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kp_hobbitreads's Reviews (686)
#0.5 Like I Pictures: ★★★★☆ | 4 stars
#1 Like I Promised: ★★★★☆ | 4 stars
#2 Like I Wished: ★★★★☆ | 4 stars
This is cozy, slice of life love story between two friends that is perfect for when you just want something that's going to make you smile.
Noah is an excellent chemistry teacher, but an abysmal baker. So when it's time for the science department bake-off he's convinced it's going to be a disaster again this year. Until he realizes that he can ask Spencer for baking lessons and kill two birds with one stone: spend extra time with his long-time crush and hopefully make something edible for the competition. Spencer has always been the token straight friend in the group until he sees Noah lick buttercream off a whisk and he stars having some decidedly not-straight fantasies. And, the more time they spend together, the more Spencer realizes that everything he's been looking for might have been right there in front of him all along.
While I typically prefer my romances with at least a little angst (either inside or outside of the relationship), I had a lot of fun reading this. Noah and Spencer are super adorable together, and the found family vibes in this series are fantastic. It was nice to read a romance with no big miscommunication or drama. Spencer didn't have any internalized homophobia that he needed to work through or need to have a big coming out moment. It was just two adults who talked about their feelings and were willing to work together to navigate a new relationship. This is a story full of queer joy, and I'm not mad about it.
Three Things:
1. Alex may be a snarky asshole (complimentary), but I love how supportive he was of Noah and Spencer once he found out about their relationship.
2. I really liked that Noah is explicitly described as fat, but doesn't have any internalized fatphobia. There was no negative self-talk or body images issues for him to work though which was so freaking nice to see. And, of course Spencer finds him sexy - as he should.
3. I liked the side plot of Spencer deciding if he wanted to play soccer again, and seeing him have to work through all his complicated feelings about something that was so important to him that he thought he'd never get back. And, of course, the positive view of therapy is always nice to see.
I was really hoping that book 3 was going to be Alex's, but I am excited to see Will get his own happily ever after. He seems like such a steady, dependable friend and the blurb has me very interested. (Even if I am still keeping my fingers crossed for an Alex-centric book). But, let's be honest: if Charlie Novak writes it, I'm probably going to read it. *shrug*
content warnings: discussion of fatphobia, body positivity, and body neutrality, sex work (not a mc), sex (on page), anxiety
**I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.**
#1 Like I Promised: ★★★★☆ | 4 stars
#2 Like I Wished: ★★★★☆ | 4 stars
This is cozy, slice of life love story between two friends that is perfect for when you just want something that's going to make you smile.
Noah is an excellent chemistry teacher, but an abysmal baker. So when it's time for the science department bake-off he's convinced it's going to be a disaster again this year. Until he realizes that he can ask Spencer for baking lessons and kill two birds with one stone: spend extra time with his long-time crush and hopefully make something edible for the competition. Spencer has always been the token straight friend in the group until he sees Noah lick buttercream off a whisk and he stars having some decidedly not-straight fantasies. And, the more time they spend together, the more Spencer realizes that everything he's been looking for might have been right there in front of him all along.
While I typically prefer my romances with at least a little angst (either inside or outside of the relationship), I had a lot of fun reading this. Noah and Spencer are super adorable together, and the found family vibes in this series are fantastic. It was nice to read a romance with no big miscommunication or drama. Spencer didn't have any internalized homophobia that he needed to work through or need to have a big coming out moment. It was just two adults who talked about their feelings and were willing to work together to navigate a new relationship. This is a story full of queer joy, and I'm not mad about it.
Three Things:
1. Alex may be a snarky asshole (complimentary), but I love how supportive he was of Noah and Spencer once he found out about their relationship.
2. I really liked that Noah is explicitly described as fat, but doesn't have any internalized fatphobia. There was no negative self-talk or body images issues for him to work though which was so freaking nice to see. And, of course Spencer finds him sexy - as he should.
3. I liked the side plot of Spencer deciding if he wanted to play soccer again, and seeing him have to work through all his complicated feelings about something that was so important to him that he thought he'd never get back. And, of course, the positive view of therapy is always nice to see.
I was really hoping that book 3 was going to be Alex's, but I am excited to see Will get his own happily ever after. He seems like such a steady, dependable friend and the blurb has me very interested. (Even if I am still keeping my fingers crossed for an Alex-centric book). But, let's be honest: if Charlie Novak writes it, I'm probably going to read it. *shrug*
content warnings: discussion of fatphobia, body positivity, and body neutrality, sex work (not a mc), sex (on page), anxiety
**I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.**
#1 Like I Pictured: ★★★★☆ | 4 stars
This was a great introduction to a new series, and perfect if you're looking for some grumpy/sunshine goodness.
Bastian Roche is a freelance photographer who takes an impromptu picture of ra handsome man sitting alone at comic convention. When he introduces himself to get his subject's opinion on the photo, he learns that he's none other than reclusive fantasy author Anders Flynn. An offer to send the photo leads to an email communication that leads to an offer of a visit. Anders isn't great with people and convinced he's better off alone; Bastian is kinda and outgoing, but also searching for a place to belong. Together these two may find that they are exactly what the other is looking for.
Bastian and Anders are such great characters and they compliment each other so well. I hope they make cameo appearances in the full-length books in the series. Also, the epilogue was exactly what I want when i'm reading a short little novella. It just makes me believe in their HEA so much more.
Three Thoughts:
1. I really liked all the email communications at the beginning. It allowed for us to actually see how their friendship got started without having to devote chapters and chapters to establishing it. And, kept this from feeling like an insta-love situation.
2. More cat dads please.
3. "Then he wrapped me up in his arms and kissed me, and it felt like I'd come home." *swoon*
Charlie Novak has become an auto-read author for me. And, if you are looking for a low-angst, cozy romance I definitely suggest you pick this one up.
content warnings: sex (on page)
This was a great introduction to a new series, and perfect if you're looking for some grumpy/sunshine goodness.
Bastian Roche is a freelance photographer who takes an impromptu picture of ra handsome man sitting alone at comic convention. When he introduces himself to get his subject's opinion on the photo, he learns that he's none other than reclusive fantasy author Anders Flynn. An offer to send the photo leads to an email communication that leads to an offer of a visit. Anders isn't great with people and convinced he's better off alone; Bastian is kinda and outgoing, but also searching for a place to belong. Together these two may find that they are exactly what the other is looking for.
Bastian and Anders are such great characters and they compliment each other so well. I hope they make cameo appearances in the full-length books in the series. Also, the epilogue was exactly what I want when i'm reading a short little novella. It just makes me believe in their HEA so much more.
Three Thoughts:
1. I really liked all the email communications at the beginning. It allowed for us to actually see how their friendship got started without having to devote chapters and chapters to establishing it. And, kept this from feeling like an insta-love situation.
2. More cat dads please.
3. "Then he wrapped me up in his arms and kissed me, and it felt like I'd come home." *swoon*
Charlie Novak has become an auto-read author for me. And, if you are looking for a low-angst, cozy romance I definitely suggest you pick this one up.
content warnings: sex (on page)
#0.5 Like I Pictures: ★★★★☆ | 4 stars
#1 Like I Promised: ★★★★☆ | 4 stars
This was surprisingly low-angst for being a second chance romance, but I'm not mad about it.
Oliver had no plans to return to the hometown he left behind when he went off to college until his grandmother passed away and left him her cottage. It's in desperate need of repairs, and he doesn't want his mom cutting her long-planned trip short to oversee it. But, things get complicated fast when the man in charge of the construction just so happens to be Oliver's childhood best friend and ex-boyfriend. Lane has spent the last nine years trying to pretend that he's completely over Oliver so when the two are forced back into each other's orbit, he's convinced he can managed a casual, no-strings fling. But, the more time they spend together, Lane and Oliver realize that their feelings may not be as past tense as they thought. And, they have to decide if their second chance is worth fighting for.
I really liked both Oliver and Lane. And, I really loved this take on a second chance romance. It's really rare to see this trope when one (or both) of the characters isn't portrayed as the "bad guy". Yes, they had a bad break-up when they were kids...but, they were kids. They neither one set out to hurt the other, it just happened. There was no major betrayal, just life. And, I found that really compelling, It made it so much easier to root for the romance when there was no massive groveling required. Just two adults who have to learn how to communicate with each other (something they simply didn't have the skills to do as teenagers.)
Three Thoughts:
1. Talking about how hot their both found an adult film star the first time they get busy was kinda jarring. Obviously YMMV, but if someone tried to get me in the mood by telling me how hot they found someone else, my desire would exit stage left in a hurry
2. I love that author always manages to work in some commentary on real world issues (i.e. rent prices and airbnbs.) It grounds the story without feeling preachy.
3. "There was no point assigning blame in a conflict that had no victors." This. This was *chef's kiss*
Love this group of friends, and I absolutely need to see them all get their own HEAs.
content warnings: loss of a loved one (resent past), brief mentions of grief, sex (on page)
#1 Like I Promised: ★★★★☆ | 4 stars
This was surprisingly low-angst for being a second chance romance, but I'm not mad about it.
Oliver had no plans to return to the hometown he left behind when he went off to college until his grandmother passed away and left him her cottage. It's in desperate need of repairs, and he doesn't want his mom cutting her long-planned trip short to oversee it. But, things get complicated fast when the man in charge of the construction just so happens to be Oliver's childhood best friend and ex-boyfriend. Lane has spent the last nine years trying to pretend that he's completely over Oliver so when the two are forced back into each other's orbit, he's convinced he can managed a casual, no-strings fling. But, the more time they spend together, Lane and Oliver realize that their feelings may not be as past tense as they thought. And, they have to decide if their second chance is worth fighting for.
I really liked both Oliver and Lane. And, I really loved this take on a second chance romance. It's really rare to see this trope when one (or both) of the characters isn't portrayed as the "bad guy". Yes, they had a bad break-up when they were kids...but, they were kids. They neither one set out to hurt the other, it just happened. There was no major betrayal, just life. And, I found that really compelling, It made it so much easier to root for the romance when there was no massive groveling required. Just two adults who have to learn how to communicate with each other (something they simply didn't have the skills to do as teenagers.)
Three Thoughts:
1. Talking about how hot their both found an adult film star the first time they get busy was kinda jarring. Obviously YMMV, but if someone tried to get me in the mood by telling me how hot they found someone else, my desire would exit stage left in a hurry
2. I love that author always manages to work in some commentary on real world issues (i.e. rent prices and airbnbs.) It grounds the story without feeling preachy.
3. "There was no point assigning blame in a conflict that had no victors." This. This was *chef's kiss*
Love this group of friends, and I absolutely need to see them all get their own HEAs.
content warnings: loss of a loved one (resent past), brief mentions of grief, sex (on page)
#1 Hijacked: ★★★✮☆ | 3.5 stars
#2 Hitched: ★★★★☆ | 4 stars
#3 Hacked: ★★★★✮ | 4.5 stars
I have been anxiously awaiting this book, since I finished Hitched. The snarky banter between these two has been hilarious, so I couldn't wait for them to work out their differences and get their HEA. And, it definitely didn't disappoint.
Jasper Huxley and Kevin Rogers have been enemies in Horn of Glory and subsequently in real life since Hux attacked Kev in game and stole all his pips. They've been snapping and snarking at each other ever since. But, when circumstances force the Champion Security team to retreat to Kev's house he shares with Carter and Riggs, he and Hux are forced to work together. And, along the way realize that maybe all that animosity they feel towards each other has been masking another emotion this whole time.
I adore these two idiots so much. Especially because they are both so much more alike than they realized. They are both brilliant and dedicated, but they also deeply want a place to belong. I loved watching them learn to see past their initial impressions and really get to know each other. They mystery in this book wrapped up really nicely (and differently than I was expecting), but it kept me invested. And, I did really like that there was no third act break-up or unnecessary melodrama or miscommunication. Yes, there was conflict between Kev and Hux, but it was dealt with in a way that felt right for the characters.
Three Thoughts:
1. Rodrigo. More romance books should have cute animals in them.
2. I don't love the implication that online relationships aren't real. I know in this case it's true, and Hux's reactions are due to jealousy. But, online relationships (both platonic and romantic) can be just as "real" as in person relationships as long as the people in them are being genuine.
3. Kev having an AI that sounds exactly like Henry Cavill was both completely unexpected and completely on brand for my favorite computer nerd.
I really loved this series over all. And this book especially. The books these authors write when they collaborate just work for me. And, I can't wait to see what they come up with next.
content warnings: sex (on page), threats of violence, references to parental abandonment (in the past), social anxiety
#2 Hitched: ★★★★☆ | 4 stars
#3 Hacked: ★★★★✮ | 4.5 stars
I have been anxiously awaiting this book, since I finished Hitched. The snarky banter between these two has been hilarious, so I couldn't wait for them to work out their differences and get their HEA. And, it definitely didn't disappoint.
Jasper Huxley and Kevin Rogers have been enemies in Horn of Glory and subsequently in real life since Hux attacked Kev in game and stole all his pips. They've been snapping and snarking at each other ever since. But, when circumstances force the Champion Security team to retreat to Kev's house he shares with Carter and Riggs, he and Hux are forced to work together. And, along the way realize that maybe all that animosity they feel towards each other has been masking another emotion this whole time.
I adore these two idiots so much. Especially because they are both so much more alike than they realized. They are both brilliant and dedicated, but they also deeply want a place to belong. I loved watching them learn to see past their initial impressions and really get to know each other. They mystery in this book wrapped up really nicely (and differently than I was expecting), but it kept me invested. And, I did really like that there was no third act break-up or unnecessary melodrama or miscommunication. Yes, there was conflict between Kev and Hux, but it was dealt with in a way that felt right for the characters.
Three Thoughts:
1. Rodrigo. More romance books should have cute animals in them.
2. I don't love the implication that online relationships aren't real. I know in this case it's true, and Hux's reactions are due to jealousy. But, online relationships (both platonic and romantic) can be just as "real" as in person relationships as long as the people in them are being genuine.
3. Kev having an AI that sounds exactly like Henry Cavill was both completely unexpected and completely on brand for my favorite computer nerd.
I really loved this series over all. And this book especially. The books these authors write when they collaborate just work for me. And, I can't wait to see what they come up with next.
content warnings: sex (on page), threats of violence, references to parental abandonment (in the past), social anxiety
#1 Hijacked: ★★★✮☆ | 3.5 stars
#2 Hitched: ★★★★☆ | 4 stars
So I am absolutely a sucker for two characters who very clearly have feelings for each other but refuse to acknowledge it. Because when it finally comes to a head, and they're like "Oh. Oh." it's just *chef's kiss* perfection.
Security expert and former Marine Percy "Champ" Champion and wedding planner Quinn Taffet are on night 26 of their one-night-stand which is totally fine. They are neither one looking for a relationship...as they constantly remind each other. They're just spending all their time together. And, practically share custody of Champ's dog Hercules. But, when it turns out that one of Quinn's clients may be the key to a mission Champ is running, they have to pretend to be engaged so that Champ can get access to a stolen Horn containing important information, prevent an PR nightmare for his client, and take down a drug cartel. Easy Peasy.
I loved being back in The Thicket. This story had everything I wanted: Two idiots in love, ridiculous puns, and a bunch of well-meaning/nosy Thicket citizens trying to play matchmaker. I think this book did a really great job of having cameos from old characters without it feeling overwhelming or like it was taking away from the current story. Plus, Percy and Quinn are just great together. Percy can be overbearing and a little too focused on the mission, but I loved that Quinn was not just going to stand back and take it. He gave as good as he got which I loved. The mystery was also really well balanced, it kept the story moving without feeling like it detracted from the romance.
Three Thoughts:
1. I do think Champ should have had to grovel a lot more than he did. Some of the stunts he pulled were pretty awful, and I think Quinn should have made him work harder to earn his forgiveness.
2. All the pet names were hilarious.
3. I really liked the side storyline between Quinn and Aunty Cherry when he realizes how much of his view on relationships was shaped by her own history - history he didn't even know about.
Overall, this was a so much fun to read, and I cannot wait for Kev and Hux's story. Their banter is so good, so I know their romance is going to be worth the wait. But, at the end of the day, I'm going to read anything this duo writes.
content warnings: cheating (not between or by the main characters), sex (on page), threats of violence
#2 Hitched: ★★★★☆ | 4 stars
So I am absolutely a sucker for two characters who very clearly have feelings for each other but refuse to acknowledge it. Because when it finally comes to a head, and they're like "Oh. Oh." it's just *chef's kiss* perfection.
Security expert and former Marine Percy "Champ" Champion and wedding planner Quinn Taffet are on night 26 of their one-night-stand which is totally fine. They are neither one looking for a relationship...as they constantly remind each other. They're just spending all their time together. And, practically share custody of Champ's dog Hercules. But, when it turns out that one of Quinn's clients may be the key to a mission Champ is running, they have to pretend to be engaged so that Champ can get access to a stolen Horn containing important information, prevent an PR nightmare for his client, and take down a drug cartel. Easy Peasy.
I loved being back in The Thicket. This story had everything I wanted: Two idiots in love, ridiculous puns, and a bunch of well-meaning/nosy Thicket citizens trying to play matchmaker. I think this book did a really great job of having cameos from old characters without it feeling overwhelming or like it was taking away from the current story. Plus, Percy and Quinn are just great together. Percy can be overbearing and a little too focused on the mission, but I loved that Quinn was not just going to stand back and take it. He gave as good as he got which I loved. The mystery was also really well balanced, it kept the story moving without feeling like it detracted from the romance.
Three Thoughts:
1. I do think Champ should have had to grovel a lot more than he did. Some of the stunts he pulled were pretty awful, and I think Quinn should have made him work harder to earn his forgiveness.
2. All the pet names were hilarious.
3. I really liked the side storyline between Quinn and Aunty Cherry when he realizes how much of his view on relationships was shaped by her own history - history he didn't even know about.
Overall, this was a so much fun to read, and I cannot wait for Kev and Hux's story. Their banter is so good, so I know their romance is going to be worth the wait. But, at the end of the day, I'm going to read anything this duo writes.
content warnings: cheating (not between or by the main characters), sex (on page), threats of violence
#1 Leviathan Wakes: ★★★★☆ | 4 stars
#1.5 The Butcher of Anderson Station: ★★★★☆ | 4 stars
#2 Caliban's War: ★★★★✮ | 4.5 stars
#2.5 Gods of Risk: ★★★☆☆ | 3 stars
#2.7 Drive: ★★★★✮ | 4.5 stars
#3 Abaddon's Gate: ★★★★☆ | 4 stars
#3.5 The Churn: ★★★✮☆ | 3.5 stars
#4 Cibola Burn: ★★★★✮ | 4.5 stars
#5 Nemesis Games: ★★★★★ | 5 stars
#5.5 The Vital Abyss: ★★★☆☆ | 3 stars
I think this was even more depressing than The Churn which honestly I didn't think was possible in this series. This is a short story told from the POV of one of the research scientists on Phoebe and Thoth Stations. The scientists were basically turned into sociopaths, and after their capture live in permanent captivity.
Three Things:
1. The dual timeline of learning about Cortázar's past interspersed with his time in captivity was well done. Even though you knew how it was going to end, I still wanted to keep reading.
2. Reading about Cortázar basically being tricked into giving up his humanity when he isn't capable of realizing the cost was horrifying, but also was a great way to show how this medical change truly affected the scientists.
3. I found myself feeling bad for Alberto. He seemed to have retained some of his humanity, but I don't know how much of that was true to the character and how much was me just desperately wanting their to be a single character in the story with some redeeming qualities.
This is one that definitely needs to be read in publication order. And, I'm interested to know what the impact of the end of this story is going to be on the series going forward. I have a feeling it won't be anything good.
content warnings: captivity, dehumanization, loss of a parent to Huntington's disease, depression, grief, drug use, violence, death, medical experimentation, body horror
#1.5 The Butcher of Anderson Station: ★★★★☆ | 4 stars
#2 Caliban's War: ★★★★✮ | 4.5 stars
#2.5 Gods of Risk: ★★★☆☆ | 3 stars
#2.7 Drive: ★★★★✮ | 4.5 stars
#3 Abaddon's Gate: ★★★★☆ | 4 stars
#3.5 The Churn: ★★★✮☆ | 3.5 stars
#4 Cibola Burn: ★★★★✮ | 4.5 stars
#5 Nemesis Games: ★★★★★ | 5 stars
#5.5 The Vital Abyss: ★★★☆☆ | 3 stars
I think this was even more depressing than The Churn which honestly I didn't think was possible in this series. This is a short story told from the POV of one of the research scientists on Phoebe and Thoth Stations. The scientists were basically turned into sociopaths, and after their capture live in permanent captivity.
Three Things:
1. The dual timeline of learning about Cortázar's past interspersed with his time in captivity was well done. Even though you knew how it was going to end, I still wanted to keep reading.
2. Reading about Cortázar basically being tricked into giving up his humanity when he isn't capable of realizing the cost was horrifying, but also was a great way to show how this medical change truly affected the scientists.
3. I found myself feeling bad for Alberto. He seemed to have retained some of his humanity, but I don't know how much of that was true to the character and how much was me just desperately wanting their to be a single character in the story with some redeeming qualities.
This is one that definitely needs to be read in publication order. And, I'm interested to know what the impact of the end of this story is going to be on the series going forward. I have a feeling it won't be anything good.
content warnings: captivity, dehumanization, loss of a parent to Huntington's disease, depression, grief, drug use, violence, death, medical experimentation, body horror
#1 Leviathan Wakes: ★★★★☆ | 4 stars
#1.5 The Butcher of Anderson Station: ★★★★☆ | 4 stars
#2 Caliban's War: ★★★★✮ | 4.5 stars
#2.5 Gods of Risk: ★★★☆☆ | 3 stars
#2.7 Drive: ★★★★✮ | 4.5 stars
#3 Abaddon's Gate: ★★★★☆ | 4 stars
#3.5 The Churn: ★★★✮☆ | 3.5 stars
#4 Cibola Burn: ★★★★✮ | 4.5 stars
#5 Nemesis Games: ★★★★★ | 5 stars
I read this entire book in one day because I couldn't put it down. It was both compelling and heartbreaking, and I had to see what happened next.
This book picks up about a year after the previous book. After the damage done to the Roci, the crew is grounded on Tycho Station so repairs can be completed. Given the amount of down time they're going to have, Amos, Alex, and Naomi head off on their own to take care of some business. Alex is heading back to Mars to check in on his ex-wife and hopefully get some closure. Amos is headed to Earth to make sure that Lydia really died peacefully and exact revenge if she didn't. Naomi's past has come back to haunt her as she is forced to confront the one man she hoped to never see again. And, Holden is left alone and soon realizes that the Roci isn't the Roci without her crew. Alongside these personal adventures ships start disappearing as they go through the ring, the last remaining protomolecule is stolen, and a terrorist attack devastated Earth, and each member of the crew must find a way to make it home.
This is the first book that we get POV chapters for each of the Roci's crew: Holden, Naomi, Amos, and Alex. And, while I didn't love that they had to all be separated for that to happen, the the way these storylines converged kept me invested. I loved getting to spend more time with each of these characters and learn new things about them and gain a deeper understanding of who they are as people. The plot structure kept me on the edge of my seat waiting for them all to find their way home. Both Alex and Amos's storylines were compelling, but it was Naomi's that broke my heart. I cannot even imagine the pain having to make the choice she did to save herself. And, then to be back in clutches of her abuser? Awful, just awful. I always knew she was an incredible strong character, but this book really drove that point home. "'Didn't break me when I was a girl,' she said to the tiny black kit. 'Don't know why he thinks he can break me now.'"
Each book in this series seems to have a moment - a game changing, world changing moment. And, this book is no different. But, it feels worse in this one - the level of devastation is almost incalculable, and we are experiencing it in real time with our characters. And, because we have spent the four books prior to this getting to know and love these characters, their pain and confusion and loss feels even bigger. The world will quite literally never be the same.
Three Things:
1. I loved that we got Bobbie and Avasarala back as main players in this even if they don't get their own chapters. They are two of my favorite characters.
2. I wasn't expecting to see Clarissa Mao again. That storyline is going to be interesting.
3. Avasarala breaking down just about broke me. "I'm trying to save humanity here. It would be just fantastic if someone would help."
This isn't a particularly fast-paced story, but it is a gut wrenching one. And, the actions taken in this book are going to have huge implications for the rest of the series. I'm nervous, but determined to find out where things go from here.
content warnings: child abuse, child sex trafficking, parental abandonment, suicide attempt (in the past), emotional abuse/manipulation, violence, death, mass murder, injury/injury recovery, kidnapping, captivity, drugging, suicidal ideation, ableist slur, misogyny
#1.5 The Butcher of Anderson Station: ★★★★☆ | 4 stars
#2 Caliban's War: ★★★★✮ | 4.5 stars
#2.5 Gods of Risk: ★★★☆☆ | 3 stars
#2.7 Drive: ★★★★✮ | 4.5 stars
#3 Abaddon's Gate: ★★★★☆ | 4 stars
#3.5 The Churn: ★★★✮☆ | 3.5 stars
#4 Cibola Burn: ★★★★✮ | 4.5 stars
#5 Nemesis Games: ★★★★★ | 5 stars
I read this entire book in one day because I couldn't put it down. It was both compelling and heartbreaking, and I had to see what happened next.
This book picks up about a year after the previous book. After the damage done to the Roci, the crew is grounded on Tycho Station so repairs can be completed. Given the amount of down time they're going to have, Amos, Alex, and Naomi head off on their own to take care of some business. Alex is heading back to Mars to check in on his ex-wife and hopefully get some closure. Amos is headed to Earth to make sure that Lydia really died peacefully and exact revenge if she didn't. Naomi's past has come back to haunt her as she is forced to confront the one man she hoped to never see again. And, Holden is left alone and soon realizes that the Roci isn't the Roci without her crew. Alongside these personal adventures ships start disappearing as they go through the ring, the last remaining protomolecule is stolen, and a terrorist attack devastated Earth, and each member of the crew must find a way to make it home.
This is the first book that we get POV chapters for each of the Roci's crew: Holden, Naomi, Amos, and Alex. And, while I didn't love that they had to all be separated for that to happen, the the way these storylines converged kept me invested. I loved getting to spend more time with each of these characters and learn new things about them and gain a deeper understanding of who they are as people. The plot structure kept me on the edge of my seat waiting for them all to find their way home. Both Alex and Amos's storylines were compelling, but it was Naomi's that broke my heart. I cannot even imagine the pain having to make the choice she did to save herself. And, then to be back in clutches of her abuser? Awful, just awful. I always knew she was an incredible strong character, but this book really drove that point home. "'Didn't break me when I was a girl,' she said to the tiny black kit. 'Don't know why he thinks he can break me now.'"
Each book in this series seems to have a moment - a game changing, world changing moment. And, this book is no different. But, it feels worse in this one - the level of devastation is almost incalculable, and we are experiencing it in real time with our characters. And, because we have spent the four books prior to this getting to know and love these characters, their pain and confusion and loss feels even bigger. The world will quite literally never be the same.
Three Things:
1. I loved that we got Bobbie and Avasarala back as main players in this even if they don't get their own chapters. They are two of my favorite characters.
2. I wasn't expecting to see Clarissa Mao again. That storyline is going to be interesting.
3. Avasarala breaking down just about broke me. "I'm trying to save humanity here. It would be just fantastic if someone would help."
This isn't a particularly fast-paced story, but it is a gut wrenching one. And, the actions taken in this book are going to have huge implications for the rest of the series. I'm nervous, but determined to find out where things go from here.
content warnings: child abuse, child sex trafficking, parental abandonment, suicide attempt (in the past), emotional abuse/manipulation, violence, death, mass murder, injury/injury recovery, kidnapping, captivity, drugging, suicidal ideation, ableist slur, misogyny
The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches: ★★★★★ | 5 stars
This is a hug in book form. It is wonderfully cozy and full of diverse characters with all the found family feels you could hope for.
Mika Moon is one of the few witches in Britain which can be rather lonely. Due to a curse many years ago all witches are orphaned at a young age, and they can't regularly gather in large groups because too much magic in one place can lead to trouble. But, when Mika's "fake" videos about being a witch get seen by someone who recognizes what she can actually do, she finds herself traveling to the remote Nowhere House to teach a group of young witches how to control their powers. And, if she can protect them from the danger that comes knocking, she just might find home she's been searching for all this time.
I loved every moment of reading this. It was exactly the kind of book I needed. Mika is such a wonderful main character. You can't help but feel for all she's been through, and you're rooting for her to find her place. There is side of romance (it is definitely not the main point of the story), but it adds some wonderful tension. I mean, who doesn't love a grumpy x sunshine pairing when the grump is a handsome librarian who is just wanting to protect the children he loves as his own? And, the side characters are so full of life and depth; they all feel like fully developed characters who truly add something to the story. Ultimately this is a story about recognizing what you need (and that it's okay to need things) and then asking for it. It's about finding people you love who love you back and making a home and a life with them even if its different from what you expected or were told it should be.
Three Thoughts:
1. Can I spend some time at Nowhere House? Because I would very, very much like to.
2. I would kill for a book about Ian and Ken and their life together. “'I could have another hundred years with Ken and still want more,' Ian said simply."
3. This kids were written so well in this - they actually felt like children rather than miniature adults.
I know this was written as a standalone (and as far as I can tell, the author has no plans to write a sequel), but I would absolutely read more books in this world. It was fantastic, and I recommend it to literally everyone. Go read this. Now.
content warnings: loss of parents (in the past), loneliness, emotional neglect/abuse, grief, physical abuse (off page, in the past), sex (brief, not graphic), xenophobia/homophobia/racism (all challenged/viewed negatively)
This is a hug in book form. It is wonderfully cozy and full of diverse characters with all the found family feels you could hope for.
Mika Moon is one of the few witches in Britain which can be rather lonely. Due to a curse many years ago all witches are orphaned at a young age, and they can't regularly gather in large groups because too much magic in one place can lead to trouble. But, when Mika's "fake" videos about being a witch get seen by someone who recognizes what she can actually do, she finds herself traveling to the remote Nowhere House to teach a group of young witches how to control their powers. And, if she can protect them from the danger that comes knocking, she just might find home she's been searching for all this time.
I loved every moment of reading this. It was exactly the kind of book I needed. Mika is such a wonderful main character. You can't help but feel for all she's been through, and you're rooting for her to find her place. There is side of romance (it is definitely not the main point of the story), but it adds some wonderful tension. I mean, who doesn't love a grumpy x sunshine pairing when the grump is a handsome librarian who is just wanting to protect the children he loves as his own? And, the side characters are so full of life and depth; they all feel like fully developed characters who truly add something to the story. Ultimately this is a story about recognizing what you need (and that it's okay to need things) and then asking for it. It's about finding people you love who love you back and making a home and a life with them even if its different from what you expected or were told it should be.
Three Thoughts:
1. Can I spend some time at Nowhere House? Because I would very, very much like to.
2. I would kill for a book about Ian and Ken and their life together. “'I could have another hundred years with Ken and still want more,' Ian said simply."
3. This kids were written so well in this - they actually felt like children rather than miniature adults.
I know this was written as a standalone (and as far as I can tell, the author has no plans to write a sequel), but I would absolutely read more books in this world. It was fantastic, and I recommend it to literally everyone. Go read this. Now.
content warnings: loss of parents (in the past), loneliness, emotional neglect/abuse, grief, physical abuse (off page, in the past), sex (brief, not graphic), xenophobia/homophobia/racism (all challenged/viewed negatively)
#1 Pick Me: ★★★★✮ | 4.5 stars
Quirky small town? Check. Grumpy lumberjack? Check. Swoonworthy HEA? Check. Check. Check.
Gage Goodman sees his new job at Sunday Orchard as a temporary stopover to earn some work experience and have a little fun away from the watchful eyes of his older brothers. What he wasn't expecting was to find a town almost as quirky as Whispering Key and a family that welcomes him with open arms. Well, most of them anyway. Knox Sunday doesn't welcome Gage but rather seems put out by his very existence. Knox returned to Little Pippin Hollow when his job started negatively affecting his mental health. He was just supposed to help get the Orchard's finances back on track and help his brother out, but it was always supposed to be temporary. But soon Knox and Gage's snarky banter gives way to real feelings, and they have to decide if what they have between them is just a fling or a forever kinda thing.
Gage and Knox are fantastic characters, and I loved their snarky flirting. Gage is smart and funny and fits into Little Pippin Hollow perfectly (which only seems to irritate Knox more). And Knox was such a marshmallow under that grumpy exterior. I also really liked how his anxiety and panic attacks were handled. Everyone in his family was so kind and supportive and that was really lovely to see. These two complement each other perfectly.
Three Thoughts:
1. "Yes, me, feeling sentimental attachment to bovines. How lowering." This line had me literally laughing out loud clutching my Kindle to my chest.
2. I adore Uncle Drew and Marco and would absolutely read a novella about their love story.
3. The family vibes in this book are immaculate. I love all of brothers and how much each of them care for each other.
This was the perfect start to a new series, and I absolutely cannot wait for Webb's book. This was everything I wanted in a May Archer story.
content warnings: anxiety, panic attacks, missing child (found, unharmed), mentions of toxic parent/child relationship, sex (on page), car accident
Quirky small town? Check. Grumpy lumberjack? Check. Swoonworthy HEA? Check. Check. Check.
Gage Goodman sees his new job at Sunday Orchard as a temporary stopover to earn some work experience and have a little fun away from the watchful eyes of his older brothers. What he wasn't expecting was to find a town almost as quirky as Whispering Key and a family that welcomes him with open arms. Well, most of them anyway. Knox Sunday doesn't welcome Gage but rather seems put out by his very existence. Knox returned to Little Pippin Hollow when his job started negatively affecting his mental health. He was just supposed to help get the Orchard's finances back on track and help his brother out, but it was always supposed to be temporary. But soon Knox and Gage's snarky banter gives way to real feelings, and they have to decide if what they have between them is just a fling or a forever kinda thing.
Gage and Knox are fantastic characters, and I loved their snarky flirting. Gage is smart and funny and fits into Little Pippin Hollow perfectly (which only seems to irritate Knox more). And Knox was such a marshmallow under that grumpy exterior. I also really liked how his anxiety and panic attacks were handled. Everyone in his family was so kind and supportive and that was really lovely to see. These two complement each other perfectly.
Three Thoughts:
1. "Yes, me, feeling sentimental attachment to bovines. How lowering." This line had me literally laughing out loud clutching my Kindle to my chest.
2. I adore Uncle Drew and Marco and would absolutely read a novella about their love story.
3. The family vibes in this book are immaculate. I love all of brothers and how much each of them care for each other.
This was the perfect start to a new series, and I absolutely cannot wait for Webb's book. This was everything I wanted in a May Archer story.
content warnings: anxiety, panic attacks, missing child (found, unharmed), mentions of toxic parent/child relationship, sex (on page), car accident
Screens Apart: ★★★★☆ | 4 stars
This was a super sweet, low-angst, friends to lovers, roommate romance. You can definitely tell that this was originally published as a newsletter, but I'm honestly glad she didn't try to go back and break it up into chapters because I think the sections really worked towards the stories advantage. And, the epilogue was the perfect way to finish this story.
Simon has been secretly running an anonymous blog where he posts pictures of himself dressed in things that make him feel good. Through the blog he's met an online friend Mr. Smith who he has struck up a flirty banter with. But, things get complicated when is IRL crush/roommate Taylor suggests they start a friends with benefits type situation. As Simon's feelings start to shift from a harmless crush to falling in love, he's not sure what to do. Especially since Mr. Smith seems to be finding himself in the same situation. But, Taylor and Mr. Smith couldn't be the same person...right?
I really loved both Simon and Taylor as characters, and they work so well together. And, I really liked that their dynamic flipped the heteronormativity you often seen in mlm romances on its head. Simon is a bigger guy who prefers to bottom and loves wearing lacy things. Tayler is a smaller, snarky guy who much prefers to be in charge. I also think it really helped the pacing of the story that these two are already friends when we meet them, it allows for their relationship development to feel believable despite this story not being super long.
Three Thoughts:
1. I love that Simon doesn't give up his blog after he and Taylor get together. Especially that Taylor never even considered asking - for him it was a given that Simon would keep posting.
2. The care taking scenes in this were *chef's kiss*. I'm a sucker for characters showing how much they care before they even realize it.
3. I loved that we got a Connor cameo from Strawberry Kisses. I love when authors put all their books in the same "universe" with little cameos like that.
If you are looking for something fun and steamy that you can read in one sitting, you should give this a try.
content warnings: insecurity around body size, sex (on page), d/s elements
This was a super sweet, low-angst, friends to lovers, roommate romance. You can definitely tell that this was originally published as a newsletter, but I'm honestly glad she didn't try to go back and break it up into chapters because I think the sections really worked towards the stories advantage. And, the epilogue was the perfect way to finish this story.
Simon has been secretly running an anonymous blog where he posts pictures of himself dressed in things that make him feel good. Through the blog he's met an online friend Mr. Smith who he has struck up a flirty banter with. But, things get complicated when is IRL crush/roommate Taylor suggests they start a friends with benefits type situation. As Simon's feelings start to shift from a harmless crush to falling in love, he's not sure what to do. Especially since Mr. Smith seems to be finding himself in the same situation. But, Taylor and Mr. Smith couldn't be the same person...right?
I really loved both Simon and Taylor as characters, and they work so well together. And, I really liked that their dynamic flipped the heteronormativity you often seen in mlm romances on its head. Simon is a bigger guy who prefers to bottom and loves wearing lacy things. Tayler is a smaller, snarky guy who much prefers to be in charge. I also think it really helped the pacing of the story that these two are already friends when we meet them, it allows for their relationship development to feel believable despite this story not being super long.
Three Thoughts:
1. I love that Simon doesn't give up his blog after he and Taylor get together. Especially that Taylor never even considered asking - for him it was a given that Simon would keep posting.
2. The care taking scenes in this were *chef's kiss*. I'm a sucker for characters showing how much they care before they even realize it.
3. I loved that we got a Connor cameo from Strawberry Kisses. I love when authors put all their books in the same "universe" with little cameos like that.
If you are looking for something fun and steamy that you can read in one sitting, you should give this a try.
content warnings: insecurity around body size, sex (on page), d/s elements