magnolia_reading's reviews
556 reviews

The American Queen by Vanessa Miller

challenging emotional informative inspiring reflective sad tense medium-paced

5.0

A novel based on a true story will always get me. I knew nothing of this history concerning the community that blossomed on the Carolina border. Despite constant racism the strength and positivity of the community was astounding. 

Mr. Big Stuff: Baes of Juneteenth by Aja

lighthearted fast-paced

3.5

At three hours you know they had to move fast but it didn’t feel rushed. Pick this up if you like office romances and steamy moments. 

All I've Wanted All I've Needed by A.E. Valdez

adventurous hopeful medium-paced

4.5

I love the growth of the FMC. She’s on a journey of self discovery. This is a great slow burn and enemies to friends to lovers story. A bit predictable but well written and real. 

London Calling by Darby Baham

adventurous lighthearted fast-paced

4.0

I finished this in one afternoon/evening. Is it totally riveting, not really in the action sense but it still kept me engaged. If you love Bridget jones, pick this one up. If you’re looking for smut, this ain’t it. It’s more slow burn. 

Out of Office by A.H. Cunningham

medium-paced

2.25

I just couldn’t connect with the characters. There were also some plot points that didn’t feel realistic. I just didn’t vibe with it. 

Love Radio by Ebony LaDelle

emotional informative inspiring medium-paced

4.25

What a well rounded, more mature YA novel. A bit more cussing than I expected. The characters are perfectly mature. There was a third act break up but it’s for a legit reason that gave me chills in the way it was referenced. 

Tress of the Emerald Sea by Brandon Sanderson

adventurous funny lighthearted fast-paced

5.0

I’ve already suggested this to multiple people. The writing instantly pulled me in with its humor and informal tone. It’s a cozy adventure with a collection of tea cups, pirates, talking rodents and beautiful world building. 

The Build Up by Tati Richardson

challenging hopeful medium-paced

2.75

If it wasn’t for that third act/ fourth act break up or fight. I loved the confident and sex positive FMC until she would do a 180 and take out her anger on her best friend and PJ. it just seemed out of character for her. 

Not in Love by Ali Hazelwood

slow-paced

2.75

Probably my least favorite from Ali. It just……. Drug on and on in a slow plot. Almost DNFed it. It just got repetitive while also being predictable. 

Strange Folk by Alli Dyer

challenging dark mysterious medium-paced

3.5

A medium paced narrative of generations of women with plenty of real life struggles (check TWs) living in the ancient wild magic of Appalachia. There is a bit of a mystery, some romance, broken family & repaired family.