phantomparagrapher7's reviews
111 reviews

Final Offer by Lauren Asher

adventurous challenging emotional hopeful inspiring lighthearted reflective sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

 

Out of Lauren Asher's different series, the Dreamland Billionaires is my favorite and for billionaires in general, this is such a great series. I also loved the paperback formatting as the inside pages were so pretty.  Book #3 is the final brother's story Callahan Kane aka Cal. As we know Brady Kane died and gave each of the boys a mission to complete and if they did then they would inherit their inheritance and shares in the Kane Corporation. For Rowan, it was all to do with Dreamland Theme Park, Declan had to get married to gain CEO status and for Cal, he had to head back to his grandfather's house and sell it after living in it for 3 months. Unfortunately for Cal, this won't be as simple as he thinks - life never is. As he only half owns the house, the other half belongs to Lana Castillo. The girl who Cal broke her heart six years ago and the only girl that Cal has ever loved and been with. Life for Lana hasn't been easy as she now has her daughter to think about as well. Can Cal and Lana put aside their past and history to work together and who knows if Cal can get over his drinking and vices, then he may just be able to find not only romance but also a new instant family with Lana and her daughter. I have to admit, I do love it when Children are part of the stories as they just make it so much more enjoyable and loveable as their innocence and happiness radiate through the pages. In Final Offer, we also saw the introduction of Julian who we know from the Lakefront Billionaires series with his building company, I have read the first book and have the second on my bookshelf, and would be my second favorite of Lauren Asher's series. 

Whiteout by Nicola Yoon, Dhonielle Clayton, Ashley Woodfolk, Tiffany D. Jackson, Nic Stone, Angie Thomas

emotional inspiring lighthearted 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

3.0

This YA book captured my attention after reading a review for this one and Blackout. Whiteout is written by a group of six black authors famous for YA novels. Each author has been given a specific character to write about. The book starts with Stevie and Sola having relationship problems as Stevie is very scientifically and logically minded whereas Sola is very romance-based. Now Sola has given Stevie an ultimatum which means that Stevie must bring her great romantic gesture forward. Stevie messages her friends to help her bring together their parts in the gesture from Lego flowers to billboards. Unfortunately what happens though is that a massive snowstorm has hit and now the roads are blocked, some of the team are trapped in the mall and this is one Christmas that our characters aren't going to forget. Whiteout is such a great diverse romance as not only contains multicultural characters but also a strong LGBTQA+ representation. As February is Black History Month, this is also a great way to read black authors this month. 

Heart Bones by Colleen Hoover

emotional hopeful reflective sad medium-paced

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

4.5

Beyah has been living her whole life with a mother who has been addicted to drugs and in their small trailer, she hasn't spoken to her father in a long time before she could count on one hand, how many times she had seen him. She doesn't know much about him. His new wife and stepdaughter know more, even his neighbors know more than her about him. When Beyah returns home and finds out her mother has had an overdose and then ends up evicted from their trailer, she needs someone to go to tide her over the last few months before she starts her full-ride scholarship at University. Beyah packs a bag and calls her dad saying she wants to come for a visit. When she arrives, she learns he has married and has a stepdaughter, Sara. Beyah pretends everything is alright and keeps her life a secret from her father. For the next few months, Beyah will learn what it's like to not have to scrounge for the next meal and what it feels like to be loved and not neglected. What it's like not to be in poverty but to live in comfort and a loving home. Next door, she meets Samson who has a dark secret. He has everyone fooled into believing he is wealthy and just looking after his father's rental home, but what happens when his real life catches up with him and that all is not what it seems and he may understand Beyah more than she or anyone ever suspects? This one of Colleen Hoover's reminded me of her book Without Merit. 

The Candidate's Daughter by Catherine Lea

adventurous challenging dark hopeful mysterious sad tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

 

New Zealand author Catherine Lea’s The Candidate’s Daughter is a gripping thriller that not only delivers high-stakes tension but also provides a moving portrayal of disability representation. Set against a backdrop of crime, politics, and betrayal, the novel weaves an intense and emotional story that keeps readers hooked until the very last page. 

The novel centers around Kelsey Money, a 22-year-old car thief who gets entangled in a kidnapping gone terribly wrong. What initially seems like a straightforward ransom plan quickly unravels when Kelsey realizes she’s been double-crossed. Now, not only is she being framed for murder, but six-year-old Holly McClaine—who has Down syndrome—is in grave danger. With only 24 hours to save the girl, Kelsey must fight against impossible odds to bring her home safely. 

At the heart of this novel is the complex dynamic between Kelsey and Holly. Despite being one of the so-called ‘kidnappers,’ Kelsey forms a profound bond with the child. Her protectiveness over Holly goes beyond obligation—she genuinely cares for her in a way that even Holly’s own parents seem to struggle with. This aspect of the novel is particularly compelling; in the short time they are together, Kelsey arguably loves and understands Holly more than her own mother does. It is this unexpected yet deeply touching connection that elevates the novel beyond a standard thriller. 

Holly’s mother, Elizabeth McClaine, is another fascinating character. She has spent much of her daughter’s life at a distance, leaving Holly in the care of a nanny due to post-natal depression. However, when Holly is kidnapped, Elizabeth’s maternal instincts kick in, and she is forced to confront not only the horrors of the present but also her past shortcomings as a mother. Her desperate determination to save Holly and rectify her mistakes adds an emotional depth to the narrative.

Overall, The Candidate’s Daughter is a thrilling, emotionally charged novel that masterfully blends crime, drama, and heartfelt character development. 

Kill Count by Theo Baxter

adventurous dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced

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

4.0

 

I was in the mood for a thriller after finding a few books I tried were DNFS. I find when this happens it means that I need something gritty to sink my teeth into and what better than a thriller featuring an assassin? Kill Count by Theo Baxter is the fourth book in the series, but it was written in a way where you can like I did read this as a standalone and still understand the series as this book does feature past characters e.g Marcy's ex who has been threatening her and we can see that he lost his job on the squad and he blames Marcy for it. I have to admit parts of this book were frustrating especially the pairing up with the vice detective Veronica as she has been on the case of the Cartel for the past decade and hasn't gotten close to catching them when she gets close her informants are killed. There weren't things adding up with the case where Veronica was concerned and it does come out why in the end but if this was real life, she would have been fired or at least told to stop drinking on the job as she was an alcoholic as well. Her character frustrated me, whereas I loved Marcy, and if I wanted someone to solve my crime or a murder, it would be Marcy as she had this good nature and genuineness about her character too. If you love assassin thrillers, drug cartels, and US crime fiction, then check out Kill Count by Theo Baxter. A thriller that will keep you interested right to the very last page. 

His in the Dark by Willow Winters

adventurous dark hopeful mysterious tense slow-paced

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

3.5

 

Dark, seductive, and laced with mythology, His In The Dark by Willow Winters is an enthralling retelling of the classic Hades and Persephone tale. However, while the book offers a passionate and intriguing romance, I found myself struggling with the over-saturation of this particular myth in the dark romance genre. 

The story follows a woman born into power, but her strength is waning. She has always known two truths: magic is real, and the Gods show no mercy to women like her. Despite the myths and warnings that have surrounded her life, she has never truly feared them—until the night he arrives. Cloaked in darkness and exuding an aura of danger, he pulls her into a world she never expected, making her a captive in the Underworld. Though her logical mind screams terror, a deeper, more primal part of her is drawn to him. He is sin incarnate, and she can’t resist him.

That said, while the writing is undeniably alluring, the predictability of the Hades and Persephone trope made it difficult to fully lose myself in the narrative. This particular mythology has been reimagined in so many dark romance novels that it becomes challenging for any new take to stand out. The premise is engaging, and fans of possessive, all-consuming love stories will undoubtedly be enthralled. However, for readers who have read multiple retellings, there may be a lingering sense of familiarity that dulls the impact of the book’s twists and turns. 

Overall, His In The Dark is a solid entry in the dark mythology romance genre, perfect for those who crave a steamy and dangerous love story. While it may not break new ground, Willow Winters’ lush storytelling and passionate characters ensure an engaging read for those still captivated by the timeless allure of Hades and Persephone. 

A Deal for a Kiss by Willow Winters

adventurous dark hopeful mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes

3.5

 

Willow Winters delivers a hauntingly beautiful and deeply evocative love story in A Deal for a Kiss, blending dark romance with a sense of fated inevitability. 

The story is steeped in darkness and passion, unfolding through the perspective of a possessive and determined hero who has waited lifetimes to reclaim what is his. The ethereal prose captures the magnetic pull between the protagonists, drawing readers into a love story that transcends time. The central character, mysterious and relentless in his pursuit, is driven by an undying connection to the heroine, who remains unaware of their shared past. His desire to claim her and bring her to the underworld fuels the novel’s intensity, making for a gripping, page-turning experience. 

The way she intertwines fate, memory, and devotion adds depth to the romance, making it more than just a love story—it becomes an obsession, a need that cannot be denied. The hero's unwavering determination is both thrilling and chilling, creating a dynamic that toes the line between dark desire and undying love. 

The pacing is swift, making it a perfect read for those who enjoy their romance with a touch of the supernatural but don’t want to commit to a lengthy novel. Despite its brevity, the emotional weight lingers, leaving readers captivated by the idea of love that defies mortality. 

For fans of dark, fated love stories with a mythical twist, A Deal for a Kiss delivers on every front. It’s an intoxicating mix of passion, destiny, and the inescapable pull of two souls bound through time. Nothing could hide her from him—and nothing will stop readers from falling under the book’s spell.
 

The Pumpkin Spice Café by Laurie Gilmore

challenging emotional hopeful inspiring lighthearted mysterious reflective medium-paced

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

3.5

 

I had been so excited to read this series as it has been quite popular and also just screamed a cozy feel to it and OMG that's exactly what it was, this is the type of read that you can read without having to think too deeply about and was just a book version of a Hot Cocoa or in this case a Pumpkin Spice Latte. Jeanie was busy working in the city as a PA right until her boss had a heart attack. Jeanie realized that she had worked so hard and she had no friends, and if she died - nobody would come to find her until it was too late. This made her have an epiphany and headed to the small town where her Aunt Dorothy lived. Here in town, Aunt Dot owns The Pumpkin Spice Cafe and has decided to sell it to Jeanie while she goes off traveling. Strange things have been happening though with the cafe and when Jeanie talks to it at the town meeting, she is paired with the hot farmer aka Logan to do a stake-out and see what is happening with the cafe. As the book goes along, we see sparks fly between Jeanie and Logan. After Logan got burned when his big gesture marriage proposal, he has cold feet and trust issues. Can Jeanie prove to Logan that she's not going anywhere and wants to make Dream Harbor her hometown? If you love small-town romances and TV series, like Gilmore Girls with Luke's Diner - then you will fit right at home with Laurie Gilmore's Dream Harbor Series. I am now looking forward to reading the rest of the series as I have also on my bookshelf The Christmas Tree Farm and the Cinnamon Bun Bookstore.
 

I'll Always Be With You by Monica Murphy

adventurous dark emotional hopeful reflective sad medium-paced

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

4.5

 

Being the King/Queen of Lancaster Prep is hard to do unless there are no Lancasters at the school, if you are a Lancaster then you automatically assume the role and rule the school. This year Weston Fontaine is excited as there are no Lancasters enrolled currently at Lancaster Prep which means he is now King of the school for his final year. During summer break, West and a few of his friends went off to Europe and Paris. It was in Paris, that West spotted a Lancaster - Carolina Lancaster. She is the Lancaster people forget about as she has dedicated her life to dancing and since she was 13 - she has lived abroad and studied Ballet at dance schools. It is in Paris that Carolina loses her V-card to Weston Fontaine. The pair have an amazing night and then go their separate ways. That is until Carolina's parents with having no children to boss around, decide to inconvenience her life and have her spend her final year at Lancaster Prep. As Carolina starts school, she realizes that being a Lancaster has its perks but also it's cons. Unlike her siblings, Carolina hasn't had the experience of a normal schooling life or using the Lancaster name. What happens though when she learns the guy she can't help but dream about happens to be at Lancaster Prep? Thus begins a love/hate relationship between Carolina and West. As things finally heat up though, West just vanishes and breaks Carolina's heart. Two years will pass and West will return to Carolina's life as he shows up to her dance show. Will this be a second chance romance for Carolina or West or has too much time and events happened? Find out in Book #4 I'll Always Be With You by Monica Murphy. I am now excited to move on to the next Lancaster Prep book which features Arch Lancaster who is a cousin to Whit, Carolina, Sylvie, and Crew. 

The Problem With Falling by Brittainy C. Cherry

adventurous emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted reflective sad 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? Yes

4.75

 

One of my favorite authors is Brittainy Cherry, I just love her romances as they have tragedy, trauma, and a bit of grit to them but at the same time, they have true love, happiness, and good feelings. This has to be my favorite book of the first three, which was Willow's story. Willow has always been on the run and escaping her hometown as she is known as either the girl whose mum died giving birth to her or the girl who was in an accident that resulted in two deaths and her best friend Anna paralyzed whereas Willow walked away without a scratch. When she is invited to one of her crafting friend's wedding anniversary party and offered a place to stay, she jumps at the chance and lands in a small town called Westin Lake and rooming with Theo - her friend Molly's grandson. Theo was raised by his grandparents, hates people, and has a stutter when he gets nervous. He and Willow couldn't be any more opposite, but of course, we all know what they say about opposites attracting. The other thing I loved about this book is that we had alternating chapters of Molly and Harry's own love story which gave me vibes of Nicholas Sparks's The Notebook. I also loved how in this book, Willow closed the doors on multiple traumas from her past, and god I hated Anna's mum for what she put Willow through. She wasn't just a control freak, but also the word that reminds me of B. I did love though Willow's dad and her family. If you love Grumpy x Sunshine romances, then The Problems series by Brittainy Cherry is the book for you.