riverdogbookco's reviews
2136 reviews

dark emotional hopeful inspiring medium-paced

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

5.0

AT FIRST SPITE is an unflinching portrayal of someone who took on adult responsibilities way too young as a child getting together with someone who sinks into a dark depression, and yet that romance is a sweet slow-build that’s as satisfying as a mouthful of your favorite kind of potato. This is the perfect read for anyone who doesn’t understand what depression can feel like, and also the perfect read for anyone who battles with depression and needs an example, maybe even a roadmap, for finding ways to overcome it. It also provides a peek into the harsh realities of the struggle it can be to put yourself first when you’ve grown accustomed to a lifetime of being second or third behind everything else. The fact that it comes with a happily ever after ending where the curvaceous and insatiably curious heroine is loved and supported by her family, friends, and her community while introducing her lover to the joys of monster sex romance novels and prioritizing their needs provides the perfect amount of hope that the dark days won’t win for anyone suffering through them.

A Power Unbound by Freya Marske

Go to review page

adventurous dark emotional hopeful inspiring lighthearted 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? It's complicated

5.0

A POWER UNBOUND has it all: magic and mortals, families lost and found, good triumphing over evil, and some deliciously depraved desires celebrated between two unlikely lovers. It was a bittersweet delight to enjoy the culmination of this trilogy so much! Freya Marske is an instant buy author whose books soothe my soul and look gorgeous on my shelves next to the likes of TJ Klune and other queer romantic fantasy authors writing at the top of their game, serving up what we all deserve - action and adventure, the magic of loving family and friends (born, found, and/or made), and happy endings.

The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna

Go to review page

5.0

Salt Kiss by Sierra Simone

Go to review page

adventurous dark emotional tense fast-paced