‘I’m going to keep you safe. Even when you hate me, I will keep you safe.’
Did I ever think an author could so accurately describe the mess that is my ‘I’m going to keep you safe. Even when you hate me, I will keep you safe.’
Did I ever think an author could so accurately describe the mess that is my head through a character such as Ember? No, I really did not, and yet here we are. I could relate to her mental struggles so hard, even though I'm doing a lot better now (thankfully), but that really was me years ago.
So, this is the second book in a trilogy and you need to read Torment Me before getting into this. It continues right where the first book left off, and I swear I could feel Ember's fear throughout the whole ordeal.
Blaze, Flint, Phoenix and Cole are a family, but where does Ember fit in? Is she just a captive or something more?
We get to see Ember and Blaze bonding in their own twisted way and I have to say that I live for his jealousy. Does he want to share? Yes. Does he also want to keep her for himself? Yes. It's delicious. Don't worry though, he does learn to share...eventually.
Cole won me over with the puppy. I can't resist a puppy. But also the SH, I could relate to him the same way I could to Ember because of it. I also liked how protective he (and well, everyone else) was. He was also the most sensible of the bunch, believe it or not.
Flint and Phoenix are a packaged deal so mentioning one without the other seems wrong, I love them too, they're sweet, both together and with Ember.
I adore everyone's nicknames for each other, especially Sugar. I swear I haven't heard that used since Rogue from the XMEN, so finally reading it in a book makes me so happy.
The only flaw this book has is that it ended too soon. I WANT MORE!!! We were, of course, left on another cliffhanger. I'm curious if we'll see the cousin in the next book too, and what his motivations were for doing what he did...and why SOMEONE showed up you know where you know when. Can't believe I have to wait to get answers. At least I can go and read other K. L. Taylor-Lane books meanwhile.
*Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*...more
"Bending down, our mouths connect, and like Tesla’s coil, my skin ignites with an electrical charge."
What kind of Serb would I be if I didn't put that"Bending down, our mouths connect, and like Tesla’s coil, my skin ignites with an electrical charge."
What kind of Serb would I be if I didn't put that specific quote at the top of my review, even though this had a bunch of cute ones I could've used instead? Exactly. Anyway, Y'ALL ARE SLEEPING ON THIS BOOK/SERIES/AUTHOR!!!!
I don't remember what I was looking for when this popped up, I think I was searching up something completely different and Amazon decided to recommend Eyes Like a Hurricane to me, and it's been living in my head rent free ever since.
I'm a huge fan of small town romances, so this definitely caught my eye, but it was mainly the author's last name that made me prioritise it. I'm not sure if she's Serbian, or married to someone who is, but either way we support our own in this house!!! I see a Serbian name, I click read, simple.
Having finished it, I'm so glad there's going to be at least six books in the series, because I fell in love with the world and its characters and need to see more of them. I actually would've read this back in February when I found it, but I knew I'd love it and wanted it to be closer to book two and three so here we are.
I like that the book starts with a little steam guide, so if you want a spice free read, you know exactly which pages to skip. The playlist was maybe 80% to my taste which is always a plus (extra extra points for Warren Zeiders), I went and saved it on Spotify, along with the other two.
It's a bit of a slow burn at first, but I was still surprised at how fast they got together, because the beginning made it seem like it would stretch out a bit more. There was a lot of anticipation, like when they'd finally meet again etc, it gave me butterflies. And then they saw each other in that bar and that was IT, they were smitten.
I was wondering if the rest of the story would be interesting, what else could happen if they got together so soon into the book, but fear not friends for it definitely kept my attention.
The book is told in dual PoV, but we also got the PoV of the villain. As much as I didn't like him, I liked reading what he was up to. It gave him some depth beyond the overly attached ex boyfriend. We got to see how his mind worked, and that he was, indeed, a bit coo coo.
I also like that the main conflict was driven by said villain, and not a typical third act breakup, it was refreshing.
The romance was super sweet, you could feel the sparks from their very first meeting and they never went away. They may have fallen in love in a month, but it was believable.
Both Lachlan and Aislinn are animal lovers which is a big theme throughout the book. They each have a floofy baby and I hope we get dog updates too, I gotta know if those two will have cute little puppies!!! Also, the alpacas dunking them...yes.
The side characters were just as engaging, I can't wait to read their stories. The ending for this one set up the next one which I'm assuming will be a recurring theme.
You can just feel the love the author put into this world, and the story of how it came about just makes me wish for this series to blow up ASAP. So if you like small town romances with a fun cast of characters please give the Topaz Falls series a try.
P. S. Dr Tomasevic (Tomašević) needs another appearance!!! For no reason other than I like subtle Serbian rep okay? Okay....more
I had high expectations for The Neighbour Favor, it was just alright, I had no real expectations for The Partner Plot and it was still just okay. It'sI had high expectations for The Neighbour Favor, it was just alright, I had no real expectations for The Partner Plot and it was still just okay. It's possible this author's adult titles don't work for me as much as her YA ones might, but I haven't gotten to those yet so I can't really compare.
So, much like in that other book, there's nothing particularly wrong here, the writing was fine, the characters (by themselves) were interesting enough, the second chance and (fake) marriage of convenience tropes worked alright together, and we even got a bit of a crossover which I'm a fan of.
But the chemistry between the two leads was lukewarm at best. I think they had more chemistry as teens than as adults, it was as if it all sizzled out over the years they've been apart. And we got a lot more pages about their careers than we did about their romance, so is it really a wonder I didn't feel it?
What I did like, is that there was no third act breakup and pretty much no angst during their reunion. Because I can promise you, if I got angst & a breakup on top of me not feeling the romance, I would've been so upset.
Will I read the next one? Undecided as of now. I might, to be a completionist, or if I need an easier read/listen. But I'm thinking if that one also doesn't work for me, and I try one of the YA books and that doesn't work for me either, then this author isn't for me. ...more
Though I didn't love this one quite as much as the first novella in the series, or some of Nisha's other books, I still had fun reading it.
It has an Though I didn't love this one quite as much as the first novella in the series, or some of Nisha's other books, I still had fun reading it.
It has an interesting concept of tattoo magic that was very well developed, the writing worked for me as usual, the world building was great...combined with a fast pace, it was easy to finish this in one sitting.
You don't have to read Wicked is the Reaper to read this, the reference to that book is small and it won't affect your reading experience if you choose to jump into this first. But you SHOULD read it because it's one of my favourite books in general, and it's "proper" enemies to lovers.
This one was more captor/captive with Beauty and the Beast vibes than enemies to lovers, and I think it would've worked for me in a longer book. As is I think there was a lot of time spent on the physical aspect of their relationship, or on the plot and as a result we didn't get to see them fall in love.
We read that weeks passed here and there as they were working on the thing that Ferran abducted Vespera for, but it didn't feel like it relationship development wise, you know.
I also didn't fully connect to either of the two main characters, I liked them, but needed a bit more depth. The steam was good though, which reminds me! This book starts off with a somewhat steamy scene & that surprised me, I was like "OH!" haha.
Don't attack me for this, but I think she and Savryn had more chemistry than her and Ferran. This is likely due to how Ferran was built up as a great big beast and then just wasn't, or how he'd keep running away from Vespera all the time. And I know Savryn was in like two scenes max, but he made a bigger impression.
But I'm still glad I read it, I'm now one book closer to reading all of Nisha J. Tuli's books!!! I only need to read the Artefacts of Ouranos series and then I'm all set until the next book.
*Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*...more
THIS is how you write a second chance romance folks!! I knew if anyone could do it, Kay Shanee would be the one. The audiobook was excellent as well. THIS is how you write a second chance romance folks!! I knew if anyone could do it, Kay Shanee would be the one. The audiobook was excellent as well.
I really loved the characters, and the fact that they were older and actually acted their age (other romance authors take notes). I also loved the fact that their daughter set them up again after 2 decades, it was so adorableeee.
I'm really glad that this is a trad release, because now even more people will be introduced to this author's books, yayy!!! If you liked this, try any of her other books, you won't regret it....more
We are being FED this year folks, we not only got In The Shadow of a Dream, but this novella collection too AND another book by Maci Aurora (albeit inWe are being FED this year folks, we not only got In The Shadow of a Dream, but this novella collection too AND another book by Maci Aurora (albeit in a new series) is also due in June. Now if only the final book could somehow be moved up to the end of this year, I'd be an extremely happy camper.
So, here we have three novellas designed to clear up some things in between the last book and the upcoming one, because we were left with so many questions.
The first novella follows Scarlett, we finally find out everything she was hiding and why. We also got to see how she and Thomas met, fell in love and it was super cute. There was even some steam which I wasn't expecting? As in, I didn't think about it because they're the parents, but it's nice to see that they still love each other and are as passionate about one another as when they were younger.
The second novella is about Brinna and Luc, and how they're dealing with being together in the real world instead of dreams. This one gave us some sweet scenes, and I'm really glad because their book was shorter than the others, so it was nice to expand their story a bit.
The third novella stars Auri and Nix and is the most painful one of the three. Because, if you've read all the past books (if you haven't go do it now), you know that Nix lost his memories and isn't totally convinced that he and Auri are meant to be together, so it's up to her to try and help him remember.
And she really does. There's no one who knows him better than her, what makes him tick etc. I'd lie if I said some scenes didn't make me want to cry because Nix wasn't remembering despite Auri's best efforts.
Also, none of them forgot about Jessamine, they're still looking for her throughout each novella, but of course that couldn't be resolved before her own book! Everything else was though, I feel satisfied with what we got.
Now, I can't believe Scarlett actually spilled the beans. Like, I've been with this series since book one, waiting for answers for what seems like forever and I finally got them...amazing.
Novella three is my fav, but all three are worth reading, and I think also necessary for the overall story. So please do check them out when you get to this point in the series.
I also feel like thanking Maci Aurora for writing these and making the wait for In the Shadow of an Obsession a bit more bearable. I can't wait to read Jessamine's story!!!
*Thank you to the publishers and Netgalley for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review*...more
Oh boy, do I wish this was the book for me! I actually did like it at the very beginning and thought it seemed promising, maybe even a four star read,Oh boy, do I wish this was the book for me! I actually did like it at the very beginning and thought it seemed promising, maybe even a four star read, but then the guys were introduced, Chelsea and Basil started their not-dating-but-kinda-dating thing and their back and forth with each other became exhausting.
Chelsea told Basil what she was like early on, and he just didn't listen. They're both stubborn, but in different ways. I often got annoyed with how Chelsea treated him, but also got annoyed at the expectations Basil placed on her, knowing she wouldn't be able to fulfil them, but asking her to anyway.
I don't think they're right for each other. I feel like Elizabeth and Evan are a more balanced couple, and their romance was more engaging to me than Chelsea and Basil's.
I also feel a bit bamboozled, because, based on the cover, I was expecting this book to be set in Greece, or at least half of it, but the Greece part doesn't come in until 80 something percent. The rest of it is set in the US which is okay, it's just not what I thought it would be.
Plot wise, not much happened, I felt as if I was reading the same thing over and over again. The biggest focus was definitely on the relationship and there didn't seem to be enough room to explore anything else.
But I liked the friendship crumbs we got at the start, Elizabeth and Chelsea function well together and I'm certain that, if this had been a book about their travelling adventures instead, my rating would be higher.
I also liked the Greek culture and food, the way Basil's family interacted with each other...it was sweet.
The ending was okay, but still frustrating, because these two CANNOT go a few days without arguing over commitment or lack thereof. Yes, they do eventually agree on something, and it seems like it's all sunshine and rainbows, but I just don't believe it, I'm sorry.
Now, I have to mention this one line that rubbed me the wrong way. Basil is talking to his family on the phone and saying how there was a reason he moved to Charlottesville despite his family's protests and "You'd think I moved to the most dangerous neighbourhood in Beirut by the way my mom fretted and nagged".
I want to know if that line was really necessary??? And why say Beirut, why not say an American city, since he's in America? I do wonder if the author has ever been to Lebanon, or has friends/family there, because they'd tell you - there are no dangerous neighbourhoods in Beirut!
There are less safe ones, sure, but outright dangerous, no. Literally any capital city has areas where you wouldn't wanna be at night, for one reason or another, so why was Beirut singled out?
This line made it into the final copy, as far as I'm aware, so that was certainly...a choice. I'm surprised no one else noticed it, to be honest.
The rest of the book was vetted by a Greek-American, so you can be sure things are correct. I liked that the author chose to write endearments in Greek, and then after in Latin script. I'm used to authors just using Latin script straight up for languages like Russian that use the Cyrillic alphabet, so I'm glad that some effort was put in to write it as it's actually written.
That's about it from me for this book, I really was hoping I'd like it, but it wasn't meant to be.
2.5
*Thank you to the publishers and Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*...more
FINALLY A BOOK WITH A BLOND LOVE INTEREST, WE CHEER!!!! I have nothing against non-blonds, it's just that the dark haired ones are so common, so this FINALLY A BOOK WITH A BLOND LOVE INTEREST, WE CHEER!!!! I have nothing against non-blonds, it's just that the dark haired ones are so common, so this feels like a breath of fresh air. And, since he's a vampire it's a double win for me.
But fear not, one of the side characters who's going to be a main character in the next book isn't blond, so you have zero excuse not to read this now!!
So, I kind of randomly decided to read this after seeing it on booksta and I'm really glad I did. It was a very fun read that I tried to stretch as much as I could because I joined a readalong with the chapters planned out week by week.
I finished it too fast, but it's not strict so feel free to go and join if you want, it's still going for 5ish more weeks if my math is correct.
It was cool doing it that way, floating theories around, sharing cool quotes, and now I'm so excited for the sequel (coming next month, sooo you might wanna get to reading).
Gothic Grove is a fast paced read so you could finish it in one sitting if you wanted to. The tension builds more and more the further you go along and it's very hard to stop reading, you just NEED to know what's going to happen next.
The story is compelling and unpredictable, there was even a twist I couldn't have seen in my wildest dreams. I love how J. A. George kept us all guessing until the last second.
The characters are the stars of the show, I love them all equally. We mainly follow Astrea & Ciaran but we also get PoVs from Shadow, Drago, Ava and Kallen.
There's PoV switches in every chapter, multiple times per chapter, and sometimes there's flashbacks too so we get to know the characters a bit better. It took me a sec to get used to that, especially at the start, but it mellowed out eventually.
We also have a fox familiar!!!!!!!!! She's the cutest bestest girl, I hope we'll see more of her in the sequel too.
The ending is a cliffhanger, and a good one at that. It kinda made me want to scream that there were no more pages left to read. Who knew I'd be so attached to that character and their mate? Not me.
Bonus points for including Falling in Reverse on the book playlist!!!...more
I can't believe we're technically getting two books from this series in one year, it feels like a dream. Hah, see what I did there? But yeah, there I I can't believe we're technically getting two books from this series in one year, it feels like a dream. Hah, see what I did there? But yeah, there I was, finishing this book and resigning myself to another year of not so patient waiting for the next instalment of the Fareview series, when I saw that the novella collection would be coming out soon. EEEEEP!!!
We're still getting the final book next year, but the novella collection is supposed to help bridge the gap between this book and the last book. Now, why is there a gap you may ask? BECAUSE MACI AURORA LEFT US WITH A HUGE CLIFFHANGER, THAT'S WHY!!
I was sooooo not prepared for that, because in the past two books the main storyline for each couple was wrapped up, while the background storyline (the ribbons, their mother's secrets) kept unravelling more and more. In the Shadow of a Dream FINALLY gives us some of the answers we've been looking for, and not in a typical way, but in a very creative way.
Since Brinna is the "dreamy" sister, a lot of this book focuses on dreams. I'm a sucker for fated mates who can communicate through dreams so this book automatically catapulted itself over Tarley's as my second favourite in the series. Or maybe my first fav, though Auri and Nix are hard to beat.
But I just loved Brinna and Luc, he was so mischievous and funny and his banter with Brinna was the highlight of my day. I was actually hoping Luc would get a story because he seemed like such a cool character and I was proven right, ladies and gents.
What I wish we got even more of was them together. In comparison with Auri & Tarley, Brinna got much less page time with her love. Some of that was due to the plot, but still.
This book is shorter than the ones before, and I'm not exactly sure why? Because of the novellas or?? Either way I flew through it just as fast. This author knows how to write engaging stories that keep you wanting moremoremore until you've binged the whole book.
I can't wait to see what will happen next ahhhhhh. Also, PLEASE go back and read this from the beginning. Books one and two can (sort of) be read as standalones, but book three is where it gets messy. I don't want anyone to miss out on an amazing story so please listen to me when I tell you don't start with this, start with In the Shadow of a Wish!!!!! You'll love it, trust me.
*Thank you to the publishers and Netgalley for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review*...more
“There was cheese,” I mutter, pointing back to the ground before swinging my finger up to Cheddy. “Then you.”
Have you ever wanted to read a cheese shi“There was cheese,” I mutter, pointing back to the ground before swinging my finger up to Cheddy. “Then you.”
Have you ever wanted to read a cheese shifter romance book? I know the answer is yes, don't bother lying.
OK first thing's first, the cover? Gorgeous. The little cheese illustrations as chapter headings? Brilliant. The chapter titles? So funny (and punny). And the idea to write the world's first cheese shifter romance? Revolutionary.
I knew I'd have a good time with this, not just because cheese is my favourite thing in the world, but also because I'm well acquainted with Ellen Mint's writing through the Coven of Desire series (which you should also read if you like hilarious witchy shenanigans, there's even a little teaser for it at the back of the book).
Why Cheese is a book I always knew I needed, but no one saw fit to write it...UNTIL NOW. THANK YOU ELLEN MINT!!!!!
We have Violette who inherits a cheese shop from her great uncle who died, and is planning on selling it in hopes of finally getting away from her horrible controlling mother. Her determination starts to waver when four hot cheese shifter men materialise out of thin air, begging her to keep the store open for a few months, then she can sell it. And who could really say no to Brie, Cam, Cheddy and Roq (not me)? Obviously, a cheesy romance for the ages ensues.
At first I was a little bit overwhelmed with getting to know all four guys at once, but they each won me over in no time with their unique personalities. It's so hard to pick a favourite...but if I HAD to mayhaps Cam. Just because he was the friendliest and funniest at the start. He was ready to show Vi the time of her life, and I was like yess Cam go Cam!!
The next one would have to be Roq, Cam's complete opposite but we have no choice but to stan. He could be mean at times, but he was hot so...you can't blame me.
Ok now I can't choose who to put third between Cheddy and Brie so they're sharing third place, it's only fair, no one deserves to Brie last. Hah, see what I did there? Yes so, I loved how silly goofy Cheddy was and how sweet and shy Brie was equally.
Vi was lovely as a main character, and I could relate to her even though I don't have OCD (I think?), but there are some things I do several times even though I know they're irrational so maybe...let's just say that locking thing rang a bit too close to home, hah.
I hateddddd her mother so much, I was going "why are you so mean??" every time she was on the page. She's one of those villains that will annoy the hell out of you, so be warned.
Up until the last third I was convinced we'd need a sequel to wrap everything up, so the ending surprised me by doing just that. I gotta say, I'm sad it seems to be a standalone, but it also feels like a complete story. I like the resolution we got (especially in regards to mother dearest over there). I'd still like a little novella though, please and thank you.
P. S. You know what I did this morning? Ate cheese. You know what I'm gonna do after I post this review? Eat some more cheese. I'll be careful to avoid any that might shift into men though.
*Thank you to the amazing author for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*...more
When I started this it felt like one of the stronger books in the series, but I think the first half was better than the second which brought my ratinWhen I started this it felt like one of the stronger books in the series, but I think the first half was better than the second which brought my rating down from 4 stars to 3.5. It wasn't bad at all though, I just didn't like how much Face and Tiffany danced around each other instead of acting like adults. Also, need someone to give me that playlist link since I don't have apple music, pretty pleaseeee?...more
Ooooookay well...this was my first Olivia Dade book and I was left disappointed. I'd still give her other books a try because it seems like this isn'tOoooookay well...this was my first Olivia Dade book and I was left disappointed. I'd still give her other books a try because it seems like this isn't her best one, but for the majority of the book, I was debating on rating it two stars. And by the end it gained about half a star so I decided to be nice and round it up to a three.
I think it was mainly the writing and the immaturity of the characters who were near 40, acting like teenagers. I swear I've read more mature YA romances (and I don't mean the newer ones that are more geared towards adults than teens).
I didn't like / didn't care for either of them or the romance, but mainly Matthew's part of it, because he seemed to instantly fall in love with her and was constantly thinking about Athena in a sexual way. There was no chemistry that I could feel and the overall set up to their romance felt a bit wrong to me.
For probably the entire first half, I was debating on dnfing. In the first or second chapter I was like "wait, if it's this dull now it'll probably only get worse from here" and it did. Then went up a lil bit later.
The depression portrayal surprised me, but it was good compared to everything else. Except I do feel like she got better in no time, but I also understand that there's only so much you can put in a book and not have it be too long.
The steam was okay, the audiobook too (it likely helped to push me to the end). I liked the plus size rep, monster romance references, and the book club, also Karl, didn't mind the pop culture references (minus "PROFESSOR GOOGLE" because who says that?).
Karl gets his own book, and while I feel like it might be really fun and more up my alley than this one, I'm still undecided about reading it. I think it might be better to give the author's other series a try before going back to this one. Plus, Karl isn't out yet so...
ALSO, extremely extremely EXTREMELY stupid third act breakup. Matthew gave up too easily, I was listening to that part and he was just like "ok fine"??? Sir??? I could not believe my ears, legit had to pause. I wasn't rooting for him before, but you can bet there was no way in hell I'd root for him after that.
This was a very okay/middle of the road read for me. The audiobook made it more interesting than it probably was, and I wasn't bored at any point. TheThis was a very okay/middle of the road read for me. The audiobook made it more interesting than it probably was, and I wasn't bored at any point. The first half worked for me a lot more than the second, which is when they got together.
And it wasn't that the romance was cringy because it wasn't, there was just no chemistry there. They would've been better off as friends/whatever else it was they had going on before.
I got annoyed at the amount of times Mike's full name was used, surely someone counted and could tell me? I'd do it myself but don't have the ebook or physical to compare. But yeah it seemed like every time Aurora was thinking about Mike it wasn't just Mike, it was Mike Martin Mike Martin Mike Martin. Girl, why?
Mike had his own repetitive thing, and that was calling himself a hoser, though that wasn't nearly as prevalent as Aurora's Mike Martin thing.
I'm NOT a fan of third act breakups, which I'm sure everyone knows by now, and the one here was extremely dumb (and more of an ending breakup than third act breakup). But it didn't impact my rating, this is a three star read either way.
Also, can someone tell me how old Olivia is supposed to be? I must've missed it, but I feel like a few different ages were mentioned? Maybe I imagined that....more
I love RH books, I do. And the thing I love most about them is the depth of the main character's relationship with each of her men. That was nonexisteI love RH books, I do. And the thing I love most about them is the depth of the main character's relationship with each of her men. That was nonexistent here. Everything is just so fast paced for no reason at all. The book is almost 600 pages long, there was definitely space to flesh out the relationships.
This is one of those insta love cases, where she sees a guy, immediately falls for him and he for her, and rinse and repeat 4 times. To be fair, there was double insta love at the start, where she meets Finn and Jensen, and the other two guys were individual, but still.
There was barely any plot, which I don't mind when I like the characters, but I didn't end up liking anyone here. It's weak at best, it's there just to fill up some time between romantic scenes.
And then there's Maeve's training, or lack thereof. There's one distinct scene I remember, it was over too quickly, and the point in the book it first appears is a bit strange. You'd think she'd want to train the very second she sees she has powers, especially since she seems so concerned about hurting her mates, but no.
I don't think this author is for me, since this is now the third book that I either don't like or don't have strong feelings for. But I am going to read The Mate Games anyway, it should be more to my taste since it's a collab with another author I love.
Finally, the short story at the end deserves a mention. It was so much better than the main book and I think getting through 500+ pages just to get to it was worth it. I wasn't even going to read it, but I'm glad I did. If there was a story with those two characters, like their own spinoff, then I think I'd give K. Loraine another chance.
4 stars for the short story, 2 stars for the main story, so I'll be nice and give it 3.
Merged review:
I love RH books, I do. And the thing I love most about them is the depth of the main character's relationship with each of her men. That was nonexistent here. Everything is just so fast paced for no reason at all. The book is almost 600 pages long, there was definitely space to flesh out the relationships.
This is one of those insta love cases, where she sees a guy, immediately falls for him and he for her, and rinse and repeat 4 times. To be fair, there was double insta love at the start, where she meets Finn and Jensen, and the other two guys were individual, but still.
There was barely any plot, which I don't mind when I like the characters, but I didn't end up liking anyone here. It's weak at best, it's there just to fill up some time between romantic scenes.
And then there's Maeve's training, or lack thereof. There's one distinct scene I remember, it was over too quickly, and the point in the book it first appears is a bit strange. You'd think she'd want to train the very second she sees she has powers, especially since she seems so concerned about hurting her mates, but no.
I don't think this author is for me, since this is now the third book that I either don't like or don't have strong feelings for. But I am going to read The Mate Games anyway, it should be more to my taste since it's a collab with another author I love.
Finally, the short story at the end deserves a mention. It was so much better than the main book and I think getting through 500+ pages just to get to it was worth it. I wasn't even going to read it, but I'm glad I did. If there was a story with those two characters, like their own spinoff, then I think I'd give K. Loraine another chance.
4 stars for the short story, 2 stars for the main story, so I'll be nice and give it 3....more
HOLD UP, THE FINAL MATE GAMES SERIES ISN'T COMING TILL 2025??? DO YOU KNOW HOW LONG THAT IS??? WAHHHHHHH. I'm already going through withdrawal. HopefuHOLD UP, THE FINAL MATE GAMES SERIES ISN'T COMING TILL 2025??? DO YOU KNOW HOW LONG THAT IS??? WAHHHHHHH. I'm already going through withdrawal. Hopefully there's something else in store for us while we wait (I have no hints, I'm just throwing that out there hoping it sticks).
OKAY SO, the ending was the most perfect ending x100, the epilogues were just so sweet and funny, I loved seeing cameos from other characters yet again (my favourite couple in the whole universe included, if you know you know). And THAT BONUS SCENE!!! STOP MY HEART CAN'T TAKE THE CUTENESS!!!!!!!
I've been holding off on reading the bonus scenes, because I figured it would be fun to read all of them at the end of the series and I JUST...WHO'S CRYING? ME? YES. That little puppy really is the goodest boy. Can't believe we got a crossover there too, mind blown in the best way.
All of those epilogues/bonuses had me smiling from ear to ear, the bloopers too. Now I fear I'll require bloopers after all the audiobooks I listen to, I've been so spoiled.
Plot wise, this is the closest we've gotten to an actual apocalypse, and I gotta tell miss ma'am Death what a good job she did!! So many twists I didn't see coming. I'm (almost) sad she lost? Like, she put so much effort into this, only for her plans to be foiled. Poor Death, let me give you a hug. She's my favourite villain in the series so far, even though the guys are technically villains too, but you know what I mean.
Speaking of resident hot villains, dear ol' Captain Hook had me laughing out loud yet again. His good mood is really contagious, I swear it made my headache better. If I said that he's my favourite Mate Games character ever, would the others be mad at me? HOPEFULLY NOT, THERE'S ENOUGH LOVE TO GO AROUND!! I just think Kim & Meg struck gold with Caspian, and I would not be opposed to more pirate characters in the future.
OH! Gotta mention this so I don't forget, that *IMPROVED* J. M. Barrie quote at the start really got me. I was giggling from the get go.
Now for the other three gents, are we ready? Yes? I know I always do a final ranking type of thing but...I don't know how to rank them this time. I love Tor, Kai and Cain/Hades equally. So I'll just say that I love how much they developed over the series, how close they got to each other and how all of Dahlia's men now function like a well oiled machine. They're still jealous from time to time, but they can properly share.
Also, I find it very fitting that Kai got to do the thing first. You'll know which thing when you get to it, hah.
Dahlia, meanwhile, finally came into her own, mastered her powers (for the most part), and became truly free with expressing her desires, that's my girl!! I love her so much, she's living the dream.
I don't remember if I ever mentioned Kiki in my reviews? Maybe, possibly? Either way, she was simply fabulous in this one. She's a true friend and would go to hell and back for Dahlia, quite literally. She had a bigger role here than in the past books which was honestly deserved.
We got a little sneak peak into the next series, I was wondering where that storyline was going and I'm glad we finally have an answer. I just wish we didn't have to wait so long to see it.
Lastly, stellar performance by all the narrators as always, these books and their narration make life worth living.
P. S. If you still haven't started this brilliant series, I'm judging you.
*Thank you to the authors for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*...more
“Sword-fighting isn’t your calling, little mouse. Perhaps you’ll best me in something else some day?”
Would you believe that, out of all the quotes I c“Sword-fighting isn’t your calling, little mouse. Perhaps you’ll best me in something else some day?”
Would you believe that, out of all the quotes I could've pulled, I picked one of the villain's? Because, and I'm sorry (not sorry), he's highkey hot, KC WHAT HAVE YOU DONE??? I was just minding my own business, then in comes Guy of Gisborne to steal the show...how rude.
YES I WILL BE IGNORING HIS EVIL DEEDS HE DID NOTHING WRONG NOT ONE THING!! Now if KC has me simping over the Sheriff of Nottingham too, well then we'll have a problem. So far so good though *knocks on sher-wood*. Ba dum tss. That was gold and you know it.
So, this (if it wasn't already apparent) is a gender-bent Robin Hood retelling, in which Robin gets kidnapped by the Merry Men after a carriage robbery and slowly burrows her way into their hearts (and pants).
I loved watching her grow from a somewhat naive noble girl into the strong woman she was meant to be. She's not at the legend level yet, but she'll get there.
She fell for the men pretty fast and I can't fault her for it, they are really cool. My favourite is probably Will Scarlet, but Alan a Dale is close behind. You know how he has a lute? Yeah, I was wondering if we'd get another lute scene somewhere in there. Bit of KC lore for you, you're welcome, and if you're curious about what I'm referring to, then you should go read the Camelot Untold trilogy, it's unforgettable.
But yeah, while all the men were fierce when it came to protecting Robin, Will was kind of a chaotic menace all around, I have no other option but to stan. He kind of reminds me of an angry hamster, but in a good way, I can't explain.
Alan we don't know much about, I think he got the least page time out of all the men which will be rectified in the future, I know. He's the softest and sweetest and swings all the ways AS HE SHOULD!!
Little John comes next in my line of faves, though the salt and pepper hair would normally place him higher, so this is subject to change. I feel like we know him, but we also need to get to know him, if that makes sense. With that cliffhanger I think we will.
Friar Tuck is last for a big cartoon shaped reason. That's what I've been imagining the whole time, I'm trying so hard not to and I'll hopefully succeed by the end of the series. He's sweet too, and can be very kind, it's just...I see a badger.
Maid Marian also gets a mention, I knew she'd be trouble from the start, just wasn't sure how much. She's rotten to the core and I wonder who she'll join forces with next.
I never doubted the ending would be a cliffhanger, but I am even more anxious after that last twist. I thought something along the lines might happen BUT I DIDN'T WANNA BE RIGHT. I WANT ANSWERS AND I WANT THEM NOW!!!!
P. S. Sir Gregory could get it too, I don't discriminate.
*Thank you to the amazing author who provided me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review*...more
I picked this up for 2 reasons, 1 - it's D. Rose and 2 - the name Danilo, which just happens to be the name of one of my cousins, but don't worry, I wI picked this up for 2 reasons, 1 - it's D. Rose and 2 - the name Danilo, which just happens to be the name of one of my cousins, but don't worry, I was able to separate book Danilo from real Danilo.
It's more dislike to lovers than enemies to lovers. They don't get along because Skylar feels neglected by her parents because of Danilo coming into their lives, but they can be civil with each other prior to realising their attraction to one another.
When they do, the book becomes a lot more fun. And I'm glad it all worked out for them at the end and there was no huge breakup.
My favourite part though, was Danilo's back story and him getting a second chance to do something with his life. I connected more to him than I did to Skylar, but I did like her too.
Overall, another great read by this author, here's to many more....more
My favourite book in the series so far, it was so good, humour filled and kept me entertained throughout. I easily fell in love with Haven, Halo, HarmMy favourite book in the series so far, it was so good, humour filled and kept me entertained throughout. I easily fell in love with Haven, Halo, Harmonie and uncle Reef. And I'm so glad this isn't the last we'll be seeing of them!!!
This is my first read by the author, but it won't be my last. It had me crying several times because of what Haven and Harmonie went through, and that daddy reveal got me, I was literally sobbing with them. I love you Nek Mills, thank you for writing this story....more
Ok hear me out...I actually didn't mind the evil girlfriend plot point. I KNOW, I KNOW, but I think it was what I needed to keep me entertained, and hOk hear me out...I actually didn't mind the evil girlfriend plot point. I KNOW, I KNOW, but I think it was what I needed to keep me entertained, and honestly I do not feel bad for said girlfriend at all. Sorry.
I liked that she existed, so that Kaliya and Danny's romance couldn't move too fast, because it was clear that they were still attracted to each other and if she wasn't there to create some sort of divide, they would've immediately gotten back together and I wouldn't have found this nearly as fun.
I also liked seeing the two of them working together before seeing them actually get together, it convinced me that they could work out this time around.
ALTHOUGH, Kaliya absolutely forgave Danny too easily for every single thing every single time. I get that she loves him and all, but he really didn't have to do much for her to take him back. I was expecting more effort on that front.
The movie they were working on was super sweet, and probably my favourite part of the book. I teared up at Danny's mother's interview. I wouldn't mind a whole book (or novella) about his parents' story.
The writing was another thing I really adored, it's so strong for a debut author, and the story itself is as well. I'd gladly read another book by Myah Ariel, especially if the cover is as gorgeous as this one....more
Ok I love the names chosen for the characters, I think they're so fun and they all have a certain theme. The Gamble family is such a riot, and I'm jusOk I love the names chosen for the characters, I think they're so fun and they all have a certain theme. The Gamble family is such a riot, and I'm just realising Cassina & Spade's story exists and it came out before this book...might have to get on that too.
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