lit_vibrations's reviews
298 reviews

When the Vibe Is Right by Sarah Dass

adventurous funny lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? N/A
• Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

3.75

I love a good enemies-to-lovers romance and this one didn’t completely disappoint. It’s a slow-burn YA novel  set in Trinidad and Tobago during Carnival season.

I loved Tess’s passion for designing and how she didn’t allow her uncle’s negativity to deter her from following her dreams. Uncle Russell was so stuck in his ways that Tess had to go behind his back to help save their mas band family business. He was feeling washed up and ready to retire when a rival band gave them a run for their money but Tess wasn’t having it. 

Working alongside the one person she despised most classmate/social media influencer Brandon Richards. He helps get Tess’s family name out there to gain traction and a sponsor for their carnival costumes. Being forced to work together so closely we see both characters let down their guards and the romance began to blossom. 

I did enjoy the tone the author set with both Tess and Brandon. We get some backstory and realize how similar they really are. Not to mention you could tell they didn’t like each other but really liked each other I know that sounds crazy lol. I loved Hazel’s character too she was the one who believed in love and I think that rubbed off on Tess who was really closed off in the beginning. 

Overall, this was a decent read. The book was rich in Trinidadian culture and definitely made me want to visit Carnival at least once. I enjoyed the witty banter, the chemistry building between Tess and Brandon, the authors take on why sometimes it’s important to accept help from others, seeing Tess finally overcome and deal with her grief, and uncle Russell for finally seeing Tess’s true potential. If you’re looking for a heartfelt YA romance with fleshed-out characters you’ll enjoy this book!!!

A Little Kissing Between Friends by Chencia C. Higgins

funny lighthearted fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? N/A
• Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

4.0

Special thanks to the author & @harlequinbooks #CarinaAdores for my gifted copy!!!

I went into this one completely blind it got a little raunchy but I ended up enjoying it. A Little Kissing Between Friends is a sapphic friends-to-lovers romance between two bestfriends who decide they’re ready to take their friendship to the next level. 

Cyn Tha Starr aka Poppa a rapper/music producer on the rise and Juleesa Jones aka Jucee a stripper at Club Sanity by day and a single mom by night have been friends for years. One night things get heated and the two mess around causing feelings and emotions that have long been ignored to erupt. But after being friends for so long the two are afraid getting into something more serious might ruin their friendship. 

This book was so funny to me I still can’t get over Poppa having the six inch strap-on hidden in a secret pocket. Like that was wild asf cause girl what lmao she was completely out of line for that. But I loved the connection and chemistry between Cyn and Jucee I felt they were well-suited together. Although Poppa was a playa with plenty of women to choose from it was Jucee she couldn’t stop thinking about. Even though Jucee wasn’t really into the whole relationship thing she was willing and ready to risk it all for Cyn. All I could think when reading this was sex is such a powerful thing. 

Overall, I liked the book. Again it was hilarious, all of the characters were loveable, we get some messy groupie drama, a little miscommunication, and family/friend dynamics. If you’re looking for a quick laugh, some spice, or a sapphic romance you found it!!!

Do What Godmother Says by L.S. Stratton

dark mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

4.0

Stratton is such an amazing storyteller. After reading her first book Not So Perfect Strangers I knew we were in for another amazing book. Although it didn’t top her 1st book for me I still loved the dark suspense she created with this one. I know I’m not the only one who was hoping the painting was haunted. Told from a dual POV between alternating timelines we got a lot of backstory on the artist who originally created the painting which I enjoyed. 

Essie’s timeline was very eerie I knew nothing good would come from her dealing with godmother and her son Elias. Seemed like both Essie and Shanice had a problem with being to trusting with people. As the plot unfolds the pacing was up and down but you could feel the tension and paranoia building within each chapter. 

What made the novel stand out most were the unexpected twists and the acts of betrayal. Blurring the lines between who’s actually good  versus who’s really evil and playing the characters against each other was perfectly executed. Weaving historical, thriller, and gothic fiction together the author created an unforgettable read. 

Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi

adventurous mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? N/A
• Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

4.5

This was a great way to start off this series. Inspired by West African mythology and culture the author takes us on an epic adventure through Orïsha. Diving deep into religion, mysteries, mythology, and the history of the maji and their Gods this book will have you on the edge of your seat.

King Saran was beyond ruthless if f**k them kids was a person it would be him. The desire to be in control and have all the power ran so deep in his blood that he’d sacrifice his own children for his benefit. When it came to Inan the self-hate was real he tried so hard to disown and keep his true self hidden. Crazy how his father instilled in him to hate the exact thing he was destined to become. 

For a moment I felt like Zel was in over her head cause that girl didn’t listen. But she was a very strong and fierce character. I now realize her courage and bravery is why she was the chosen one. The dynamic tension between Zel and Inan really made the story come alive for me. Tzain basically lived by the notion of believing nothing and trusting no one. Princess Amari was at the center of the chaos nothing would’ve popped off had she not taken the scroll and ran off. 

Overall, the story is well-written with well-fleshed-out characters. The world building was perfect the author gave just enough for the reader to visualize what was happening. Throughout the book you’ll see unexpected twists, turns, epic battles, secrets revealed, oppressive behavior, and so much more. If you’re looking for a new series rich in magic, Gods, mystery, heart, and self-discovery this is it!!!

This Could Be Us by Kennedy Ryan

emotional hopeful inspiring lighthearted 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? N/A

4.0

Special thanks to the author & @readforeverpub for my gifted e-ARC!!!

Kennedy Ryan is one of my favorite romance authors if she wrote it I’m buying it. She knows how to bring all the feels up outta you not to mention the drama to keep you engaged. This Could Be Us was one hell of a story kind of a slow-burn so Before I Let Go is still my top fav but this one didn’t disappoint. Josiah and Judah are both officially bae material IYKYK. 

Now this book was such a rollercoaster Sol’s life was turned upside down and we journey with her as she finds herself again. The way Edward played with Soledad had me screaming at the book no this trick a** b**** didn’t!!! His assistant would’ve caught hands the first day Sol saw her leaving the jail. I was like don’t be naive Sol you know what’s up go slap her lol. The fact they both played in Sol’s face and weren’t apologetic about it made the whole situation worse. Edward’s mother (eye roll) . . . 

Loved Yas and Hendrix they were so supportive throughout the book. Judah being the perfect man he is swooped in and gave Soledad a million reasons why he should be her man. Some people might not be fond of them dating. But I was happy when Sol stopped caring about what others thought and did what made her happy for once. 

I love how the author creates these authentic relatable characters and gets you all invested in their lives and story. She touched on so many themes surrounding life after divorce and betrayal, bossing up, being a single parent, learning to love again, finding yourself, mental health and so many other things. Overall, it’s Kennedy Ryan borrow the book, buy the book, read the book you won’t be disappointed!!!

The Dangerous Ones by Lauren Blackwood

adventurous dark mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

3.5

Special thanks to the author, @macmillan.audio #MacAudio2024 for my advanced listening copy & @WednesdayBooks for my gifted e-ARC‼️

This was an interesting book it had a lot of potential but fell short for me. Jerusalem was a young teen with supernatural abilities who escapes the plantation where she was held captive and teams up with Alexei a couple centuries old vampire stuck in a teenage body to help get revenge for her family and kill those who enslaved her. The premise was quite clever and original with the vampires during the Civil War but the slavery aspects involved threw me for a loop. I think I would’ve loved it more without that being included in the context because it just seemed weird to me. 

For it to be a historical fantasy I also felt the dialogue was very modern. Imagine Buffy the Vampire Slayer mixed with True Blood and the book The American Queen these are the vibes the book was giving.

I wasn’t feeling the chemistry or connection between Jerusalem and Alexei. For the majority of the book she had a lot of anger and aggression towards him kinda felt like she hated him. I do understand why she felt the way she did considering her past encounters with other vampires. But when they began working together her thoughts about him slowly changed. Still wasn’t feeling them together but I liked that Alexei was a good guy. 

Overall, the book was okay not at all what I expected. The author touched on quite a few themes surrounding slavery, the Civil War, death, physical abuse, hate crimes, racial discrimination, and references to sexual abuse. The characters are kinda fascinating in their own way once you understand their backstories. The pacing was up and down but if you’re a lover of vampires, Romantasy, or historical fiction you may like this book.

The Townsend Family Recipe for Disaster by Shauna Robinson

adventurous funny lighthearted 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? N/A

3.75

Special thanks to the author & @bookmarked for my advanced e-ARC‼️

This one had a lot of potential but fell a little short on what I expected. I was waiting for a disaster to happen like something major and while we do get some family drama and some secrets I still felt like something was missing. 

Mae was getting married soon and after all these years of not connecting with her father’s side of the family she decides now is the time. Longing for a connection from those who look like her and she could relate to reconnecting with the Townsend’s would give Mae just that. But what Mae doesn’t realize is you can’t just walk back into someone’s life expecting open arms when you don’t know them and they really don’t know you. 

When Mae showed up to her grandmothers funeral whom she barely knew I figured some of the family wouldn’t take it well. Mainly Sierra she didn’t let up off Mae nearly the entire book. Read it and you’ll eventually understand why. But I kept thinking wtf is this girl issue with Mae y’all family but don’t know each other enough to have all this animosity. Barbara was passive asf just inviting Mae to things without informing the rest of the family. They were acting funny and looking upside her head when all she wanted to do was get to know them. I don’t know what side of the family was worse her dad’s or her mother’s. 

I kind of wished the author dove deeper into the whole spill of being biracial and how it is  growing up having a white mom who can’t really relate to you. I liked how she touched on some of the microaggressions Mae dealt with from her mom’s family though.

Overall,the book was okay but it had a slow start. There were a few characters we could’ve done without like Madison. I thought the big reveal wasn’t as big of a surprise but it explained why the Townsend’s were acting funny with Mae. I also blame her father and mother for the division she had with her estranged family. But if you’re looking for a fun read with lots of family drama you might like this book.

Rating: 3.75/5⭐️

False Idols: A Reluctant King Novel by K-wan

dark mysterious tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? N/A
• Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

3.75

Special thanks to the author & @AkashicBooks for my gifted copy‼️

Before you read this book please go back and read book 1 in the series. This was such a quick read and had all the elements you’d look for in an urban fiction book. My only issue like always is the amount of characters and nicknames thrown into the mix. We’re given a family tree in the beginning of the book so that helped me keep up with everyone for the most part.

While I did enjoy the book I couldn’t help but feel like I should’ve read book 1 so things would’ve made more sense to me. Chancellor is in jail for a murder he didn’t commit. His son Ghost was set-up and murdered in the midst of things. Shadow and Millie knew some shady dealings were the cause of their family’s demise they just needed proof before making a move. Shadow’s mother sent him on a mission to take back the throne which almost costs him his life. If it’s one thing I’ve learned from the streets the person to betray you is always somebody close to you. CHAPMAN‼️ He was obviously playing checkers not chess if he really thought he’d get away with what he’d done. 

I thought it was funny how the author put the characters into these monarch type positions. Imagine royal figures as gangstas and drug dealers. 😂 The last few chapters were pretty intense with the shootout and the author leaving off with a cliffhanger so be on the lookout for a third book in the series.

Overall, I enjoyed it I mean it’s urban fiction so you know what you’re gonna get every time. I do feel the book had a lot going on and could’ve been fleshed out a little more. But I plan on going back to read book 1 so I’ll be ready when book 3 releases. If you like tv shows like Raising Kanan, Power, or BMF you’d enjoy this series.

Let the Games Begin by Rufaro Faith Mazarura

adventurous funny 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? N/A

3.5

Special thanks to the author, @macmillan.audio #MacAudio2024 for my advanced listening copy & @flatiron_books for my gifted copy‼️

We’re given a dual perspective from Zeke Moyo a young athlete competing in the Olympics and Olivia Nkomo a young woman whose dream to intern at the Olympics finally comes true. While Zeke’s goal is to win a gold medal this year and Olivia is hoping her internship will be everything she’s been dreaming it will be. Nothing turns out quite like the two expected when they arrive in Athens. 

When the two cross paths for the first time there’s a little heated tension and Olivia already has her perception of who she thinks Zeke is. Then being forced to live within the same space of the Olympic Village eventually they’re lead back to each other. 

I think both Olivia and Zeke were great characters and given their backstories it adds a layer of depth to the story which brought both characters to life for me. The writing in the book was really vivid a little overly descriptive at times but it makes you wonder what type of things really go on during the Olympics. I can’t say there was any real chemistry between Olivia and Zeke because they fell in love so quickly but I liked them together. They were both there for each other when the pressure to be perfect kicked in. So, I think the connection between them grew stronger because they were both in a vulnerable state. 

Overall, many readers may find this one to be highly entertaining. Exploring themes of self-reflection, coping with loss, expectations of family, friendship dynamics, and finding happiness. It was my first time ever reading a sports romance novel and while I wasn’t completely blown away I wasn’t disappointed after reading it either. It’s also releasing just in time for the Olympics so many might find it enjoyable for that reason alone. 

Unbecoming by Seema Yasmin

adventurous hopeful informative inspiring reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? N/A
• Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

3.75

Absolutely loved the cover for this book. It’s always a delight going into a book blind not knowing what to expect then being blown away by how great it turns out to be. Exploring heavy themes surrounding unexpected teen pregnancy, abortions, pro-choice, IVF, medical treatments, Roe v. Wade, and fighting for what’s right. 

The novel follows two teens Laylah and Noor as they fight for access to abortions. While their initial plan was to create a guide for other teens seeking medical treatment. Living in the state of Texas where abortions are illegal would put both their lives in jeopardy if caught. Getting the information out to the public turned out to be harder than they thought. Laylah found out firsthand getting an abortion or access to medication to terminate a pregnancy wasn’t easy.

I enjoyed reading this one it was quite engaging and informative but I felt it lacked a clear direction. The author tackled a tough subject but incorporated to much in the sub-plots that it took away from the story a bit. I also felt it lacked depth in areas where a little more detail was needed. It was a great build up but the ending was rushed a bit and I was left with a few unanswered questions. 

Overall I think many teens and young adults would enjoy this one. The representation of the Muslim culture and religion was also a plus in the book. Special thanks to the author &  @simonteen for my advanced copy!!!