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wonderwomannz's reviews
1196 reviews
King Of Shadows by Kathryn Ann Kingsley
3.0
I struggled with this book and sadly won’t continue the series.
I found it to be a mix of captivating world-building and some pacing challenges. The fantasy realm she creates is incredibly vivid, with rich descriptions that really bring the landscapes and cultures to life. You can tell that a lot of effort went into crafting this unique setting, and it truly draws you in.
One of the aspects I appreciated most was the detailed world-building. Kingsley has a knack for immersing readers in her lore and atmosphere, which added depth to the story and enriched my listening experience. However, I did feel that the pacing was a bit slow at times. While I enjoy character development and intricate storytelling, I sometimes found myself wishing for more action and excitement and spice to keep me engaged.
I also listened to the audiobook version, and I must say that keeping track of some of the characters was a bit challenging. There were several with similar names which created some confusion.
As for the characters, while some were well-developed and relatable, I felt there were others who lacked depth. This left me wanting to know more about their backgrounds and motivations.
“King of Shadows" showcases Kingsley’s talent for creating a captivating fantasy world. Though the pacing and character depth might not appeal to everyone, I think those who appreciate immersive settings and detailed storytelling will find something to enjoy in this book.
I found it to be a mix of captivating world-building and some pacing challenges. The fantasy realm she creates is incredibly vivid, with rich descriptions that really bring the landscapes and cultures to life. You can tell that a lot of effort went into crafting this unique setting, and it truly draws you in.
One of the aspects I appreciated most was the detailed world-building. Kingsley has a knack for immersing readers in her lore and atmosphere, which added depth to the story and enriched my listening experience. However, I did feel that the pacing was a bit slow at times. While I enjoy character development and intricate storytelling, I sometimes found myself wishing for more action and excitement and spice to keep me engaged.
I also listened to the audiobook version, and I must say that keeping track of some of the characters was a bit challenging. There were several with similar names which created some confusion.
As for the characters, while some were well-developed and relatable, I felt there were others who lacked depth. This left me wanting to know more about their backgrounds and motivations.
“King of Shadows" showcases Kingsley’s talent for creating a captivating fantasy world. Though the pacing and character depth might not appeal to everyone, I think those who appreciate immersive settings and detailed storytelling will find something to enjoy in this book.
King Of Flames by Kathryn Ann Kingsley
3.5
I've had "King of Flames" on my TBR list for quite some time, after seeing it recommended in a Facebook group. As a fan of fantasy, I was intrigued to explore this world, although the book wasn't quite what I expected.
While I typically lean towards stories with more spice and romance, the fantasy elements in "King of Flames" did capture my interest. The world Kathryn has created is rich and mysterious, and I appreciated the imaginative setting.
Listening to the audiobook, I found myself getting a bit distracted at times, which might have caused me to miss some details.
One challenge I often encounter with most audiobooks is keeping track of character names, especially when some names sound similar. Unlike a physical book, where you can easily flip back to clarify who is speaking, audiobooks require a bit more attention to these details.
One challenge I often encounter with most audiobooks is keeping track of character names, especially when some names sound similar. Unlike a physical book, where you can easily flip back to clarify who is speaking, audiobooks require a bit more attention to these details.
The book ended on a small cliffhanger, and I will be listening to the next one in the series. I hope we get some romance or spice in the continuation.
One Last Stop by Casey McQuiston
1.0
To me this feels like I'm waiting for a train that's perpetually delayed. Two hours in, and there's no sign of the magical realism I've heard so much about. The narrator is doing their best to keep things on track, but the plot and storyline are moving slower than my morning commute.
However, there's a little something—a hint of mystery—that might have kept me going, like a glimmer of light at the end of the subway tunnel, like making you think or have a few questions. While it might eventually whisk others away on a romantic, time-bending adventure, for now, I'm left standing at the platform, wondering if I missed my stop.
However, there's a little something—a hint of mystery—that might have kept me going, like a glimmer of light at the end of the subway tunnel, like making you think or have a few questions. While it might eventually whisk others away on a romantic, time-bending adventure, for now, I'm left standing at the platform, wondering if I missed my stop.
Hello Tease by Kelsie Hoss
3.0
This installment in a series known for its light and emotive storytelling. As an audiobook, it continues the familiar narrative style that I have come to expect. I finally got use to them I think as I didnt really care for them in other installments. Having followed the series, there is a sense of familiarity that borders on predictability.
However, after several books, the series is starting to feel repetitive, and I'm unsure where future installments might lead. This is a common sentiment among long-running series when they don't introduce fresh elements. With limited availability on Libby, this book might be my last for now, offering a natural pause as I'm feeling a bit oversaturated.
However, after several books, the series is starting to feel repetitive, and I'm unsure where future installments might lead. This is a common sentiment among long-running series when they don't introduce fresh elements. With limited availability on Libby, this book might be my last for now, offering a natural pause as I'm feeling a bit oversaturated.
Despite the predictability, if you enjoyed the previous books, this one likely won't disappoint, maintaining the series' signature blend of light-heartedness and emotion. The books are imbued with lots of feelings, which might appeal to readers looking for an emotional, albeit predictable, read.
I have observed that while the characters are well-developed, they don't show much growth or change from book to book, contributing to the feeling of sameness. The plot tends to follow a similar trajectory in each installment, which is not as engaging for me who likes seeking new twists and turns.
Kelsie's writing style is often praised for being accessible and easy to follow, making these books quick reads or listens for those who enjoy them. The romantic elements are frequently highlighted as a strong point, providing an escape for readers who enjoy romance-driven narratives.
The series continues to appeal to its target audience, offering a comforting and predictable experience for those who appreciate consistency in their reading choices.
I feel it caters to fans who have followed the series and enjoy its established formula. While it might not introduce much novelty, it remains true to what drew readers in from the start.
I have observed that while the characters are well-developed, they don't show much growth or change from book to book, contributing to the feeling of sameness. The plot tends to follow a similar trajectory in each installment, which is not as engaging for me who likes seeking new twists and turns.
Kelsie's writing style is often praised for being accessible and easy to follow, making these books quick reads or listens for those who enjoy them. The romantic elements are frequently highlighted as a strong point, providing an escape for readers who enjoy romance-driven narratives.
The series continues to appeal to its target audience, offering a comforting and predictable experience for those who appreciate consistency in their reading choices.
I feel it caters to fans who have followed the series and enjoy its established formula. While it might not introduce much novelty, it remains true to what drew readers in from the start.
Hello Heartbreaker by Kelsie Hoss
3.0
This is the sixth installment in Kelsie Hoss's "Hello" series, and it brings us back to the small town of Cottonwood Falls. This time, we follow the story of Rit, a reformed player, and his journey towards redemption and romance.
The series has had its ups and downs for me, and while some books have been a hit, others have felt a bit lackluster. This one falls somewhere in the middle for me. It's got its charming moments, especially with Rit's character development. Seeing him grow and turn into a bit of a romantic was a nice.
One thing I did enjoy was the humor sprinkled throughout the book. Kelsie Hoss has a knack for writing witty dialogue and funny situations that keep things light and entertaining. However, I wish her books could have a bit more "guts" or "grit" to keep the interest levels high. Some parts felt a bit predictable and lacked the punch needed to make it truly memorable.
I feel the series is starting to lose its spark. The audiobook format does add a nice layer to the experience, with the narrator bringing the characters to life in a way that reading might not, however still not a fan of them, but think I am getting use to them.
I have access to one more in this series through Libby, and after that I think I will leave it there.
Hello Doctor by Kelsie Hoss
3.0
short lazy review, very similar to the others in this series. If you enjoyed them picking you will like this. I don’t find them super exciting, softer than I normally like. Libby has 2 more that I can listen to, which I will.
Hello Billionaire by Kelsie Hoss
3.75
This is a delightful addition to the Hello series, and is the best of the series so far. The story follows the charming and heartwarming journey of a plus-size single mom and her billionaire boss, filled with humor, banter, and a touch of romance.
The witty banter and humor in this book is refreshing and add a lighthearted touch that was missing in the previous installments. The interactions between the characters, especially the single mom, (Farrah) and her billionaire boss, (Gage) are well-crafted and entertaining.
The story is filled with heartwarming moments, particularly the way Gage treats the children, adding depth to his character. Farrah's struggles and triumphs are portrayed realistically, making her a relatable and endearing character.
The story is filled with heartwarming moments, particularly the way Gage treats the children, adding depth to his character. Farrah's struggles and triumphs are portrayed realistically, making her a relatable and endearing character.
I found the character development better in the book too, particularly the growth of Farrah as she navigates her new job and personal challenges. The plot is engaging and kept me hooked from start to finish, with a good balance of romance and personal growth. The chemistry between Farrah and Gage is palpable and adds to the overall enjoyment of the story. (plus the kids cracked me up!)
I felt that the narrators could have been more expressive and still didnt enjoy them much. I liked it is positive representation of a plus-size character, which is both empowering and refreshing.
I will be carrying on with this series I think.
I felt that the narrators could have been more expressive and still didnt enjoy them much. I liked it is positive representation of a plus-size character, which is both empowering and refreshing.
I will be carrying on with this series I think.
Hello Temptation by Kelsie Hoss
3.0
This is the third installment in a series that explores love, relationships, and personal growth. While the plot is more engaging compared to the first two books, the story still struggles with weak character development.
The protagonists often come across as childlike and immature, making it difficult for me to fully invest in their journeys.
I can appreciated the genuine moments of humor and charm throughout the book, which was nice, but still wasnt enough for me to increase my rating.
I did have some relatable moments being a big girl myself.
The protagonists often come across as childlike and immature, making it difficult for me to fully invest in their journeys.
I can appreciated the genuine moments of humor and charm throughout the book, which was nice, but still wasnt enough for me to increase my rating.
I did have some relatable moments being a big girl myself.
The narration is another drawback, as the narrators' voices fail to capture the essence of the characters and their emotions. This flat and uninspired performance detracts from my overall listening experience.
Despite these issues, Hoss's writing style is accessible and easy to follow, with moments of genuine humor and charm.
Despite these issues, Hoss's writing style is accessible and easy to follow, with moments of genuine humor and charm.
It shows some improvement in its plot but is held back by weak characters and narration. Fans of the series may enjoy the continuation.
Despite these concerns, I will still continue to listen to this series as I decide and borrow something new.
Despite these concerns, I will still continue to listen to this series as I decide and borrow something new.
Hello Fake Boyfriend by Kelsie Hoss
3.0
This is a bit of a lazy review. I found this book very similar to the last one, had the same feelings towards it really. Feel free to look back. The characters from the first book flowed through but the 2 main characters were different. I am picking this will be the same moving forward.
As the title says, it is a fake boyfriend trope.
As I am still undecided what my next series will be I am going to continue with this for now. I really hope the narrators change as these 2 are not my favourite.
As the title says, it is a fake boyfriend trope.
As I am still undecided what my next series will be I am going to continue with this for now. I really hope the narrators change as these 2 are not my favourite.
Hello Single Dad by Kelsie Hoss
3.0
It is a contemporary romance novel that unfortunately didn't quite hit the mark for me. While the premise of a plus-size romance is refreshing and much-needed in the genre, the execution left much to be desired. Yes there was spice, but that wasnt enough for me.
One of the major drawbacks was the narrative voice. The story shifts to a third perspective from Ollie quite far into the book, which was a little interesting. Additionally, the narrators didn't quite capture my interest, making it difficult to stay engaged with the plot. I had to speed it up to try and make it sound better.
The dialogue throughout the book often came across as cheesy and the characters' constant immature mindset made it hard to take their romantic journey seriously. This immaturity might appeal to some readers looking for a light-hearted and whimsical read, but it didn't resonate with me.
Another point of contention was the predictability of the storyline. There were very few surprises, and the plot followed a well-trodden path that made it easy to foresee the ending from early on. As a result, nothing really stood out and the book lacked the unique spark that makes a romance novel memorable.
While I appreciate the attempt to diversify romance literature with a plus-size protagonist, "Hello Single Dad" didn't quite deliver the engaging, heartfelt experience I was hoping for. However, some readers might find comfort in its familiar tropes and straightforward narrative.
In say all that I am going to give the benefit of the doubt, and I will try others in this series, but not sure how far I will get if they are the same style as this.
In say all that I am going to give the benefit of the doubt, and I will try others in this series, but not sure how far I will get if they are the same style as this.