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loverofromance's reviews
4557 reviews
A Lover's Vow by Brenda Jackson
5.0
My Review:
I did this one as a read and then watch the adaptation and I was so happy that Passionflix finally finished up this series. I was worried that they wouldn't continue but glad that they decided to finish everything off here. I loved the plot line for this one. I was worried that the enemies to lovers would be dragged out a bit too much, but thankfully it wasn't. And you can quickly see how well their chemistry is despite the angst between them. I really respect them resolving their issues a bit earlier in the book so that the suspense mystery plot would have the focus and seeing it all resolved. I found that their relationship really resonated so deeply and it definitely handled the emotional human element just right.
Overall I found this one to be a true keeper and my favorite of the series actually!!!! I definitely need to read more of this author, so if you have read her, give me all of your recommendations!!!
I did this one as a read and then watch the adaptation and I was so happy that Passionflix finally finished up this series. I was worried that they wouldn't continue but glad that they decided to finish everything off here. I loved the plot line for this one. I was worried that the enemies to lovers would be dragged out a bit too much, but thankfully it wasn't. And you can quickly see how well their chemistry is despite the angst between them. I really respect them resolving their issues a bit earlier in the book so that the suspense mystery plot would have the focus and seeing it all resolved. I found that their relationship really resonated so deeply and it definitely handled the emotional human element just right.
Overall I found this one to be a true keeper and my favorite of the series actually!!!! I definitely need to read more of this author, so if you have read her, give me all of your recommendations!!!
Shadow's End by Thea Harrison
5.0
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review. Also my tags may have spoilers in them so be forewarned before checking out full review.
Book Evaluation:
Plot: ποΈποΈποΈποΈποΈ
World Building:πππππ
Cover:ππππ
Hero: π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»
Heroine:π¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈ
Intimacy Level: π₯π₯π₯π₯
Relationship Building: πππππ
Heart & Feels:πππππ
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: ππππ
Page Turner Level:ππππ
Narration:π§π§π§π§π§
Ending:π§§π§§π§§π§§π§§
Overall View: β¨β¨β¨β¨β¨
Eternity might be captured in a single kiss.
First Impressions
What on earth did I read and I am not sure if I am okay and breathing? haha oh what a wild ride. I am still feeling breathless over this read and what Thea Harrison has delivered here. I can't believe what a book this one was. I did put it off for a bit because I knew it would have some elements to it that I might not care for too much and yeah it was completely wild and you definitely need to go into this one with a open mind though. Its not going to be a story that will work for everyone. But I was eager to see how our pairing would fair and lets be real ....I have been wanting Graydon's book since the first book hahaha
First Line
With one blunt forefinger, Graydon tapped out a text on his smartphone.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Graydon, First Sentinel of the Wyr
The Heroine: Beluviel, consort to the Elven High Lord
Summary
Graydon and Beluviel, on the surface have to appear as if they are just two in the realm of knowing each other but can't reveal their true desires for each other as its completely forbidden. Two hundred years ago Gray and Beluviel fell in love in the search for Beluviel's son who had gotten caught up in gambling and on their journey in their search, they form a bond and a deep love. But when they discover some evil against innocents they do what they feel is right but that moments will entrench them in a bind that they won't know how to get out of. They fall into debt with a evil Djinn, Malphas which forbids them from touching one another or it will the life of Beluviel's son. But Graydon has never given up on the love he has always held for Beluviel and been working for two centuries to bring down their enemy, he just needs Beluviel to trust in him to bring them freedom along with their crew of friends to help them escape....but what will be the price of their freedom?
What I Loved
Shadow's End was beyond brilliant in every way I could have imagined. The moment that these two fell hard for each other, I was in 100% into this story and I couldn't put it down. I just wanted so much to see how these two would find their HEA especially when it starts off with seeing Graydon having so much yearning for the woman he loves. And I really appreciated how Thea Harrison wrote the flashback. Normally authors make you go back and forth. But I loved how she wrote the complete flashback early in the book and then you get to the present and I really wish more authors would handle more flashbacks like that. I hate the yo yo style of flashbacks.
Shadows End is a story that despite its facts of some cheating in it which isn't normally for me, the way that its told definitely worked for me. You can see how Beluviel is in a miserable arrangement of a marriage and has never known love and affection from her husband. But she wishes that Graydon could be the man she could be with. You see their mutual pining and aren't able to engage with each other and have had to stay away from each other for over two hundred years...I can't even imagine but you just feel the tension that builds throughout the story and within their relationship. And then you just feel that they need to be together. Their strength to continue fighting for their love and for freedom was so breathtaking and just breathes life and energy into the reader.
Thea Harrison wrote a true treasure of a read and I am still feeling overwhelmed by what I just read. Can this book write a bad book? Cause I don't think so lol And the more I read into this series the more I am sad that its coming to an end soon but also excited to see what the author truly delivers within this world. And I am so curious to see what she will be doing with Liam here. I hope we get to see some good things for him.
What I Struggled With
The flashback to the time when they first fall in love is super slow paced. I am not sure if it was the narration or not but it definitely affected my enjoyment slightly or it would have been a six star read. That is how good this book was especially the second half. I also wasn't a fan of who the author kills off in the end. I won't reveal who it is (its not the main characters) but it is a character I was hoping to get a story for actually.
Narration
Really well done. I am not sure if the issues I had in the first half of the book is due to the narrator or if it was just the pacing .....I am leaning towards the pacing....normally flashbacks can feel slower at times but I felt it was important to read it or I probably would feel so so lost.
Overall View
Shadow's End was sizzling and spell binding in every way....its a tale that stretches into the forbidden, that lays waste to expectations and boundaries and digs deep into the strength and courage of the heart!
You didn't walk away from those you loved. You fought for them, always, with everything you had, even if it meant fighting the long fight, and staying on the hardest, quietest, most difficult course
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Paranormal Romance
Character Types: Shape Shifter, Dragon, Fae
Themes: Cheating, Heart/Emotion, Tear Jerker
Tropes: Road Trip, Star Crossed Lovers, Forbidden Love
Book Perspective
3rd POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A blend
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Nalini Singh
Shelly Laurenston
Kresley Cole
Song This Book Inspires
Love Me Like You Do by Ellie Goulding
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes
Steam/Spice Explanations
Simmering cup of tea---soft warm touches and light intimacy
Warmin' by the fire- a medium level of sexual tension, a balance of sexual and emotional intimacy, lighter on the details in the sexual moments.
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Blazing fire to the building-The prime focus is the sex scenes, scorching hot, and could burn one. Less focus on the emotional intimacy to the relationship.
Narrators:
Sophie Eastlake
Book Evaluation:
Plot: ποΈποΈποΈποΈποΈ
World Building:πππππ
Cover:ππππ
Hero: π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»
Heroine:π¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈ
Intimacy Level: π₯π₯π₯π₯
Relationship Building: πππππ
Heart & Feels:πππππ
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: ππππ
Page Turner Level:ππππ
Narration:π§π§π§π§π§
Ending:π§§π§§π§§π§§π§§
Overall View: β¨β¨β¨β¨β¨
Eternity might be captured in a single kiss.
First Impressions
What on earth did I read and I am not sure if I am okay and breathing? haha oh what a wild ride. I am still feeling breathless over this read and what Thea Harrison has delivered here. I can't believe what a book this one was. I did put it off for a bit because I knew it would have some elements to it that I might not care for too much and yeah it was completely wild and you definitely need to go into this one with a open mind though. Its not going to be a story that will work for everyone. But I was eager to see how our pairing would fair and lets be real ....I have been wanting Graydon's book since the first book hahaha
First Line
With one blunt forefinger, Graydon tapped out a text on his smartphone.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Graydon, First Sentinel of the Wyr
The Heroine: Beluviel, consort to the Elven High Lord
Summary
Graydon and Beluviel, on the surface have to appear as if they are just two in the realm of knowing each other but can't reveal their true desires for each other as its completely forbidden. Two hundred years ago Gray and Beluviel fell in love in the search for Beluviel's son who had gotten caught up in gambling and on their journey in their search, they form a bond and a deep love. But when they discover some evil against innocents they do what they feel is right but that moments will entrench them in a bind that they won't know how to get out of. They fall into debt with a evil Djinn, Malphas which forbids them from touching one another or it will the life of Beluviel's son. But Graydon has never given up on the love he has always held for Beluviel and been working for two centuries to bring down their enemy, he just needs Beluviel to trust in him to bring them freedom along with their crew of friends to help them escape....but what will be the price of their freedom?
What I Loved
Shadow's End was beyond brilliant in every way I could have imagined. The moment that these two fell hard for each other, I was in 100% into this story and I couldn't put it down. I just wanted so much to see how these two would find their HEA especially when it starts off with seeing Graydon having so much yearning for the woman he loves. And I really appreciated how Thea Harrison wrote the flashback. Normally authors make you go back and forth. But I loved how she wrote the complete flashback early in the book and then you get to the present and I really wish more authors would handle more flashbacks like that. I hate the yo yo style of flashbacks.
Shadows End is a story that despite its facts of some cheating in it which isn't normally for me, the way that its told definitely worked for me. You can see how Beluviel is in a miserable arrangement of a marriage and has never known love and affection from her husband. But she wishes that Graydon could be the man she could be with. You see their mutual pining and aren't able to engage with each other and have had to stay away from each other for over two hundred years...I can't even imagine but you just feel the tension that builds throughout the story and within their relationship. And then you just feel that they need to be together. Their strength to continue fighting for their love and for freedom was so breathtaking and just breathes life and energy into the reader.
Thea Harrison wrote a true treasure of a read and I am still feeling overwhelmed by what I just read. Can this book write a bad book? Cause I don't think so lol And the more I read into this series the more I am sad that its coming to an end soon but also excited to see what the author truly delivers within this world. And I am so curious to see what she will be doing with Liam here. I hope we get to see some good things for him.
What I Struggled With
The flashback to the time when they first fall in love is super slow paced. I am not sure if it was the narration or not but it definitely affected my enjoyment slightly or it would have been a six star read. That is how good this book was especially the second half. I also wasn't a fan of who the author kills off in the end. I won't reveal who it is (its not the main characters) but it is a character I was hoping to get a story for actually.
Narration
Really well done. I am not sure if the issues I had in the first half of the book is due to the narrator or if it was just the pacing .....I am leaning towards the pacing....normally flashbacks can feel slower at times but I felt it was important to read it or I probably would feel so so lost.
Overall View
Shadow's End was sizzling and spell binding in every way....its a tale that stretches into the forbidden, that lays waste to expectations and boundaries and digs deep into the strength and courage of the heart!
You didn't walk away from those you loved. You fought for them, always, with everything you had, even if it meant fighting the long fight, and staying on the hardest, quietest, most difficult course
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Paranormal Romance
Character Types: Shape Shifter, Dragon, Fae
Themes: Cheating, Heart/Emotion, Tear Jerker
Tropes: Road Trip, Star Crossed Lovers, Forbidden Love
Book Perspective
3rd POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A blend
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Nalini Singh
Shelly Laurenston
Kresley Cole
Song This Book Inspires
Love Me Like You Do by Ellie Goulding
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes
Steam/Spice Explanations
Simmering cup of tea---soft warm touches and light intimacy
Warmin' by the fire- a medium level of sexual tension, a balance of sexual and emotional intimacy, lighter on the details in the sexual moments.
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Blazing fire to the building-The prime focus is the sex scenes, scorching hot, and could burn one. Less focus on the emotional intimacy to the relationship.
Narrators:
Sophie Eastlake
Under An Endless Moon by A.L. Jackson
adventurous
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
5.0
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review. Also my tags may have spoilers in them so be forewarned before checking out full review.
Book Evaluation:
Plot: ποΈποΈποΈποΈποΈ
World Building:πππππ
Cover:πππππ
Hero: π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»
Heroine:π¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈ
Intimacy Level: π₯π₯π₯π₯
Relationship Building: πππππ
Heart & Feels:πππππ
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: πππππ
Page Turner Level:πππππ
Narration:π§π§π§π§π§
Ending:π§§π§§π§§π§§
Overall View: β¨β¨β¨β¨.75
I will make it to the sunrise.
Here with him, I wanted to stand in the sun."
First Impressions
Under An Endless Moon was such a wonderful read and while I didn't love it quite as strongly as the first book, it was such a deeply impactful romance that really worked for me in so many ways. I just had one issue with the story but other than that it was just about perfection. There is something about this author and how she writes romance that seems to hit all the right spots in just the right way. Now I would highly recommend you do this in audio over physically reading her writing as its more lyrical and the notes will just be impacted differently in audio over physically reading it.
First Line
"This should be easy."
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Otto
The Heroine:Raven
βLook at you, Raven. Look at who you are. If you could only see the way I see you. You are brave and strong. So goddamn beautiful. A bloom in the middle of the darkest night.β
Summary
Otto and Raven have known each other since they were young. Otto came into Raven's life when she was needing affection and love and coming from a bad situation. They quickly became best friends and she bonded with his sister and their fated would be intertwined as Raven and Otto always held each other's hearts. But now Raven's brother is married, and she is feeling like a third wheel and Otto offers his home as a haven for her and even though there have been some events building to threaten her life, Otto knows that he will protect her with everything that he has. But their love is forbidden. Otto made a promise to his best friend that he would never cross that line, but Raven is determined to fly and she wants to fly to Otto. But there is a danger on the horizon, that might tear them all apart....
You are the light inside of me, Raven. Only thing that could ever lead me out of the dark. Gonna love you through it all. Under every endless moon. And when dawn finally breaks, I will watch you rise."
What I Loved
So many swoons! And this was the perfect read to dig deep and so deeply romantic and just perfect to start the day of all day of romance days. I had such a blast with this book and couldn't seem to get enough of what was portrayed in this story. I absolutely loved everything about this book or just about. lol The romance was spectacular. I loved their story and I have to say this might be one of my favorite books for this forbidden sibling best friend trope. Their relationship was so deeply entrenched and you can just feel their love together and how much that they work for each other. I wanted to so easily be so swept away by their connection. The flashbacks really worked for me. They don't always work for me, but the way they were handled, it seemed to work for me a bit. There are so many reveals so I enjoyed how layered each flashback seem to reveal something a bit more with their connection and events of the past. And there were some great laugh moments here and there. And the reveal of the true villains in the end ----MY MIND IS BLOWN ....just one of them especially you just don't expect to see coming at all. The author definitely delivered in just about every way.
There was no forgetting Raven Tayte because no matter how painful it was, this woman was carved on my heart and written in my soul.
What I Struggled With
The ending. lol Everything was perfect until the third act and how it was all resolved. The danger plot was well done. But the conflict that rises, it just felt way too rushed. I know she was in a dangerous situation but this is the reason this book isn't a 6 star read. It would have been if the ending had been a bit better written. It just was resolved too quickly and it felt like she was in danger, they rescue her and all issues just vanish lol I wanted to get something more satisfying to be resolved. You know some actually talking about it might have been a cool thing to do haha
Narration
GORGEOUS!!! The narrators that this author chooses always seem to be true perfection!
Overall View
Under An Endless Moon was a brilliant installment that dug deep into the edge....into the sensuality and into the warm embrace of love that is bound to make your whole body curl with delight and swoons!
I wanted to fly. I wanted to rise. And I knew, all the way down to the deepest parts of me, that I wanted to rise with him.
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Romantic Suspense
Character Types: Morally Grey Hero, Abused
Themes: Small Town, Danger/Suspense, Mutual Pining, Touch Her and Die
Tropes: Siblings Best Friend, Forbidden Love, May to December, Friends to Lovers
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Both
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Jennifer Ryan
Catherine Cowles
Samantha Young
Song This Book Inspires
Soul by Lee Brice
Recommendation For Reading Order
You can read as a stand alone but its better for character connections to read in order if possible
Steam/Spice Explanations
Simmering cup of tea---soft warm touches and light intimacy
Warmin' by the fire- a medium level of sexual tension, a balance of sexual and emotional intimacy, lighter on the details in the sexual moments.
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Blazing fire to the building-The prime focus is the sex scenes, scorching hot, and could burn one. Less focus on the emotional intimacy to the relationship.
Narrators:
Connor Crais, Desiree Ketchum
Book Evaluation:
Plot: ποΈποΈποΈποΈποΈ
World Building:πππππ
Cover:πππππ
Hero: π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»
Heroine:π¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈ
Intimacy Level: π₯π₯π₯π₯
Relationship Building: πππππ
Heart & Feels:πππππ
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: πππππ
Page Turner Level:πππππ
Narration:π§π§π§π§π§
Ending:π§§π§§π§§π§§
Overall View: β¨β¨β¨β¨.75
I will make it to the sunrise.
Here with him, I wanted to stand in the sun."
First Impressions
Under An Endless Moon was such a wonderful read and while I didn't love it quite as strongly as the first book, it was such a deeply impactful romance that really worked for me in so many ways. I just had one issue with the story but other than that it was just about perfection. There is something about this author and how she writes romance that seems to hit all the right spots in just the right way. Now I would highly recommend you do this in audio over physically reading her writing as its more lyrical and the notes will just be impacted differently in audio over physically reading it.
First Line
"This should be easy."
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Otto
The Heroine:Raven
βLook at you, Raven. Look at who you are. If you could only see the way I see you. You are brave and strong. So goddamn beautiful. A bloom in the middle of the darkest night.β
Summary
Otto and Raven have known each other since they were young. Otto came into Raven's life when she was needing affection and love and coming from a bad situation. They quickly became best friends and she bonded with his sister and their fated would be intertwined as Raven and Otto always held each other's hearts. But now Raven's brother is married, and she is feeling like a third wheel and Otto offers his home as a haven for her and even though there have been some events building to threaten her life, Otto knows that he will protect her with everything that he has. But their love is forbidden. Otto made a promise to his best friend that he would never cross that line, but Raven is determined to fly and she wants to fly to Otto. But there is a danger on the horizon, that might tear them all apart....
You are the light inside of me, Raven. Only thing that could ever lead me out of the dark. Gonna love you through it all. Under every endless moon. And when dawn finally breaks, I will watch you rise."
What I Loved
So many swoons! And this was the perfect read to dig deep and so deeply romantic and just perfect to start the day of all day of romance days. I had such a blast with this book and couldn't seem to get enough of what was portrayed in this story. I absolutely loved everything about this book or just about. lol The romance was spectacular. I loved their story and I have to say this might be one of my favorite books for this forbidden sibling best friend trope. Their relationship was so deeply entrenched and you can just feel their love together and how much that they work for each other. I wanted to so easily be so swept away by their connection. The flashbacks really worked for me. They don't always work for me, but the way they were handled, it seemed to work for me a bit. There are so many reveals so I enjoyed how layered each flashback seem to reveal something a bit more with their connection and events of the past. And there were some great laugh moments here and there. And the reveal of the true villains in the end ----MY MIND IS BLOWN ....just one of them especially you just don't expect to see coming at all. The author definitely delivered in just about every way.
There was no forgetting Raven Tayte because no matter how painful it was, this woman was carved on my heart and written in my soul.
What I Struggled With
The ending. lol Everything was perfect until the third act and how it was all resolved. The danger plot was well done. But the conflict that rises, it just felt way too rushed. I know she was in a dangerous situation but this is the reason this book isn't a 6 star read. It would have been if the ending had been a bit better written. It just was resolved too quickly and it felt like she was in danger, they rescue her and all issues just vanish lol I wanted to get something more satisfying to be resolved. You know some actually talking about it might have been a cool thing to do haha
Narration
GORGEOUS!!! The narrators that this author chooses always seem to be true perfection!
Overall View
Under An Endless Moon was a brilliant installment that dug deep into the edge....into the sensuality and into the warm embrace of love that is bound to make your whole body curl with delight and swoons!
I wanted to fly. I wanted to rise. And I knew, all the way down to the deepest parts of me, that I wanted to rise with him.
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Romantic Suspense
Character Types: Morally Grey Hero, Abused
Themes: Small Town, Danger/Suspense, Mutual Pining, Touch Her and Die
Tropes: Siblings Best Friend, Forbidden Love, May to December, Friends to Lovers
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Both
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Jennifer Ryan
Catherine Cowles
Samantha Young
Song This Book Inspires
Soul by Lee Brice
Recommendation For Reading Order
You can read as a stand alone but its better for character connections to read in order if possible
Steam/Spice Explanations
Simmering cup of tea---soft warm touches and light intimacy
Warmin' by the fire- a medium level of sexual tension, a balance of sexual and emotional intimacy, lighter on the details in the sexual moments.
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Blazing fire to the building-The prime focus is the sex scenes, scorching hot, and could burn one. Less focus on the emotional intimacy to the relationship.
Narrators:
Connor Crais, Desiree Ketchum
Texture of Intimacy by Nalini Singh
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
My Review
Texture of Intimacy was a novella I had read before but it was probably from some anthology I read years ago but it was nice returning to Walker and Lara and getting their background and reconnecting with them again. This is a very good novella. It has good relationship building aspects between the two but we also get some fun moments within the pack that I thoroughly enjoyed. I loved seeing the kids though and their challenges and how playful they are which to me considering what they were raised in, is a true miracle for them to be just children and really fit just right into the changeling dynamic. If you love the Psy Changeling series and haven't yet read this novella, I highly recommend it. Nalini Singh is queen when it comes to writing superb novellas.
Overall I had a blast with this one!
Texture of Intimacy was a novella I had read before but it was probably from some anthology I read years ago but it was nice returning to Walker and Lara and getting their background and reconnecting with them again. This is a very good novella. It has good relationship building aspects between the two but we also get some fun moments within the pack that I thoroughly enjoyed. I loved seeing the kids though and their challenges and how playful they are which to me considering what they were raised in, is a true miracle for them to be just children and really fit just right into the changeling dynamic. If you love the Psy Changeling series and haven't yet read this novella, I highly recommend it. Nalini Singh is queen when it comes to writing superb novellas.
Overall I had a blast with this one!
The Promised Queen by Jeffe Kennedy
adventurous
challenging
funny
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
Book Evaluation:
Plot: ποΈποΈποΈποΈποΈ
World Building:πππππ
Cover:πππππ
Hero: π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»
Heroine:π¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈ
Intimacy Level: π₯π₯π₯
Relationship Building: πππππ
Heart & Feels:πππππ
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: ππππ
Page Turner Level:πππππ
Narration:π§π§π§π§π§
Ending:π§§π§§π§§π§§π§§
Overall View: β¨β¨β¨β¨β¨
First Impressions
The Promised Queen is the finale in the "Forgotten Kingdom" series. I was so thrilled to finally get to this one and it definitely satisfied me completely for a fantasy romance. This really just hit the spot especially emotionally. It was a bit longer than the first two books it felt like, but I was easily swept away by this story and I really loved the aspects of this married couple, the heroine recovering from her trauma and this couple learning to navigate these waters and having a coming battle to face up and plan for. And the way it all ends was just right for me here.
First Line
"Lia? Wake up."
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Conri, Crown Prince of Oriel
The Heroine: Queen Euthalia
Summary
Queen Euthalia has just been rescued from being held captive from Emperor Anure, and been tortured and gone through some severe trauma. She still holds the abiding ring but the prophecy of it is still unfulfilled. Conri is so relieved the woman he has come to love is alive and is determined to protect her no matter what. But Lia is used to pushing people away to protect them. We have a hero who doesn't understand why he is being pushed away. But both Lia and Conri will have to learn to trust each other to really make what they have worth fighting for...
What I Loved
The Promised Queen was the best book of the series. I really loved the build up of the relationship that we got to see and seeing the finale and all the details really all come together as it should. It really pulled me in so quickly in the beginning and I loved the way in which this author built up the tension between them. I also grew to admire our hero so much. Lia is so independent and in control all the time, and seeing her really learn to let go and let him take care of her was superb in every way. I found it intriguing. The plot kept me on my toes, I was so fascinated by the plot of seeing Lia recover, the moments in the dark court, and then taking on the Emperor. There was some drama here and there that might not work for everyone, but I found it so entertaining. The third act was intense and not the way that you expect. The story also was finished out so right.
What I Struggled With
Not much to be honest with the story itself.
Narration
The narration was solid, but it could have been better. I think the narration felt a bit slow in the middle.
Overall View
The Promised Queen was a satisfying finale that is guaranteed to sweep you off your feet. Its a stoyr that emotionally resonates, keep you on your toes with the twists of the plot and delivers the swoons in the end!
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Epic Fantasy Romance
Character Types: Royalty, Abused Heroine, Alpha Male
Themes: Danger/Suspense, PTSD Trauma, Married Couple Pairing
Tropes: Marriage of Convenience
Book Perspective
3Rd POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Both
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Elizabeth Vaughan
CL Wilson
Grace Draven
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes
Steam/Spice Explanations
Simmering cup of tea---soft warm touches and light intimacy
Warmin' by the fire- a medium level of sexual tension, a balance of sexual and emotional intimacy, lighter on the details in the sexual moments.
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Blazing fire to the building-The prime focus is the sex scenes, scorching hot, and could burn one. Less focus on the emotional intimacy to the relationship.
Narrators:
Gabrielle Baker
Plot: ποΈποΈποΈποΈποΈ
World Building:πππππ
Cover:πππππ
Hero: π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»
Heroine:π¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈ
Intimacy Level: π₯π₯π₯
Relationship Building: πππππ
Heart & Feels:πππππ
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: ππππ
Page Turner Level:πππππ
Narration:π§π§π§π§π§
Ending:π§§π§§π§§π§§π§§
Overall View: β¨β¨β¨β¨β¨
First Impressions
The Promised Queen is the finale in the "Forgotten Kingdom" series. I was so thrilled to finally get to this one and it definitely satisfied me completely for a fantasy romance. This really just hit the spot especially emotionally. It was a bit longer than the first two books it felt like, but I was easily swept away by this story and I really loved the aspects of this married couple, the heroine recovering from her trauma and this couple learning to navigate these waters and having a coming battle to face up and plan for. And the way it all ends was just right for me here.
First Line
"Lia? Wake up."
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Conri, Crown Prince of Oriel
The Heroine: Queen Euthalia
Summary
Queen Euthalia has just been rescued from being held captive from Emperor Anure, and been tortured and gone through some severe trauma. She still holds the abiding ring but the prophecy of it is still unfulfilled. Conri is so relieved the woman he has come to love is alive and is determined to protect her no matter what. But Lia is used to pushing people away to protect them. We have a hero who doesn't understand why he is being pushed away. But both Lia and Conri will have to learn to trust each other to really make what they have worth fighting for...
What I Loved
The Promised Queen was the best book of the series. I really loved the build up of the relationship that we got to see and seeing the finale and all the details really all come together as it should. It really pulled me in so quickly in the beginning and I loved the way in which this author built up the tension between them. I also grew to admire our hero so much. Lia is so independent and in control all the time, and seeing her really learn to let go and let him take care of her was superb in every way. I found it intriguing. The plot kept me on my toes, I was so fascinated by the plot of seeing Lia recover, the moments in the dark court, and then taking on the Emperor. There was some drama here and there that might not work for everyone, but I found it so entertaining. The third act was intense and not the way that you expect. The story also was finished out so right.
What I Struggled With
Not much to be honest with the story itself.
Narration
The narration was solid, but it could have been better. I think the narration felt a bit slow in the middle.
Overall View
The Promised Queen was a satisfying finale that is guaranteed to sweep you off your feet. Its a stoyr that emotionally resonates, keep you on your toes with the twists of the plot and delivers the swoons in the end!
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Epic Fantasy Romance
Character Types: Royalty, Abused Heroine, Alpha Male
Themes: Danger/Suspense, PTSD Trauma, Married Couple Pairing
Tropes: Marriage of Convenience
Book Perspective
3Rd POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Both
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Elizabeth Vaughan
CL Wilson
Grace Draven
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes
Steam/Spice Explanations
Simmering cup of tea---soft warm touches and light intimacy
Warmin' by the fire- a medium level of sexual tension, a balance of sexual and emotional intimacy, lighter on the details in the sexual moments.
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Blazing fire to the building-The prime focus is the sex scenes, scorching hot, and could burn one. Less focus on the emotional intimacy to the relationship.
Narrators:
Gabrielle Baker
Hot Finish by Erin McCarthy
2.0
My Review
I am honestly speechless over this complete hot mess of a book. Did Erin McCarthy right this book? Cause the communication, the unlikeable heroine and the numerous times I almost DNF this book because of it was really horrible. I just honestly didn't expect it from this author. I was really hoping that this heroine would grow and maybe get better....but does she? Nope lol She is like a yo yo lol You think she is getting better but then she makes assumptions and becomes bitter and hateful towards the hero. And its literally like that back and forth all the way through the book. I honestly felt for the hero ....to have Suzanne as his partner, he honestly deserved a woman who was mature and could actually handle conflict like an adult and not a child. It honestly felt like she was such a child through so many aspects of this story.
Overall I wish I had DNF this book earlier because it was a waste of my day lol I honestly can't recommend this one at all. Its such a toxic relationship that was beyond exhausting for this reader. I am being generous in my rating. Thats all .....hopefully the rest of the series is more like her other books in the series.
I am honestly speechless over this complete hot mess of a book. Did Erin McCarthy right this book? Cause the communication, the unlikeable heroine and the numerous times I almost DNF this book because of it was really horrible. I just honestly didn't expect it from this author. I was really hoping that this heroine would grow and maybe get better....but does she? Nope lol She is like a yo yo lol You think she is getting better but then she makes assumptions and becomes bitter and hateful towards the hero. And its literally like that back and forth all the way through the book. I honestly felt for the hero ....to have Suzanne as his partner, he honestly deserved a woman who was mature and could actually handle conflict like an adult and not a child. It honestly felt like she was such a child through so many aspects of this story.
Overall I wish I had DNF this book earlier because it was a waste of my day lol I honestly can't recommend this one at all. Its such a toxic relationship that was beyond exhausting for this reader. I am being generous in my rating. Thats all .....hopefully the rest of the series is more like her other books in the series.
Tame the Heart by Ava Hunter
adventurous
challenging
emotional
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
5.0
Book Evaluation:
Plot: ποΈποΈποΈποΈ
World Building:πππππ
Cover:πππππ
Hero: π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»
Heroine:π¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈ
Intimacy Level: π₯π₯π₯
Relationship Building: πππππ
Heart & Feels:πππππ
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: ππππ
Page Turner Level:πππππ
Ending:π§§π§§π§§π§§π§§
Overall View: β¨β¨β¨β¨β¨
First Impressions
Tame The Heart is the first book in the "Runaway Ranch" series and this is a series and a author that has been all over romancelandia and I honestly put this off because I was worried that this author was a bit overrated and I can tell you right now she is worthy of the hype. This book won my heart in every way and I couldn't put this one down. It kept me up all night all and man I am tired but so blissful over it lol So you can always tell that its a good book. Tame The Heart is a book that will really dig deeper into issues and have you face up to certain aspects that will put you through the emotional ringer.
First Line
Hearts, flowers, and sunshine are some of my favorite things.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Charlie
The Heroine: Ruby
Summary
Ruby loves her family but she is desperate to live her life before she dies young. She has a severe heart condition that killed her mother and her aunt. And she knows that she will probably die before she reaches 30. So she comes up with a bucket list of what she wants to experience and leaves her family to do so. She starts to travel across the country, and finds herself in Montana in a small town and runs into Mr. Grumpy cowboy....Charlie. Charlie has suffered his own share of pain. He lost his fiancee to a horse falling on her in front of him, he was once a professional rodeo athlete, and changed his focus when he bought the Runaway Ranch, and his brothers just seemed to follow him there and they build a stable ranch and experience they could give to others. But their ranch is in danger, and Ruby offers her services in exchange for a place to stay. Ruby and Charlie start to work together in an effort to change the dialogue of the ranch when it suffers an attack of social media cancellation and a big mogul trying to take over the town....but through their work together, they start to connect to each other. But Ruby is hiding a big secret, one that could take the man she loves away from her...
What I Loved
Tame The Heart was BRILLIANT!! This book was such a masterpiece and I couldn't get enough of this book. I literally was so swept away by the dynamic between Charlie and Ruby. I really felt for Ruby, she is in such a bad spot and her journey just had my heart tearing up over it. To know that you are going to die soon and must live your life and just want to experience life was just so beautiful in seeing her growth and journey here. I really resonated with the heroine and even though I wish that she had expressed the truth earlier to Charlie, but you still understand why she is hesitating. Her family treated her different from her medical condition and she didn't want Charlie to do the same to her. But Charlie knows that something is wrong with her, and I really enjoyed how the truth of it actually comes out. You see this catalyst that is building and you are on this journey and even though you know its going to break your heart, you become so easily invested in Charlie and Ruby's journey and their connection was sensual but powerful and impacts you in such a unique way.
What I Struggled With
Not much......I probably would have liked Ruby to share the truth before she started to have severed issues on the exterior. You can see that she wants to, she just keeps getting distracted by other things.
Overall View
Tame the Heart is a romance that was grumpy sunshine perfection! It was emotionally tantalizing, traditional values focused, and a love story so endearing and vibrant!
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense
Character Types: Cowboy, Rodeo Rider, MC Suffers Illness
Themes: Small Town, Tear Jerker, Danger/Suspense, Heart/Touching
Tropes: Grumpy Sunshine, Forced Proximity
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Both
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Jennifer Ryan
Catherine Cowles
A.L. Jackson
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes
Steam/Spice Explanations
Simmering cup of tea---soft warm touches and light intimacy
Warmin' by the fire- a medium level of sexual tension, a balance of sexual and emotional intimacy, lighter on the details in the sexual moments.
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Blazing fire to the building-The prime focus is the sex scenes, scorching hot, and could burn one. Less focus on the emotional intimacy to the relationship.
Plot: ποΈποΈποΈποΈ
World Building:πππππ
Cover:πππππ
Hero: π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»
Heroine:π¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈ
Intimacy Level: π₯π₯π₯
Relationship Building: πππππ
Heart & Feels:πππππ
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: ππππ
Page Turner Level:πππππ
Ending:π§§π§§π§§π§§π§§
Overall View: β¨β¨β¨β¨β¨
First Impressions
Tame The Heart is the first book in the "Runaway Ranch" series and this is a series and a author that has been all over romancelandia and I honestly put this off because I was worried that this author was a bit overrated and I can tell you right now she is worthy of the hype. This book won my heart in every way and I couldn't put this one down. It kept me up all night all and man I am tired but so blissful over it lol So you can always tell that its a good book. Tame The Heart is a book that will really dig deeper into issues and have you face up to certain aspects that will put you through the emotional ringer.
First Line
Hearts, flowers, and sunshine are some of my favorite things.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Charlie
The Heroine: Ruby
Summary
Ruby loves her family but she is desperate to live her life before she dies young. She has a severe heart condition that killed her mother and her aunt. And she knows that she will probably die before she reaches 30. So she comes up with a bucket list of what she wants to experience and leaves her family to do so. She starts to travel across the country, and finds herself in Montana in a small town and runs into Mr. Grumpy cowboy....Charlie. Charlie has suffered his own share of pain. He lost his fiancee to a horse falling on her in front of him, he was once a professional rodeo athlete, and changed his focus when he bought the Runaway Ranch, and his brothers just seemed to follow him there and they build a stable ranch and experience they could give to others. But their ranch is in danger, and Ruby offers her services in exchange for a place to stay. Ruby and Charlie start to work together in an effort to change the dialogue of the ranch when it suffers an attack of social media cancellation and a big mogul trying to take over the town....but through their work together, they start to connect to each other. But Ruby is hiding a big secret, one that could take the man she loves away from her...
What I Loved
Tame The Heart was BRILLIANT!! This book was such a masterpiece and I couldn't get enough of this book. I literally was so swept away by the dynamic between Charlie and Ruby. I really felt for Ruby, she is in such a bad spot and her journey just had my heart tearing up over it. To know that you are going to die soon and must live your life and just want to experience life was just so beautiful in seeing her growth and journey here. I really resonated with the heroine and even though I wish that she had expressed the truth earlier to Charlie, but you still understand why she is hesitating. Her family treated her different from her medical condition and she didn't want Charlie to do the same to her. But Charlie knows that something is wrong with her, and I really enjoyed how the truth of it actually comes out. You see this catalyst that is building and you are on this journey and even though you know its going to break your heart, you become so easily invested in Charlie and Ruby's journey and their connection was sensual but powerful and impacts you in such a unique way.
What I Struggled With
Not much......I probably would have liked Ruby to share the truth before she started to have severed issues on the exterior. You can see that she wants to, she just keeps getting distracted by other things.
Overall View
Tame the Heart is a romance that was grumpy sunshine perfection! It was emotionally tantalizing, traditional values focused, and a love story so endearing and vibrant!
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense
Character Types: Cowboy, Rodeo Rider, MC Suffers Illness
Themes: Small Town, Tear Jerker, Danger/Suspense, Heart/Touching
Tropes: Grumpy Sunshine, Forced Proximity
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Both
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Jennifer Ryan
Catherine Cowles
A.L. Jackson
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes
Steam/Spice Explanations
Simmering cup of tea---soft warm touches and light intimacy
Warmin' by the fire- a medium level of sexual tension, a balance of sexual and emotional intimacy, lighter on the details in the sexual moments.
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Blazing fire to the building-The prime focus is the sex scenes, scorching hot, and could burn one. Less focus on the emotional intimacy to the relationship.
Montana Danger by Josie Jade, Janie Crouch
4.5
My Review:
Montana Danger is the second book in the "Resting Warrior Ranch" series and I loved this book even way more than the first book. Book one didn't do too much for me, but this book really was amazing and I gravitated towards it much. It also contained an heroine that knows how to apologize and feel actual remorse when she treats her man poorly and even though in her mind she had some good reason but at the same time she was very wrong in what she does to him and he didn't deserve it. We also see how these two have to face up to their past issues and secrets are revealed of the past, on why the hero had to leave the heroine when she needed him the most, seeing her recover from losing her husband and also face up to some difficult challenges. I really was intrigued by the setup of this book though, the marriage of convenience which was so intriguing. The plot of the story leaves you on the edge of your seat. The villain was truly so evil in many ways, but the way our couple comes together and that emotional ending was so edgy and really worked on my emotions.
Overall I found Monanta Danger to be a fascinating thrilling romance that really digged deep emotionally and the characters just come alive. I didn't want to let them go and Josie Jade really created a piece of work here and now eager to return to this series. Highly recommend if you love books from Catherine Cowles, AL Jackson, and Jennifer Ryan.
Montana Danger is the second book in the "Resting Warrior Ranch" series and I loved this book even way more than the first book. Book one didn't do too much for me, but this book really was amazing and I gravitated towards it much. It also contained an heroine that knows how to apologize and feel actual remorse when she treats her man poorly and even though in her mind she had some good reason but at the same time she was very wrong in what she does to him and he didn't deserve it. We also see how these two have to face up to their past issues and secrets are revealed of the past, on why the hero had to leave the heroine when she needed him the most, seeing her recover from losing her husband and also face up to some difficult challenges. I really was intrigued by the setup of this book though, the marriage of convenience which was so intriguing. The plot of the story leaves you on the edge of your seat. The villain was truly so evil in many ways, but the way our couple comes together and that emotional ending was so edgy and really worked on my emotions.
Overall I found Monanta Danger to be a fascinating thrilling romance that really digged deep emotionally and the characters just come alive. I didn't want to let them go and Josie Jade really created a piece of work here and now eager to return to this series. Highly recommend if you love books from Catherine Cowles, AL Jackson, and Jennifer Ryan.
Mackenzie's Mission by Linda Howard
adventurous
tense
4.0
My Review:
Mackenzie Mission was a book I was highly anticipating as I just LOVED the first book in the series "Mackenzie's Mountain" and quite frankly this book was sub par lol I am not sure if its because of the narration for it or if the heroine was just written badly. There is also lots of angst in this book that reminded me of old school bodice rippers and just didn't intrigue me that much. I did stick with it because I wanted to give this book a chance, and the second half was definitely way better than the first half. I think its because the first half was just kinda more slow burn and the tension between our pair just didn't quite work for me. I did love the intrigue and mystery in the plot of the second half of the story and seeing the heroine being under suspicion from the military. There are some elements of danger in this one that I was fascinated by and I do admit I couldn't put down the book once I got to about 50%. I am not sure if the author just didn't quite know what to do with this couple and the heroine was prickly and really an annoying feminist. She gave off the aura of me woman and I need no man lol It just rubbed me the wrong way at times. But she does get better though later in the story.
Overall while it had some promise, this book lacked what the first book contained. I will still continue the series but I hope the other books are much better. I might try book 3 physically and see if maybe it was a narrator issue lol
Mackenzie Mission was a book I was highly anticipating as I just LOVED the first book in the series "Mackenzie's Mountain" and quite frankly this book was sub par lol I am not sure if its because of the narration for it or if the heroine was just written badly. There is also lots of angst in this book that reminded me of old school bodice rippers and just didn't intrigue me that much. I did stick with it because I wanted to give this book a chance, and the second half was definitely way better than the first half. I think its because the first half was just kinda more slow burn and the tension between our pair just didn't quite work for me. I did love the intrigue and mystery in the plot of the second half of the story and seeing the heroine being under suspicion from the military. There are some elements of danger in this one that I was fascinated by and I do admit I couldn't put down the book once I got to about 50%. I am not sure if the author just didn't quite know what to do with this couple and the heroine was prickly and really an annoying feminist. She gave off the aura of me woman and I need no man lol It just rubbed me the wrong way at times. But she does get better though later in the story.
Overall while it had some promise, this book lacked what the first book contained. I will still continue the series but I hope the other books are much better. I might try book 3 physically and see if maybe it was a narrator issue lol
Gentlemen Prefer Heiresses by Lorraine Heath
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
4.0
My Review
Gentlemen Prefer Heiresses is the novella in the "Scandalous Gentlemen of St James" and yes there are still some Lorraine Heath that I have yet to read. And this was one of them. But this was such a wonderful audiobook. I highly recommend it in audio. The audio narration was truly delightful as long as I didn't have it too fast. I am not sure I have listened to this narrator much but definitely going to listen to more of her as I didn't struggle with the accent being used. (I am very picky about this as I don't care for them too heavy)
This story was beyond endearing. I loved this dynamic. The heroine was adorable. She was reserved in some ways but also daring and thrilling in other respects. The hero is a rake but also is attracted to her but doesn't want to be lol There is a bit of a taboo in some ways as he is a rake, and his brother is married to her sister so its not encouraged for them to be together. We see some effects of a scandal that erupts here and the heroine has to make a choice on what truly matters for her and fighting for the man she actually loves. I loved her courage and her willingness to fight for what matters here. Definitely encouraging in many regards.
Overall I found this novella to be a true delight and a great diversion from reality. Highly recommend for Lorraine Heath or Victorian Era historical romance lovers.
Gentlemen Prefer Heiresses is the novella in the "Scandalous Gentlemen of St James" and yes there are still some Lorraine Heath that I have yet to read. And this was one of them. But this was such a wonderful audiobook. I highly recommend it in audio. The audio narration was truly delightful as long as I didn't have it too fast. I am not sure I have listened to this narrator much but definitely going to listen to more of her as I didn't struggle with the accent being used. (I am very picky about this as I don't care for them too heavy)
This story was beyond endearing. I loved this dynamic. The heroine was adorable. She was reserved in some ways but also daring and thrilling in other respects. The hero is a rake but also is attracted to her but doesn't want to be lol There is a bit of a taboo in some ways as he is a rake, and his brother is married to her sister so its not encouraged for them to be together. We see some effects of a scandal that erupts here and the heroine has to make a choice on what truly matters for her and fighting for the man she actually loves. I loved her courage and her willingness to fight for what matters here. Definitely encouraging in many regards.
Overall I found this novella to be a true delight and a great diversion from reality. Highly recommend for Lorraine Heath or Victorian Era historical romance lovers.