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undercoverbooksatl's reviews
243 reviews
The Charm Offensive by Alison Cochrun
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
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
4.0
Well, Actually by Mazey Eddings
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
sad
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
4.75
This book was such a breath of fresh air! Sure, it had some clichés and familiar tropes, but the fact that the MMC is in therapy, actively working on himself, and totally okay with being vulnerable? You don’t see that often in romance, and I loved it.
The story itself was so much fun! The constant teasing mixed with the raw, emotional moments made it feel like a well-balanced rom-com. That said, I wish the MFC had more character growth to match the MMC. .
Also, I really resonated with the MFC when it came to her trust issues, building defenses to feel safe, and struggling to let people in. She frustrated me at times, but honestly? It felt like looking in a mirror.
Despite the few minor issues I had, this was an easy 5-star read for me. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves a romantic comedy with:
-Second-chance romance
-Grumpy x sunshine (though really, she’s a black cat with a sharp tongue, and he’s a down-bad golden retriever)
-Pansexual + bisexual representation
-Words of affirmation
🌶️🌶️🌶️ / 5
The story itself was so much fun! The constant teasing mixed with the raw, emotional moments made it feel like a well-balanced rom-com. That said, I wish the MFC had more character growth to match the MMC. .
Also, I really resonated with the MFC when it came to her trust issues, building defenses to feel safe, and struggling to let people in. She frustrated me at times, but honestly? It felt like looking in a mirror.
Despite the few minor issues I had, this was an easy 5-star read for me. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves a romantic comedy with:
-Second-chance romance
-Grumpy x sunshine (though really, she’s a black cat with a sharp tongue, and he’s a down-bad golden retriever)
-Pansexual + bisexual representation
-Words of affirmation
🌶️🌶️🌶️ / 5
Content Warnings
Minor: Biphobia, Death, Abandonment
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
This story was a brilliant mix of science, suspense, and heart.
I can't help but say that Project Hail Mary is a masterpiece. I thoroughly enjoyed how Weir made complex science and mathematics not only accessible but genuinely exciting. I read "The Martian" and did not feel the same way as PHM, but might go back to give that book a try again just to see!
The MMC, Ryland Grace, approaches problem-solving with humor, curiosity, and sheer determination, making even some of my least favorite subjects of physics, chemistry, and biology feel like a thrilling puzzle rather than a lecture. You don’t need to be a scientist to follow along which makes me excited to get into Sci-Fi books again!
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SPOILER ALERT - DON'T READ PAST HERE IF YOU DON'T WANT TO KNOW:
But what truly elevates this novel is Rocky. Hands down, Rocky is one of the best "side" characters ever written. He becomes one of the most endearing and emotionally resonant characters in the story. His interactions with Ryland are filled with humor, warmth, and genuine friendship, proving that cooperation and friendship can transcend species.
The bond between Ryland and Rocky is the heart of the story in my opinion. Their mutual problem-solving, and moments of vulnerability create a dynamic that is both fascinating and deeply moving. In the midst of all the high-stakes science, their friendship is what makes Project Hail Mary unforgettable.
In other words, I got severely and unhealthly attached to Rocky and he will live forever in my brain.
I can't help but say that Project Hail Mary is a masterpiece. I thoroughly enjoyed how Weir made complex science and mathematics not only accessible but genuinely exciting. I read "The Martian" and did not feel the same way as PHM, but might go back to give that book a try again just to see!
The MMC, Ryland Grace, approaches problem-solving with humor, curiosity, and sheer determination, making even some of my least favorite subjects of physics, chemistry, and biology feel like a thrilling puzzle rather than a lecture. You don’t need to be a scientist to follow along which makes me excited to get into Sci-Fi books again!
----------------------------------
SPOILER ALERT - DON'T READ PAST HERE IF YOU DON'T WANT TO KNOW:
But what truly elevates this novel is Rocky. Hands down, Rocky is one of the best "side" characters ever written. He becomes one of the most endearing and emotionally resonant characters in the story. His interactions with Ryland are filled with humor, warmth, and genuine friendship, proving that cooperation and friendship can transcend species.
The bond between Ryland and Rocky is the heart of the story in my opinion. Their mutual problem-solving, and moments of vulnerability create a dynamic that is both fascinating and deeply moving. In the midst of all the high-stakes science, their friendship is what makes Project Hail Mary unforgettable.
In other words, I got severely and unhealthly attached to Rocky and he will live forever in my brain.
Yellowface by R.F. Kuang
dark
emotional
funny
informative
mysterious
reflective
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Yellowface captured me from the very beginning and didn't let me breathe until the last page.
R.F. Kuang dives deep into cultural appropriation, racism in publishing, and how Asian voices are erased often. Not only does Kuang expose these issues—she makes you feel them: the microaggressions, the industry’s fake diversity, and the way our experiences are often dismissed. It’s sharp, darkly funny, and impossible to put down.
Even though this is technically a lit-fic, it read as thriller-like and I couldn’t help but watch the train wreck that was happening.
I'm not sure how this book can receive anything less than at 4-star review. Maybe it's the fact that every character is unlikable. Or because it's a book that challenges rather than comforts, which can make it divisive, but this book is necessary.
R.F. Kuang dives deep into cultural appropriation, racism in publishing, and how Asian voices are erased often. Not only does Kuang expose these issues—she makes you feel them: the microaggressions, the industry’s fake diversity, and the way our experiences are often dismissed. It’s sharp, darkly funny, and impossible to put down.
Even though this is technically a lit-fic, it read as thriller-like and I couldn’t help but watch the train wreck that was happening.
I'm not sure how this book can receive anything less than at 4-star review. Maybe it's the fact that every character is unlikable. Or because it's a book that challenges rather than comforts, which can make it divisive, but this book is necessary.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Cultural appropriation, Gaslighting, Toxic friendship
Minor: Bullying, Racial slurs, Racism, Rape, Suicidal thoughts, Classism
I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Harpman
challenging
dark
emotional
informative
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
This novel was simple yet multi-faceted. It's about isolation, identity, and the search for meaning.
I found this story somewhat haunting and full of philosophical questions -- Who are we without society, relationships, or purpose? What keeps us going when there are no clear answers?
Although I have it 4-stars, I found the lack of resolution frustrating. However, the novel is more about ideas than action (and the lack of action could mean death of life, but what do I know?).
I recommend this book for those who enjoy deep, thought-provoking stories! It was a quick, 6-hour audiobook which made it easy.
I found this story somewhat haunting and full of philosophical questions -- Who are we without society, relationships, or purpose? What keeps us going when there are no clear answers?
Although I have it 4-stars, I found the lack of resolution frustrating. However, the novel is more about ideas than action (and the lack of action could mean death of life, but what do I know?).
I recommend this book for those who enjoy deep, thought-provoking stories! It was a quick, 6-hour audiobook which made it easy.
That Time I Got Drunk and Saved a Demon by Kimberly Lemming
adventurous
funny
hopeful
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? No
4.5
This book was SO fun -- fast-paced and full of sass. The simple magic system gives you the opportunity to just buckle in and go along for the wild ride! The MCs are so loveable and precious that it's a given your heart will melt and your feet will be kicking. What I loved most was the witty banter and humor—Cinnamon is sharp-tongued and self-aware. All of her interactions with Fallon (the demon) are full of spark and humor.
I was able to see Kimberly Lemming speak at Love Y'all Book Fest and she is hilarious. It shows through her characters and storyline and it's neat to see the author's personality match up to the book!
This book is a fantastic mix of action, romance, and comedy, perfect for readers who enjoy sassy heroines and spicy fantasy adventures. Definitely recommend if you like the following tropes:
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Forced Proximity
- Slow-burn
- Reluctant Hero
- Found Family
🌶️🌶️.5 / 5 - It was a slow burn but when steamy scenes happened, they were fun because Fallon has a dirty mouth on him and Cin is a straight-up horn dog.
I was able to see Kimberly Lemming speak at Love Y'all Book Fest and she is hilarious. It shows through her characters and storyline and it's neat to see the author's personality match up to the book!
This book is a fantastic mix of action, romance, and comedy, perfect for readers who enjoy sassy heroines and spicy fantasy adventures. Definitely recommend if you like the following tropes:
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Forced Proximity
- Slow-burn
- Reluctant Hero
- Found Family
🌶️🌶️.5 / 5 - It was a slow burn but when steamy scenes happened, they were fun because Fallon has a dirty mouth on him and Cin is a straight-up horn dog.
Scythe & Sparrow by Brynne Weaver
adventurous
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
sad
tense
fast-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? It's complicated
4.75
RTC!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Body horror, Cursing, Medical content
Minor: Child abuse, Medical content, Kidnapping, Death of parent, Murder
Riding Nerdy (We Are Legion Book 1) by Adrianne Brooks
adventurous
dark
emotional
funny
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
I had such great fun reading this book. The writing is easy to follow along even though there was a lot happening to bring both main characters into each others’ worlds. The dialogue and banter was hilarious and entertaining to me — Dusty had a dark, sarcastic sense of humor that immediately made me fall in love with her.
Only reason it wasn’t a full 5 stars for me was because there were times I couldn’t tell if the scene was set in reality or in a fever dream.
If you’re looking for a fun, dark romcom-ish book, then give this one a try! It also has:
- Haitian voodoo folklore
- motorcycle gangs
- grumpy x sunshine
- bisexual main characters
- slow-burn
Only reason it wasn’t a full 5 stars for me was because there were times I couldn’t tell if the scene was set in reality or in a fever dream.
If you’re looking for a fun, dark romcom-ish book, then give this one a try! It also has:
- Haitian voodoo folklore
- motorcycle gangs
- grumpy x sunshine
- bisexual main characters
- slow-burn
Content Warnings
Minor: Adult/minor relationship, Alcoholism, Biphobia, Child abuse, Child death, Death, Gun violence, Racial slurs, Racism, Violence, Police brutality, Trafficking, Kidnapping, Grief
Single Player by Tara Tai
adventurous
funny
informative
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
"Single Player" by Tara Tai is a fun romance that perfectly captures gaming culture. With tropes like enemies-to-lovers and forced proximity, it delivers a great mix of competitive tension and slow-burn romance.
Both Andi and Cat's passion for gaming feels authentic and relatable -- I too love to eat junk food while playing both low + high-stake video games. It also thoughtfully explores family expectations, as both main characters come from Asian backgrounds, adding depth to their personal struggles, which I can definitely relate to.
While the emotional conflicts could be deeper, the story nails the thrill of gaming and the joy of finding love through a shared hobby. A great pick for gamers who love a romance that speaks their language!
Both Andi and Cat's passion for gaming feels authentic and relatable -- I too love to eat junk food while playing both low + high-stake video games. It also thoughtfully explores family expectations, as both main characters come from Asian backgrounds, adding depth to their personal struggles, which I can definitely relate to.
While the emotional conflicts could be deeper, the story nails the thrill of gaming and the joy of finding love through a shared hobby. A great pick for gamers who love a romance that speaks their language!
Animal Farm by George Orwell
dark
emotional
informative
reflective
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Animal cruelty, Animal death, Slavery, Gaslighting