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kassielovestoread's reviews
359 reviews
Vampires of El Norte by Isabel Cañas
adventurous
dark
mysterious
tense
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
5.0
Life got in the way and interrupted my reading sessions Vampires of El Norte, but I finally finished today and I ran straight to my storygraph to immediately write this review. I loved this book!! It was so immersive and compelling, I thought about this book constantly, even on the days I couldn't read. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel!
I was really excited for this book because a lot of people speak high praises of Vampires of El Norte and even consider it to be a superior book to The Hacienda. And I have to agree! The romance in this book was breathtakingly tender and beautiful. After a miscommunication and a tragic incident, Nestor leaves his home and doesn't return for nearly a decade. Nestor and Nena meet again as adults, having lived very different lives and facing opposing futures. You throw in the looming threat of the Yanqui's infiltrating deeper into Mexico and the terrifying supernatural forces threatening Nena and her community, and you've got one hell of a story.
The main plot was, of course, the romance between Nestor and Nena; but there's honestly something for everyone in this novel. Horror, historical fiction, suspense...etc. I think if you haven't read anything from this author before, start with this novel as opposed to The Hacienda. Both were great, but there's just something about this story that hooks you in!
I was really excited for this book because a lot of people speak high praises of Vampires of El Norte and even consider it to be a superior book to The Hacienda. And I have to agree! The romance in this book was breathtakingly tender and beautiful. After a miscommunication and a tragic incident, Nestor leaves his home and doesn't return for nearly a decade. Nestor and Nena meet again as adults, having lived very different lives and facing opposing futures. You throw in the looming threat of the Yanqui's infiltrating deeper into Mexico and the terrifying supernatural forces threatening Nena and her community, and you've got one hell of a story.
The main plot was, of course, the romance between Nestor and Nena; but there's honestly something for everyone in this novel. Horror, historical fiction, suspense...etc. I think if you haven't read anything from this author before, start with this novel as opposed to The Hacienda. Both were great, but there's just something about this story that hooks you in!
Fangirl Down by Tessa Bailey
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
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
5.0
Fangirl Down is officially my favorite book written by Tessa Bailey! Possibly my favorite rom-com ever, if I'm being so real! How did Tessa make golf so sexy and dare I say...entertaining!?? This book had so many literal laugh out loud moments paired with the most heart-wrenching, delicate scenes between the MC's. It's what made the characters so damn lovable and realistic and just down right enjoyable to read about. The spicy scenes were off the charts hot; I mean seriously, I needed several breaks after them because, whew! I also loved the beautifully tender epilogue and the bonus epilogue that came with this edition. It's all fluff and perfect happy endings and it just satisfied so much of the story for me.
I had such a joy reading this book, I can't wait for the Au Pair Affair!!
PS. If you watched Friday Night Lights and fell in love with Tim Riggins...read this book ASAP!! So much of Wells reminds me of Tim!
I had such a joy reading this book, I can't wait for the Au Pair Affair!!
PS. If you watched Friday Night Lights and fell in love with Tim Riggins...read this book ASAP!! So much of Wells reminds me of Tim!
Heart of the Sun Warrior by Sue Lynn Tan
adventurous
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
5.0
I'm telling you right now: that ending saved this ENTIRE series for me. When I read *that* scene, I clutched my book in utter horror; the tears streaming so much that I couldn't even read the damn book with how distorted my vision became. I was heartbroken! I felt so scammed and robbed of the ideal ending! BUT!!! The ending saved it. Wenzhi was aways my number one and I held on to the faith that the author had a plan for him and Xingyin. I mean, everything that he spoke of to Xingyin was sooooooo swoon-worthy. He never held back for her, he championed day and night for her forgiveness (though I folded instantly- like a blanket). He loved her unconditionally and in a way Liwei could never do. Her enemies were his, her pain was his, and her joy he reveled in. When he died, I swear to God a piece of my soul fractured off. I was so depressed reading that ending. I thought, whats the freaking point?! I'm so glad I held on to the very end! My heart is restored! I feel such lighthearted, giddy joy LOL, all from a fictional story no less!
I wish I had more to say! I'm too high from the joy of that ending, LOL! Pick this series up if you're in the mood for the perfect romance fantasy that will break you apart and gently put you back together. I have nothing but good things to say about this series :)))
I wish I had more to say! I'm too high from the joy of that ending, LOL! Pick this series up if you're in the mood for the perfect romance fantasy that will break you apart and gently put you back together. I have nothing but good things to say about this series :)))
Daughter of the Moon Goddess by Sue Lynn Tan
adventurous
emotional
reflective
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? No
4.0
I have so much I want to say about this book! I mean this in the best way possible, this book felt like a fever dream. Such an enchanting tale with evocative descriptions that painted the most realistic picture in my head. Reading this book was so entertaining for that exact reason! It was not a perfect, 5 star read for me, but it came pretty damn close.
Xingyin is our main character and she is basically thrust into the society of cruel immortals when we meet her. She had one goal and it remained unchanged throughout the vast twists and turns this story took: to save her mother from eternal imprisonment. I respected Xingyin so much! She was fearless, but not in the arrogant way some fantasy mc's can be. Rather, Xingyin embraces the certainty of torture or death constantly. She does not take her actions and potential consequences lightly; she exercises so much thought and care into what she does. She was full of empathy and trust and kindness despite the horrid manners of others. She was a worthy mc to read and I'm excited to read book two!
Let's talk about that love triangle, though.This is a less of a point redacted against this book or author and more against the trope itself. Love triangles are just the worst. It's always clear that the author has a favorite, and even though I knew better, I still found myself rooting for Wenzhi. I'll be completely honest, I don't really love Liwei. He is used to bowing under his parents combined mights to do as they please, even if it directly contradicts what he wants to do. I understand parental abuse and duty and all that, I really do. But I kept asking myself why Xingyin is so hellbent on this guy when he won't stand up for the life he deserves to have?? It broke my heart to see her abused by his parent's cruelty, and I kept hoping Liwei would prove himself a good suitor and finally stand up for her! (To be fair, this does happen at the very end...) That's why I loved Wenzhi more- he offered her the world and an equal place by his side. So what if he lied a little about his background?? So did she, and yet he forgave her nonetheless! I think Xingyin was too harsh on Wenzhi and too forgiving for Liwei. The heart wants what it wants, I suppose. I just want Liwei to be worthy of Xingyin. She risks herself for him constantly, I want him to reciprocate that energy!
Overall, I enjoyed this book!! It does have a long page count, and I sometimes questioned where the story was headed with every task Xingyin undertook. I trusted the process and it paid off! I will definitely read book two and the novella that was just released.
Xingyin is our main character and she is basically thrust into the society of cruel immortals when we meet her. She had one goal and it remained unchanged throughout the vast twists and turns this story took: to save her mother from eternal imprisonment. I respected Xingyin so much! She was fearless, but not in the arrogant way some fantasy mc's can be. Rather, Xingyin embraces the certainty of torture or death constantly. She does not take her actions and potential consequences lightly; she exercises so much thought and care into what she does. She was full of empathy and trust and kindness despite the horrid manners of others. She was a worthy mc to read and I'm excited to read book two!
Let's talk about that love triangle, though.
Overall, I enjoyed this book!! It does have a long page count, and I sometimes questioned where the story was headed with every task Xingyin undertook. I trusted the process and it paid off! I will definitely read book two and the novella that was just released.
Part of Your World by Abby Jimenez
emotional
hopeful
reflective
sad
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
OKAY, I've officially joined the Abby Jimenez hype train! This book was sooooooo good!! I went to bed thinking about this story and woke up to the intense need to pick up the book and read again. There was just something about it, I can't quite put my finger on it! At a glance, it's not anything new or special in terms of romance novels. It's the typical big city x small town trope you're likely to pick up in any contemporary romance. I was attached to the mc's and their complicated families and friendships. I credit the author for this because not only did I understand the MC's plights and struggles, but I also empathized with it to a significant degree. I shared their triumphs and their heartaches and I felt so absorbed in their emotions, it really was like I transported myself into their perspectives.
I will say that what stopped me from giving this book 5 stars was that I did feel that the author dragged on Alexis' plot just a little too long for my liking. It was really, really frustrating to read about the abuse she would continue to endure from her ex and her parents. After a certain point, enough had to be enough! And ofc Alexis comes to that realization eventually, which makes for a very satisfying happily ever after.
Definitely read the trigger warnings before picking this one up! I cried a fair share amount of times while reading it; the ending was super sweet and wrapped up the whole book quite nicely. I can't wait to read Bri's story!!
I will say that what stopped me from giving this book 5 stars was that I did feel that the author dragged on Alexis' plot just a little too long for my liking. It was really, really frustrating to read about the abuse she would continue to endure from her ex and her parents. After a certain point, enough had to be enough! And ofc Alexis comes to that realization eventually, which makes for a very satisfying happily ever after.
Definitely read the trigger warnings before picking this one up! I cried a fair share amount of times while reading it; the ending was super sweet and wrapped up the whole book quite nicely. I can't wait to read Bri's story!!
Content Warnings
Moderate: Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, Toxic relationship, and Toxic friendship
One for My Enemy by Olivie Blake
dark
emotional
hopeful
mysterious
reflective
tense
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
5.0
I'll admit, I was super reluctant to start a book by Olivie Blake because the hype surrounding her novels has always been loud and I was just terrified it wouldn't live up to my expectations. I finally caved and I'm so glad One for My Enemy was the first book I started with.
Blake's writing style was monumentally whimsical and incredibly immersive, I often forgot I was only reading a book! This author has a talent for making every statement uttered by a character or the narrator feel like there's much more to it than face value. I fell so hard for these tragedy inclined, deeply flawed, easily loved, cast of characters (well...most of them). This is a Romeo and Juliet retelling, but Olivie Blake takes this classic trope and turns into something remarkably hers, apart from Shakespeare's original story. There were a lot of gasps and tears throughout this story, this I came to expect. But the swooning?? The absolute heart-wrenching, beautiful moments between these love interests?? THAT, I did not see coming. There is something so profound about an author's ability to make insta-love sound anything other than cringe or forced. I adored this story!! I don't think I'll be able to forget about book for a while (nor would I want too, tbh!).
PS. If you can, grab the Barnes and Noble Exclusive Edition for the character endpapers and bonus story. It was completely worth it!
Blake's writing style was monumentally whimsical and incredibly immersive, I often forgot I was only reading a book! This author has a talent for making every statement uttered by a character or the narrator feel like there's much more to it than face value. I fell so hard for these tragedy inclined, deeply flawed, easily loved, cast of characters (well...most of them). This is a Romeo and Juliet retelling, but Olivie Blake takes this classic trope and turns into something remarkably hers, apart from Shakespeare's original story. There were a lot of gasps and tears throughout this story, this I came to expect. But the swooning?? The absolute heart-wrenching, beautiful moments between these love interests?? THAT, I did not see coming. There is something so profound about an author's ability to make insta-love sound anything other than cringe or forced. I adored this story!! I don't think I'll be able to forget about book for a while (nor would I want too, tbh!).
PS. If you can, grab the Barnes and Noble Exclusive Edition for the character endpapers and bonus story. It was completely worth it!
The Accidental Pinup by Danielle Jackson
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.75
The relief I feel after finally finishing this book. I swear, it feels like time moves far slower when you're reading a bad book. There was honestly so much to dislike about The Accidental Pinup, but my primary reason is this: NO MORE PLOTS WHERE THE MMC STEALS A JOB FROM THE FMC AND HE KEEPS IT AS A SECRET UNTIL SHE FINDS OUT IN THE WORST WAY POSSIBLE AND TAKES HIM BACK! Not only is this plot (and subsequent resolution) completely unrealistic; who would take a man back that fucks with their career?? I certainly wouldn't, I don't care how long he grovels for forgiveness.
Unfortunately, that plot was a real issue for me and pretty much set the tone going forward that I wasn't going to enjoy this book. I stubbornly kept reading because I have such a *thing* with DNF'ing. I am honestly super reluctant to read anything else by this author...but I'm going to play that by ear. Maybe I'll change my mind once the memory of this book fades, LOL.
Unfortunately, that plot was a real issue for me and pretty much set the tone going forward that I wasn't going to enjoy this book. I stubbornly kept reading because I have such a *thing* with DNF'ing. I am honestly super reluctant to read anything else by this author...but I'm going to play that by ear. Maybe I'll change my mind once the memory of this book fades, LOL.
The Blood Gift by N.E. Davenport
adventurous
dark
emotional
hopeful
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
A dramatic and adventurous conclusion to this duology was delivered in The Blood Gift. Similarly with The Blood Trials, I was entertained from start to finish. There's just something about the plot, cast of characters, and writing style that drew me in and refuse to let go. I'm not complaining though! I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and I'm genuinely so sad to say goodbye to this world :(
I will say, I wish this had been a trilogy rather than a duology. Of course I want to see more of this world (and Ikenna especially), but there was too much plot and adventure for this novel. Seriously, it was a little overwhelming with the amount of plot there was. I think if the first half of this book's conflict were expanded and turned into book 2 of 3, this would've been a 5 star read for me! I felt that some loose ends were not given enough attention and ended with little to no fanfare. I wanted to see more of the Accacian Empire as well as the Khanian Empire! I also felt that character development fell, a little, in favor for all of the plot advancements. The cast of characters have my whole heart obviously, I just would've liked to see more development and found family shenanigans.
Overall, I recommend the fuck outta this series! I loved it so, so much. I became so emotionally invested in this story and Ikenna's journey. This is a series that will not leave me, it's earned a special place on my bookshelf as a result!
That ending??? Oh come ONNNNN. You mean to tell me that The Blood Gift is truly the last we'll see of Ikenna and the rest of Invictus?? Not to mention the looming threat of Selene out there, licking her wounds. I refuse to believe she's just going to lie low and find a new life out there while she's "denied" what she wants most in the world. And this prophecy detailing Ikenna's upcoming war with the remaining Gods?? Like- we need more! Don't leave us with this open ending, Davenport!!!
ALSO! With all due respect to the author and the artist of this cover...but, who the hell are these people standing with Ikenna?? From what the author gave of these character descriptions....none of the characters on the cover compare to the book descriptions of Darius, Dannica, Haynes, Caiman, Greyson, Dane, and Liim. I'm so genuinely confused! Don't get me wrong though, it's a gorgeous cover nonetheless. I just wished it matched with the actual characters of the book.
I will say, I wish this had been a trilogy rather than a duology. Of course I want to see more of this world (and Ikenna especially), but there was too much plot and adventure for this novel. Seriously, it was a little overwhelming with the amount of plot there was. I think if the first half of this book's conflict were expanded and turned into book 2 of 3, this would've been a 5 star read for me! I felt that some loose ends were not given enough attention and ended with little to no fanfare. I wanted to see more of the Accacian Empire as well as the Khanian Empire! I also felt that character development fell, a little, in favor for all of the plot advancements. The cast of characters have my whole heart obviously, I just would've liked to see more development and found family shenanigans.
Overall, I recommend the fuck outta this series! I loved it so, so much. I became so emotionally invested in this story and Ikenna's journey. This is a series that will not leave me, it's earned a special place on my bookshelf as a result!
ALSO! With all due respect to the author and the artist of this cover...but, who the hell are these people standing with Ikenna?? From what the author gave of these character descriptions....none of the characters on the cover compare to the book descriptions of Darius, Dannica, Haynes, Caiman, Greyson, Dane, and Liim. I'm so genuinely confused! Don't get me wrong though, it's a gorgeous cover nonetheless. I just wished it matched with the actual characters of the book.
The Blood Trials by N.E. Davenport
adventurous
dark
mysterious
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
5.0
How do I start this without sounding like a toddler on a sugar rush?? This book WAS SO FUCKING GOOD, Y'ALL. I stood up until 3 am each night reading!! Take this as a positive aspect: I could not find a good enough spot to call it for the night so I could get some sleep, LOL. Each chapter left you wanting more and more and to find a lull in the story to break was damn near impossible. Eventually when exhaustion would hit too hard and the words were starting to blur together, I had to force myself away from the book. I went to sleep thinking about this book and I woke up thinking about this book! It's been such a long time since a fantasy series gripped me like The Blood Trials has.
Oh, Ikenna. The woman that you are. To say that I'm obsessed with Ikenna Amari is the understatement of 2024! If you want the most badass, takes no shit, challenges authority with no trepidation, intelligent and calculating, murderous fmc, look no further. I feel like I say that about every fmc in high fantasy novels but I want to scrub the record clean- Ikenna is officially number one!! I loved this character sooooo much. I was in awe of her strength and her unwavering commitment to revenge. Every decision that Ikenna made was (at least I hoped) something I felt like I could/would do in her position. I can't sing enough praises of this character. I want more!! I just know The Blood Gift isn't going to be enough- give me five more novels with this fmc!!!
In addition to the compelling plot and my new, favorite book GF; I can confidently say that the way this novel was written was also one of my favorite aspects. The action rarely stops! It's nonstop, from page one to fin! It made for an anxious reading journey for me because I invested so much of my emotional and mental wellbeing on Ikenna's journey, LOL. But that's what makes me love reading so damn much. I don't care this much about movie's or tv shows or even music. However, a book can always have the capacity to turn me into a sobbing, anxious mess if it's written, paced, and filled with a damn good cast of characters JUST like this one. Several times I had to force myself to stop reading because I kept forgetting that this was a work of fiction and that I was not, in fact, watching a movie in my head. The disassociation was real. I was immersed fully into this world. N.E. Davenport, you evil genius!!
As I'm writing this review, the clock just turned 12:10am. Do I forego sleep until 3 am once again to start book two?? I'm thinking yes! I'm not sure if I'll be able to sleep otherwise!!
Do yourself the favor and buy this series!
Oh, Ikenna. The woman that you are. To say that I'm obsessed with Ikenna Amari is the understatement of 2024! If you want the most badass, takes no shit, challenges authority with no trepidation, intelligent and calculating, murderous fmc, look no further. I feel like I say that about every fmc in high fantasy novels but I want to scrub the record clean- Ikenna is officially number one!! I loved this character sooooo much. I was in awe of her strength and her unwavering commitment to revenge. Every decision that Ikenna made was (at least I hoped) something I felt like I could/would do in her position. I can't sing enough praises of this character. I want more!! I just know The Blood Gift isn't going to be enough- give me five more novels with this fmc!!!
In addition to the compelling plot and my new, favorite book GF; I can confidently say that the way this novel was written was also one of my favorite aspects. The action rarely stops! It's nonstop, from page one to fin! It made for an anxious reading journey for me because I invested so much of my emotional and mental wellbeing on Ikenna's journey, LOL. But that's what makes me love reading so damn much. I don't care this much about movie's or tv shows or even music. However, a book can always have the capacity to turn me into a sobbing, anxious mess if it's written, paced, and filled with a damn good cast of characters JUST like this one. Several times I had to force myself to stop reading because I kept forgetting that this was a work of fiction and that I was not, in fact, watching a movie in my head. The disassociation was real. I was immersed fully into this world. N.E. Davenport, you evil genius!!
As I'm writing this review, the clock just turned 12:10am. Do I forego sleep until 3 am once again to start book two?? I'm thinking yes! I'm not sure if I'll be able to sleep otherwise!!
Do yourself the favor and buy this series!
Electric Idol by Katee Robert
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
As much as I liked the concept of a Dark Olympus series and all the schemes and political movings, I think it's finally time for me to admit that Katee Robert's writing style and I simply don't match. I think this book would've been great if the prose was less juvenile. I wanted to continue to read this series because I do think the quality gets better...but I just can't see myself dedicating that much effort (and money) for it to possibly blow up in my face, LOL! I think what could potentially sway my opinion is reading Eurydice's and Callisto's books. I'd really have to be in the mood for it, but I could see myself reading them.