 'dark academia' elements, make for an enjoyable read. Elise's struggle to keep her heart detached from the very Kings she suspects, while simultaneously needing them for information, creates the tension that propels the story forward. The mystery surrounding Gareth's death is expertly woven, with each revelation leading to more questions than answers. I particularly enjoyed the hints of 'fated mates' throughout, adding another layer of intrigue to the relationships.
One of the standout aspects for me was the character development. We truly see Elise evolve, grappling with her grief and vengeance whilst navigating the complex relationships with Dante, Ryder, Gabriel, and Leon. Each King has such a distinct personality, and I appreciate how their individual gifts and backstories are fleshed out, making their interactions with Elise feel authentic and layered. The dynamic between them is fantastic; you really start to understand why Elise cares for each of them, even as they face their own trials and betrayals.
The pacing in Vicious Fae felt much more engaging than previous instalments. While the focus on Elise's bonds with the Kings is undeniably prominent, the murder investigation genuinely picks up pace, offering satisfying clues and developments. The unexpected trip to Zodiac Academy was a brilliant touch, providing fresh scenery and new complications that furthered the plot significantly. The authors certainly know how to keep you on the edge of your seat, with twists and turns that leave you desperate for the next book.