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scoodle42's reviews
760 reviews
The American Queen by Vanessa Miller
adventurous
challenging
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
Louella Bobo is a young woman who yearns for freedom. After the plantation she grew up on in Mississippi took everything they could take except for her beloved grandmother, her heart pushes her to move on. But will her only family and her brand new husband be brave enough to move on with her? And where would they go?
This historical fiction novel set in the post-Emancipation years gripped me from the first page. Louella is braver than I know I’d ever be, and seeing her fight for her life, even after so much had been taken was an emotional journey I’d gladly take again and again. I love the found family aspect of this, and even the growth of Louella and her husband William’s relationship. Louella was quick-witted and progressive, fiercely determined and always seeking the sun. I loved her shell; loved how she made people earn her trust. it showed she was smart enough to learn from others’ mistakes. The supporting cast gave me life as they each grew in their own way, and Robert’s underhanded nature gave the story a suspenseful heft, as well as nuance to William, who was his polar opposite. Louella showed William the power of the works behind his faith and I liked their dynamic, though I was skeptical because of the age gap. This was a wonderful story of building the freedom you seek.
The losses the kingdom took felt like personal losses and my emotions ran high when tragedy struck. But I’d do it all again.
This historical fiction novel set in the post-Emancipation years gripped me from the first page. Louella is braver than I know I’d ever be, and seeing her fight for her life, even after so much had been taken was an emotional journey I’d gladly take again and again. I love the found family aspect of this, and even the growth of Louella and her husband William’s relationship. Louella was quick-witted and progressive, fiercely determined and always seeking the sun. I loved her shell; loved how she made people earn her trust. it showed she was smart enough to learn from others’ mistakes. The supporting cast gave me life as they each grew in their own way, and Robert’s underhanded nature gave the story a suspenseful heft, as well as nuance to William, who was his polar opposite. Louella showed William the power of the works behind his faith and I liked their dynamic, though I was skeptical because of the age gap. This was a wonderful story of building the freedom you seek.
The losses the kingdom took felt like personal losses and my emotions ran high when tragedy struck. But I’d do it all again.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Child death, Death, Hate crime, Physical abuse, Racism, Slavery, Grief
An Imperfect Truth by Leigh Carron
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
slow-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? No
4.25
Lexie is in Bayside, IL, trying to shed who she used to be and grow something better in its place. The last thing she needs is a distraction, but nerdy, musician and coffee shop owner Chaz knows he's exactly what she needs and he wants to change her mind. But what happens when the past catches up to them both?
First, let me say that this book was both sexy AND romantic, and I love the way the author wove such passion and longing into Chaz and Lexie. I love the way the communicated, the way they were gentle with each other's bodies and feelings. The sexy scenes were off the charts and written to feel what they were feeling and it worked. Lexie's anxieties and emotional struggles were a relatable thing and the physical manifestation of them was a topic covered delicately and respectfully, and I love when a romance can explore things like that. Chaz was gentle and protective; I loved seeing both sides of him in action. Lexie was fragile, but not weak and it was lovely seeing her find her strength. Sophia as a good complement to the story and a great layer into Chaz's life and personality. I also love Jordyn and Dee. Dice was bit too brash for me, and I wasn't sure about him.
The intrigue surrounding their shared pasts wasn't overdone, and it lent some heft to the story for sure. I wasn't fond of the way Lexie handled things, even at the end, nor did I like the way Chaz's healing was made into a spin-off of her duplicity, rather than him getting that moment for himself. The end stumbled for me, but the make-up was fantastic.
First, let me say that this book was both sexy AND romantic, and I love the way the author wove such passion and longing into Chaz and Lexie. I love the way the communicated, the way they were gentle with each other's bodies and feelings. The sexy scenes were off the charts and written to feel what they were feeling and it worked. Lexie's anxieties and emotional struggles were a relatable thing and the physical manifestation of them was a topic covered delicately and respectfully, and I love when a romance can explore things like that. Chaz was gentle and protective; I loved seeing both sides of him in action. Lexie was fragile, but not weak and it was lovely seeing her find her strength. Sophia as a good complement to the story and a great layer into Chaz's life and personality. I also love Jordyn and Dee. Dice was bit too brash for me, and I wasn't sure about him.
The intrigue surrounding their shared pasts wasn't overdone, and it lent some heft to the story for sure. I wasn't fond of the way Lexie handled things, even at the end, nor did I like the way Chaz's healing was made into a spin-off of her duplicity, rather than him getting that moment for himself. The end stumbled for me, but the make-up was fantastic.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Panic attacks/disorders
Moderate: Emotional abuse, Death of parent
Minor: Sexual harassment
An Encore for Love by Alexandra Warren
emotional
funny
hopeful
reflective
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? It's complicated
4.0
Amerie and Knox are two star choreographers who have a shot at pushing their celebrity further by doing a reality show together. But as past lovers, their history makes things extra hard. Knox wants Amerie back, and has to figure out how to lower the defenses of the woman who doesn't believe she can ever trust him again.
I have to say this was a great follow-up to A Rehearsal For Love, and I like the lead in to this story. It was nice to see Knox and Amerie create an extended family environment and share godparent duties. The push and pull between these two was nice. You can read their chemistry so clear--it leaps off the page, and I loved it. I loved getting the glimpse into their worlds and also the way they relate to each other, and communicate with their bodies through dance. Knox owning his past and admitting to his skewed perspectives on love gave him some depth, but Amerie's somewhat outdated attitude on his healing method was slightly off putting. The two of them were passionate though, and very spirited. I loved that Amerie didn't back down from her needs, and never downplayed her success. Knox's brother and Amerie's sister lent some good comic relief to the story, and I liked the moments of vulnerability.
The only major thing that bothered me was that Knox took entirely too long to simply say, "I'm sorry." He didn't know exactly how to win Amerie back, but he knew at the very least he owed her an apology, and he took his time giving her that.
I have to say this was a great follow-up to A Rehearsal For Love, and I like the lead in to this story. It was nice to see Knox and Amerie create an extended family environment and share godparent duties. The push and pull between these two was nice. You can read their chemistry so clear--it leaps off the page, and I loved it. I loved getting the glimpse into their worlds and also the way they relate to each other, and communicate with their bodies through dance. Knox owning his past and admitting to his skewed perspectives on love gave him some depth, but Amerie's somewhat outdated attitude on his healing method was slightly off putting. The two of them were passionate though, and very spirited. I loved that Amerie didn't back down from her needs, and never downplayed her success. Knox's brother and Amerie's sister lent some good comic relief to the story, and I liked the moments of vulnerability.
The only major thing that bothered me was that Knox took entirely too long to simply say, "I'm sorry." He didn't know exactly how to win Amerie back, but he knew at the very least he owed her an apology, and he took his time giving her that.
Content Warnings
Minor: Suicide, Death of parent
Double Or Nothin by T'Lyn
fast-paced
2.0
Tray and Phoenix meet and he's as determined to have her as she is to resist him. Then they find love, family, and so much outside noise they wonder whether it can really work.
I don't know what kind of hopes I had for this book, but they were dashed. I like a man with a slick mouth, but Trayvon took disrespect to a whole new level. He didn't attempt to redeem himself or make amends for his wrongs; he simply cornered Phoenix until she forgave him. Phoenix gave of herself too freely, especially since she witnessed him disrespect other women to her face (and not in defense of her, or himself). Plus, the way he kept saying he was going to trap her with a baby rubbed me the wrong way.
I don't know what kind of hopes I had for this book, but they were dashed. I like a man with a slick mouth, but Trayvon took disrespect to a whole new level. He didn't attempt to redeem himself or make amends for his wrongs; he simply cornered Phoenix until she forgave him. Phoenix gave of herself too freely, especially since she witnessed him disrespect other women to her face (and not in defense of her, or himself). Plus, the way he kept saying he was going to trap her with a baby rubbed me the wrong way.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Abandonment
The World Around Us by Lauren Lacey
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
sad
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.0
Tiffany and Mason are meant to be--a football and his dancer girlfriend--but their shared tragic past leads them on a journey of wondering whether they can really make it work.
This book has a deep emotional well in terms of the topics covered. From prostitution and abuse, to political corruption, blackmail, grief, drug abuse, and murder, the journey through the past of Tiffany and Mason is fraught with perilous, messy, roads. Their devotion to each other with so many issues as a backdrop means you really have to pay attention, and buckle in, or you’ll lose them. I found myself wishing the love story didn't have to share so much of the spotlight. It felt like the author was trying to make too many things happen at some points. The story is told through flashbacks, because we begin in the present with them attempting to love, yet again. The language in the beginning chapters set the stage for the past to be this ominous beast and although it was heavy, it wasn’t as insurmountable as Tiffany’s narrative suggested.
I enjoyed the found family aspect of this, and the triumph and courage. I loved that Mason had complete faith in his destiny. It kept me reeled in to see if it would manifest. Tiffany’s protective instinct doesn’t mask her hard shell enough and she sometimes came off grating. But the past narratives soothed that a bit, allowed you to see her fear and guilt. I will say that the "life keeps getting in the way of our love," narrative didn't pay out with any sort of heft. It felt like they continued to get in their OWN way, and life had nothing to do with it. Also, the book seemed to be skewed toward Mason needing to take all the blame and make the most changes, which felt odd considering Tiffany's past would make her the most resistant to love and devotion.
This also was more family story than love story, and although I can appreciate those connections, I did find myself wishing it was more romantic. There were hearts and flowers towards the end, but I almost didn't care by that time. But the writing was compelling, and the story was layered.
This book has a deep emotional well in terms of the topics covered. From prostitution and abuse, to political corruption, blackmail, grief, drug abuse, and murder, the journey through the past of Tiffany and Mason is fraught with perilous, messy, roads. Their devotion to each other with so many issues as a backdrop means you really have to pay attention, and buckle in, or you’ll lose them. I found myself wishing the love story didn't have to share so much of the spotlight. It felt like the author was trying to make too many things happen at some points. The story is told through flashbacks, because we begin in the present with them attempting to love, yet again. The language in the beginning chapters set the stage for the past to be this ominous beast and although it was heavy, it wasn’t as insurmountable as Tiffany’s narrative suggested.
I enjoyed the found family aspect of this, and the triumph and courage. I loved that Mason had complete faith in his destiny. It kept me reeled in to see if it would manifest. Tiffany’s protective instinct doesn’t mask her hard shell enough and she sometimes came off grating. But the past narratives soothed that a bit, allowed you to see her fear and guilt. I will say that the "life keeps getting in the way of our love," narrative didn't pay out with any sort of heft. It felt like they continued to get in their OWN way, and life had nothing to do with it. Also, the book seemed to be skewed toward Mason needing to take all the blame and make the most changes, which felt odd considering Tiffany's past would make her the most resistant to love and devotion.
This also was more family story than love story, and although I can appreciate those connections, I did find myself wishing it was more romantic. There were hearts and flowers towards the end, but I almost didn't care by that time. But the writing was compelling, and the story was layered.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Drug abuse, Pedophilia, Sexual assault, Kidnapping, Fire/Fire injury
Minor: Murder
Love And Other Things by Christina C. Jones
emotional
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.25
This anthology follows three friends: Tara, who meets Chris when he's investigating her ex; Val and Devon, who have a love that could everything they need, if Val can get out of her own way, and Kristin and Jackson, who have a brief encounter that turns into forever.
I loved Tara and Chris. Meeting the future the moment you're fed up with the past in such an interesting way reeled me right in. I enjoyed the way the interacted with each other, and I loved Chris being intentional with Tara.
Val got on my nerves, but I didn't hold it against her; she was on her own nerves, too lol. This was the most emotional story because you could feel Val and Devon's love so acutely. There was never any doubt, but fear was holding everything back. I'm glad they got the push they needed, and also glad they were able to move on after loss.
Kristin and Jackson were the shortest story, and my biggest complaint was that I wished I'd gotten more of them. An instant connection, derailed by their situation. What Kristin had to go through to get her freedom after years of investment spoke to her bravery; starting over is not easy. And Jackson waiting in the wings gave the story a wonderful romantic lift.
I loved the updates for all of them, and seeing what their futures were.
I loved Tara and Chris. Meeting the future the moment you're fed up with the past in such an interesting way reeled me right in. I enjoyed the way the interacted with each other, and I loved Chris being intentional with Tara.
Val got on my nerves, but I didn't hold it against her; she was on her own nerves, too lol. This was the most emotional story because you could feel Val and Devon's love so acutely. There was never any doubt, but fear was holding everything back. I'm glad they got the push they needed, and also glad they were able to move on after loss.
Kristin and Jackson were the shortest story, and my biggest complaint was that I wished I'd gotten more of them. An instant connection, derailed by their situation. What Kristin had to go through to get her freedom after years of investment spoke to her bravery; starting over is not easy. And Jackson waiting in the wings gave the story a wonderful romantic lift.
I loved the updates for all of them, and seeing what their futures were.
Content Warnings
Minor: Infidelity, Miscarriage
Catch Me If You Can by Christina C. Jones
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
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? No
4.0
Naomi and Marcus meet when she's trying to escape, and he's trying to catch her. One clash, and they immediately feel the spark, but they're on opposite sides... or are they?
I love how versatile CCJ is. Every story I read of hers takes me into a different part of her mind and I haven't been let down yet. I love the obvious chemistry between Naomi and Marcus, and the way they fight it until they can't. The weight of their pasts gave the story some solid emotional weight, and the intrigue of the present balanced it. Their reluctance to accept how intertwined they became was on par with an enemies/ adversaries to lovers and you understood the need to keep distance. I thought the case they worked was layered, but not so convoluted you couldn't follow along and the supporting cast was solid. Their falling out was expected and I felt like I had good enough lead-in to be prepared--it was normal for people used to keeping things close to the vest to keep secrets. I got it. I enjoyed this and will finish series soon.
I love how versatile CCJ is. Every story I read of hers takes me into a different part of her mind and I haven't been let down yet. I love the obvious chemistry between Naomi and Marcus, and the way they fight it until they can't. The weight of their pasts gave the story some solid emotional weight, and the intrigue of the present balanced it. Their reluctance to accept how intertwined they became was on par with an enemies/ adversaries to lovers and you understood the need to keep distance. I thought the case they worked was layered, but not so convoluted you couldn't follow along and the supporting cast was solid. Their falling out was expected and I felt like I had good enough lead-in to be prepared--it was normal for people used to keeping things close to the vest to keep secrets. I got it. I enjoyed this and will finish series soon.
Maybe in this Lifetime by Asia Monique
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
reflective
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? No
5.0
Leyland wakes up from an accident, reaching for Clementine, the love of his life. Only he's not married, and the woman he thinks is his... is engaged to someone else.
This story took me on a journey, and every moment of it was gentle and beautiful. Leyland was intentional and focused, even in his quiet. Clementine was brave, and fierce, and their love was genuine. I love the way Asia told the story of them. The pacing was excellent, the glimpses of past and future were well-timed, and the plot spun you up from the first page. Living the moments of the Clementine in Leyland's memory stole your breath, and you wanted to believe as badly as she did. Clementine's recognition and acceptance of the love she needed and deserved in every iteration of her life showed her courage and her belief in the power of faith. Weaving magical realism into a soulmate storyline, combined with the soft cadence Asia is known for, makes for a perfect love story, one I felt blessed to have experienced as she was writing it (I'm a member of her Patreon). Maybe In This Lifetime is a story of fate, and what's meant to be. And when Leyland and his "Tiny" finally celebrate their love in a world that's real and solid for both of them, the payoff will catch your heart. And make you believe in love.
This is the first book I ever described as fated mates that wasn't a paranormal, lol.
This story took me on a journey, and every moment of it was gentle and beautiful. Leyland was intentional and focused, even in his quiet. Clementine was brave, and fierce, and their love was genuine. I love the way Asia told the story of them. The pacing was excellent, the glimpses of past and future were well-timed, and the plot spun you up from the first page. Living the moments of the Clementine in Leyland's memory stole your breath, and you wanted to believe as badly as she did. Clementine's recognition and acceptance of the love she needed and deserved in every iteration of her life showed her courage and her belief in the power of faith. Weaving magical realism into a soulmate storyline, combined with the soft cadence Asia is known for, makes for a perfect love story, one I felt blessed to have experienced as she was writing it (I'm a member of her Patreon). Maybe In This Lifetime is a story of fate, and what's meant to be. And when Leyland and his "Tiny" finally celebrate their love in a world that's real and solid for both of them, the payoff will catch your heart. And make you believe in love.
This is the first book I ever described as fated mates that wasn't a paranormal, lol.
Content Warnings
Minor: Car accident, Injury/Injury detail
Still Trappin' Through The Snow by BriAnn Danae
adventurous
emotional
funny
medium-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? No
5.0
This second installment picks up with the brothers dealing with an emergency with Khrome and their niece while they try to navigate new information about whose been hitting their stash and Kavalli's potential case.
I like that the second book delved more into family dynamics, but still gave room for the main characters to push forward in their own lives. It was a great ride to take, especially with the addition of Koya. It was well-paced, and I thought moving into their mother's POV as they unearthed the past was smart. Khrome's strength impressed me in this book, as did Krypt's protectiveness. Kavalli almost had a little too much going on for me, but I do love a hotheaded younger brother so he gets a pass. Koya was an addition I wasn't expecting, but I like how she fit in, and finding out more about how was an interesting journey. I was wrapped up, from beginning to end.
I like that the second book delved more into family dynamics, but still gave room for the main characters to push forward in their own lives. It was a great ride to take, especially with the addition of Koya. It was well-paced, and I thought moving into their mother's POV as they unearthed the past was smart. Khrome's strength impressed me in this book, as did Krypt's protectiveness. Kavalli almost had a little too much going on for me, but I do love a hotheaded younger brother so he gets a pass. Koya was an addition I wasn't expecting, but I like how she fit in, and finding out more about how was an interesting journey. I was wrapped up, from beginning to end.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Suicide
I'm On Whatever You On by A.C. Taylor
challenging
emotional
funny
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? No
4.75
Legend is a musician, breaking free of his childhood group after years together. Simone is his massage therapist he's been crushing on since they were teens. When Simone's long-term relationship is on the rocks and she gets a "hall pass" to experience someone else for the first time, Legend wants to be that someone. But he doesn't want to let go, and he's hoping she won't either.
This story was a great one, from beginning to end. There was some drama, but it was timed and layered, and served to give the characters depth. The things happening in the background added to the nuance, and drove our love interests together, which means the vehicle worked in the right way. I loved Simone and Legend's chemistry, they way they couldn't get enough of one another, the way they protected each other. Legend was determined to show Simone what real love looked like, and though hesitant, she knew Legend was different.
I knew her ex was on bullshit, lol. From the first suggestion--nothing he did surprised me, but I was glad to have Simone see the light. Her sister was cringey at the beginning, my goodness. I'm glad she turned it around. Legend's background noise with his bandmates served to give him the complexity of a man on the verge of a new life, while the old one nips at his heels. I loved the way he stood on business and was determined to show his growth, but could also remind you where he came from. Great story.
This story was a great one, from beginning to end. There was some drama, but it was timed and layered, and served to give the characters depth. The things happening in the background added to the nuance, and drove our love interests together, which means the vehicle worked in the right way. I loved Simone and Legend's chemistry, they way they couldn't get enough of one another, the way they protected each other. Legend was determined to show Simone what real love looked like, and though hesitant, she knew Legend was different.
I knew her ex was on bullshit, lol. From the first suggestion--nothing he did surprised me, but I was glad to have Simone see the light. Her sister was cringey at the beginning, my goodness. I'm glad she turned it around. Legend's background noise with his bandmates served to give him the complexity of a man on the verge of a new life, while the old one nips at his heels. I loved the way he stood on business and was determined to show his growth, but could also remind you where he came from. Great story.