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little_miss_darkness's reviews
789 reviews
Husband Material by Alexis Hall
emotional
funny
lighthearted
reflective
sad
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
<b>Should a couple get married simply because everyone around them is getting married?</b>
Is marriage a right path for everyone? This is a guy book version of "Four weddings and a funeral" and I am here for it. Except from the part where Oliver and Luc start drifting apart from each other. Should they attend Luc's crummy ex-boyfriend's wedding or not? Should they be the next couple in their little social group to get married? Are they still supposed to be together?
I do agree with some of the more vindictive qualities Luc has. Surprisingly, it makes me like him more, and I am better able to connect with him.
The ending, while somewhat surprising considering the genre, was strangely satisfying.
Is marriage a right path for everyone? This is a guy book version of "Four weddings and a funeral" and I am here for it. Except from the part where Oliver and Luc start drifting apart from each other. Should they attend Luc's crummy ex-boyfriend's wedding or not? Should they be the next couple in their little social group to get married? Are they still supposed to be together?
I do agree with some of the more vindictive qualities Luc has. Surprisingly, it makes me like him more, and I am better able to connect with him.
The ending, while somewhat surprising considering the genre, was strangely satisfying.
Cassiel's Servant by Jacqueline Carey
adventurous
challenging
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Who knew we needed Joscelin's book?
Picking this book up, I thought it was going to just be basically Kushiel's Dart with tiny differences - the reason why I usually avoid books which are repetition of a previous story with a different POV.
But no, we finally see a glimpse into Joscelin's childhood, and his time training with the Cassiline Brotherhood. We meet Selwyn, Joscelin's childhood best friend, of whom there wasn't a single mention in Kushiel's Dart (I know, I'm just re-reading the series when I realised this book was published). In retrospect, it makes sense.
It doesn't help that Joscelin is so obstinate about himself. One of the many reasons we all want to unravel the mysteries of THE Cassiline.
So many things finally make sense, and I am glad I have this book. Even for a slightly expensive price of the Kindle version. I can't wait to continue re-reading the series with more understanding.
Picking this book up, I thought it was going to just be basically Kushiel's Dart with tiny differences - the reason why I usually avoid books which are repetition of a previous story with a different POV.
But no, we finally see a glimpse into Joscelin's childhood, and his time training with the Cassiline Brotherhood. We meet Selwyn, Joscelin's childhood best friend, of whom there wasn't a single mention in Kushiel's Dart (I know, I'm just re-reading the series when I realised this book was published). In retrospect, it makes sense.
It doesn't help that Joscelin is so obstinate about himself. One of the many reasons we all want to unravel the mysteries of THE Cassiline.
So many things finally make sense, and I am glad I have this book. Even for a slightly expensive price of the Kindle version. I can't wait to continue re-reading the series with more understanding.
Boyfriend Material by Alexis Hall
emotional
funny
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
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
<b>Cute and endearing.</b>
Oliver and Luc seem to be polar opposites, yet their friend is adamant they belong together. And when they both require a boyfriend to appease the people in their lives.
It's a fast and enjoyable romantic read with a lot of witty comebacks. I do think Luc is kind of clueless and insensitive to those around him. Probably doesn't help that he had a strange time growing up, what with having to constantly watch out for paparazzi, and what his ex has done to him. Still, that excuse only gets him so far.
Oliver, on the other hand, needs to learn ho to relax and enjoy life.
I found this a very humorous and enjoyable read, and I would definitely come back to re-read it when the mood strikes me.
Oliver and Luc seem to be polar opposites, yet their friend is adamant they belong together. And when they both require a boyfriend to appease the people in their lives.
It's a fast and enjoyable romantic read with a lot of witty comebacks. I do think Luc is kind of clueless and insensitive to those around him. Probably doesn't help that he had a strange time growing up, what with having to constantly watch out for paparazzi, and what his ex has done to him. Still, that excuse only gets him so far.
Oliver, on the other hand, needs to learn ho to relax and enjoy life.
I found this a very humorous and enjoyable read, and I would definitely come back to re-read it when the mood strikes me.
We Free the Stars by Hafsah Faizal
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
reflective
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? It's complicated
5.0
<b>The zumra has left Sharr, but their quest isn't over.</b>
Benyamin is gone, The Lion has Altair - who is his son, I mean, come onn - and the Silver Witch is Anadil who is Nasir and Altair's mother. And she's alive. The zumra is fractured. But they still hold on.
We get introduced to new characters, like Aya and Seif. Seif, who I find incredibly obnoxious and mildly charming at the same time. Of course, he would be easier to digest if his disdain wasn't so clear in every word he says and every action he does. But, I suppose that wasn't the point of him.
I like Nasir and Zafira even more and more in this book. Of course, they are also infuriating. Nasir, because he really should just come out and say how he feels and what he wants. I know that the circumstances in his life have made him poor at communication, but there are only so many excuses he can take before he needs to spit it out. And Zafira, because she knows how difficult it is for Nasir to say <i>anything</i> and her attitude and unwillingness to meet him half way makes it all harder and messier than it needs to be.
The Lion of the Night is an interesting character. The life has been nothing but hard on him, and anything he's ever done has been to prove himself. It's easy to feel bad about him. Easy to forgive some things because of what he's been through. But that only goes part of the way before he needs to take responsibility for the chaos, sorrow and darkness he's left in his way.
There was a scare with Altair, and more than a few with other characters as well. There were a few times when it seemed like the Lion's darkness will overwhelm all of Arawiya. The chaos reins, and the magic is dying. They need to take the last heart from The Lion before it's too late. But he always seems to be one step in front of them.
This book is even more intense than the first one, and I kept rushing to see what happens next, swallowing words on the pages like people breathe air. Yet, the entire time, I didn't want the story to finish, and I felt a little sad it did, because I wasn't ready to let go of the characters and their stories. I want to hear more. I want to see where they all are now that it's all finished. Will Altair and Yasmine finally meet? Because I kept thinking [author:Hafsah Faizal|17276299] is priming them to end up together (I hope they do, and they have their own story). What is up with Kifah? What happens to Seif, and how does he go on after all this? What about little Lana? It seemed she and Qismah kind of had a thing. And of course, who could forget about Zafira and Nasir? I know they got their happy ending, but I need more. I need more of their happiness instead of brooding and longing glances and stolen kisses.
Benyamin is gone, The Lion has Altair - who is his son, I mean, come onn - and the Silver Witch is Anadil who is Nasir and Altair's mother. And she's alive. The zumra is fractured. But they still hold on.
We get introduced to new characters, like Aya and Seif. Seif, who I find incredibly obnoxious and mildly charming at the same time. Of course, he would be easier to digest if his disdain wasn't so clear in every word he says and every action he does. But, I suppose that wasn't the point of him.
I like Nasir and Zafira even more and more in this book. Of course, they are also infuriating. Nasir, because he really should just come out and say how he feels and what he wants. I know that the circumstances in his life have made him poor at communication, but there are only so many excuses he can take before he needs to spit it out. And Zafira, because she knows how difficult it is for Nasir to say <i>anything</i> and her attitude and unwillingness to meet him half way makes it all harder and messier than it needs to be.
The Lion of the Night is an interesting character. The life has been nothing but hard on him, and anything he's ever done has been to prove himself. It's easy to feel bad about him. Easy to forgive some things because of what he's been through. But that only goes part of the way before he needs to take responsibility for the chaos, sorrow and darkness he's left in his way.
There was a scare with Altair, and more than a few with other characters as well. There were a few times when it seemed like the Lion's darkness will overwhelm all of Arawiya. The chaos reins, and the magic is dying. They need to take the last heart from The Lion before it's too late. But he always seems to be one step in front of them.
This book is even more intense than the first one, and I kept rushing to see what happens next, swallowing words on the pages like people breathe air. Yet, the entire time, I didn't want the story to finish, and I felt a little sad it did, because I wasn't ready to let go of the characters and their stories. I want to hear more. I want to see where they all are now that it's all finished. Will Altair and Yasmine finally meet? Because I kept thinking [author:Hafsah Faizal|17276299] is priming them to end up together (I hope they do, and they have their own story). What is up with Kifah? What happens to Seif, and how does he go on after all this? What about little Lana? It seemed she and Qismah kind of had a thing. And of course, who could forget about Zafira and Nasir? I know they got their happy ending, but I need more. I need more of their happiness instead of brooding and longing glances and stolen kisses.
We Hunt the Flame by Hafsah Faizal
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
reflective
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
<b>Why the HELL didn't I read this sooner?</b>
I'm a mood reader. Guilty as charged. I think I bought this book over two years ago now, and even knowing I would love it, it was never the right time. Or I was nowhere near the book (like another country) when I WAS in the mood. Honestly, I was getting furious with myself.
I love Zafira. The Mysterious Hunter that provides for her people in the society that demoralizes and downgrades women, is actually a Huntress all along? I think every woman can find herself in her, and her journey. It is cute how she blushes at an exposed ankle, though.
While I absolutely adore Zafira, I have to admit that Nasir might be my favourite character. I have a thing for assassins who can move unseen and kill without leaving a trace. There might be something wrong with me, but hey, it makes the story better. What he's been through is more than anyone ever should, and being so misunderstood makes it more interesting getting to know him. Peeling all the layers that make him <i>him</i>.
Yasmine, Deen, Lana and all the others are in there so briefly, I kind of wish there was a bit more dedicated to them, so we can know them better. Though from what I've seen I've loved, even the sad parts.
And who can forget Altair, Kifah and Benyamin? I would have loved to get to know Benyamin better. He's kind of a mysterious one, isn't he? Altair is hilarious and complete opposite of Nasir. They complete each other perfectly. You wouldn't expect a battle-hardened general to be so quick qith quips, banter and sarcastic remarks. I feel like I should love Kifah, but at the same time, it's almost as if she features just less enough that she doesn't feel like a complete character to know by the end of this book. Hopefully the next one gives us more of her.
The book itself? A quest to travel through the haunted forest onto an island full of imprisoned creatures that can only be found in a nightmare in order to release magic? Incredible. I've loved every single moment of it, and sometimes it was hard to put it down to do anything else. Like go to work. Literally, my mind would still be on the story, imagining what will happen next.
It is definitely worth the hype that was on TikTok (not sure if it's still popular though, haven't been there in a while) and I would recommend it to anyone. It truly is a story for all ages (even though the characters are in their twenties).
I'm a mood reader. Guilty as charged. I think I bought this book over two years ago now, and even knowing I would love it, it was never the right time. Or I was nowhere near the book (like another country) when I WAS in the mood. Honestly, I was getting furious with myself.
I love Zafira. The Mysterious Hunter that provides for her people in the society that demoralizes and downgrades women, is actually a Huntress all along? I think every woman can find herself in her, and her journey. It is cute how she blushes at an exposed ankle, though.
While I absolutely adore Zafira, I have to admit that Nasir might be my favourite character. I have a thing for assassins who can move unseen and kill without leaving a trace. There might be something wrong with me, but hey, it makes the story better. What he's been through is more than anyone ever should, and being so misunderstood makes it more interesting getting to know him. Peeling all the layers that make him <i>him</i>.
Yasmine, Deen, Lana and all the others are in there so briefly, I kind of wish there was a bit more dedicated to them, so we can know them better. Though from what I've seen I've loved, even the sad parts.
And who can forget Altair, Kifah and Benyamin? I would have loved to get to know Benyamin better. He's kind of a mysterious one, isn't he? Altair is hilarious and complete opposite of Nasir. They complete each other perfectly. You wouldn't expect a battle-hardened general to be so quick qith quips, banter and sarcastic remarks. I feel like I should love Kifah, but at the same time, it's almost as if she features just less enough that she doesn't feel like a complete character to know by the end of this book. Hopefully the next one gives us more of her.
The book itself? A quest to travel through the haunted forest onto an island full of imprisoned creatures that can only be found in a nightmare in order to release magic? Incredible. I've loved every single moment of it, and sometimes it was hard to put it down to do anything else. Like go to work. Literally, my mind would still be on the story, imagining what will happen next.
It is definitely worth the hype that was on TikTok (not sure if it's still popular though, haven't been there in a while) and I would recommend it to anyone. It truly is a story for all ages (even though the characters are in their twenties).
Problems by Skyler Snow, Brea Alepoú
dark
emotional
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
<b>More like 3.5</b>
I had trouble connecting to the characters and their story. I rarely have a problem with that, but I feel like a lot of their feelings and thoughts were left out. And honestly, I'm having a tough time connecting with Cian. Sure, he seems a little sociopathic. But there could have been a backstory, or some more chapters from his POV.
Overall, it's an alright story, but it lacked something. I can't really put my finger on it, but it did.
I had trouble connecting to the characters and their story. I rarely have a problem with that, but I feel like a lot of their feelings and thoughts were left out. And honestly, I'm having a tough time connecting with Cian. Sure, he seems a little sociopathic. But there could have been a backstory, or some more chapters from his POV.
Overall, it's an alright story, but it lacked something. I can't really put my finger on it, but it did.
The Dragon and His Prince's Wedding by R. Phoenix, Adara Wolf
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
What are dragon weddings like? Was Jade right?
I think I might prefer the dragon culture, even though they scandalised the poor humans. Especially because they scandalised the poor humans.
And their wedding night? Whew, I wouldn't have thought that was possible, even if dragons were real.
I would have liked to actually see the dragon's wedding. If that was Jade's family behaving, I would like to see them in their more natural setting. It would be fun, especially with poor Larkin trying not to have an aneurysm.
I think I might prefer the dragon culture, even though they scandalised the poor humans. Especially because they scandalised the poor humans.
And their wedding night? Whew, I wouldn't have thought that was possible, even if dragons were real.
I would have liked to actually see the dragon's wedding. If that was Jade's family behaving, I would like to see them in their more natural setting. It would be fun, especially with poor Larkin trying not to have an aneurysm.
The Dragon and His Prince by R. Phoenix, Adara Wolf
adventurous
emotional
lighthearted
mysterious
sad
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
4.0
Isn't this interesting?
Definitely didn't know something about a certain part of the dragon's anatomy. Until now.
It's an interesting story, I'll give you that. I would have liked an epilogue that shows what happened with Jade and Larkin. I mean, obviously we know. I meant after everything. After things have calmed down.
While it's a good story, I feel like there's something missing. Maybe it was moving a bit too fast, and I could have used more filler scenes. I can't quite put my finger on it.
Definitely didn't know something about a certain part of the dragon's anatomy. Until now.
It's an interesting story, I'll give you that. I would have liked an epilogue that shows what happened with Jade and Larkin. I mean, obviously we know. I meant after everything. After things have calmed down.
While it's a good story, I feel like there's something missing. Maybe it was moving a bit too fast, and I could have used more filler scenes. I can't quite put my finger on it.
Bruising Love by Adara Wolf
dark
emotional
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.5
Definitely not up to my taste
I guess I should have read the trigger warning. I never do. At the very least, it didn't make me break out in sweat or something. I could still read it until the end. But this much pain? Not my thing.
Also, Jay just keeps going from one toxic relationship to another, doesn't he? His dad, his mom, Taku, Becca. No surprise how it all ends up.
I guess I should have read the trigger warning. I never do. At the very least, it didn't make me break out in sweat or something. I could still read it until the end. But this much pain? Not my thing.
Also, Jay just keeps going from one toxic relationship to another, doesn't he? His dad, his mom, Taku, Becca. No surprise how it all ends up.
Submit by R. Phoenix, Adara Wolf
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
This is a real mess, isn't it?
All these stories start out with the MCs avoiding each other because they're bad for each other, but then inevitably fall into each other's arms. I know it, but sometimes I feel like it would be healthier if they separated and found happiness with other people.
I think our of the two, Silvano is definitely the more toxic one. Kind of feel bad for Kyran, really.
Saying that, I kind of hope the next book is about Christiano and Fox.
All these stories start out with the MCs avoiding each other because they're bad for each other, but then inevitably fall into each other's arms. I know it, but sometimes I feel like it would be healthier if they separated and found happiness with other people.
I think our of the two, Silvano is definitely the more toxic one. Kind of feel bad for Kyran, really.
Saying that, I kind of hope the next book is about Christiano and Fox.