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1197 reviews
Aphrodite by Bryony Pearce
dark
emotional
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Bryony Pearce gives the reader a beautifully written retelling of the Grecian Goddess, Aphrodite from her perspective and it has any love for the rich collection of stories and legends about the Pantheon of the Gods.
We begin at her birth from the Mediterranean waters through her uncertainty of self to embrace herself as a Goddess of worth. Any reader, I think, will be like myself and captivated by this feminist retelling that gives not only context for some of the parts of Aphrodite's myth that are often swept over. There are moments of her story that have me emotional, and wishing I could step back into the pages and to a Greece from thousands of years ago and into moments that have become stories passed down throughout time simply to reassure this frightened Goddess.
Pearce not only writes Aphrodite in such a thoughtful manner but breathes life into the world around her. You can feel the heat of the sun or the sand beneath our feet as she first wanders around mortals feeling lost and confused. Care is taken to bring context and imagery to all that occurs and places we venture to and it elevates the story so much. I especially liked how Aphrodite, who is only hours old in the context of the Gods, sees Olympus with a cynicism beyond her years as well as comparing it to the mortal world.
She sees each God or Goddess she encounters with fresh and clear eyes, and I loved how honest she is to herself over how awful and self-serving many of them are; especially Zeus (who always seems to be the worst of all beings..) Each God, Goddess or handmaiden encounter reflects aspects of the Pantheon and Aphrodite, through Pearce's incredible writing highlights the patriarchal world she's been thrust into. Every female is a pawn, forced to break and bow to the fleeting whims of Zeus or those Gods who are in favour at that moment.
It's sometimes a hard read, but Aphrodite's story isn't an easy one, and it's sadly often that the harder aspects, that should have more light shone on them? That has been swept over or not even mentioned until retelling such as this? It's been repeatedly written and recalled by men.
Bryony Pearce successfully not only tells Aphrodite's story beautifully and thoughtfully but refuses to make us look away. Her life is not always good simply because of who she is, she's a victim just as many are in the legends because of what she is and I'm so glad I got to read this.
Aphrodite may well be the Goddess of Love, but she has the heart and strength worthy of a warrior and Pearce doesn't let you forget it.
We begin at her birth from the Mediterranean waters through her uncertainty of self to embrace herself as a Goddess of worth. Any reader, I think, will be like myself and captivated by this feminist retelling that gives not only context for some of the parts of Aphrodite's myth that are often swept over. There are moments of her story that have me emotional, and wishing I could step back into the pages and to a Greece from thousands of years ago and into moments that have become stories passed down throughout time simply to reassure this frightened Goddess.
Pearce not only writes Aphrodite in such a thoughtful manner but breathes life into the world around her. You can feel the heat of the sun or the sand beneath our feet as she first wanders around mortals feeling lost and confused. Care is taken to bring context and imagery to all that occurs and places we venture to and it elevates the story so much. I especially liked how Aphrodite, who is only hours old in the context of the Gods, sees Olympus with a cynicism beyond her years as well as comparing it to the mortal world.
She sees each God or Goddess she encounters with fresh and clear eyes, and I loved how honest she is to herself over how awful and self-serving many of them are; especially Zeus (who always seems to be the worst of all beings..) Each God, Goddess or handmaiden encounter reflects aspects of the Pantheon and Aphrodite, through Pearce's incredible writing highlights the patriarchal world she's been thrust into. Every female is a pawn, forced to break and bow to the fleeting whims of Zeus or those Gods who are in favour at that moment.
It's sometimes a hard read, but Aphrodite's story isn't an easy one, and it's sadly often that the harder aspects, that should have more light shone on them? That has been swept over or not even mentioned until retelling such as this? It's been repeatedly written and recalled by men.
Bryony Pearce successfully not only tells Aphrodite's story beautifully and thoughtfully but refuses to make us look away. Her life is not always good simply because of who she is, she's a victim just as many are in the legends because of what she is and I'm so glad I got to read this.
Aphrodite may well be the Goddess of Love, but she has the heart and strength worthy of a warrior and Pearce doesn't let you forget it.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Rape, Sexual assault, Violence
Alchemy and a Cup of Tea by Rebecca Thorne
adventurous
emotional
inspiring
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? Yes
5.0
What a magical end to a series filled with mythical creatures, love in many forms, pirates and some excellent tea served up by an amazing couple I will greatly miss.
The ‘Tomes and Tea’ series has become one of my favourite sapphic romance series I have read in years. Rebecca Thorne has thrown everything she has into giving the reader stories that keep you entranced, enamoured and in dire need for them to never end. Yet, here we are with Alchemy and a Cup of Tea being the fourth and final book and once more, I only put it down when I had no choice in the matter.
With the changes we were given in Tea You at the Altar, life is suddenly just the same and yet dramatically different for Kianthe and Reyna as they attempt to go on with their lives at New Leaf Tomes and Tea but as always for this wonderful duo, trouble isn't too far away.
This time, we had the return of dragons and I was so happy because there's always something so wonderful about the mythical beasts of legend and lore. Not only that but as the title suggests - there's a magic deemed often more sinister in origin coming out to play in Alchemy. The author has given us a finale that will have the reader on the edge of their seat because there's trouble on the horizon for old faces and new ones. (I'd just like to hug the little or not-so-little dragons in this book though…)
Once again, the immersive world-building is there from the first to last page of the story ensuring the reader is drawn deeply into the goings-on of The Realm as a whole but especially the Queendom and nearby Dragon Country. You can practically smell the various teas that are brewed in New Leaf, feel the heat from the Smithy or the chill of the wind as dragons or perhaps Griffin fly overhead and I love it. There's nothing like a fantasy book that is so immersive that you're walking alongside the characters you encounter.
Expect great villainy, and moments of panic and sorrow and uncertainty along the way. This is a book where you're going to maybe want that snack you said no to initially but now your eyes are wide with shock and you're wondering ‘what next’ in the twists and turns along the way. But it's also one that shows you never give up, to be strong and to trust in others even in this case, dragons…
Everything about Alchemy and a Cup of Tea was so well done, bringing the story and series to an end in such a smooth manner had me sad for it to end but so glad I had got to witness this devoted duo come together from first curious glance to glimpses into their future beyond the final chapter of the book. I love how even after their time together, they still falter as do others in their decisions and views, showing they're not infallible even when carrying great responsibilities. Rebecca Thorne made them magical, and of course a little mythical too but mainly human in their choices and decisions right to the end.
I'm going to miss these characters so much, but I will enjoy starting their journey all over again one day.
The ‘Tomes and Tea’ series has become one of my favourite sapphic romance series I have read in years. Rebecca Thorne has thrown everything she has into giving the reader stories that keep you entranced, enamoured and in dire need for them to never end. Yet, here we are with Alchemy and a Cup of Tea being the fourth and final book and once more, I only put it down when I had no choice in the matter.
With the changes we were given in Tea You at the Altar, life is suddenly just the same and yet dramatically different for Kianthe and Reyna as they attempt to go on with their lives at New Leaf Tomes and Tea but as always for this wonderful duo, trouble isn't too far away.
This time, we had the return of dragons and I was so happy because there's always something so wonderful about the mythical beasts of legend and lore. Not only that but as the title suggests - there's a magic deemed often more sinister in origin coming out to play in Alchemy. The author has given us a finale that will have the reader on the edge of their seat because there's trouble on the horizon for old faces and new ones. (I'd just like to hug the little or not-so-little dragons in this book though…)
Once again, the immersive world-building is there from the first to last page of the story ensuring the reader is drawn deeply into the goings-on of The Realm as a whole but especially the Queendom and nearby Dragon Country. You can practically smell the various teas that are brewed in New Leaf, feel the heat from the Smithy or the chill of the wind as dragons or perhaps Griffin fly overhead and I love it. There's nothing like a fantasy book that is so immersive that you're walking alongside the characters you encounter.
Expect great villainy, and moments of panic and sorrow and uncertainty along the way. This is a book where you're going to maybe want that snack you said no to initially but now your eyes are wide with shock and you're wondering ‘what next’ in the twists and turns along the way. But it's also one that shows you never give up, to be strong and to trust in others even in this case, dragons…
Everything about Alchemy and a Cup of Tea was so well done, bringing the story and series to an end in such a smooth manner had me sad for it to end but so glad I had got to witness this devoted duo come together from first curious glance to glimpses into their future beyond the final chapter of the book. I love how even after their time together, they still falter as do others in their decisions and views, showing they're not infallible even when carrying great responsibilities. Rebecca Thorne made them magical, and of course a little mythical too but mainly human in their choices and decisions right to the end.
I'm going to miss these characters so much, but I will enjoy starting their journey all over again one day.
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
adventurous
emotional
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
The Hunger Games is a series I have been meaning to read since it's initial publication but for some reason? I never got to them but that changed with the recent publication of Sunrise on the Reaping. I had heard or read that the author writes when she feels a story needs to be told and after devouring the trilogy? I can completely agree.
I don't think the series needs any introduction - it's cremated itself into book and movie history after all.
I think I experienced so many emotions as I swiftly read The Hunger Games, from Katniss Everdean's forced acceptance of the life all around her must experience, to how she deems her sister's life to be more valuable than her own? I wanted to reach into the pages and give her the hug she desperately needs as days rise and fall in the wonderfully written dystopia those of the various sectors l̶i̶v̶e̶ no exist in.
What I do like about how Suzanne Collins wrote Katniss is (personally) she's not likeable as the female lead of this series. I admire her greatly, I wish life was different for her and the weight she has had to carry for years wasn't there, and how incredibly brave she is to voluntarily be a tribute. But in the traditional sense of a lead character? She's not likeable.
As I read the book, I found myself pausing and thinking of the state of the world we're living in, 17 years since its first publication. I can imagine, unfortunately, a world in the future resembling the destruction, chaos and severe elitism of the minority occuring for real. It may be a YA novel, (and that's not a criticism) but there are warnings and lessons within the book that many could learn from. There is no denying in my mind for example that President Snow doesn't remind me a little too much like a certain world leader who also likes to change how he really looks and has dictator-esque views.
(Yes, I'm being political - it crossed my mind so many times reading this book that it's impossible not to.)
Every character you encounter manages to bring something to the page, and gives even a tiny view of the world on Panem and how no one should ever forget just how lucky they are to exist… The games themselves are shown in such an incredible manner again that you once again, see and experience this reminder that the many are akin to ants who can be crushed again and again for entertainment for the minority and a harsh reminder for the majority. For the competitors, they are sacrifices who must survive, but those who live nearer to the true victors? That reality is quashed under the excitement, showmanship and knowledge that it's not you taking part.
One must always remember their place after all.
The author keeps you on edge constantly, your heart hurts over and over, and I kept waiting to see who of the Chosen that I like would be taken away. There's a beauty in the violence and cruelty of how the games are described.. it made me breathless and yet wary because there's a knowledge that even now? We can never escape from the control the minority have on us.
Katniss is a warrior, I knew of course she'd survive and I loved her evolution through the book as her eyes are opened, her inner strength and resolve makes her truly The Girl on Fire and even when she doubts herself she never truly gives up.
I could say more- but I think book two can have more thoughts instead.
I don't think the series needs any introduction - it's cremated itself into book and movie history after all.
I think I experienced so many emotions as I swiftly read The Hunger Games, from Katniss Everdean's forced acceptance of the life all around her must experience, to how she deems her sister's life to be more valuable than her own? I wanted to reach into the pages and give her the hug she desperately needs as days rise and fall in the wonderfully written dystopia those of the various sectors l̶i̶v̶e̶ no exist in.
What I do like about how Suzanne Collins wrote Katniss is (personally) she's not likeable as the female lead of this series. I admire her greatly, I wish life was different for her and the weight she has had to carry for years wasn't there, and how incredibly brave she is to voluntarily be a tribute. But in the traditional sense of a lead character? She's not likeable.
As I read the book, I found myself pausing and thinking of the state of the world we're living in, 17 years since its first publication. I can imagine, unfortunately, a world in the future resembling the destruction, chaos and severe elitism of the minority occuring for real. It may be a YA novel, (and that's not a criticism) but there are warnings and lessons within the book that many could learn from. There is no denying in my mind for example that President Snow doesn't remind me a little too much like a certain world leader who also likes to change how he really looks and has dictator-esque views.
(Yes, I'm being political - it crossed my mind so many times reading this book that it's impossible not to.)
Every character you encounter manages to bring something to the page, and gives even a tiny view of the world on Panem and how no one should ever forget just how lucky they are to exist… The games themselves are shown in such an incredible manner again that you once again, see and experience this reminder that the many are akin to ants who can be crushed again and again for entertainment for the minority and a harsh reminder for the majority. For the competitors, they are sacrifices who must survive, but those who live nearer to the true victors? That reality is quashed under the excitement, showmanship and knowledge that it's not you taking part.
One must always remember their place after all.
The author keeps you on edge constantly, your heart hurts over and over, and I kept waiting to see who of the Chosen that I like would be taken away. There's a beauty in the violence and cruelty of how the games are described.. it made me breathless and yet wary because there's a knowledge that even now? We can never escape from the control the minority have on us.
Katniss is a warrior, I knew of course she'd survive and I loved her evolution through the book as her eyes are opened, her inner strength and resolve makes her truly The Girl on Fire and even when she doubts herself she never truly gives up.
I could say more- but I think book two can have more thoughts instead.
Sweet Reckoning by V. Theia
emotional
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Returning to any of V. Theia's worlds is always something I love but the Renegade Souls MC universe is a special one as it's where my love for her creations began.
Sweet Reckoning is both familiar and new because it's starting to focus on the second generation of this 1% motorcycle club. The children and babies of the Colorado-based club are all grown and Harper Marinos is no exception. V isn't taking any prisoners with this new series, and what a way to begin our journey with book one having ghosts of the past, who were beyond evil the first time around. Then there's the fact Harper makes Zara look quiet and tame - and MC princess if ever there was.
This has everything you want in a book though because as always, V delivered on a world-building that is immersive and gritty so you're walking alongside both Harper and the intriguing Cain as their story unfolds or explodes causing chaos .. both are apt. Each character is vividly written so you can practically smell the oil on their fingers, the alluring scent of the various drinks they love or perhaps the overwhelming scent of perfume that lingers in their compound.
I devoured Sweet Reckoning today, loving every moment of this enemies-to-lovers story and especially loving seeing how strong Harper is. She's going to be one to control the Souls one day even if her brother is President. She's a force to be reckoned with, even when she's clearly out of her depth and I was firmly in her corner from page one.
Cain lives up to his Biblical name by being vicious, ruthless and unapologetic most of the time for his actions. It's been a while since V gave us such a monster of a character and sometimes I liked him and sometimes I agreed with Harper about a short pier and Cain taking a long walk off it. He's dangerous and he's narrow-minded in his actions and views of the Renegade Souls but then there are moments when I see his humanity and I welcome that juxtaposition as I read on.
This isn't a love story in the traditional sense, but V does what makes her so good at these books, in my opinion. She weaves magic with a good twist of her form of insanity to make you see a monster and a princess can make sense; even if when she'd much prefer leathers to a ball gown. They don't make sense, not on paper and half the time not to those who love the eldest child of the Pres but you'll love them just as much as these two enemies do.
Welcome back to Colorado - I think we're in for a wild ride (again)!
Sweet Reckoning is both familiar and new because it's starting to focus on the second generation of this 1% motorcycle club. The children and babies of the Colorado-based club are all grown and Harper Marinos is no exception. V isn't taking any prisoners with this new series, and what a way to begin our journey with book one having ghosts of the past, who were beyond evil the first time around. Then there's the fact Harper makes Zara look quiet and tame - and MC princess if ever there was.
This has everything you want in a book though because as always, V delivered on a world-building that is immersive and gritty so you're walking alongside both Harper and the intriguing Cain as their story unfolds or explodes causing chaos .. both are apt. Each character is vividly written so you can practically smell the oil on their fingers, the alluring scent of the various drinks they love or perhaps the overwhelming scent of perfume that lingers in their compound.
I devoured Sweet Reckoning today, loving every moment of this enemies-to-lovers story and especially loving seeing how strong Harper is. She's going to be one to control the Souls one day even if her brother is President. She's a force to be reckoned with, even when she's clearly out of her depth and I was firmly in her corner from page one.
Cain lives up to his Biblical name by being vicious, ruthless and unapologetic most of the time for his actions. It's been a while since V gave us such a monster of a character and sometimes I liked him and sometimes I agreed with Harper about a short pier and Cain taking a long walk off it. He's dangerous and he's narrow-minded in his actions and views of the Renegade Souls but then there are moments when I see his humanity and I welcome that juxtaposition as I read on.
This isn't a love story in the traditional sense, but V does what makes her so good at these books, in my opinion. She weaves magic with a good twist of her form of insanity to make you see a monster and a princess can make sense; even if when she'd much prefer leathers to a ball gown. They don't make sense, not on paper and half the time not to those who love the eldest child of the Pres but you'll love them just as much as these two enemies do.
Welcome back to Colorado - I think we're in for a wild ride (again)!
Queer Ukraine: An Anthology of LGBTQI+ Ukrainian Voices During Wartime by DVIJKA Collective
emotional
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
5.0
Queer Ukraine, An Anthology of LGBTQI+ Ukrainian Voices During Wartime edited by the DVIJKA Collective is a book that I found on a compactly filled bookshelf.
The title alone had me hold it tightly to me, knowing it had to come home knowing it would be a read that would move me. I just didn't realise the full extent the words of several strangers would linger in my mind, and affect me as they have done since I closed the final page.
This is a book that is a reminder that we, the LGBTQIA community have always existed and that survival isn't always against the mortar bombs or sniper attacks. That people are having to survive against rules made centuries before in some cases and the stigma and hatred that's been passed down over the years for being LGBTQIA and Ukrainian in the case of those whose voices are laid out on the page of this book.
I cried several times, the emotion that I was feeling thinking of people trying to live around death every day that this war continues; spilling over from the choked feeling in my throat to tears. Every person who laid down their story into poetry or prose is a survivor or at least they were at the time they wrote their words and that haunts me. These people let us in as a reader, and they could be lost now.
That makes me cold - I think it would you too.
I could write thousands of words on why you should buy this book - and how it made me feel. I won't because to me the cover of the book says it all, and the realities we see still on the news tells you why. This is a book of victims trying to survive how they were born, and where they were born. Of surviving against all the cruelty thrown at them by Russia and their fellow countrymen.
Buy it, read it… your money will go to three charities helping Ukrainian LGBTQI+ charities and feel a little of your heartbreak for a stranger as you read.
The title alone had me hold it tightly to me, knowing it had to come home knowing it would be a read that would move me. I just didn't realise the full extent the words of several strangers would linger in my mind, and affect me as they have done since I closed the final page.
This is a book that is a reminder that we, the LGBTQIA community have always existed and that survival isn't always against the mortar bombs or sniper attacks. That people are having to survive against rules made centuries before in some cases and the stigma and hatred that's been passed down over the years for being LGBTQIA and Ukrainian in the case of those whose voices are laid out on the page of this book.
I cried several times, the emotion that I was feeling thinking of people trying to live around death every day that this war continues; spilling over from the choked feeling in my throat to tears. Every person who laid down their story into poetry or prose is a survivor or at least they were at the time they wrote their words and that haunts me. These people let us in as a reader, and they could be lost now.
That makes me cold - I think it would you too.
I could write thousands of words on why you should buy this book - and how it made me feel. I won't because to me the cover of the book says it all, and the realities we see still on the news tells you why. This is a book of victims trying to survive how they were born, and where they were born. Of surviving against all the cruelty thrown at them by Russia and their fellow countrymen.
Buy it, read it… your money will go to three charities helping Ukrainian LGBTQI+ charities and feel a little of your heartbreak for a stranger as you read.
The Strawberry Patch Pancake House by Laurie Gilmore
emotional
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
The Strawberry Patch Pancake House is book four in the Dream Harbour series and I loved my return to this cosy series.
What I love about these books is that if you're looking for a comfort read where you can let the world around you disappear? These books help drift you away into a small town that I certainly wouldn't mind living in - the book club alone would be where I'd be having a good giggle or two with them all.
Now to The Strawberry Patch Pancake House (oh what a wonderful name and a place I wish was real). This may well be my favourite book in the series so far and I loved all three of our main characters; Archer and chef who's used to working all the hours in a day; Iris the lady who doesn't seem to be seller to hold down a job and is a free spirit and Olive - the sweet five-year-old girl whose life has been turned on its head.
Laurie Gilmore has given us the perfect story in this book with Archer being forced to rethink his priorities, from travelling the world to suddenly navigating fatherhood and I wanted to step into the pages and reassure both him and Olive that all will be well. I appreciated how there's insight into how good Archer is as a father even when he doubts himself with mentions of therapy etcetera for Olive along with his sheer determination in the wake of what feels like adversity from his frightened daughter. Their story alone had me unable to put the book down.
But it's Iris who truly breathes life and sunshine into their story and sits patiently as a man who has mastered every culinary delight is faced with pleasing the people of Dream Harbour when they want familiarity over new experiences. Bit like Olive does huh dear author?
It's a trope that many love; a single dad who's brooding and a little on edge and the Nanny… and honestly? It's not one I ever thought of being one I'm a sucker for but it's just Archer and Iris I adore. They're perfect for one another and complement each other's strengths and weaknesses throughout The Strawberry Patch Pancake House.
Prepare for sweetness, and moments of sorrow and thoughtfulness. A story of healing, of trust and perfecting the best pancake in Dream Harbour. I read it curled up under my blankets and though there were sniffles, there were many smiles too.
What I love about these books is that if you're looking for a comfort read where you can let the world around you disappear? These books help drift you away into a small town that I certainly wouldn't mind living in - the book club alone would be where I'd be having a good giggle or two with them all.
Now to The Strawberry Patch Pancake House (oh what a wonderful name and a place I wish was real). This may well be my favourite book in the series so far and I loved all three of our main characters; Archer and chef who's used to working all the hours in a day; Iris the lady who doesn't seem to be seller to hold down a job and is a free spirit and Olive - the sweet five-year-old girl whose life has been turned on its head.
Laurie Gilmore has given us the perfect story in this book with Archer being forced to rethink his priorities, from travelling the world to suddenly navigating fatherhood and I wanted to step into the pages and reassure both him and Olive that all will be well. I appreciated how there's insight into how good Archer is as a father even when he doubts himself with mentions of therapy etcetera for Olive along with his sheer determination in the wake of what feels like adversity from his frightened daughter. Their story alone had me unable to put the book down.
But it's Iris who truly breathes life and sunshine into their story and sits patiently as a man who has mastered every culinary delight is faced with pleasing the people of Dream Harbour when they want familiarity over new experiences. Bit like Olive does huh dear author?
It's a trope that many love; a single dad who's brooding and a little on edge and the Nanny… and honestly? It's not one I ever thought of being one I'm a sucker for but it's just Archer and Iris I adore. They're perfect for one another and complement each other's strengths and weaknesses throughout The Strawberry Patch Pancake House.
Prepare for sweetness, and moments of sorrow and thoughtfulness. A story of healing, of trust and perfecting the best pancake in Dream Harbour. I read it curled up under my blankets and though there were sniffles, there were many smiles too.
Content Warnings
Minor: Grief, Death of parent, Pregnancy
Mother of Rome by Lauren J.A. Bear
dark
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
I think everyone learned about how the city of Rome came to be from being taught in school along with a story that came about years before of a she-wolf raising twin human boys on a hillside. Whilst Romulus and Remus have carved their names into legend, and the history of Italy, there's another story and that's the story of Rhea Silvia, their mother.
The author's poignant and beautifully written book breathes so much life into Rhea’s story that you're drawn into the book from the first page and it will captivate any reader of historical mythology retelling. Blending the author's interpretation of events and those that have been passed down through the centuries of what Rhea Silvia experienced.
This is a story of female survival and empowerment, of how strong a Mother’s love can be, and how the ‘Matilda’ effect otherwise known as Female Erasure repeatedly occurs not only in Rhea's story but also in that of her cousin, Antho. Both of which will make your chest hurt, and I think there will be several tears shed.
I don't want to spoil this book at all for anyone who may wish to read this glorious, heart-rending work that shines a light on not just one woman who deserved so much more than those around her gave her. But also her cousin who fought back from being a chess piece in a game that she often had no idea was being played. With betrayal, manipulation and the games men seem to think they alone can play being at the forefront of Mother of Rome, Rhea Silvia deserves to be remembered for more than being the mother of princes because she was a fighter, a survivor and one who refused to break even when forced to bend.
Every name we may have encountered in history books comes to life and is so well fleshed out that not only does it feel you could touch them (perhaps in a vicious manner formed from frustration) but Lauren J.A. Bear gave them backstories and personalities that have them yep out from history and into reality.
From Numitor’s fall into abject grief and drug addiction, the scheming and manipulations of Amulius which will have the reader curse the two brothers for their actions - to the kindness and fatherly love from Faustulus who would take in the young Romulus and Remus? You see how different the men that Rhea Silvia is around act and treat those around them.
Everything is vivid in its beauty, and in the horrors of what Rhea and her cousin endure in their bid to survive the patriarchal world they live in. Bear has written a book that truly feels as though she has sunk her heart and soul into each page. It's one that will remain with me for a long time, and left me breathless with emotion when I closed the final page.
A cautionary note on the vivid nature of the book is to caution you on when Rhea gives birth to her precious boys. It's somewhat gory, and whilst I felt it really reminded you of her solitude and fear? The author is unapologetic in the detailing and in the violence that comes thereafter which makes it both a difficult but also important part to read. Perhaps take a moment to yourself after reading to catch your breath - I certainly did.
I will recommend Mother of Rome over and over to people who enjoy this genre where history, myth and an author's love for a character blend. Having the Gods appear, and not be their usual selves in the narrative at times is wonderful though sometimes not being known as their Roman names given the area of history and the world itself.
Gather tissues, something comforting and buckle up to see these women be stronger than they ever thought possible. Romulus and Remus came from a woman who deserved more than history gave her.
The author's poignant and beautifully written book breathes so much life into Rhea’s story that you're drawn into the book from the first page and it will captivate any reader of historical mythology retelling. Blending the author's interpretation of events and those that have been passed down through the centuries of what Rhea Silvia experienced.
This is a story of female survival and empowerment, of how strong a Mother’s love can be, and how the ‘Matilda’ effect otherwise known as Female Erasure repeatedly occurs not only in Rhea's story but also in that of her cousin, Antho. Both of which will make your chest hurt, and I think there will be several tears shed.
I don't want to spoil this book at all for anyone who may wish to read this glorious, heart-rending work that shines a light on not just one woman who deserved so much more than those around her gave her. But also her cousin who fought back from being a chess piece in a game that she often had no idea was being played. With betrayal, manipulation and the games men seem to think they alone can play being at the forefront of Mother of Rome, Rhea Silvia deserves to be remembered for more than being the mother of princes because she was a fighter, a survivor and one who refused to break even when forced to bend.
Every name we may have encountered in history books comes to life and is so well fleshed out that not only does it feel you could touch them (perhaps in a vicious manner formed from frustration) but Lauren J.A. Bear gave them backstories and personalities that have them yep out from history and into reality.
From Numitor’s fall into abject grief and drug addiction, the scheming and manipulations of Amulius which will have the reader curse the two brothers for their actions - to the kindness and fatherly love from Faustulus who would take in the young Romulus and Remus? You see how different the men that Rhea Silvia is around act and treat those around them.
Everything is vivid in its beauty, and in the horrors of what Rhea and her cousin endure in their bid to survive the patriarchal world they live in. Bear has written a book that truly feels as though she has sunk her heart and soul into each page. It's one that will remain with me for a long time, and left me breathless with emotion when I closed the final page.
A cautionary note on the vivid nature of the book is to caution you on when Rhea gives birth to her precious boys. It's somewhat gory, and whilst I felt it really reminded you of her solitude and fear? The author is unapologetic in the detailing and in the violence that comes thereafter which makes it both a difficult but also important part to read. Perhaps take a moment to yourself after reading to catch your breath - I certainly did.
I will recommend Mother of Rome over and over to people who enjoy this genre where history, myth and an author's love for a character blend. Having the Gods appear, and not be their usual selves in the narrative at times is wonderful though sometimes not being known as their Roman names given the area of history and the world itself.
Gather tissues, something comforting and buckle up to see these women be stronger than they ever thought possible. Romulus and Remus came from a woman who deserved more than history gave her.
The Prince and the Player by Nora Phoenix
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
I am always happy to be able to read and promote any lGBTQIA books when the opportunity arrives as there’s still too few being published in 2025 and there are areas of society that frown on their existence.
The Prince and the Player is a fun MM romance that is exactly what the title implies - a Norwegian prince finds himself drawn to the captain of his football team, despite never having any attraction to men before, It reminded me a little of Red White & Royal Blue in how charming Tore, our prince is to everyone he encounters no matter their background. I confess to being a lover of the enemies to lovers trope and it’s especially delicious when it’s in MM romance and Tore and Farron have a dynamic I was loving from their first encounter = there may well be hate from Farron, and in it’s own way, very understandable but you cannot help but be aware as his best friend does, that if you cannot stop talking about someone at every moment? Then it’s probably not hate after all but curiosity.
Oh how I giggled to myself because I knew something that the grumpy, and fiercely loyal captain couldn't see… that love was going to come a-knocking at his door.
There is so much positivity in this book in regards to acceptance of sexuality that I wish was representative of gay/bi-sexual men in football but sadly this is fiction and we can pretend that the stigma isn’t still there. I was wary initially of how our two now lovers would be accepted and Nora does indeed deliver that joy across not only teammates but the Norwegian royal family of the tale.
This is a perfect book one for the series, and I am so glad I got to curl up and read their story which has everything I think you could ask for - the only thing I would have liked is maybe to see more of Tore’s friends and perhaps a little joy for Farron’s family as the book came to it’s end. No spoilers of course but that would have been the cherry on the top for me.
The Prince and the Player is a fun MM romance that is exactly what the title implies - a Norwegian prince finds himself drawn to the captain of his football team, despite never having any attraction to men before, It reminded me a little of Red White & Royal Blue in how charming Tore, our prince is to everyone he encounters no matter their background. I confess to being a lover of the enemies to lovers trope and it’s especially delicious when it’s in MM romance and Tore and Farron have a dynamic I was loving from their first encounter = there may well be hate from Farron, and in it’s own way, very understandable but you cannot help but be aware as his best friend does, that if you cannot stop talking about someone at every moment? Then it’s probably not hate after all but curiosity.
Oh how I giggled to myself because I knew something that the grumpy, and fiercely loyal captain couldn't see… that love was going to come a-knocking at his door.
There is so much positivity in this book in regards to acceptance of sexuality that I wish was representative of gay/bi-sexual men in football but sadly this is fiction and we can pretend that the stigma isn’t still there. I was wary initially of how our two now lovers would be accepted and Nora does indeed deliver that joy across not only teammates but the Norwegian royal family of the tale.
This is a perfect book one for the series, and I am so glad I got to curl up and read their story which has everything I think you could ask for - the only thing I would have liked is maybe to see more of Tore’s friends and perhaps a little joy for Farron’s family as the book came to it’s end. No spoilers of course but that would have been the cherry on the top for me.
Tea You at the Altar by Rebecca Thorne
adventurous
emotional
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 absolutely love the Tomes and Tea series and to be back for Kianthe and Reyna's wedding because oh Gods do our delightful Tea-loving lovers deserve their version of ‘happy ever after’ with their baby dragons and wonderful friends. However, with the arrival of Kianthe's parents, mischievous baby dragons and the Dastardly Pirate Dreggs in attendance? An easy wedding seems unlikely…
The world-building is as always wonderful and immersive for the reader, and from the first page, it's as if we never left. Every character brings something to the story and breathes life into this cosy fantasy. I love the blend of Reyna and Kianthe's adventures along with the relative normality of their day-to-day lives running their Tea shop and spending time with friends. It feels as though you could curl up with one of the many books in their tea shop and gossip away for hours with everyone as dragons fly above us protecting their human Mamas.
Tea You at the Altar isn't just a story of a wedding but a new beginning for all and I just loved how Rebecca built up the tension and uncertainty of what will occur because alongside all the planning and meeting the parents? There's a Queen to topple off the throne.
Everything is going against them it seems and yet, their love remains so strong which is always so beautiful to see. I think it's just how the author writes though, that makes this fantasy feel so easy to become a part of and care for both only our main couple but all the wonderful characters she's given life to.
I thought this was the final book - and I'm so excited to see that I'm wrong because I just want the adventures of Kianthe and Reyna to never end or maybe we can have more from some of the background characters.
Like a good cup of tea, the Tomes and Tea series never fails to deliver a sense of contentment and joy.
The world-building is as always wonderful and immersive for the reader, and from the first page, it's as if we never left. Every character brings something to the story and breathes life into this cosy fantasy. I love the blend of Reyna and Kianthe's adventures along with the relative normality of their day-to-day lives running their Tea shop and spending time with friends. It feels as though you could curl up with one of the many books in their tea shop and gossip away for hours with everyone as dragons fly above us protecting their human Mamas.
Tea You at the Altar isn't just a story of a wedding but a new beginning for all and I just loved how Rebecca built up the tension and uncertainty of what will occur because alongside all the planning and meeting the parents? There's a Queen to topple off the throne.
Everything is going against them it seems and yet, their love remains so strong which is always so beautiful to see. I think it's just how the author writes though, that makes this fantasy feel so easy to become a part of and care for both only our main couple but all the wonderful characters she's given life to.
I thought this was the final book - and I'm so excited to see that I'm wrong because I just want the adventures of Kianthe and Reyna to never end or maybe we can have more from some of the background characters.
Like a good cup of tea, the Tomes and Tea series never fails to deliver a sense of contentment and joy.
Of Poetry and Protest: From Emmett Till to Trayvon Martin by
emotional
reflective
5.0
Of Poetry and Protest is a book filled with thought provoking poetry each providing insight into the life of Black America.
Some of the poetry brought me to tears, many angered me but all had me taking time to think about what I had read as I came to the end of each one. With several focusing on the horrific abduction and lynching of 14 year old Emmett Till in 1955, I found myself reading about him and the cruelty he endured at thr hands of a pack of monsters who were (of course) acquitted.
I think everyone should read Of Poetry and Protest, this anthology of poetry will remain with you, and open the readers eyes to the reality of so many in America both in the past and now in 2025 where hostility and history are re-emerging on the streets of many American towns and cities. Alongside the poem we have a photograph and biography of each poet which I think helps the reader see what the poet wrote through their eyes. I think for me, and probably many other readers; it would enable the reader to be pulled into the world of each poet and gain a connection through their words and the brief insight into who they are and what made them become the poet they are.
Sporadically throughout Of Poetry and Protest, are copies of posters from the Civil Rights Movement, the Black Panthers, Martin Luther King and Malcolm X along with photographs of members from several of these groups who fought for equality and to be seen as more by the majority of society. These again, add so much to the book and provide a further realism to the poetry.
Some of the poetry brought me to tears, many angered me but all had me taking time to think about what I had read as I came to the end of each one. With several focusing on the horrific abduction and lynching of 14 year old Emmett Till in 1955, I found myself reading about him and the cruelty he endured at thr hands of a pack of monsters who were (of course) acquitted.
I think everyone should read Of Poetry and Protest, this anthology of poetry will remain with you, and open the readers eyes to the reality of so many in America both in the past and now in 2025 where hostility and history are re-emerging on the streets of many American towns and cities. Alongside the poem we have a photograph and biography of each poet which I think helps the reader see what the poet wrote through their eyes. I think for me, and probably many other readers; it would enable the reader to be pulled into the world of each poet and gain a connection through their words and the brief insight into who they are and what made them become the poet they are.
Sporadically throughout Of Poetry and Protest, are copies of posters from the Civil Rights Movement, the Black Panthers, Martin Luther King and Malcolm X along with photographs of members from several of these groups who fought for equality and to be seen as more by the majority of society. These again, add so much to the book and provide a further realism to the poetry.