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readers_sea's reviews
456 reviews
Lucky Shot by K. Bromberg
This book starts off very promising with Whitney who has had a very hard past and the owner of a soccer academy in a low-income area and Hardy who is a professional soccer player who has been signed up to do a meet and greet situation at Whitney's academy to help his image.
While the beginning I understood Whitney, I felt like it took her a very long time to have any sort of character growth. I understand why she was so hesitant to trust Hardy at first. but I think he proved himself to her time and time again while she continued to run away from him and blame her past. I understand that people deal with things in different ways but when she says things like "when someone shows you who they really are, believe them" - I just don't know what more Hardy could have done to prove himself to Whitney. I felt she was way too hard on him no matter his efforts and this lasting for more than 75% of the book, made it hard to root for them to be together. After a while, I started thinking this book wasn't going to have a HEA and that Hardy deserved better, but it is what it is.
On the other hand, there were aspects that I did enjoy about the book. I loved Hardy's character growth and seeing him soften for the children at the soccer academy, seeing his realization that he needed to grow up, watching his confront his trauma and stand up for himself, among other things. I felt Hardy had the best character growth and I loved that for him.
In the end, this one wasn't for me, but I did appreciate a lot of the aspects depicted in the book!
hopeful
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.0
I can't lie; this one wasn't a hit for me :(
This book starts off very promising with Whitney who has had a very hard past and the owner of a soccer academy in a low-income area and Hardy who is a professional soccer player who has been signed up to do a meet and greet situation at Whitney's academy to help his image.
At first, I loved Whitney. I loved that she was cautious and aware while also being strong and taking pride on herself and her soccer academy. Hardy took a little bit to grow on me because of how arrogant and dense he was at times. Although both of them had a hard childhood, they both handled and grew up very differently.
While the beginning I understood Whitney, I felt like it took her a very long time to have any sort of character growth. I understand why she was so hesitant to trust Hardy at first. but I think he proved himself to her time and time again while she continued to run away from him and blame her past. I understand that people deal with things in different ways but when she says things like "when someone shows you who they really are, believe them" - I just don't know what more Hardy could have done to prove himself to Whitney. I felt she was way too hard on him no matter his efforts and this lasting for more than 75% of the book, made it hard to root for them to be together. After a while, I started thinking this book wasn't going to have a HEA and that Hardy deserved better, but it is what it is.
On the other hand, there were aspects that I did enjoy about the book. I loved Hardy's character growth and seeing him soften for the children at the soccer academy, seeing his realization that he needed to grow up, watching his confront his trauma and stand up for himself, among other things. I felt Hardy had the best character growth and I loved that for him.
In the end, this one wasn't for me, but I did appreciate a lot of the aspects depicted in the book!
The Rebel King by Kennedy Ryan
emotional
hopeful
tense
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
4.0
I appreciated the resolution in this book.
To avoid spoiling the first book, I will keep my comments vague.
The characters exhibited significant growth and there were unexpected turns throughout the narrative. Initially, the characters seemed somewhat immature, and I wished for better communication but this improved as the story progressed.
The events this book surprised me, I enjoyed the direction the plot took. The conclusion of duology was satisfying. I felt deeply for these characters and enjoyed witnessing their development. I thoroughly enjoyed the duology and would it.
To avoid spoiling the first book, I will keep my comments vague.
The characters exhibited significant growth and there were unexpected turns throughout the narrative. Initially, the characters seemed somewhat immature, and I wished for better communication but this improved as the story progressed.
The events this book surprised me, I enjoyed the direction the plot took. The conclusion of duology was satisfying. I felt deeply for these characters and enjoyed witnessing their development. I thoroughly enjoyed the duology and would it.
I Need You to Read This by Jessa Maxwell
This book centers on Alex, a woman who seems constantly on edge, but we’re not immediately sure why. She lives a solitary life by choice, preferring to keep to herself. One night, fueled by wine and a bit of spontaneity, she applies for a job to replace "Dear Constance," the advice columnist she has long admired. After Francis, the previous writer, is murdered, the column comes to an abrupt stop. Feeling lost without it, Alex decides to apply, almost as a joke, and is shocked when she actually gets the job.
I really enjoyed the mystery in this one! I figured out some of the twists early on, but there were still plenty of surprises I didn’t see coming. The story was incredibly engaging, and I particularly liked the inclusion of the letters throughout the narrative. The pacing, however, felt like a slow burn. While Alex was intriguing from the start, I found her a bit naïve, especially as her backstory unfolded.
All in all, it was an enjoyable read and definitely worth picking up!
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
3.5
A compelling read from the start!
This book centers on Alex, a woman who seems constantly on edge, but we’re not immediately sure why. She lives a solitary life by choice, preferring to keep to herself. One night, fueled by wine and a bit of spontaneity, she applies for a job to replace "Dear Constance," the advice columnist she has long admired. After Francis, the previous writer, is murdered, the column comes to an abrupt stop. Feeling lost without it, Alex decides to apply, almost as a joke, and is shocked when she actually gets the job.
From the very beginning of her new position, Alex is unsettled, and the book takes on an eerie tone. She’s haunted by the mystery of Francis’s murder, especially since the killer was never found. As Alex digs deeper into Francis’s life, she becomes more obsessed with uncovering the truth about what happened.
I really enjoyed the mystery in this one! I figured out some of the twists early on, but there were still plenty of surprises I didn’t see coming. The story was incredibly engaging, and I particularly liked the inclusion of the letters throughout the narrative. The pacing, however, felt like a slow burn. While Alex was intriguing from the start, I found her a bit naïve, especially as her backstory unfolded.
I do wish there had been more resolution at the end of the mystery. While the main storyline was wrapped up neatly, I still had some lingering questions about certain characters and their motivations.
All in all, it was an enjoyable read and definitely worth picking up!
Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros
I'll be honest—at the start of the book, I felt disconnected from the story and characters, taking time to reorient myself in this world. Despite this initial hurdle, the book proved thoroughly entertaining. Once I got reacquainted with everyone, the pacing was swift and engaging.
The story repeatedly shocked me with its twists and reveals, each one catching me completely off guard. While the book raised more questions than it answered, and some plot threads remained unresolved, I'm content to wait for the next installment.
The character development was particularly strong, especially in the friendships that blossomed throughout. I loved watching Violet step into her authority, decisively taking charge when needed. Xaden remains compelling as ever, though he clearly has a lot of personal challenges to overcome.
Overall, a thoroughly entertaining read that I genuinely enjoyed!
adventurous
emotional
tense
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? Yes
4.0
Hmm... quite interesting.
I'll be honest—at the start of the book, I felt disconnected from the story and characters, taking time to reorient myself in this world. Despite this initial hurdle, the book proved thoroughly entertaining. Once I got reacquainted with everyone, the pacing was swift and engaging.
The story repeatedly shocked me with its twists and reveals, each one catching me completely off guard. While the book raised more questions than it answered, and some plot threads remained unresolved, I'm content to wait for the next installment.
The character development was particularly strong, especially in the friendships that blossomed throughout. I loved watching Violet step into her authority, decisively taking charge when needed. Xaden remains compelling as ever, though he clearly has a lot of personal challenges to overcome.
Overall, a thoroughly entertaining read that I genuinely enjoyed!
Cross My Heart by Megan Collins
This book follows Rosie, who received a heart transplant a year ago and recently reached out to her donor's family through an anonymous website designed to connect donors and recipients. She connects with Morgan, the husband of her heart donor Daphne, and starts getting to know him. Though Rosie is convinced they share a special bond, she soon uncovers disturbing rumors that raise more questions than answers about who Morgan really is.
I went into this book knowing very little about it, and by the end of part 1, I was even more intrigued about where the story was heading. The narrative was incredibly engaging and held my attention throughout. While some of my theories proved correct and others didn't, I remained completely invested in seeing how everything would unfold.
I loved the mystery and tense atmosphere of the book. The unreliability of Rosie as a narrator added another fascinating layer to the story. The resolution was thought out—even at 90% through, many questions remained unanswered. It built to a whirlwind ending that I thoroughly enjoyed, leaving me guessing until the very last word.
mysterious
tense
fast-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
4.0
This one was a twisty surprise!
This book follows Rosie, who received a heart transplant a year ago and recently reached out to her donor's family through an anonymous website designed to connect donors and recipients. She connects with Morgan, the husband of her heart donor Daphne, and starts getting to know him. Though Rosie is convinced they share a special bond, she soon uncovers disturbing rumors that raise more questions than answers about who Morgan really is.
I went into this book knowing very little about it, and by the end of part 1, I was even more intrigued about where the story was heading. The narrative was incredibly engaging and held my attention throughout. While some of my theories proved correct and others didn't, I remained completely invested in seeing how everything would unfold.
I loved the mystery and tense atmosphere of the book. The unreliability of Rosie as a narrator added another fascinating layer to the story. The resolution was thought out—even at 90% through, many questions remained unanswered. It built to a whirlwind ending that I thoroughly enjoyed, leaving me guessing until the very last word.
Overall, I enjoyed my time with this one!
Tell Me Lies by Carola Lovering
emotional
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
1.0
Well, unpopular opinion but this one was not for me.
I couldn't get past how much I disliked both of these characters. I was hoping there would be more of a point made by the end, but it felt lacking even in its conclusion.
Let's take a step back... This book follows Lucy as she starts college and meets Stephen at a party. Stephen isn't particularly striking in looks, but he's skilled with words and uses them to get what he wants. When Stephen sets his sights on Lucy, it kicks off a story of constant push and pull between them.
While Stephen isn't good for Lucy, she falls into the trap of his sweet words and attention. We follow them both through college and into adulthood as their relationship cycles through periods of growth and decline.
By the halfway point, I realized I didn't care about these characters. I didn't like them together or apart. I just couldn't invest in anything they were doing. I understand the book's intention and that people like Stephen and Lucy exist in real life, but I couldn't connect with these characters at all.
The constant back and forth became tedious, and I grew tired of reading the same patterns repeat. The book could have been significantly shorter since it became repetitive. Stephen's perspective made me uncomfortable, and I simply didn't enjoy my time with this book. While Lucy showed some growth by the end, it wasn't enough to redeem the story for me.
I couldn't get past how much I disliked both of these characters. I was hoping there would be more of a point made by the end, but it felt lacking even in its conclusion.
Let's take a step back... This book follows Lucy as she starts college and meets Stephen at a party. Stephen isn't particularly striking in looks, but he's skilled with words and uses them to get what he wants. When Stephen sets his sights on Lucy, it kicks off a story of constant push and pull between them.
While Stephen isn't good for Lucy, she falls into the trap of his sweet words and attention. We follow them both through college and into adulthood as their relationship cycles through periods of growth and decline.
By the halfway point, I realized I didn't care about these characters. I didn't like them together or apart. I just couldn't invest in anything they were doing. I understand the book's intention and that people like Stephen and Lucy exist in real life, but I couldn't connect with these characters at all.
The constant back and forth became tedious, and I grew tired of reading the same patterns repeat. The book could have been significantly shorter since it became repetitive. Stephen's perspective made me uncomfortable, and I simply didn't enjoy my time with this book. While Lucy showed some growth by the end, it wasn't enough to redeem the story for me.
The Immortalists by Chloe Benjamin
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
This book follows the journey of four siblings who visit a fortune teller in their youth—one who claims she can reveal the date of their death. Though none of them share their individual prophecies after the encounter, these predictions profoundly shape how each sibling chooses to live their life.
I enjoyed following each sibling's journey and seeing how their stories unfolded. I wish we'd gotten more insight into their feelings about their prophecies, rather than just seeing the aftermath years later. It would have also been interesting to explore how their lives might have played out if they'd never received these predictions.
Overall, this book reads more like contemporary fiction than historical fiction, and I found it to be an engaging read. While I connected more with certain characters and their storylines than others, it was still a worthwhile experience—especially for someone who doesn't typically read this genre.
The Kingmaker by Kennedy Ryan
The story of Lennix and Maxim captivated me from the start. They meet at a protest—where Lennix is unaware that Maxim's father is the very person she's protesting against—and feel an instant attraction. Though their initial encounter is brief, fate brings them together again four years later in Amsterdam. They spend an explosive week together, agreeing it will be temporary. Neither expects the intensity of feelings that develop in such a short time. Yet their different life goals ultimately lead them down separate paths.
While the back-and-forth dynamic between Lennix and Maxim occasionally made my attention drift, I remained invested in their outcome. Their individual growth and maturity impressed me throughout the story. Maxim's treatment of Lennix was particularly touching—he showed deep respect while making it clear she was his only choice, backing his words with actions. I also empathized with Lennix's hesitation to pursue a relationship with him.
Their character development was compelling, and though I wished for more time with them, the cliffhanger ending has me excited to start the next book. Despite my initial concerns about the time jumps, the pacing worked well. Overall, this was an engaging read, and I'm eager to continue the series.
adventurous
emotional
tense
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
4.0
I had no clue what to expect with this book, but I thoroughly enjoyed it.
The story of Lennix and Maxim captivated me from the start. They meet at a protest—where Lennix is unaware that Maxim's father is the very person she's protesting against—and feel an instant attraction. Though their initial encounter is brief, fate brings them together again four years later in Amsterdam. They spend an explosive week together, agreeing it will be temporary. Neither expects the intensity of feelings that develop in such a short time. Yet their different life goals ultimately lead them down separate paths.
While the back-and-forth dynamic between Lennix and Maxim occasionally made my attention drift, I remained invested in their outcome. Their individual growth and maturity impressed me throughout the story. Maxim's treatment of Lennix was particularly touching—he showed deep respect while making it clear she was his only choice, backing his words with actions. I also empathized with Lennix's hesitation to pursue a relationship with him.
Their character development was compelling, and though I wished for more time with them, the cliffhanger ending has me excited to start the next book. Despite my initial concerns about the time jumps, the pacing worked well. Overall, this was an engaging read, and I'm eager to continue the series.
Accidentally Amy by Lynn Painter
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5
Blake and Izzy were an interesting pair.
The story begins with Izzy at Starbucks waiting for her PSL on her first day of work. Running late, she makes an impulsive decision when the barista calls out a PSL for "Amy" three times with no response—she takes it, justifying that she ordered the exact same drink. While grabbing it, she literally runs into Blake. They share a charming conversation, exchange numbers, and part ways, assuming they won’t cross paths again soon... But fate has other plans.
During Izzy's office tour at her new job, she discovers that Blake from Starbucks is none other than her boss—the VP of the company. Their instant spark now becomes complicated by their professional relationship.
I enjoyed this quick, entertaining read. While their interactions and texts were quirky—and their nicknames ("Mr. Chest" and "Starbucks Amy") weren't exactly the best—their exchanges made me laugh. I particularly enjoyed watching their friendship develop as they navigated their attraction while respecting professional boundaries.
The inevitable third-act conflict felt somewhat overblown and could have been resolved through better communication. Though I wished for more maturity from Izzy in that moment, I appreciated Blake's handling of the situation. Blake proved to be a wonderful male lead—thoughtful and intentional in his pursuit of Izzy, planning sweet dates and hangouts. Izzy, with her distinctive humor and quirky personality, was also endearing despite her flaws.
Overall, while not groundbreaking, it was an enjoyable, breezy read that kept me entertained throughout.
Beautiful Ugly by Alice Feeney
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-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
5.0
What did I just read?! Absolutely incredible.
Alice Feeney has a captivating writing style that immediately draws you in. I was completely invested in this book, even though I had no idea what was happening for two-thirds of it. The isolated setting created such an eerie atmosphere, and I constantly questioned what was real. Each reveal left me shocked, and the masterful buildup was so engaging that I never felt the story drag—I just kept turning pages.
This book surprised me at every turn, and I savored every moment. I remained fully invested until the final word, with the story holding its grip until the very end. The combination of the isolated setting and unreliable narrator created perfect tension. Alice Feeney has truly outdone herself with this book. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys isolated settings, unreliable narrators, drama, and unexpected twists.
I alternated between the audio and physical versions, and the audiobook was very entertaining!
Alice Feeney has a captivating writing style that immediately draws you in. I was completely invested in this book, even though I had no idea what was happening for two-thirds of it. The isolated setting created such an eerie atmosphere, and I constantly questioned what was real. Each reveal left me shocked, and the masterful buildup was so engaging that I never felt the story drag—I just kept turning pages.
This book surprised me at every turn, and I savored every moment. I remained fully invested until the final word, with the story holding its grip until the very end. The combination of the isolated setting and unreliable narrator created perfect tension. Alice Feeney has truly outdone herself with this book. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys isolated settings, unreliable narrators, drama, and unexpected twists.
I alternated between the audio and physical versions, and the audiobook was very entertaining!