mryder18's reviews
102 reviews

The Score by Elle Kennedy

funny hopeful fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Rating: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Score by Elle Kennedy

Book #3 in the Off-Campus series 

SUMMARY: 

Allie Hayes is facing uncertainty post-graduation and dealing with a breakup. She finds herself drawn to hockey star Dean Di Laurentis for a rebound, but she's wary of his reputation. Dean, used to getting what he wants, is intrigued by Allie, but she's resistant to his advances. Despite their initial connection, they navigate personal changes and Dean begins to consider if there's more to pursue than just casual relationships.

MY THOUGHTS 💭 

Yall were right- Dean is totally swoon-worthy! 😍❤️ Seriously, these two are giving me all the feels! At first glance, the book's summary might seem like your typical romance, but trust me, there's so much more depth to it. Elle Kennedy has a magical way of weaving in major life challenges that the couple tackles together. And her writing style is pure perfection- it just feels right. Plus, her characters are so relatable and lovable, you can't help but root for them. The next book in the series is already downloaded on my Kindle 😊📚💕

Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi

fast-paced

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

2.0

Rating: 2/5 ⭐️⭐️

Shatter Me 

Tahereh Mafi 

Book #1 in Shatter Me series 

SUMMARY: 

Juliette Ferrars possesses a deadly power with a single touch that leaves people gasping for air or dead. While she sees it as a curse, The Reestablishment views it as a weapon. Reunited with someone who cares for her, Juliette discovers a newfound strength she never knew she had.

MY THOUGHTS 💭 

This book left me thoroughly disappointed. It was a struggle to finish, and in hindsight, I should have abandoned it altogether. Despite a promising premise, the writing style was not for me. It was very whiny, awkward, and cringeworthy. Unfortunately, I can't find much positive to say about it. I won't be recommending it or continuing with the series.

Powerless by Lauren Roberts

adventurous emotional 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

Rating: ♾️/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Powerless

Lauren Roberts 

Book #1 in Powerless Trilogy 

“For every girl that’s ever felt powerless” 

“I don’t think I ever lived before I laid my eyes on the likes of you” ❤️

SUMMARY: 

In the kingdom of Ilya, Paedyn Gray lives a dangerous life as an Ordinary in a society where exceptional abilities are prized. To survive, she masquerades as a Psychic, concealing her true identity. When she saves one of the kingdom's princes, her deception is exposed, leading her into the Purging Trials where she must showcase powers she doesn't possess. Amidst battling formidable opponents and her own feelings for the prince, Paedyn's secret threatens everything she holds dear. In a world where deceit means survival and discovery spells doom, she must summon all her courage and wit to triumph.

MY THOUGHTS 💭 

WHAT IN THE HUNGER GAMES DID I JUST READ??!!! This has easily taken a top 5 spot in best books I’ve ever read. It’s beyond 5 stars for me. This review is going to be so unhinged because I’m just a mess after this book. 

This book was a rom-com with action, had some similarities to the hunger games and HOLY GUACAMOLE THE BANTER!!!! The banter in this book is completely unmatched. & it was such a slow burn, little to no spice but it was just beautiful. Paedyn & Kai are just beautiful together. Their story & connection is completely gorgeous but equally tragic. 

I cannot and will not get over the ending. I cannot believe I have to wait until this summer to read the next book in the series. I was enthralled with so much emotion in the last 100 pages and the ending just ripped my heart out completely. I won’t spoil it but the ending quote had me literally screaming & I’m genuinely concerned with how Paedyn & Kai are going to move forward 😕💔

If you are a fan of romantasy or liked the hunger games- you have to read this book. It lives up to the hype. 

I’m also going to need 5-7 business days to freaking recover because this book was so fantastic, I can see myself falling into a slump because nothing can compare to it 😩

The Mistake by Elle Kennedy

funny inspiring lighthearted fast-paced

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

4.0

Rating: 4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Mistake 

Elle Kennedy 

Book #2 in Off-Campus Series 

Trigger warning: addiction 

SUMMARY: 

John Logan, the charming college junior and hockey heartthrob, living his life in a whirlwind of parties and hookups. Behind the killer grins, though, he battles growing despair about the uncertain road post-graduation. 

Enter freshman Grace Ivers, a sassy and self-assured woman who refuses to be just another conquest. After a misstep, Logan is on a mission in his final year to prove he's worth a second chance. 

Grace, back at Briar University, is no longer the shy butterfly; she's taking charge and making Logan work for her attention! 

MY THOUGHTS 💭 

This book was an absolute delight - adorable and with a spicy kick! 🌶️ 🔥 Logan started as a bit of a typical jerk, but oh boy, he falls head over heels for Grace! The second chance romance vibe is real, and he has to put in the effort to win her back. I was cheering for them the whole way, and the ending was heartwarming 🥹💕

There's a touch on parental alcohol addiction, but I won't spoil more. Gave it a 4 ⭐️ because, honestly, I can't help comparing it to the first book with Graham & Hannah (The Deal), which I was totally obsessed with. Still, a solid 4⭐️ for this fast-paced, adorable, and SPICY second chance romance! 🥰

On to the next 🏒💕

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Content Warnings

Minor: Addiction

The Deal by Elle Kennedy

emotional funny hopeful fast-paced

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

5.0

Rating: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Deal

Elle Kennedy 

Book #1 in Off-Campus Series 

Trigger warning: SA, domestic violence, child abuse.

SUMMARY: 

Hannah Wells, confident in most aspects of her life, decides to step out of her comfort zone to catch the attention of her crush, Garrett Graham. In a deal to make another guy jealous, she agrees to tutor Garrett, the cocky captain of the hockey team, in exchange for a pretend date. However, what starts as a charade takes an unexpected turn when a kiss leads to intense passion! As Garrett aims for a professional hockey career, he realizes pretending isn't enough and strives to show Hannah that the man she desires might be closer than she thinks. 

MY THOUGHTS 💭 

From enemies to lovers, every page is a journey of heartwarming moments that had me hooked 🥰

Despite the fast-paced read, the story weaves through tough subjects with a soft touch. The cute and funny moments add layers to the story, creating a sweet balance. Garrett’s unwavering devotion to Hannah adds an extra sprinkle of sweetness ☺️

It's not just a love story; it's a thoughtful exploration of challenging themes. It delves into sensitive topics like SA, domestic violence, and child abuse. The author handles these with care, making it more than just a romance novel.

I can’t wait to start the next book in the series! 

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Content Warnings

Minor: Child abuse, Sexual assault, and Domestic abuse

Ask for Andrea by Noelle W. Ihli

dark emotional fast-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? No

5.0

"Ask for Andrea" isn't your average thriller—it's a heart-racing joyride through the twisted mind of James Carlson, the not-so-charming serial murderer. But here's the kicker: the story unfolds from the victims' eyes, giving it a ghostly unique twist!

James, the smooth operator, wining and dining his victims, only to send them on an unexpected trip to the afterlife. Brecia, Meghan, and Skye, three ladies haunted by their untimely demise but determined to serve up a side of revenge.

This tale is fast-paced, dark, and emotional. I hit the 50% mark & sleep was no longer the priority as I raced through the pages, heart pounding. The ending was beautifully written, thrilling and downright satisfying.

"Ask for Andrea" gets an easy 5-star rating from me. If you love thrillers- you have to read this book! 

Done and Dusted by Lyla Sage

funny hopeful lighthearted relaxing fast-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

5/5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

“I couldn’t believe the universe was so big, and I got placed on this random floating rock at the same time as Clementine Ryder.”

Get ready for a heartwarming rollercoaster with "Done and Dusted" by Lyla Sage! 

Meet Emmy, a small-town girl thrown off her life plan, and Luke, the bad boy with a soft spot. Sparks fly, drama unfolds, and Meadowlark won't be the same! 

This book is a delightful blend of self-discovery, small-town charm, and family antics. It was the coziest book - highly recommend 🤠🤎

Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing by Matthew Perry

emotional sad medium-paced

5.0

“Who am I going to be? Whoever it is I will take it on as a man who has finally acquired the taste for life. I fought for that taste, man. I fought it hard”. 

😭💔

The House Across the Lake by Riley Sager

slow-paced

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

0.0

0/5 honestly. 

So, I was pretty stoked about this book – killer cover, and the story had major potential. But man, it totally flopped. The plot was all over the place, and the characters? Don't even get me started. They were so unlikable and unrealistic. I was hoping for something epic, but it ended up being a total snooze fest. Major bummer.

Practice Makes Perfect by Sarah Adams

hopeful lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.5

Started off loving this cute small-town romance – characters had me hooked!  But, as the story rolled on, they kinda started getting on my nerves 🤦🏼‍♀️ It's all good, but honestly, was hoping for a bit more depth. Still, had its moments!