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courtsbooknook's reviews
1599 reviews
Right Where We Left Us by Jen Devon
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.0
I was sitting at 3 for a while with this one but everything just dragged on so much. I loved Rowan and Harry's story in Bend Towards the Sun, so I was hoping I would love this one as well, but it fell so flat for me. The idea of a second chance romance is great if the characters actually decide to be in a relationship for more than the last 10% of the book. There was so much back and forth and I couldn't get over the push and pull. Everything was so long I didn't even feel like this deserves an HEA. I couldn't believe it took me this long to read but I was so disconnected from the story and the characters. I also feel like there were so many background characters that were unnecessary to the romance. Overall, I should have dnfd and I'm not sure I enjoyed anything about this book. Thank you to St. Martin's press for the e-ARC to read and review!
The Teacher by Freida McFadden
dark
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
5.0
Holy crap this story is wild! I've only read one other book by Frieda and I can fully say I'm hooked. Some topics were dark and uncomfortable for sure, but I couldn't stop listening. It was so quick-paced and I loved the narration. There were so many twists and turns and I kept finding myself surprised at what was happening. I liked the alternating POVs and it made it hard to stop because the chapters were quick and always left you wondering. I found myself listening with my mouth open, gasping at decisions and screaming over the content. The ending had me reeling too and I genuinely couldn't believe it. I really enjoyed this one and I'm so glad it was put on my radar.
Beyond Scandal and Desire by Lorraine Heath
emotional
hopeful
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
4.5
What a great introduction to Lorraine Heath. I was hooked into this book immediately and I couldn't stop listening. I enjoyed watching Aslyn come out of her shell as the story developed. Mick was swoony from the start and there was no way I wasn't rooting for his love story. I enjoyed the found family aspect of this book a ton. I feel like this book also gave a more realistic glimpse into what society was like during these times. I liked how Aslyn started to live more freely after meeting Mick and didn't adhere to society's expectations. Also, I was so not expecting the plot twist towards the end of the book. I think that aspect made me love it even more. The tension was golden, chef's kiss, etc. Such a fun read and I'm so excited to read the other books in the series!
Prime Time Romance by Kate Robb
emotional
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
This book was a gift! I love the way Kate Robb writes alternate universes that seem to take place in the same timeline. The magical realism is delightful! This one just happened to have nostalgic 2000s TV vibes. The alternating POVs were done well and I liked being in both Brynn and Josh's heads. There were so many nods to pop culture and I was a HUGE fan of that. I also so related to Brynn watching her comfort show over again — hello Gilmore Girls for me! I enjoyed the romance immensely but I also enjoyed the various character development. There was no shortage of drama, but there was also a nice sense of community. I had a lot of fun reading this and couldn't put it down! Thank you to Dell Romance for the arc to read and review!
The Book Swap by Tessa Bickers
emotional
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
4.0
This book was very good albeit different than I expected it to be. I loved the concept of exchanging books through a little free library. It was so cute and well done and I enjoyed James and Erin's anonymous notes. This book focused on healing, forgiveness, and a surprising amount of grief. It was heavier at times than I thought but I enjoyed the way Tessa Bickers handled these topics. I wouldn't necessarily classify it as a romance either as I thought it was more self-focused for each of the main characters. There was a love story, but I think it also showcased the power of friendships, going after what you truly want in life, and how to move forward after a big loss or struggle. It also felt like a love letter to books and reading and of course, that aspect means a lot to me. Overall, the story was great and I enjoyed the character development.
The Near Witch by V.E. Schwab, V.E. Schwab
dark
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
4.0
For a debut novel, I'm super impressed. I can't believe I hadn't read this sooner and I loved the fairytale/fantasy combination. I thought the beginning was a little slow and it took me a bit to get into the story, but once it picked up I was hooked. Something about Schwab's writing for standalones is so lovely and lyrical and I quite enjoyed that. I liked the little setting of Near and how all the events were tied together. Lexi and Cole were a nice contrast for each other and it was fun to see their story develop in the background. Some of the events definitely felt spooky but I thought they were well done. Overall, I enjoyed this book and I pretty much love anything from her, so I'm not surprised.
My Lady Jane by Jodi Meadows, Brodi Ashton, Cynthia Hand
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
4.5
I read this book a while ago and I am SO glad I picked it back up again. It's so much fun. I love the alternating POVs and how lighthearted and fun the characters were. I also enjoyed the idea of shapeshifting and the funny take on history. The love stories were great, but the friendships were so delightful. This was certainly a female-driven story and it was great. I think the narrator helped in this instance — she was so funny, could do great accents and really embodied the vibe of each character. I can't wait to dive into the other books from this author trio and I'm excited to see their other takes on historical events!
Uncomfortable Conversations with a Jew by Noa Tishby, Emmanuel Acho
emotional
informative
medium-paced
5.0
This book was so well done. I listened to the audio and I think that captured my feelings even more. It was validating and honest and brought to light my own feelings as a Jew both prior to and after October 7. It was heavy and informative, but also easy to follow. I felt like Noa and Emmanuel were speaking to me and not simply recorded. It's books like these that showcase just how important communication is especially with difficult, uncomfortable topics like the ones discussed throughout. I feel like I not only felt seen and heard, but I also learned a lot while I was reading. I genuinely think everyone should read this and hey, while you're at it, maybe check on your Jewish friends.
Off Camera by Chelsea Curto
emotional
hopeful
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
I don't know what Chelsea puts in her books but I am here for EVERY SINGLE ONE!! I loved the idea of rivaling social media managers and how they didn't know who the other was at first. It's always so great and Chelsea does this exceptionally well. I saw a lot of myself in Avery and how much she cares immensely for others. I relate to her actions and love language in my own relationship and I loved seeing that in this book. Reid was also such a sweet and sensitive boy (with a DIRTY MOUTH) and I loved him as well. The heart and understanding in this book was magnificent and I enjoyed seeing all the friendships continue. Chelsea does spice so well. Nothing ever feels forced and I genuinely enjoy reading these moments. One of my favorite things? No third-act break-up!! The relationship got to truly develop and there was no reason for the two of them not to be together. I keep saying each book in the series is my favorite but it's true because they just keep getting better!! I can't get enough of these books and I will always be a Chelsea fan!!
Nine Liars by Maureen Johnson
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
3.0
This book was doing well up until the end. First of all, I don't think the mystery was drawn out enough and I was left wanting more moments that led to the reveal. I also thought the ending was so abrupt and uncalled for. It felt backward on character development and I feel like Stevie deserved better. I didn't really need a sixth book, but with that cliffhanger, I feel like I kind of do. I do love Stevie and how much she has developed over the book series. I liked the London setting and I related to the unknown of what's after high school. I also love Nate! I think he's such a great side character and I enjoy his and Stevie's friendship!