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justkarlah's reviews
105 reviews
How to Honeymoon Alone by Olivia Hayle
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
sad
slow-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
5.0
▫️1st person POV▫️
This book was funny and sweet and heartbreaking all at once and ugh I just couldn't put it down, I HAD to finish it in one sitting!
The conversations and bickering between Eden and Phillip felt realistic and natural. Their first encounter was very entertaining, I was smiling like an idiot for most of the book. Some scenes actually had me laughing out loud.
The grumpy/sunshine trope is played out so well!
I loved that Eden was able to do things outside of her comfort zone and pushed herself to try new things, all while working through her heartbreak. I also loved the change in Phillip's worldview when he started hanging out with Eden, and the way he actually listened to her when she spoke. I just loved these two so much!
I'm excited to check out this author's other books, and I'll definitely be purchasing a physical copy for my bookshelf!
If you're looking for a vacation-getaway, grumpy/sunshine romance, then please check this book out!
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book was funny and sweet and heartbreaking all at once and ugh I just couldn't put it down, I HAD to finish it in one sitting!
The conversations and bickering between Eden and Phillip felt realistic and natural. Their first encounter was very entertaining, I was smiling like an idiot for most of the book. Some scenes actually had me laughing out loud.
The grumpy/sunshine trope is played out so well!
I loved that Eden was able to do things outside of her comfort zone and pushed herself to try new things, all while working through her heartbreak. I also loved the change in Phillip's worldview when he started hanging out with Eden, and the way he actually listened to her when she spoke. I just loved these two so much!
I'm excited to check out this author's other books, and I'll definitely be purchasing a physical copy for my bookshelf!
If you're looking for a vacation-getaway, grumpy/sunshine romance, then please check this book out!
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content and Alcohol
Sweet Vengeance by Viano Oniomoh
challenging
dark
emotional
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Rape, Sexual content, Torture, Stalking, and Murder
Tamed by the Troll by Tracy Lauren
adventurous
dark
emotional
sad
tense
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
3.25
▫️1st person POV▫️
The flow of the story was good, and the characters were likable. It wasn't insta-love which was nice; they actually got to know each other first before feelings grew.
Their bickering was kinda funny at first, although it did get a little repetitive and irritating after a while. Thankfully it didn't take too long before that changed and it didn't take away from the story.
There are some disturbing scenes that may not be suitable for some people, I'd advise checking the TWs before reading!
The flow of the story was good, and the characters were likable. It wasn't insta-love which was nice; they actually got to know each other first before feelings grew.
Their bickering was kinda funny at first, although it did get a little repetitive and irritating after a while. Thankfully it didn't take too long before that changed and it didn't take away from the story.
There are some disturbing scenes that may not be suitable for some people, I'd advise checking the TWs before reading!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content and Violence
Minor: Confinement, Death, Rape, Sexual assault, Death of parent, and Murder
Alien Alpha's Desire by Presley Hall
adventurous
emotional
funny
tense
fast-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
3.75
▫️1st person POV▫️
A quick, fun read about fated mates and the struggle of accepting those feelings.
Naomi is a tough woman who's used to being alone and pushing others away, and Luka is too focused on following in his father's footsteps to want to admit that he's fallen for a human woman during a mission.
It's full of longing, passion, and feelings. And mostly-naked muscly alien men. Enjoyed it for the most part,except I'm not a fan of entering through the back door (if you know what I mean) so that ending was definitely a surprise.
A quick, fun read about fated mates and the struggle of accepting those feelings.
Naomi is a tough woman who's used to being alone and pushing others away, and Luka is too focused on following in his father's footsteps to want to admit that he's fallen for a human woman during a mission.
It's full of longing, passion, and feelings. And mostly-naked muscly alien men. Enjoyed it for the most part,
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content, Blood, and Kidnapping
Moderate: Violence
Muscles & Monsters by Ashley Bennett
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
▫️1st person POV▫️
A short, cheesy read. It did have some funny moments, but most of the time I felt like the way they spoke was so cringy? It might just not be the type of book for me honestly, but I finished it, so I felt like I needed to leave a review.
Very insta-love with spice sprinkled throughout. Not bad for a fun quick read while taking a break from longer, more serious books.
Also idk why her brother and the trouble he has with her relationship is part of the book if it was never going to be brought up again? We're just kinda left hanging on that drama.
Please read the TWs before reading!
A short, cheesy read. It did have some funny moments, but most of the time I felt like the way they spoke was so cringy? It might just not be the type of book for me honestly, but I finished it, so I felt like I needed to leave a review.
Very insta-love with spice sprinkled throughout. Not bad for a fun quick read while taking a break from longer, more serious books.
Please read the TWs before reading!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Body shaming and Sexual content
North Queen by Nicola Tyche
Did not finish book. Stopped at 94%.
Did not finish book. Stopped at 94%.
DNF at 90%. I couldn't get myself to finish reading it.
It started off great. I loved Norah's character trying to navigate the world with no memories, and Alexander's anguish not being able to treat her like he wanted to. Went through a rollercoaster of emotions in the first half, I wanted to laugh and cry and throw my kindle across the room. But the second half was completely different. Felt like it was too repetitive, her going back and forth with the lord commander and Mikael. I couldn't finish it.
The author has great world building and character development, wish I could have kept enough interest to read till the end. Thank you for the opportunity either way!
It started off great. I loved Norah's character trying to navigate the world with no memories, and Alexander's anguish not being able to treat her like he wanted to. Went through a rollercoaster of emotions in the first half, I wanted to laugh and cry and throw my kindle across the room. But the second half was completely different. Felt like it was too repetitive, her going back and forth with the lord commander and Mikael. I couldn't finish it.
The author has great world building and character development, wish I could have kept enough interest to read till the end. Thank you for the opportunity either way!
The Springfest Sprint by Georgie Monroe
adventurous
funny
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
I read this to give myself a little break from the long books I've been reading, and I'm so glad I did. It was the perfect amount of sweet, fun, and spicy!
I loved Ember's fiery personality and Ty's teasing ways. The fact that both of them were from different courts that were basically polar opposites just made their encounter even more entertaining to read. Especially when you read about them both and they aren't what they seem.
There were some quotes from Ty that made me laugh and some that made me forget how to breathe (in the best way possible).
For being so short, the book had a good plot and allowed plenty of time for the two main characters to interact with each other first before diving into the spicy scenes.
My only complaint is that it was too short, and I was left wanting more from these two!
Please read through the author's TWs before reading!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved Ember's fiery personality and Ty's teasing ways. The fact that both of them were from different courts that were basically polar opposites just made their encounter even more entertaining to read. Especially when you read about them both and they aren't what they seem.
There were some quotes from Ty that made me laugh and some that made me forget how to breathe (in the best way possible).
For being so short, the book had a good plot and allowed plenty of time for the two main characters to interact with each other first before diving into the spicy scenes.
My only complaint is that it was too short, and I was left wanting more from these two!
Please read through the author's TWs before reading!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
Moderate: Sexual assault
The Party on Laurel Street by Ruth Heald
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
This story has a lot of twists that I personally wasn't expecting, which had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. I did try and guess who did it at random times based on the clues we're given, but I was wrong every time, which made it an entertaining read.
Besides the thrill of mystery in this book, all of the characters and their choices make it a sad read. A lot of what ends up happening could have been avoided/never happened if they had made better (smarter) choices. Instead, they end up ruining their own lives and those around them.
I would recommend this book if you're into small town mysteries!
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Besides the thrill of mystery in this book, all of the characters and their choices make it a sad read. A lot of what ends up happening could have been avoided/never happened if they had made better (smarter) choices.
I would recommend this book if you're into small town mysteries!
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child death, Death, Grief, and Murder
Moderate: Infidelity and Stalking
Minor: Alcoholism, Child abuse, Vomit, and Abandonment
The Ruins of the Heartless Fae by Maham Fatemi
adventurous
dark
emotional
hopeful
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-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
4.75
I was drawn in by the summary of this book, and I'm honestly SO glad I was given the opportunity to read it! Right from the beginning, and throughout the rest of the book, I found it hard to put down until I was finished.
The book starts off slow and peaceful as we get introduced to the main character, Kolfinna, and her current way of life as a fae-in-hiding. That quickly changes when she's thrown into fight-or-flight mode by the Royal Guard. The fighting scenes were detailed enough to picture them in your head, which was one of my favorite things about this book. You get a sense of how Kolfinna feels while fighting, too, which is great.
Most of the scenes and characters are written nicely (this author has a way of writing that just makes you want to keep reading) and the world she has created is unique and intriguing. I did notice though, that there are certain scenes where the dialgue feels awkward/forced. Most of the characters in the book are in their early to late 20s, but some of the things they say to each other makes them sound like 10 year olds who haven't had a chance to learn new words to insult each other with. It does get better towards the end of the book though.
Which leads me to this warning. There are multiple fighting/battle scenes in this book, which include blood, gore, and broken bones. If you're easily squeamish, or don't like to read about these things, I wouldn't recommend it. The things these characters go through is insane, but so entertaining to read about.
Watching as Kolfinna grows more confident and sure of her abilities, while also acknowledging her weaknesses, is one of the reasons why I love her character the most. She's gone through a lot in her short life, yet she still has the energy and determination to keep going.
This book has a slow enemies to lovers plotline, which I personally loved. It was a slow burn (and I mean SLOW), with plenty of bickering and one on one moments that had me smiling like an idiot at times.Blár as a love interest starts to feel more natural after they get to know each other and spend more time alone. I love that he slowly starts to warm up to Kolfinna, and that she seems to be the only person he views differently from those around her.
There were a couple of shocking moments/twists that I didn't see coming.One of my favorites was definitely the little alliance Kolfinna made with her little team of humans. It was cute, and it felt like she'd finally found people that she could trust again.
This book is easily one of my favorite books this year, and I cannot wait for the sequel! If you love magic, slow burn enemies to lovers, and strong female main characters, then please give this book a try!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The book starts off slow and peaceful as we get introduced to the main character, Kolfinna, and her current way of life as a fae-in-hiding. That quickly changes when she's thrown into fight-or-flight mode by the Royal Guard. The fighting scenes were detailed enough to picture them in your head, which was one of my favorite things about this book. You get a sense of how Kolfinna feels while fighting, too, which is great.
Most of the scenes and characters are written nicely (this author has a way of writing that just makes you want to keep reading) and the world she has created is unique and intriguing. I did notice though, that there are certain scenes where the dialgue feels awkward/forced. Most of the characters in the book are in their early to late 20s, but some of the things they say to each other makes them sound like 10 year olds who haven't had a chance to learn new words to insult each other with. It does get better towards the end of the book though.
Which leads me to this warning. There are multiple fighting/battle scenes in this book, which include blood, gore, and broken bones. If you're easily squeamish, or don't like to read about these things, I wouldn't recommend it. The things these characters go through is insane, but so entertaining to read about.
Watching as Kolfinna grows more confident and sure of her abilities, while also acknowledging her weaknesses, is one of the reasons why I love her character the most. She's gone through a lot in her short life, yet she still has the energy and determination to keep going.
This book has a slow enemies to lovers plotline, which I personally loved. It was a slow burn (and I mean SLOW), with plenty of bickering and one on one moments that had me smiling like an idiot at times.
There were a couple of shocking moments/twists that I didn't see coming.
This book is easily one of my favorite books this year, and I cannot wait for the sequel! If you love magic, slow burn enemies to lovers, and strong female main characters, then please give this book a try!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Gore, Blood, Grief, and Injury/Injury detail
Siren's Song by Ashley De La Mer
adventurous
dark
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
sad
tense
slow-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
4.0
I absolutely loved the way this book was told from Nerissa's point of view. It reads like a cautionary tale from a narrator that's not human (which makes sense since Nerissa isn't human). Wonderful descriptions and world building, although there were some words I personally didn't know and had to look up throughout the book.
One thing I did notice though, and it's probably done on purpose, but the way Nerissa narrates the story when she turns human changes greatly from the beginning of the book. It almost feels like a completely different storytelling. It makes sense if this was done to show that she's grown up and has less child-like wonder of the world now that she's living as a human woman. It just took some of that storytelling magic away that I felt when I first started reading.
The way this quote will forever be burned into my brain, something about it makes it sound so beautiful, especially in the context of the story! "Strange how the words SING and SIGN seem so close. Change two letters and you change a life. My life."
The relationship between Nerissa and the Pirate King felt natural, even when I had my doubts about him as a partner for Nerissa. I loved the way she stood up to him, even when she was terrified, it showed how much she had grown into herself. She goes through all of the ranges of human emotions in such a short amount of time, but she seems to adapt well enough to them and I liked that we were able to go through them with her.
I did not see a lot of Nerissa's decisions throughout the book coming; every time she decided to do something, it was a surprise, which just left me wanting to continue reading to figure out where her decisions would lead her. The plot twists were still a shock, even with the small hints dropped throughout by Nerissa's keen eye.
The way she was fully prepared to shoot him but ended up misfiring? Wow. The shock got a laugh out of me, it was such a great scene.
The ending felt pretty obvious, but not in a bad way. I was prepared for it to end in a different, not so happy way, and it would have still been a good ending honestly.
This book was definitely not what I expected, but it did not disappoint. It's full of hope, heartbreak, and determination. I would recommend this book to anyone that loves dark romances, happy endings, and Little Mermaid retellings, as well as wonderful world building and character development (if you like getting your heart broken along the way too, of course!).
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
One thing I did notice though, and it's probably done on purpose, but the way Nerissa narrates the story when she turns human changes greatly from the beginning of the book. It almost feels like a completely different storytelling. It makes sense if this was done to show that she's grown up and has less child-like wonder of the world now that she's living as a human woman. It just took some of that storytelling magic away that I felt when I first started reading.
The relationship between Nerissa and the Pirate King felt natural, even when I had my doubts about him as a partner for Nerissa. I loved the way she stood up to him, even when she was terrified, it showed how much she had grown into herself. She goes through all of the ranges of human emotions in such a short amount of time, but she seems to adapt well enough to them and I liked that we were able to go through them with her.
I did not see a lot of Nerissa's decisions throughout the book coming; every time she decided to do something, it was a surprise, which just left me wanting to continue reading to figure out where her decisions would lead her. The plot twists were still a shock, even with the small hints dropped throughout by Nerissa's keen eye.
The ending felt pretty obvious, but not in a bad way. I was prepared for it to end in a different, not so happy way, and it would have still been a good ending honestly.
This book was definitely not what I expected, but it did not disappoint. It's full of hope, heartbreak, and determination. I would recommend this book to anyone that loves dark romances, happy endings, and Little Mermaid retellings, as well as wonderful world building and character development (if you like getting your heart broken along the way too, of course!).
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Confinement, Death, Sexual content, Violence, Blood, Kidnapping, Grief, and Murder
Moderate: War