bellebookcorner's reviews
1242 reviews

Shadow and Crow (Silver and Bone, #3) by Claudia Cain

adventurous challenging dark emotional mysterious sad tense medium-paced

4.5

“Everyone thinks about the things they want to do before they die.
There’s no such thing as all the time in the world.
I think life has more weight when you know that eventually, it ends. That there’s a finish line.”

Reading the Silver and Bone trilogy has been a wonderful and thrilling journey, and it ends with an unexpected conclusion!

The plot picks up right after the ending of book 2, Smoke and Mirrors, with the stakes even higher. A powerful evil entity escapes from the veil, trying to wreak havoc in the human world and driving a war between the supernatural beings.

Jennifer is truly an amazing character; I admire her and feel for her because she’s been through a lot.

I absolutely love the family she found and the friendships she forms in unexpected ways. They always love and support her, and their humor livens up this serious and dark story!

The last few chapters were heart-breaking to read with so much oss and grief. Even with the final goal fulfilled, the bittersweet ending was a fitting conclusion to the story

The ending also left a glimpse of hope for a spin-off series with a new main character, which I would love to read!

Overall, this series was a must-read for fans of paranormal mystery thriller with found family and badass FMC!

I was hooked right from the beginning, and each book just keeps getting better and better! I’m really looking forward to reading more books from this author in the future.

I received an advanced review copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily!

Content Warnings

The Knight and the Butcherbird by Alix E. Harrow

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dark emotional hopeful inspiring reflective sad 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? Yes

5.0

The plot follows a storyteller, Shrike, who kept a huge secret from a renowned knight coming to slay a demon that has been terrorizing the town recently.

The author has done such a great job in crafting this exceptional, emotional tale of fantasy, horror, love, grief and tragedy with lush world-building making me feel connected to the characters within just a few pages.

The lyrical writing style delivered this story incredibly well, and the story concludes in a satisfying way.

This may be the first short book that I've felt completely satisfied with, without wishing it were a full-length novel.

This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and I absolutely love it. I will definitely check out the author’s other books in the future!

I received an advanced review copy through Netgalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Huge thank you to the author and publisher!

⚠️ 𝐓𝐖: grief, murder, body horror, death, terminal illness, violence, animal death

Content Warnings

The Bond That Burns by Briar Boleyn

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adventurous challenging dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.5

I love the first book, and I was very excited to read the sequel, The Bond that Burns which started right after the ending of Book 1, On Wings of Blood.

Truthfully, I have mixed feelings about this book.

Plotwise, it was fascinating. I was intrigued as Medra set out on a mission to uncover the hidden history of the dragons and their riders, as well as secrets kept from the public by the Four Houses. Not only that, but another shocking secret finally came to light.

Medra is doing her best under the immense pressure and expectations of being the only dragon rider. I admired the way she stands up for herself and her dragon, and her friendship with Florence.

And who could forget the adorable Neville ? It’s impossible not to love him; his cute antics always liven up the story!

While I enjoyed the storyline and love the characters, the direction of the romance wasn’t what I expected.

I spend most of the time hating Blake (Medra’s love interest) due to his attitude and action toward Medra, which angered me so much!

Initially, I was rooting for Medra and Blake, but after this book, I no longer feel the same way. I don’t’ get the Dramione vibes anymore and I think Medra deserves better than Blake…

The last few chapters were quite intense, with twist after twist, some of which were left unanswered. This left me wishing I had the next book in the series.

Overall, this was still a pretty good sequel. The easy-to-read writing style, short chapters, epic world building and loveable characters kept my eyes glued to my Kindle.

Despite my mixed feelings, I’m continuing the series since I’m curious to see what the author has in store next.

I received an advanced review copy through Netgalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Huge thank you to the author and publisher!

⚠️ 𝐓𝐖: blood, death, violence, sexual content

Content Warnings

Rebel Witch by Kristen Ciccarelli

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adventurous challenging emotional hopeful tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

“Sometimes our paths must diverge from those we love. But if love is the highest power, out paths will converge again–if not in this world, then the next.”

I was so excited to read Rebel Witch after devouring the previous book, Heartless Hunter.
The story started a few months after the ending of book 1, and I was hooked right from the beginning, seeing Rune and Gideon once again working in opposite sides.

The first half part had me intrigued and also relieved seeing Rune and Gideon wasn’t separated for most part of the book.
However, the second half part feels slightly rushed with new characters introduced and plotting to make a better world for witches.
I would’ve loved to see more Gideon and Rune working on the same team.

Rune and Gideon epitomize the slow burn enemies-to-lovers trope!
They’re back to arguing and plotting against each other in this book too, but it’s nice to see them slowly working out to be together, learning to trust and be vulnerable with each other again.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this conclusion, the author has a great way of bringing surprised to the readers in the very last parts of the book.
The final duel had me on the edge of my seat, eagerly anticipating the outcome!
Suffice to say, it was what I expected, even though I doubted for a moment there….

Overall, I love this whole duology. This sequel is as enjoyable and entertaining as the first despite the pacing issues because I finished it in just 2 days!
I’m definitely looking forward to more books written by this author in the future.

I received an advanced review copy through Netgalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Huge thank you to the author and publisher!

⚠️ 𝐓𝐖: blood, death, violence, gun violence, torture, sexual content, sexual assault

Content Warnings

Heartless Hunter by Kristen Ciccarelli

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adventurous emotional mysterious sad tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

If I have to give one word to describe this book, it would be addictive!

Once I started, it was impossible to put down – if I didn’t have to go do adult stuff then I would've finished this book in one sitting

A fascinating storyline unfolds as the two main characters plot against each other with their own agenda by wooing one another, but things take a different path between them the more time they spend together.

The magic system is also easy to understand, which makes this story even easier to get lost in.

Dual POV: This is a great touch to the story, as we learn more insight from different perspectives between a witch and a witch hunter, Rune and Gideon.

I thoroughly enjoyed seeing Gideon and Rune flirt and argue their way around each other as well as the sweet moments where they started opening up to each other at the beach (it’s one of my favorite parts!).

I usually wasn’t a huge fan of love triangles, but this is another exception! I equally love both love interests, making me almost wish she doesn’t have to choose either of them.

Then, when I thought there was nothing a book boyfriend could do to increase my dating standards, Gideon goes and makes silk flowers and a dress… No wonder Rune gets weak in the knees!

The last few chapters were insane filled with unexpected twists you’ll need to watch out for!

I’m not going into details with it, but I believe you’ll be as shocked as me when you read this book!

The author has done a great job crafting this beautiful tale between a witch and a witch hunter with a compelling writing style and lovable characters!

Overall, this book is an enthralling adventure of romance and magic, a definite page turner.

Perfect for fans of romantasy and enemies-to-lovers tropes!

⚠️ 𝐓𝐖: blood, death, violence, sexual content, death of a parent, sexual assault, brief mention of child death, addiction, drug use

Content Warnings

The Forest King's Daughter by Elly Blake

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adventurous emotional hopeful mysterious tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

“Maybe the memory of our dance will linger in this place, never quite dying, no matter how faded it becomes. That’s a kind of beauty.”

Do you want to dive into a world where ancient conflicts collide with forbidden love, and discover the magic that binds them together ? Look no further, and pick up Elly Blake’s newest book, The Forest King’s Daughter!

Though the story unfolds at a leisurely pace, it allows for a deeper exploration of the characters and the magical world, making each moment more impactful.

I wish there were a book map of it at the front of the book which would be lovely since the characters move to several different places throughout the story.

Told from Cassia’s POV, we follow her journey in trying to save her people and figuring out the ring’s power with a certain broody winged male —Zeru—that always rile her up but also supported her in his own way.

One thing I found myself wanting as the story progressed was seeing the events unfold from Zeru’s POV.

Furthermore, seeing Cassia’s character develop throughout the story was delightful as she finally learns her self-worth and following her own path rather than following her father.

The romance has a balanced amount of banter and sweet moments.

The complexity of their relationship, due to their family situations being enemies for years, adds depth.

Yet, their strong bond from childhood could not remain buried deep pushing them toward each other and finally embracing their true feelings.

Overall, The Forest King’s Daughter is a tale of love, self-discovery and the burden as well as responsibility of having great power.

While most things are wrapped up nicely, the ending also offers a glimpse of what’s coming next, and I’m looking forward to the next installment in this series to explore more of the world-building!

Thank you to TBR and Beyond Tour, author and publisher for giving me an e-ARC of the book and for having me on this book tour. I’m leaving this review voluntarily!

Content Warnings

Making A Killing by Cara Hunter

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challenging dark mysterious tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

“Even if you’re pretending, like in a play, you’re still the same underneath.”

The story begins with the discovery of a body, which quickly connects to the eight-year-old disappearance of Daisy Mason – a case Detective Inspector Adam Fawley first tackled in Close to Home.

While I didn't read Close to Home, I could follow the story just fine with the information provided by the detectives.

However, I recommend reading the first book if you have it or planning to read it, as this one will spoil it for you.

The introduction of the detective team at the beginning was very helpful, though as a reader new to the series, I found the large cast of characters – including two detective teams, police officers, victims, and witnesses – a bit overwhelming and at times felt confused when I forgot one or two characters and their connection to the case.

I love epistolary novels because they offer a unique reading experience.

The inclusion of newspaper clippings, emails, forensic test results, and pictures made me feel like I was investigating alongside the detectives, trying to unravel the mystery of a seemingly dead girl being alive and possibly involved in another homicide.

The first half of the book moves at a slower pace, but it definitely picks up as the pieces of the puzzle start to come together, leading to a thrilling cat-and-mouse chase between the detectives and the culprit.

Overall, this was an enjoyable read with a suspenseful ending that leaves many questions unanswered, suggesting a possible continuation.

I’ll definitely wait for the next book to continue this series, meanwhile I think I’ll pick up Murder in the Family, as the TV series from that book makes an appearance in this novel.

I received an advanced review copy through Netgalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Huge thank you to the author and publisher!

Content Warnings

The Rose in the Shadows by Arcadia Rayne

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adventurous challenging dark mysterious tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

The Rose in the Shadows is a stunning romantasy debut, perfect for fans of enemies-to-lovers, forbidden love and found family tropes. The author combines court intrigue and betrayals with a compelling narrative.

The story begins with a strong opening following Thea, who wakes up without her memories and has to learn about her powers as well as navigate herself in a strange new world she's currently in.

Through every exploration of Aethenia's backstory and the mysterious figure that Thea keeps meeting in her dreams, the plot remains engaging and exciting.

I absolutely adore the friendship Thea created with Clay’s friends such as Iris, Kent, Lorelei and others. They welcome her warmly, guiding her through the complexities of navigating the castle and the Council.

As for the romance, Thea and Clay's relationship starts on the wrong foot, sparking the classic enemies-to-lovers tension.

I enjoyed watching their relationship slowly progress into something more as they began to open up to each other. However, I found Thea's indecisiveness about her feelings a bit frustrating at times.

Overall, this is a fantastic start to a fantasy romance series. Great writing style and lovable characters make this book a true page-turner!

The last few chapters are particularly intense, featuring a huge betrayal and an unexpected twist that leaves me eagerly anticipating the upcoming sequel!

Thank you to RR Book Tour, author and publisher for giving me an e-ARC of the book and for having me on this book tour. I’m leaving this review voluntarily!

Content Warnings

The Dawn of the Cursed Queen by Amber V. Nicole

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adventurous dark emotional hopeful mysterious tense 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? It's complicated

4.25

“The most powerful being in the entire realm is not the World Ender, but the one who protects the World Ender...”

We're back with Dianna and Samkiel after the devastating ending of book 2!

This book is not what I expected, I was left speechless after finishing this gigantic book…

The multiple POVs are a great addition to the story, allowing readers to gain insights from different complex characters about certain events as they unfold.

I found some of the new POVs, like Cameron, Camilla, and Vincent, to be fun and refreshing.

“You’re supposed to protect the world, not me.”
“You are my world.”

Samkiel and Dianna remain the power couple in this series. They are truly made for each other as Samkiel’s patience and love can perfectly balance Dianna’s murderous tendencies and recklessness to act first and think later.

Their chemistry is off the charts, as they allow themselves to be vulnerable and truthful with each other. It wasn’t easy for Dianna, considering her past experiences with lovers.

For readers who enjoy steamy romance scenes, you won’t be disappointed with how much spice there is in this book.

“I’d destroy several worlds if it meant keeping you safe. You have no idea the limits I’d go for you.”

The book was an emotional roller-coaster with every tender, sweet moments and action-packed sequences.

The last 20% was the highlight of the book, in my opinion, and it was INTENSE!

I was on the edge of my seat the whole time, from the epic battle to each twist thrown in, leaving breadcrumbs for readers to anticipate what’s going to happen in the next book!

As much as I love this book, there are a few things I wished for more.

It has quite a lot of fillers for starters, some parts of the book also felt dragging and repetitive which can be a tad annoying.

To be honest, not a lot of significant things happens in terms of the plot cause this book was more of a character-driven rather than plot-driven.

Despite all that, this book didn’t diminish my love for this series. The romance went beyond my expectation; it was everything I’ve ever wanted for my favorite couple.

I’m still excited to continue reading this series, and I’m hoping for more action and faster plot progression in the next installment.

Content Warnings

A Game of Veils by Eva Chase

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adventurous dark tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.25

I don’t read many books with multiple love interest because I’d feel like I would prefer one over the others, but this book is an exception!

The combination of deadly trials, slow burn spicy romance, and court intrigue successfully hooked me from start to end.

I really enjoyed following Aurelia’s journey as she enters a set of brutal trials to win the hand of a malicious prince against other noble women in order to keep her people safe.

I admired her strength, determination and calculating mind as she passed each trial without breaking apart and staying true to her goal.

Her rage has been building from the start and I wasn’t surprised to see what she’d done in the last chapter!

One of my favorite elements from this story is the dynamic relationships between Aurelia and the three foster princes.

Each of the princes has a different type of relationship with Aurelia; one was sweet and tender, one was hot and flirty, the other can match Aurelia’s curious and intelligent mind.

It was interesting to see how they slowly grew close, transitioning from enemies to allies and finally as lovers as they couldn’t deny the attraction they felt for one another.

Overall, this is a fun and thrilling reverse harem romantasy!

I thoroughly enjoyed my time in this captivating world and looking forward to know what happens next after that HUGE CLIFF-HANGER at the end! I need book 2!

I would recommend this book to those who enjoyed:

✨ arranged marriage
✨ deadly trials
✨ enemies-to-lovers

✨ court intrigue
✨ reverse harem / why choose
✨ morally gray characters

✨ disability rep

I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Huge thank you to the author and publisher!

⚠️ 𝐓𝐖: Profanity, murder, classism, emotional and physical abuse, violence, sexual content, sexual harassment, and death

Content Warnings

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bellebookcorner's reviews 1242 reviews

bellebookcorner's reviews
1242 reviews