Scan barcode
justkarlah's reviews
105 reviews
Throne of Slumber by Jamie Dalton
Did not finish book. Stopped at 28%.
Did not finish book. Stopped at 28%.
DNF at 28%.
Wasn't able to connect to the characters or feel for their struggles. It read more like a script and not a book, if that makes sense? I felt like I was reading what emotions the characters should be having, instead of actually reading about them experiencing those emotions. It might just be because it's aimed more towards YA readers than I originally thought.
Loved the idea, and the character descriptions were interesting. Just not the right book for me.
Thank you to the author for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Wasn't able to connect to the characters or feel for their struggles. It read more like a script and not a book, if that makes sense? I felt like I was reading what emotions the characters should be having, instead of actually reading about them experiencing those emotions. It might just be because it's aimed more towards YA readers than I originally thought.
Loved the idea, and the character descriptions were interesting. Just not the right book for me.
Thank you to the author for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
It Has to Be You by Dani McLean
funny
lighthearted
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
3.75
A short, sweet novella perfect for anyone that believes in fate and happy ever afters.
Indy is the type of person you can relate to, especially her belief in finding The One and the anxiety that comes with wondering if you're good enough for someone else. She did have a lot of excuses and pushed Ethan away too much though, to the point where I was getting frustrated with her for not seeing how fate had basically thrown Ethan right at her feet and she was the only one that didn't see it.
Ethan is everything you could ever want in a man. Sweet, patient, and protective; in short, the perfect partner. The way he instantly knew he wanted her but never pushed her boundaries...They don't make them like Ethan in the real world, but they should!
Their first meeting was funny, kinda cute, and definitely left an impression on both of them. The interactions between them following their second encounter were great, and made their relationship flow naturally towards the ending we all wanted.
I should mention though, I was confused about the sports talk until they mentioned that it was basketball teams they were rooting for. Since I don't watch or follow any sports, it didn't click in my head that that's what they were talking about until the word basketball was mentioned.
If you like reading about fate, perfect men, and happily ever afters, then this might be the perfect book for you.
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Indy is the type of person you can relate to, especially her belief in finding The One and the anxiety that comes with wondering if you're good enough for someone else. She did have a lot of excuses and pushed Ethan away too much though, to the point where I was getting frustrated with her for not seeing how fate had basically thrown Ethan right at her feet and she was the only one that didn't see it.
Ethan is everything you could ever want in a man. Sweet, patient, and protective; in short, the perfect partner. The way he instantly knew he wanted her but never pushed her boundaries...They don't make them like Ethan in the real world, but they should!
Their first meeting was funny, kinda cute, and definitely left an impression on both of them. The interactions between them following their second encounter were great, and made their relationship flow naturally towards the ending we all wanted.
I should mention though, I was confused about the sports talk until they mentioned that it was basketball teams they were rooting for. Since I don't watch or follow any sports, it didn't click in my head that that's what they were talking about until the word basketball was mentioned.
If you like reading about fate, perfect men, and happily ever afters, then this might be the perfect book for you.
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Borrow My Heart by Kasie West
funny
lighthearted
reflective
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
I really wanted to love this book, but it ended up just being an okay read by the end. The beginning started off strong; Wren swooping in to save the day, her best friend at her side being honest but supportive, and the cute nerdy guy that could keep up with her sarcastic humor.
There were plenty of cute moments between the main characters that had me smiling, although it was almost always ruined by the fact that she kept putting off telling him the truth.
And the fact that he could've told her he knew all along, too, but never did? Then editing and sharing videos of her without getting her consent? Being shared online unknowingly, even to just "20 people" as he'd said, is just wrong. Especially when he knew how private she was with her life. How do you go about starting a relationship based on lies from both sides?
I did not expect to read about family and the struggles of an absentee parent, but it helped explain why Wren was the way she was in the beginning. Certain parts had me tearing up when they hit close to my own personal life. My only issue with this part of the story was how rushed the 'conclusion' to it was.
After the whole TikTok thing, I was ready for the book to be over. It wasn't necessarily bad or anything, but the ending left me disappointed and feeling like there was something missing. I loved that it involved dogs and a shelter since I love dogs, so that was a plus.
If you enjoy books with dogs, sarcastic main characters, and boys with golden-retriever energy, then this might be a fun read for you.
I got an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
There were plenty of cute moments between the main characters that had me smiling, although it was almost always ruined by the fact that she kept putting off telling him the truth.
I did not expect to read about family and the struggles of an absentee parent, but it helped explain why Wren was the way she was in the beginning. Certain parts had me tearing up when they hit close to my own personal life. My only issue with this part of the story was how rushed the 'conclusion' to it was.
After the whole TikTok thing, I was ready for the book to be over. It wasn't necessarily bad or anything, but the ending left me disappointed and feeling like there was something missing. I loved that it involved dogs and a shelter since I love dogs, so that was a plus.
If you enjoy books with dogs, sarcastic main characters, and boys with golden-retriever energy, then this might be a fun read for you.
I got an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Dragon Fever by Elsa Jade
adventurous
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
It's rare when I actually like a fated mates story, but I loved the chemistry between Piper and Rave! Both of their personalities were intriguing and kept me wanting to read until the end.
Not a big fan of the toxic friendship between the three women that are supposed to be best friends though. The things they say/do to each other are things I could never see myself doing/saying to someone I care about.
Rave's brother is an interesting character that I hope gets more spotlight in the next book (or the next, since there's more than one sequel!). Felt like there was so much left unanswered!
Some parts felt rushed, like they could have been presented differently and in a less confusing way. It didn't take away too much from the story, though.
Fated mates, magic, and dragons. And some spicy scenes sprinkled throughout. If you're looking for something quick and fun to read, I'd recommend this short book!
Not a big fan of the toxic friendship between the three women that are supposed to be best friends though. The things they say/do to each other are things I could never see myself doing/saying to someone I care about.
Rave's brother is an interesting character that I hope gets more spotlight in the next book (or the next, since there's more than one sequel!). Felt like there was so much left unanswered!
Some parts felt rushed, like they could have been presented differently and in a less confusing way. It didn't take away too much from the story, though.
Fated mates, magic, and dragons. And some spicy scenes sprinkled throughout. If you're looking for something quick and fun to read, I'd recommend this short book!
Ms Perfectly Fine by Kate Callaghan
emotional
funny
hopeful
mysterious
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.25
We're introduced to the cause of the main character's physical and mental pain from the very first chapter. Autumn is strong but guarded, especially against strangers, so it makes sense that her first interaction with Elijah does not go well. We can see that Elijah finds her interesting from the very beginning though.
I liked the banter and teasing between the two of them in the beginning. It was funny and it brought out their personalities, and it also showed the physical attraction that both felt early on. Elijah comes off as playful but patient, willing to take things at her own pace.
The whole "I love her." part threw me off; he's known her for less than a month, and most of that time was spent apart from each other. When exactly did he find the time to fall in love? It went from insta-attraction to love so fast I got whiplash.
The stalker situation was hinted at throughout the book, but we don't get anything solid until about a third of the way through. It's not too obvious who the stalker is, but there are parts that are meant to distract you from finding out too soon who it is.
All in all, it was a nice enough read. It kept my attention until the end, if only to see what would happen with the stalker situation. It had interesting characters, insta-love, some suspense, and great representation for chronic pain. If you like reading about any of those subjects, then this would be the perfect book for you.
I got an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I liked the banter and teasing between the two of them in the beginning. It was funny and it brought out their personalities, and it also showed the physical attraction that both felt early on. Elijah comes off as playful but patient, willing to take things at her own pace.
The stalker situation was hinted at throughout the book, but we don't get anything solid until about a third of the way through. It's not too obvious who the stalker is, but there are parts that are meant to distract you from finding out too soon who it is.
All in all, it was a nice enough read. It kept my attention until the end, if only to see what would happen with the stalker situation. It had interesting characters, insta-love, some suspense, and great representation for chronic pain. If you like reading about any of those subjects, then this would be the perfect book for you.
I got an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Stalking
Minor: Death and Violence
The Chimera Bounty by Ember Holt
adventurous
emotional
funny
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
I was drawn in from the very beginning. Maeve is an easily likeable, relatable main character, and having a mysterious hot guy's attention? Yes, please. Corvin fits the definition of a hot, grumpy love interest perfectly.
You get thrown into the action almost immediately, which is full of chaos, and it feels like you're right there with Maeve learning how to fight. The whole 'status screen' thing felt very sci-fi, like being in a video game. Cool concept to incorporate into a fantasy story. The spells and terms used were pretty easy to follow, too.
I like the idea that Earth is a prison, and that everyone has magic in them unknowingly.
As a protective fae crime lord, Senshia is easily my favorite character. Hope we get to see more of her in the next book!
The pinky promise thing was pretty cute, and Corvin’s reaction to the 'consequences' was pretty funny.
One of the things I didn't really like was the whole "bitchy ho" scene; it was uncomfortable to read and it felt like it was there just to make Maeve a "not-like-other girls" girl. It just felt like it didn't belong or contribute anything to the story.
The only other thing that I didn't like that much was the whole mate thing. I don't mind a mate romance, but when it becomes such a main focus that the main character can't think of anything else except having sex with their mate, it kinda ruins it for me. There were scenes where their lives were in danger, and all Maeve could think about was having sex with Corvin or how it made her burn for him. Like maybe save that passion for another time when you're both not in danger? It just felt weird that it would even be on her mind during those situations.
Other than that, though, I liked the book! Maeve is a strong-willed character that grows into herself, and Corvin is hot and protective. The author's version of Fae and magic felt unique/interesting, and the storyline had a good pace to it. There's spicy scenes sprinkled throughout, too. If you're into all or most of these things, then I'd definitely recommend reading this book! Looking forward to the sequel!
I received an ARC of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
You get thrown into the action almost immediately, which is full of chaos, and it feels like you're right there with Maeve learning how to fight. The whole 'status screen' thing felt very sci-fi, like being in a video game. Cool concept to incorporate into a fantasy story. The spells and terms used were pretty easy to follow, too.
I like the idea that Earth is a prison, and that everyone has magic in them unknowingly.
As a protective fae crime lord, Senshia is easily my favorite character. Hope we get to see more of her in the next book!
The pinky promise thing was pretty cute, and Corvin’s reaction to the 'consequences' was pretty funny.
One of the things I didn't really like was the whole "bitchy ho" scene; it was uncomfortable to read and it felt like it was there just to make Maeve a "not-like-other girls" girl. It just felt like it didn't belong or contribute anything to the story.
The only other thing that I didn't like that much was the whole mate thing. I don't mind a mate romance, but when it becomes such a main focus that the main character can't think of anything else except having sex with their mate, it kinda ruins it for me. There were scenes where their lives were in danger, and all Maeve could think about was having sex with Corvin or how it made her burn for him. Like maybe save that passion for another time when you're both not in danger? It just felt weird that it would even be on her mind during those situations.
Other than that, though, I liked the book! Maeve is a strong-willed character that grows into herself, and Corvin is hot and protective. The author's version of Fae and magic felt unique/interesting, and the storyline had a good pace to it. There's spicy scenes sprinkled throughout, too. If you're into all or most of these things, then I'd definitely recommend reading this book! Looking forward to the sequel!
I received an ARC of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Cursing, Sexual content, Violence, Blood, and Pregnancy
Moderate: Cursing, Death, and Kidnapping
Spell Borne by Auden Llyr
Did not finish book. Stopped at 68%.
Did not finish book. Stopped at 68%.
▪︎I got an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.▪︎
The plotline captured my attention right away, and I was excited to read about magic that influenced the lives of people based on fairytales. It was unique, but unfortunately I was unable to finish the book (I forced myself to read up to 70% before I gave up).
My first issue was with the POVs at the beginning. We're given a POV in the Prologue that I'm assuming is supposed to be mysterious, but then it changes to Loren's POV in the first chapter. It's confusing and could have been written differently to better fit the story.
My second issue is with the SA/trauma in this book. It feels like the SA was kind of just thrown into the book and randomly brought up when the main character needed to be seen as strong/a survivor. The mental trauma is basically glossed over by the other characters and Loren focusing more on the fairytale. I understand it's the type of topic that can be seen differently depending on who's reading it, but the way it was executed does not sit well with me.The chapter that focused on her being drugged/SA was super confusing and hard to read, in my opinion.
My third issue is with the amount of dialogue that this book relies on to keep the story going. There are parts where there is so much info just being dumped on you instead of being introduced to you in other ways. There were some chapters where I just kept hoping they'd move on from talking so much so that the story would progress, but it just kept dragging on.
I wasn't able to connect with Loren even when I was more than halfway through the book, which is another reason why I couldn't finish it. I really wish I loved it more, but unfortunately I did not.
The plotline captured my attention right away, and I was excited to read about magic that influenced the lives of people based on fairytales. It was unique, but unfortunately I was unable to finish the book (I forced myself to read up to 70% before I gave up).
My first issue was with the POVs at the beginning. We're given a POV in the Prologue that I'm assuming is supposed to be mysterious, but then it changes to Loren's POV in the first chapter. It's confusing and could have been written differently to better fit the story.
My second issue is with the SA/trauma in this book. It feels like the SA was kind of just thrown into the book and randomly brought up when the main character needed to be seen as strong/a survivor. The mental trauma is basically glossed over by the other characters and Loren focusing more on the fairytale. I understand it's the type of topic that can be seen differently depending on who's reading it, but the way it was executed does not sit well with me.
My third issue is with the amount of dialogue that this book relies on to keep the story going. There are parts where there is so much info just being dumped on you instead of being introduced to you in other ways. There were some chapters where I just kept hoping they'd move on from talking so much so that the story would progress, but it just kept dragging on.
I wasn't able to connect with Loren even when I was more than halfway through the book, which is another reason why I couldn't finish it. I really wish I loved it more, but unfortunately I did not.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Rape and Sexual assault
Book of Night by Holly Black
adventurous
dark
emotional
hopeful
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
This is one of those books that took me a long time to get to, but once I actually started reading it, I actually enjoyed. It's different from the usual Holly Black books we're all used to (especially if you only read her fae books). Still, the idea of magic existing through our shadows was interesting and felt pretty unique.
The pace picked up pretty quickly for me, only took a couple chapters of explanations and backstory to get the plot going. I did find that some of the flashbacks got a little boring later on in the book, but I get that they were included to give us more context on people's decisions. There are things that definitely could have been explained by weaving them into the story instead of going back and forth between the past and the present though.
Some of the twists were predictable, but it was still a surprise to read about them.The little hints throughout the beginning that hinted at Vince being "different"? Loved it.
I love the morally gray characters that Holly Black comes up with. Sometimes I want to read about a person who's not always doing the right thing, a person who does things for themselves and wouldn't be considered a hero most of their lives. Makes them feel more realistic.
With that being said, Charlie was not as interesting as a character as Vince was.I'm hoping Vince gets more of a main spotlight in the sequel. From what we got at the end of the book, his personality reversed to a different version of himself once he was tied to Charlie, so I hope we get to see his personality grow as he gets to know her again.
I enjoyed this book more than I thought I would! It's definitely different, and there are things that I wish would have been expanded on more/had more written about them, but all in all, it was a good read. I'm looking forward to the sequel!
The pace picked up pretty quickly for me, only took a couple chapters of explanations and backstory to get the plot going. I did find that some of the flashbacks got a little boring later on in the book, but I get that they were included to give us more context on people's decisions. There are things that definitely could have been explained by weaving them into the story instead of going back and forth between the past and the present though.
Some of the twists were predictable, but it was still a surprise to read about them.
I love the morally gray characters that Holly Black comes up with. Sometimes I want to read about a person who's not always doing the right thing, a person who does things for themselves and wouldn't be considered a hero most of their lives. Makes them feel more realistic.
With that being said, Charlie was not as interesting as a character as Vince was.
I enjoyed this book more than I thought I would! It's definitely different, and there are things that I wish would have been expanded on more/had more written about them, but all in all, it was a good read. I'm looking forward to the sequel!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death and Blood
Moderate: Gore, Violence, and Alcohol
Minor: Addiction and Stalking
Violet Made of Thorns by Gina Chen
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
This book gripped me by the throat only a couple of chapters in, and it didn't let go until I was done reading it.
I like Violet. She's a flawed FMC, selfish and greedy in a way that feels relatable at first, but quickly changes as you keep reading. I like that Violet is more of an anti-heroine, sometimes not caring enough (to the point where you question her actions), and the prince seems like the opposite, caring too much but not being able to do anything about it. It's a nice change of pace, to read about an FMC that makes you question whether you should root for her or not.
There's an enemies to lovers plotline, but it's a very rough, bumpy, rollercoaster ride. Honestly, it fits perfectly.
It has a great blend of magic, prophecies, and betrayal.
And that ending. Wow. I cannot wait for the sequel!
I like Violet. She's a flawed FMC, selfish and greedy in a way that feels relatable at first, but quickly changes as you keep reading. I like that Violet is more of an anti-heroine, sometimes not caring enough (to the point where you question her actions), and the prince seems like the opposite, caring too much but not being able to do anything about it. It's a nice change of pace, to read about an FMC that makes you question whether you should root for her or not.
There's an enemies to lovers plotline, but it's a very rough, bumpy, rollercoaster ride. Honestly, it fits perfectly.
It has a great blend of magic, prophecies, and betrayal.
And that ending. Wow. I cannot wait for the sequel!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Blood
Moderate: Sexual content, Violence, and War
The Soul Feud by Juniper Jackson
emotional
funny
lighthearted
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
This was a fun, light read.
Raven and Patrick's relationship developed over time and didn't feel forced or rushed. Their banter was pretty entertaining to read. I liked that they talked about race and the issues the FMC faced in her life, and the differences in their backgrounds.
There were times when the story relied too much on dialogue and not enough on description, which made the scene not feel as real as it could have. Most of the scenes with Patrick and his father felt forced/awkward (to the point where the father just didn't feel like a real person talking, and instead was just a way to keep the point of the story going).
Still, it was an enjoyable read. There is some spice sprinkled throughout the book.
Thank you to the author for an ARC of this book!
Raven and Patrick's relationship developed over time and didn't feel forced or rushed. Their banter was pretty entertaining to read. I liked that they talked about race and the issues the FMC faced in her life, and the differences in their backgrounds.
There were times when the story relied too much on dialogue and not enough on description, which made the scene not feel as real as it could have. Most of the scenes with Patrick and his father felt forced/awkward (to the point where the father just didn't feel like a real person talking, and instead was just a way to keep the point of the story going).
Still, it was an enjoyable read. There is some spice sprinkled throughout the book.
Thank you to the author for an ARC of this book!