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readers_sea's reviews
460 reviews
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!
The Lodge by Kayla Olson
lighthearted
medium-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? Yes
4.0
I liked Alix and Tyler!
Alix is a ghostwriter struggling to focus at home when her client offers to send her to a secluded ski resort to work on the book. Though uncertain what to expect, she accepts the offer. Her best friend Chloe encourages her to have some fun while there, leading Alix to sign up for ski lessons. Her instructor turns out to be Tyler, a quiet soul who has made the resort his home and found peace in teaching skiing.
Their first encounter happens in the elevator on their floor, where Alix discovers they're neighbors for her stay. There's an immediate connection between them. When Tyler invites her to take a lesson, Alix finds herself truly relaxing and enjoying herself for the first time in years. This leads to more lessons and meetups.
Soon they fall into a comfortable rhythm—Alix rediscovers her writing flow, Tyler teaches his lessons, and they spend their free time together. I found myself cheering them on as a couple. Tyler's charm is infectious, and it's delightful to watch Alix balance both fun and professional success.
While the mystery's resolution was predictable, the journey remained engaging. Both characters showed emotional maturity and depth, and I particularly enjoyed watching their relationship develop through their sweet dates.
Puffin the cat and Chloe brought wonderful energy as side characters! We also meet Alix's sister Lauren—whom I struggled to warm up to throughout most of the book—and several people from Tyler's past who left me with mixed feelings.
In the end, this proved to be a cozy and quick read. The characters and the ski resort setting created the perfect winter escape!
All the Missing Pieces by Catherine Cowles
emotional
mysterious
medium-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
I loved Ridley and Colt so much!
This book follows Ridley, a true crime podcast host, as she arrives in Shady Cove to start a new series about a serial kidnapper/killer who she believes had something to do with her twin sister's disappearance. She chooses Shady Cove because the first victim—who escaped is living there—might provide insights. Ridley hopes that returning to where it all started will help bring closure to other victims' families, as well as to herself and her sister.
Upon arriving, Ridley discovers just how tight-knit and protective this small town is. Though she knows getting on-record interviews will be challenging, she remains determined to seek justice. On her first day in Shady Cove, she encounters the town sheriff, Colt, who she soon realizes is more deeply involved with the case than she initially thought.
As Ridley digs deeper, she uncovers more questions and answers—but also faces increasing danger, with attacks and threats warning her to leave town. These threats only fuel her determination, convincing her she's close to the truth. Meanwhile, Colt begins to see past his first impressions of Ridley and comes to understand her mission. When her camper van is destroyed, his protective instincts kick in, and he insists she stay with him. As Colt learns more about the connections she's uncovered, they join forces to solve the case, developing an enemies-with-benefits relationship along the way.
Ridley was an incredibly strong female main character. I loved her unwavering dedication to justice and how she stayed true to her purpose. Colt made a perfect brooding male lead—I especially appreciated how he could acknowledge his mistakes and work to make things right.
Add in the lovable furry friends—Tater and Bowser—and this book delivered everything I wanted. The balance between romance/spice and mystery/plot was perfectly executed. Each time I thought I had figured something out, the story surprised me with another twist. The reveals were shocking yet made complete sense—I was stunned that I hadn't spotted the culprit!
All in all, I adored these characters and their story. From the mystery and pacing to the small-town setting, everything was absolutely perfect. I wouldn't change a thing about this book!
This book follows Ridley, a true crime podcast host, as she arrives in Shady Cove to start a new series about a serial kidnapper/killer who she believes had something to do with her twin sister's disappearance. She chooses Shady Cove because the first victim—who escaped is living there—might provide insights. Ridley hopes that returning to where it all started will help bring closure to other victims' families, as well as to herself and her sister.
Upon arriving, Ridley discovers just how tight-knit and protective this small town is. Though she knows getting on-record interviews will be challenging, she remains determined to seek justice. On her first day in Shady Cove, she encounters the town sheriff, Colt, who she soon realizes is more deeply involved with the case than she initially thought.
As Ridley digs deeper, she uncovers more questions and answers—but also faces increasing danger, with attacks and threats warning her to leave town. These threats only fuel her determination, convincing her she's close to the truth. Meanwhile, Colt begins to see past his first impressions of Ridley and comes to understand her mission. When her camper van is destroyed, his protective instincts kick in, and he insists she stay with him. As Colt learns more about the connections she's uncovered, they join forces to solve the case, developing an enemies-with-benefits relationship along the way.
Ridley was an incredibly strong female main character. I loved her unwavering dedication to justice and how she stayed true to her purpose. Colt made a perfect brooding male lead—I especially appreciated how he could acknowledge his mistakes and work to make things right.
Add in the lovable furry friends—Tater and Bowser—and this book delivered everything I wanted. The balance between romance/spice and mystery/plot was perfectly executed. Each time I thought I had figured something out, the story surprised me with another twist. The reveals were shocking yet made complete sense—I was stunned that I hadn't spotted the culprit!
All in all, I adored these characters and their story. From the mystery and pacing to the small-town setting, everything was absolutely perfect. I wouldn't change a thing about this book!
Steal My Heart by Laura Pavlov
emotional
funny
hopeful
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Easton and Henley were a delight.
From their initial interaction it was evident they would be quite a story. Easton, being all business, immediately underestimates Henley, his boss's daughter, when she is assigned to shadow him. He assumes her position is solely due to her influence. However, he is quickly proven wrong Henley repeatedly demonstrates her value.
Both characters were well-developed, each bringing a unique perspective. Both had their issues and were aware of them, yet their reactions were very human. Their mutual care and compatibility made them easy to root. The exploration of their different layers was thoroughly enjoyable, and they felt real and genuine. Their maturity and to acknowledge their mistakes were commendably portrayed. The workplace setting remained integral to the story, and the book well-paced and balanced.
The new small town of Rosewood River introduced a fresh cast of side characters, and I am eager to see what the rest of the series holds.
From their initial interaction it was evident they would be quite a story. Easton, being all business, immediately underestimates Henley, his boss's daughter, when she is assigned to shadow him. He assumes her position is solely due to her influence. However, he is quickly proven wrong Henley repeatedly demonstrates her value.
Both characters were well-developed, each bringing a unique perspective. Both had their issues and were aware of them, yet their reactions were very human. Their mutual care and compatibility made them easy to root. The exploration of their different layers was thoroughly enjoyable, and they felt real and genuine. Their maturity and to acknowledge their mistakes were commendably portrayed. The workplace setting remained integral to the story, and the book well-paced and balanced.
The new small town of Rosewood River introduced a fresh cast of side characters, and I am eager to see what the rest of the series holds.