whatsamreads_'s reviews
148 reviews

When You Give a Lawyer a Kiss by Ann Einerson

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adventurous funny inspiring lighthearted fast-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? No

5.0

When You Give A Lawyer A Kiss deserves all five stars! This book is the perfect blend of grumpy-sunshine romance, slow-burn tension, and undeniable chemistry that keeps you hooked the entire book.

The story revolves around a grumpy, brooding lawyer who's also hiding a secret life as a tattoo artist and his bright-eyed, strong-willed assistant, Reese. Their dynamic is filled with witty banter, electrifying tension, and tender moments that build up beautifully as they clash and connect in all the best ways.

The three reasons the hero lists for not falling for Reese perfectly set the tone for the struggle he faces. I loved how Reese doesn't back down from his demanding ways—her strength shines through. Watching him fall despite all his reasons not to was swoon worthy, and their evolving relationship felt authentic, deeply romantic, and oh-so-satisfying.

If you love grumpy heroes with hearts of gold, smart and strong heroines, and the perfect balance of humor and heart, When You Give A Lawyer A Kiss is a must-read! This book delivers on all the best romance tropes and leaves you smiling long after the last page.
Hearts Overboard by Becky Dean

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adventurous emotional funny inspiring lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

I really enjoyed Hearts Overboard!This cute YA romance had the perfect mix of banter, adventure, and sweet moments. What I loved most was how Tanner constantly pushed Savannah to step out of her comfort zone. Whether it was zip-lining or braving a polar plunge, Tanner was always there, nudging her toward new experiences and helping her break free from the "boring" label her ex unfairly stuck her with. 

The slow burn between Savannah and Tanner was *so* well done. You could just tell that Tanner had feelings for her the whole time, but both were fighting their emotions, which made their eventual connection even more rewarding. Their chemistry kept me hooked from start to finish, and the backdrop of Alaska was breathtaking—definitely filled me with some serious wanderlust!

This is a great listen if you're looking for a fun, rivals-to-lovers romance full of adventure and heart. The perfect escape for fans of YA romance!
That Prince Is Mine by Jayci Lee

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adventurous emotional funny hopeful informative inspiring lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

That Prince is Mine turned out to be a delightful surprise that I loved listening to. Going into this audiobook completely blind and with little connection to its Korean background, I was initially hesitant. However, Emma Yoon’s story quickly swept me up in a charming tale filled with romance, humor, and unexpected depth.

Emma Yoon, a Korean royal court cuisine instructor in Los Angeles, is determined to achieve her dreams of opening a culinary school. Her encounters with disastrous arranged dates, orchestrated by her God Mother who is a matchmaker, add humor and tension to her journey. Despite her love-averse nature, her eventual meeting with Michel Aubert, a professor and prince in disguise, sets the stage for a heartwarming exploration of love and duty.

The characters in That Prince is Mine are wonderfully fleshed out, each with their own motivations and quirks. Emma’s reluctance towards love and Michel’s struggle with duty versus personal happiness are portrayed with authenticity and empathy. Their chemistry is palpable, making their journey towards understanding and acceptance a joy to follow.

Lee's writing style is engaging and laced with cultural nuances that add depth to the narrative, which I absolutely loved. The audiobook’s narration is excellent, capturing the nuances of the characters’ emotions and enhancing the overall experience. 

While initially unsure about the cultural backdrop, I found myself thoroughly enjoying how it enriched the story’s tapestry. The blend of romance and cultural exploration was seamless, offering insights into Korean traditions and values while never overshadowing the universal themes of love and personal growth.

Overall, That Prince is Mine is a captivating audiobook that blends romance and cultural exploration with finesse. Jayci Lee has crafted a tale that is both heartwarming and entertaining, perfect for anyone looking to get lost in a modern fairy tale with a delightful twist. I highly recommend it, especially if you’re in the mood for a charming escape into the world of love, duty, and happily ever afters.
Lenny Marks Gets Away With Murder by Kerryn Mayne

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adventurous emotional inspiring mysterious sad tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

Lenny Marks Gets Away with Murder by Kerryn Mayne is an absolute gem of an audiobook that I couldn't stop listening to—I finished it in just one day. It was the perfect companion for a road trip, keeping me alert and utterly engrossed the entire time.

Lenny Marks, with her meticulous routines and low-profile lifestyle, immediately resonated with me. Her penchant for solitude and her unique quirks, like her extensive collection of "The Hobbit" arranged meticulously, made her a character I connected with deeply. You can never have to many copies of your favorite book! Kerryn Mayne has crafted Lenny with such authenticity and depth that she felt like someone I knew.

The story itself is a brilliant blend of mystery, suspense, and heartfelt emotion. The way Lenny's past starts to unravel with the arrival of a letter from the parole board is both chilling and captivating. As buried memories resurface, Lenny's journey becomes one of self-discovery and redemption, filled with unexpected twists and turns that kept me listening intently until the very end.

Mayne's writing is both heartbreaking and heartwarming, skillfully navigating themes of truth, secrets, vengeance, and the complexities of family dynamics. The supporting characters are just as richly drawn, adding layers of intrigue and warmth to Lenny's narrative.

The narration in the audiobook is top-notch, capturing Lenny's introspective nature and the evolving emotions with nuance and clarity. It truly brought the story to life in a way that kept me hooked from start to finish.

Overall, Lenny Marks Gets Away with Murder is a stunning debut novel that left a lasting impression on me. Kerryn Mayne has created a heroine who is unforgettable, and I highly recommend this audiobook to anyone who enjoys a compelling mystery with depth and heart. Five stars without a doubt!
Hold Me Until Morning by A.L. Jackson

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adventurous emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

𝐇𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐌𝐞 𝐔𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐥 𝐌𝐨𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐛𝐲 𝐀.𝐋. 𝐉𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐬𝐨𝐧
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Available on KU

Book 4 in the Time River Series and my absolute favorite!! I was instantly drawn into HMUM! It’s a beautifully written romance that kept me hooked from the very first page. The story follows the magnetic pull between two characters with a complicated past: the fiery, resilient single mom Hailey Wagner, and her dangerously sexy neighbor, Cody, who turns out to be someone she thought she’d never see again.

The chemistry between Hailey and Cody is ⚡️⚡️, their interactions charged with a blend of tension and longing that A.L. Jackson masterfully conveys. The plot thickens when Hailey’s ex poses a big threat, leading her neighbor to step in and protect her and her daughter, a move that brings them closer than ever before. 🔫💥💣

The story is not just about romance but also about facing our past, seeking redemption, and the powerful impact of love can have. A.L. beautifully captures the internal and external conflicts, making Hailey & Cody’s journey both relatable and compelling.

Let’s talk about that spice🥵🌶️ The forbidden kiss and the nights of passion are described with such intensity that you can feel the heat radiating off the pages. Yet, it’s the underlying emotional connection that truly makes this book special. The way their pasts intertwine and threaten their present adds a layer of suspense that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

In Hold Me Until Morning, A.L. Jackson has written a heartfelt and exhilarating romance that is impossible to put down. If you love stories of second chances, sizzling chemistry, and a love that conquers all, this book is an absolute must.
Come Break My Heart Again by C.W. Farnsworth

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adventurous emotional funny hopeful 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

4.5

This is a beautifully crafted tale of love, heartbreak, and the undeniable pull of first loves. From the moment we meet Ryder James and Elle, their chemistry is palpable, and the emotional rollercoaster that follows is both exhilarating and heart-wrenching.

It is such a poetic blend of nostalgia and longing, vividly portraying the intensity of young love and the pain of its dissolution. Farnsworth’s writing is lyrical, painting vivid images of the highs and lows of Ryder and Elle’s relationship. The metaphorical language—comparing their love to a “sad song with a slow melody” and “flowers with paper petals”—adds depth and resonance, making their story linger in your mind looonnnngggg after you turn the last page.

The characters are well-developed, with Ryder embodying the young, tortured soul who leaves you questioning his motives and feelings until the very end. Elle’s journey of self-discovery and her struggle to reconcile her past with her present is deeply relatable and emotionally engaging.

What sets this book apart is its raw honesty. Farnsworth doesn’t shy away from exploring the messy, often painful reality of rekindling old flames🔥 The seven-year gap in their story adds a layer of mystery and tension, making their encounters charged with unresolved emotions and unspoken truths.

However, the resolution of their story, while satisfying, felt slightly rushed, leaving some questions about their future lingering. A bit more exploration into their current lives and the repercussions of their past could have added even more depth to the conclusion.

Overall, Come Break My Heart Again is a poignant, bittersweet read that captures the essence of first loves and the huge mark they leave on our hearts🩷
Annie LeBlanc Is Not Dead Yet by Molly Morris

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adventurous emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted mysterious reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.75

Annie LeBlanc is Not Dead Yet is a heartwarming and enchanting listen that beautifully blends the whimsical with the profound. It was narrated with a perfect blend of humor and emotional depth, this audiobook transports listeners to the quirky town of Lennon, California, where the impossible becomes possible every ten years.

Wilson Moss’s journey to bring back her ex-best friend Annie is both captivating and deeply emotional. The story starts with an intriguing premise: a town contest allowing one person to return from the dead for thirty days. Wilson’s determination to revive Annie, despite the bitterness of their past, sets the stage for a story filled with wonder, friendship, and unexpected revelations.

The charm of this story lies not only in its unique plot but also in its fascinating characters. Wilson’s earnest efforts to reconnect with Annie, and the hope of possibly extending her stay, pull at the heartstrings. The narrative is further enriched by the complex dynamics with Ryan, their third best friend. It was truly heartwarming to see Ryan and Wilson find their way back to each other. Their beautiful reconciliation is a highlight of the story, offering a touching portrayal of friendship and love rekindled after misunderstandings and time apart.

The audiobook’s narration captures the essence of the story beautifully, bringing out the quirks of Lennon, the urgency of Wilson trying to fix her friendships, and the delicate balance between past grievances and present hopes. The voice acting adds a delightful layer to the already engaging narrative, making it easy to get lost in the tale.

What makes Annie LeBlanc is Not Dead Yet particularly special is its ability to intertwine lighthearted moments with deeper reflections on life, death, and what it means to truly be alive. The cute and funny interactions among the characters are a joy to listen to, and the unfolding mystery about Annie's past will keep you hooked until the very end.

I would’ve have loved for the story to give us more details about Annie during her time away during junior year. I did love the very ending of the book when Annie finally fulfills her dream to see the rainforest. 

Overall, the audio was such a touching experience to listen to. A true testament to the power of friendship and the lengths one will go to keep our loved ones close. 
The Nature of Disappearing by Kimi Cunningham Grant

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adventurous challenging emotional tense fast-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? It's complicated

4.5

The Nature of Disappearing is an amazing blend of suspense and emotional depth, set against the majestic backdrop of Idaho’s wilderness. This book explores the themes of trauma, reconciliation, and the complexities of human connection, making it a compelling read from start to finish.

Emlyn, the story’s resilient FMC, lives a life of quiet seclusion, distancing herself from the painful memories of her past. Her world is abruptly disrupted when Tyler, her ex-husband, reappears with alarming news about their estranged friend, Janessa. Janessa's sudden disappearance from her #vanlife adventures propels Emlyn back into a tumultuous journey she thought she had left behind. Grant's portrayal of Emlyn's struggle between clinging to her hard-won stability and facing her unresolved past is both heart-wrenching and relatable.

The author excels in crafting a narrative that is both character-driven and suspenseful. Emlyn’s reluctant partnership with Tyler as they track Janessa’s last known movements adds layers of tension and unresolved chemistry to the story. Their interactions are charged with the weight of shared history and unspoken emotions, which keeps readers invested in their evolving relationship. The depiction of their journey through the wild landscapes of Idaho is immersive and vividly detailed, reflecting both the beauty and the peril of the natural world.

Grant’s ability to interweave the external adventure with Emlyn’s internal struggles is one of the novel's strongest aspects. The mystery of Janessa’s disappearance is gripping, with every clue and twist building a sense of foreboding. As Emlyn and Tyler delve deeper into the wilderness, the narrative deftly shifts from a quest for answers to a deeper exploration of trust, redemption, and the lingering shadows of the past.

The only minor drawback is that some of the secondary characters and their motivations could have been fleshed out more fully. However, this does not significantly detract from the books overall impact. The story's emotional depth and suspenseful progression keep the reader thoroughly engaged.

In summary, The Nature of Disappearing deserves 4.5 stars for its intricate character development, compelling plot, and the seamless integration of suspense with emotional storytelling.

Thank you NetGalley, Kimi Cunningham Grant, and Minotaur Books for this gifted ARC.
Before I Loved You by Ashley Elizabeth

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adventurous challenging emotional funny hopeful lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

The emotions that this book puts you through is an absolute roller coaster! It grips you by the heart from the very first page and just doesn’t let you go! It’s a heart-wrenching story of love, loss, resilience, and found family. 

Sarah’s journey from isolation to unexpected motherhood is very moving and totally relatable. Ashley portrays Sarah as a woman who has learned to rely solely on herself, only to have her world turned upside down by Paul adds an amazing aspect to the story! She also gives us some amazing plot twists when the monster from Sarah’s past comes creeping back into her life to ruin it! It’s adds the perfect layer of suspense to this beautiful love story. 

This book not only explores the complexities of relationships but also delves into the strength and courage it takes to face one’s fears and fight for what truly matters.

I absolutely loved the accidental pregnancy trope along with the found family. I highly recommend this book if you’re looking for a good heart gripping, cry worthy, love story! 
Long Time Gone by Charlie Donlea

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adventurous emotional hopeful informative mysterious reflective tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

I DEVOURED this book and could not put it down!
Long Time Gone follows Dr. Sloan Hastings, a forensic scientist whose casual exploration into her genetic past unveils a shocking revelation: she might be Charlotte Margolis, a baby who vanished along with her parents nearly thirty years ago🤯

Sloan, is a mix of brilliance and vulnerability, making her journey both relatable and captivating. Her journey into the small town of Cedar Creek, Nevada, alongside Sheriff Eric Stamos, unearths layers of secrets that have festered for decades. 

The narrative is enriched by the intricate dynamics within the Margolis family, whose seemingly warm welcome masks a labyrinth of hidden agendas. Donlea expertly builds tension, keeping readers on edge as Sloan and Eric peel back the layers of deception, facing increasingly dangerous threats.

Long Time Gone is not just a mystery novel; it’s a deep dive into identity, belonging, and the lengths to which people will go to protect their secrets. The twists and turns are both unpredictable and satisfying, making this book impossible to put down.