bellebookcorner's reviews
1232 reviews

The Proposal Play by Lauren Blakely

Go to review page

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

3.5

The Proposal Play is the 3rd book in the Love and Hockey series, but don’t worry — you can read this one as a standalone.
I didn’t read the previous books and I can enjoy this one exciting without feeling like I missed out on anything crucial.

The story follows Maeve and Asher, whose chemistry as friends and lovers is intense and compelling.
The characters are incredibly lovable; I enjoyed their interactions, particularly Asher with his dads, and Maeve with her brother and best friends.
Watching Maeve and Asher have fun, be vulnerable, and share their fear and feelings added depth to their relationship.

As much as I like the slow-burn romance between Asher and Maeve, there were moments when it felt prolonged and a bit frustrating.
Their reluctance to be honest with their feelings seemed drawn out, especially knowing they would eventually get together at the end.

Overall, it was an enjoYable read and gave a refreshing experience in a genre I don’t usually read.
I adore the characters and the easy-to-read writing style. However, I do wish it had been a bit shorter to keep the pace more engaging.
Despite that, it was a sweet and fun read that I'd recommend to sport romance fans.

Thank you to Good Girls PR, the author and publisher for giving me an e-ARC of the book. I’m leaving this review voluntarily!
Expand filter menu Content Warnings
Better Than Revenge by Kasie West

Go to review page

emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted reflective 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

Another sweet, light-hearted and heart-warming YA romance to recommend! 
There are lots of important messages throughout the story, and I adore the characters. They’re not perfect, which makes them more relatable. 
 
In this story, we follow Finley, who makes a plan to get revenge on her ex-boyfriend after he betrays and humiliates her. 
I really enjoyed seeing Finley’s journey; how her character grows throughout the story, as well as her relationship with her family and friends.   
 
As for the romance, I wasn’t sure about Finley and Theo chemistry at first. 
But I was rooting for them soon enough after they start to open up about each other while Theo was helping Finley with her revenge plans. 
 
Aside from the sweet romance and revenge storyline, I also enjoyed the sub-plot of Finley’s grandma love life back when she was young. 
I loved that Finley’s bond with her grandma wasn’t affected by her grandma’s Alzheimer’s. She choose to spends time with her reminiscing together about her grandma’s history and lets her grandma set the pace.    
 
Better than Revenge comes with a satisfying ending and brought up important themes such as forgiveness, moving on, empowerment through self-improvement and that revenge is not the answer. 
This wasn’t my first book by this author, and it definitely won’t be the last. I’m looking forward to read more books by this author in the future! 
 
Thank you to TBR and Beyond Tour, Netgalley, 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!
Dating and Dragons by Kristy Boyce

Go to review page

emotional funny hopeful lighthearted relaxing 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

5.0

I absolutely love this book! 
It’s as fun and as adorable as the previous book, Dungeons and Drama! 
While it’s the 2nd book in the series, you can read this one without reading the 1st book since it features a different couple. 
 
I have no idea how to play D&D at all and I think the author did a very good job in explaining how the game works in detail, including how to play the game, the process of creating characters, and the importance of good team chemistry to play well. 
I’m also amazed by how Quinn and her friends skillfully and passionately play their roles in the campaign. It all sounds like so much fun! 
 
The slow-burn, forbidden romance between Logan and Quinn is delightful to see! 
Logan is a total sweetheart and very charming which made it so hard for Quinn to resist him. 
He’s a very smooth-talker —I haven't found any teenager who could confess their feelings as well as Logan did. 
 
Beyond the sweet romance, I adore Quinn’s family dynamic, especially her relationship with her grandma, which brings up sweet memories of my own too. 
Quinn and her brother, Andrew’s sibling relationship isn’t perfect, making it more relatable, I really like seeing them slowly mend their relationship throughout the story. 
 
Overall, this was such a fun and sweet YA romance that also brought up important themes such as friendship and adapting to big changes. 
I can’t stop smiling and laughing while I was reading this book, Dating and Dragons is definitely going into my top favorite books in 2025! 
 
Thank you to TBR and Beyond Tour, Netgalley, 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! 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings
Lies on the Serpent's Tongue by Kate Pearsall

Go to review page

adventurous challenging dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

Back in the eerie Appalachian town of Caball Hollow, we follow Rowan, one of Linden’s sisters, who possesses a unique supernatural ability; she can taste other people’s lies.

I thought her ability would make it easier to solve the mystery in this story, but that’s not the case. It makes the mystery just as challenging to solve!

One of my favorite aspects of this story, beside the supernatural ability and the beautiful writing style, is the family dynamics.
It’s heart-warming to see the James women always having each other’s back and caring for their small town, despite the way of how some of the people in town treat them.

I’m thrilled to see Rowan and Hadrien as the main characters cause I love their banter and the tension between them in the previous book.
However, just like the first book, the romance is not the main focus of the story.
I would’ve love to see more of them working together to solve the danger lurking around the small town again. 

The pacing was a little slow at first, but the twists and turns in the last half of the book more than make up for it, keeping me on the edge of my seat the whole time
That last line at the last chapter really surprised me! It made me wished I had the next book in my hands already!

Overall, Lies on the Serpent’s Tongue is a fantastic addition to the series!
Judging by the ending, the series is far from over, and I’m curious about which sister will be the main character next. My bet is on Juniper!
Well, no matter who it is, I will definitely keep an eye out for the next adventure in Caball Hollow!

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

⚠️ 𝐓𝐖: death, car accident, violence, blood
Expand filter menu Content Warnings
Bittersweet in the Hollow by Kate Pearsall

Go to review page

adventurous dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

“We all think we’re trying to protect each other, but really we’re just keeping secrets.” 
 
Set in the eerie, atmospheric Appalachian town of Caball Hollow, Bittersweet in the Hollow perfectly blends mystery and paranormal elements! 
The local legend of the Moth-Winged man also adds another layer of darkness drawing me into its well-crafted world-building. 
 
What sets this novel apart is the unique supernatural abilities possessed by Linden (the FMC) and her sisters—such as tasting people's lies and feelings. 
I also love the descriptive writing style; the way the author vividly brings the setting to life right down to the mouth-watering details of the food. 
 
The first half part unfolds at a measured pace, but it’s the second half part that truly captivate me as the plot thickens and long-buried secrets are uncovered, making it nearly impossible to put down. 
 
As for the romance element, the complex relationship between Linden and Cole adds emotional depth to the story. Their intricate history and the gradual rekindling of their connection is a nice touch which adds as a satisfying romantic subplot. 
 
Overall, this is a fantastic YA read, brimming with dark secrets, vivid descriptions and a satisfying conclusion! 
I wasn’t ready to leave this small town so I was thrilled to learn there’s a second book in this series featuring another sister. I’m looking forward for another adventure in the next book! 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings
A Promise of Lies by Clare Sager

Go to review page

adventurous challenging emotional 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

5.0

“I would choose you over her —over anyone —a thousand times in a thousand lives.” 
 
A Promise of Lies served as an epic conclusion to Kat and Bastian’s story! 
It’s the perfect book to close out 2024, it was definitely worth the wait! 
 
The plot picks up right where the previous book left off, with even higher stakes, especially as Kat and Bastian are separated between two courts at the beginning. 
Secrets are revealed one after another, keeping me on the edge of my seat with each twist! 
It was also great to see more of Sepher and Zita making appearances and even scheme their way in here! 
 
I love seeing the gang (Rose, Faolan, Kat, Bastian and Ella) interact with each other as they scheme their way through, when they support each other, bare their feelings towards one another. 
Kat and Bastian are truly one of my favorite couples! 
Their bond is commendable as they are tested by numerous obstacles and secrets, yet they continue to support each other. 
Especially Kat toward Bastian, who has a lot to work through in this book. (I won’t speak more about it cause I don’t want to spoil the book for you!) 
 
For those who have been waiting for some of the sexy and spicy scenes, I can honestly say you won’t be disappointed! 🥵 
We get to finally see those promises aren’t just words —especially the one in the cabin! 
 
Overall, this was a wonderful conclusion with a heart-warming scene at the end! 
I was happy to see my beloved characters dreaming about their futures, but I’m also sad that now I have to part with them…. 
It has been a great adventure in Elfhame and I will definitely keep my eyes open for more books by Clare in the future! 
 
I received an advanced review copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
 
⚠️ 𝐓𝐖:  death, threat of sexual violence, violence, murder, prejudice and discrimination, misogyny, alcoholism, fat shaming, grief, familial abuse, pregnancy, infertility, dealing with trauma present and past. 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings
Smoke and Mirrors by Claudia Cain

Go to review page

adventurous challenging mysterious tense medium-paced

4.5

Smoke and Mirrors is the sequel to Silver and Bone, following the vampire detective Jennifer Jones as she tackles another intriguing bizarre case, this time with a brand-new partner! 
 
What I love most about this series so far are the characters. The author has written them so well that it’s hard not to feel connected to and love them. 
I adore their strong friendship and how well they work together as a team, with a few sassy comments sprinkled in which liven up the story! 
 
The storyline is also fascinating, beginning with a twist — a person came back from the land of the dead and was seen walking about the street! 
The mystery kept me hooked from the start, and the last few chapters are quite intense, leading up to the big reveal. 
 
While the ending of Smoke and Mirrors tied up most things nicely, another unknown danger is still waiting for them all... 
The cliff-hangers at the end definitely made me with I have book 3 in my hands because I needed to get on with the next adventure with these awesome characters! 
 
Overall, this book is a fantastic addition to this series – a heart-warming and thrilling story which is a must-read for urban fantasy mystery lovers! 
 
I received an advanced review copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Expand filter menu Content Warnings
The Heartbreak Show by Jesikah Sundin

Go to review page

adventurous hopeful 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

2.75

To be honest, I had mixed feelings about this companion novel. 
 
The Heartbreak Show focuses on Cian and Glenna’s story, I was excited to get to read this book after enjoying their characters and sassy comments in the previous book, The Night Market. 
 
What I love about this novel is the lovely characters and their adorable familiars! 
The important theme of acceptance is well-portrayed through Cian’s journey, as he grapples with his fears, his magic, and his unexpected true identity. 
 
However, I found Cian’s quest confusing at the beginning. It took until the end for me to fully understand it, which slightly diminished my enjoyment of the book. 
The romance also lacked the burning spark; I didn’t feel the chemistry between Cian and Glenna as much as I did with the previous couples in this series. 
 
If you’re looking for something unique with adorable familiars, chosen mates, a found family and loveable characters then give this one a try. 
But be warned — some events happened in this book will spoil for the previous two books, so I highly suggest reading those first before diving into this one. 
 
I received an advanced review copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
 
⚠️ 𝐓𝐖: A complete list of content considerations can be found on the author’s website. 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings
On Wings of Blood by Briar Boleyn

Go to review page

adventurous challenging dark 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

5.0

Intriguing storyline with an easy-to-read writing style, epic world-building, sizzling enemies-to-lovers romance and beautiful friendship, all set against the backdrops of dangers lurking in every corner of this universe makes this book so hard to put down! 
 
Medra is a fierce, determined and curious girl who found herself in a strange world and betrothed to a vampire prince. 
 I really enjoyed following her story as she navigates through this new world – seeing how she tried to survive and made friendships with Florence and Naveen. 
 
Blake is a mysterious, cruel and arrogant guy, although he also has a soft side which we see more of from his POV. 
I liked seeing Medra and Blake’s attraction grows into something more as we delved deeper into the story. However, his possessiveness towards Medra can be slightly alarming. 
After that last chapter, I’m curious to see how their relationship will progress in the next book. 
 
There were lots of twists and turns near the ending, as betrayals and dark secrets starts to come out one by one. 
I’m hoping we’ll get to explore more of the world building and also get to know more about the dragons and their rider’s history in the next book. 
 
Overall, this was an entertaining and addicting dark academia romantasy! 
I was hooked right from the start and I’m looking forward to read the sequel coming out very soon! 
 
I wasn’t aware that this was a spin-off series to the Blood of a Fae series, but don’t worry I enjoyed reading this book without any problem and I’m sure you will too. 
If you want to know more of the land where Medra comes from, then you can check out the Blood of a Fae series.  
 
I received an advanced review copy through, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Huge thank you to the author and publisher!<
 
⚠️ 𝐓𝐖: Full list of trigger warnings can be found in the book. 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings
Dosa Malaikat by Keigo Higashino

Go to review page

challenging dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Kasus misteri pembunuhan yang mengejutkan, nyaris sempurna… 
 
Gaya penulisan yang mudah dibaca dan alur cerita yang menarik membuatku melahap halaman demi halaman 
Pembaca diajak untuk menginvestigasi satu kasus pembunuhan ‘mustahil’ ini mengungakp setiap petunjuk Bersama para detektif dalam pencarian mereka akan kebenaran. 
 
Ketika para detektif sepertinya menemui jalan buntu, salah satu dari mereka akhirnya meminta bantuan Prof. Yukawa. 
Hal-hal menjadi lebih menarik saat dia bergabung dalam penyelidikan. 
Pemikiran kritisnya dan pengamatan yang mendetail Prof. Yukawa memang tidak tertandingi! 
 
Sebenarnya, aku cukup yakin kalau tebakanku tentang siapa pelakunya benar, tetapi yang tidak kebayang itu adalah gimana kejahatan itu dilakukan. 
Aku punya teori-teori sendiri saat membaca buku ini, tetapi semuanya salah! 
Pengungkapan besar di akhir, ketika Profesor Yukawa menjelaskan bagaimana hal itu dilakukan, benar-benar mengejutkan! 
 
Secara keseluruhan, Dosa Malaikat menunjukkan keterampilan penulis dalam menyusun misteri pembunuhan yang ditulis dengan baik dan menarik! 
 
Highly recommended buat kalian yang menikmati kasus pembunuhan yang tampaknya mustahil (seperti misteri ruang terkunci) dengan keterampilan investigasi yang brilian, dan tentu saja, tikungan dan kejutan yang tak terduga! 
 
⚠️ Peringatan: Pembunuhan, perselingkuhan, kematian, kehamilan, infertilitas, bunuh diri, kesedihan 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings