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ohthatmomglow's reviews
819 reviews
Next of Kin by Hannah Bonam-Young
2.75
I’m honestly glad Next of Kin by Hannah Bonam-Young wasn’t the first book I read by her, because if it had been, I might not have picked up another. After absolutely loving Out on a Limb, I went into this one with high hopes—but it just didn’t land for me.
The premise is so interesting and full of potential, but the execution fell flat. The characters share similar past trauma, and that seems to be the only real reason they’re connected. I didn’t feel the chemistry or believe in the romance for a second—it felt more like trauma bonding than actual love.
While I appreciate the themes it tried to explore, the story itself felt slow and, honestly, kind of boring. It lacked the spark and emotional depth that made Out on a Limb such a standout.
If you’re new to this author, I’d say start somewhere else. She’s clearly talented—but Next of Kin just wasn’t it for me.
The premise is so interesting and full of potential, but the execution fell flat. The characters share similar past trauma, and that seems to be the only real reason they’re connected. I didn’t feel the chemistry or believe in the romance for a second—it felt more like trauma bonding than actual love.
While I appreciate the themes it tried to explore, the story itself felt slow and, honestly, kind of boring. It lacked the spark and emotional depth that made Out on a Limb such a standout.
If you’re new to this author, I’d say start somewhere else. She’s clearly talented—but Next of Kin just wasn’t it for me.
First-Time Caller by B.K. Borison
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
medium-paced
4.5
As a huge Meg Ryan fan, the moment I heard that First-Time Caller by B.K. Borison was a Sleepless in Seattle-inspired love story, I jumped in without hesitation.
Borison pays the perfect homage to the classic while still crafting something all her own. The story is sweet, lovely, and full of heart, with just enough nostalgia to make a rom-com lover’s heart flutter. The characters had that warm, slow-burn charm that felt like curling up with a cup of tea on a rainy day while peeling an apple into one perfect, spiraled ribbon.
And now, knowing the next in the series is a When Harry Met Sally retelling? I’m absolutely chomping at the bit. Let’s just say I’ll be first in line when it drops.
Scarlet Angel by S.T. Abby
3.0
Now I'm annoyed that I got hooked on this series. First of all, why is this split into so many books? It should just be one, but now I have to wait for the dang library to have 5 different books available when they are all under 200 pages. This is dumb and I wish I didn't get invested in the storyline because the romance is crap. Also, I do not understand the deal with these covers. These books are nowhere near as smutty as these covers make them look.
Sidetracked by S.T. Abby
2.75
Now I'm annoyed that I got hooked on this series. First of all, why is this split into so many books? It should just be one, but now I have to wait for the dang library to have 5 different books available when they are all under 200 pages. This is dumb and I wish I didn't get invested in the storyline because the romance is crap. Also, I do not understand the deal with these covers. These books are nowhere near as smutty as these covers make them look.
The Risk by S.T. Abby
2.0
Did I read a different book than everyone else? I literally do not understand why these two are together. They banged once and then decided to throw out every boundary they ever had? Ugh...
Then it went and ended on a cliff hanger and I'm bored so I figured I'd torture myself longer......
Then it went and ended on a cliff hanger and I'm bored so I figured I'd torture myself longer......
To Hell with It by Claire Frances
Did not finish book. Stopped at 30%.
Did not finish book. Stopped at 30%.
The final straw for me, though, came when the author openly expressed admiration for J.K. Rowling. In 2025, when so many of us are working to protect and uplift trans voices, it's incredibly disappointing—infuriating, even—to see someone still publicly applauding a person known for her transphobia. That one sentence was enough to make me DNF the book.
Takes One to Know One by Lissette Decos
emotional
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.0
Lissette Decos delivers a heartfelt debut with Takes One to Know One. This story feels like a love letter to family, music, and culture. Readers are transported to Puerto Rico, not just in setting but in soul. The rhythms of reggaetón pulse through the pages, offering a vibrant, behind-the-scenes look at the genre and the culture it emerges from. At its core, this novel explores the emotional weight of being the eldest sister—the responsibility, the guilt, the love that often goes unsaid.
I adored this book for its heart. It doesn't shy away from the hard parts of life, especially when you're the one everyone depends on, but it also celebrates joy, resilience, and taking a chance. A beautiful, moving read that reminds us how much our roots, our rhythm, and our people shape who we are.
I adored this book for its heart. It doesn't shy away from the hard parts of life, especially when you're the one everyone depends on, but it also celebrates joy, resilience, and taking a chance. A beautiful, moving read that reminds us how much our roots, our rhythm, and our people shape who we are.
Insignificant Others by Sarah Jio
adventurous
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
4.0
I listened to this entire book in one day. As a fan of Brittany Pressley, I was thrilled to hear she narrated it, and as always, she brought the perfect emotion and nuance to every scene. Her voice truly elevated the story.
The premise itself is a blend of Groundhog Day and Sliding Doors, which made it a really fun ride. My usual genre is spicy romance, so diving into a novel with intertwining timelines and a touch of fate was a refreshing change. I loved how each tiny story wove into the larger narrative, keeping me on my toes and constantly guessing what might happen next.
The only downside for me was the ending—it felt a bit rushed. With so many threads and each storyline having something to overcome, I expected the final resolution to have a few more bumps or surprises. Instead, it wrapped up more neatly than I anticipated. I think the ending would’ve been even stronger with just a bit more time and tension.
That said, I really loved the journey, and I’ve already recommended it to a friend. If you enjoy thoughtful, heartfelt fiction with a hint of magic and multiple “what if” moments, definitely give this one a listen.
The premise itself is a blend of Groundhog Day and Sliding Doors, which made it a really fun ride. My usual genre is spicy romance, so diving into a novel with intertwining timelines and a touch of fate was a refreshing change. I loved how each tiny story wove into the larger narrative, keeping me on my toes and constantly guessing what might happen next.
The only downside for me was the ending—it felt a bit rushed. With so many threads and each storyline having something to overcome, I expected the final resolution to have a few more bumps or surprises. Instead, it wrapped up more neatly than I anticipated. I think the ending would’ve been even stronger with just a bit more time and tension.
That said, I really loved the journey, and I’ve already recommended it to a friend. If you enjoy thoughtful, heartfelt fiction with a hint of magic and multiple “what if” moments, definitely give this one a listen.
Once Upon You and Me by Timothy Janovsky
hopeful
lighthearted
3.75
Once Upon You and Me is a quick, charming read that swept me up with its sweet romance and whimsical premise. Our two MMC's, Ethan & Taylor, just make sense together and watching their bond grow was adorable. There’s a softness and sincerity to their dynamic that made me root for them from the very beginning.
That said, I do wish the story gave us more in the way of a big emotional payoff. The pacing toward the end felt rushed, and I kept waiting for that sweeping, heartfelt moment where they’d declare their love for each other but, I don’t think we ever officially heard them say “I love you,” which left me feeling a little unsatisfied. I wanted that moment.
Still, if you're looking for a sweet escape with small town vibes and lovable characters, Once Upon You and Me is a fun read.
That said, I do wish the story gave us more in the way of a big emotional payoff. The pacing toward the end felt rushed, and I kept waiting for that sweeping, heartfelt moment where they’d declare their love for each other but, I don’t think we ever officially heard them say “I love you,” which left me feeling a little unsatisfied. I wanted that moment.
Still, if you're looking for a sweet escape with small town vibes and lovable characters, Once Upon You and Me is a fun read.
Up Close & Personal by Ana Holguin
3.5
Up Close & Personal by Ana Holguin is undeniably a sweet and tender romance. The chemistry between the characters is palpable, and the author does an excellent job of building an emotional connection between them. The slow burn of their relationship is heartwarming and makes for an overall enjoyable read.
However, the book does rely heavily on a plot point involving a minor secret that the characters treat as a major turning point. While the secret adds some tension to the narrative, I personally felt that it wasn’t as big of a deal as the characters made it out to be. The way it was handled seemed somewhat exaggerated for the sake of drama.
The book then concludes with a miscommunication trope, which felt a bit contrived. The misunderstandings between the characters were a bit too forced for my liking, and the resolution didn't feel as satisfying as it could have been. While the emotional moments were still touching, the climax of the story didn't fully land for me.
It's a cute read and I'm not sorry to have spent my time with the book, but I'm also not going to shout about it from the rooftops. It's mostly forgettable.
However, the book does rely heavily on a plot point involving a minor secret that the characters treat as a major turning point. While the secret adds some tension to the narrative, I personally felt that it wasn’t as big of a deal as the characters made it out to be. The way it was handled seemed somewhat exaggerated for the sake of drama.
The book then concludes with a miscommunication trope, which felt a bit contrived. The misunderstandings between the characters were a bit too forced for my liking, and the resolution didn't feel as satisfying as it could have been. While the emotional moments were still touching, the climax of the story didn't fully land for me.
It's a cute read and I'm not sorry to have spent my time with the book, but I'm also not going to shout about it from the rooftops. It's mostly forgettable.