cyrille6k's reviews
796 reviews

This novella absolutely gutted me. Even though I knew the ending was coming, I still found myself desperately hoping for a different outcome. It's easily the most impactful novella I've ever read. Lauren Roberts is an incredibly talented writer. I managed to smile, giggle, and cry all within 250 pages – a testament to her emotional range.

I fell deeply in love with Adena and Mak. Mak, with his grumpy exterior and surprisingly sweet core, is the epitome of my ideal book boyfriend. And Adena? She's such a refreshing character. It's wonderful to see a kind and compassionate protagonist in fantasy, especially when we're so often presented with the typical "fighter" archetype.

"Icebreaker" is a delightful read that shines brightest in its character development and heartwarming friendships. The dynamic within the friend group is incredibly endearing, and each character is unique and well-developed.

Henry Turner, in particular, is an absolute king!

The story features positive portrayals of therapy, diverse representation, and healthy sexual exploration. The witty banter and comedic moments are abundant, and the romantic relationships are both sweet and spicy.

While the plot may not be the central focus, the emphasis on character development and strong relationships makes this a truly enjoyable read. If you're looking for a story with compelling characters and heartwarming friendships, "Icebreaker" is highly recommended."

Warning: The dog dies. 


Leede’s American Rapture is a visceral and unflinching exploration of survival horror that packs a powerful punch. This isn't for the faint of heart; the novel grapples with heavy themes of religious extremism, trauma, and the devastating impact of societal control.

The characters are incredibly well-developed, each grappling with their own demons and facing impossible odds. They feel authentically human, flawed and complex, far from the archetypes often found in this genre. The story delves into the complexities of faith and identity, examining the destructive power of guilt and shame while highlighting the strength of human connection.

The world-building is immersive and chilling, creating a believable and terrifying depiction of a society ravaged by a virus that exploits religious extremism. The pacing is generally strong, though there's a slight lull around the 50% mark.

However, the novel's greatest strength lies in its unflinching exploration of difficult themes. Leede doesn't shy away from the brutality of the world she has created, while also offering moments of hope and glimmers of humanity. The ending is both devastating and hopeful, leaving a lasting impact on the reader.

American Rapture is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that will stay with you long after you finish the final page. It's a testament to the power of storytelling to explore complex social and political issues with both artistry and impact.

This book took me on quite a journey. I confess, I was initially concerned that the series might be falling into a predictable pattern. The middle section felt a bit less dense than previous installments. However, the story took a dramatic turn, and I was completely blown away by the unexpected twist.

As always, L. Alexander delivers a compelling narrative with a strong, badass female protagonist and a captivating love interest who is both vicious and devoted. I love how the different worlds in this series are gradually intertwining, and the characters are incredibly well-developed.

I particularly enjoyed the supporting characters, especially Imogen and her incredible stone kin. I'd love to see their abilities utilized more!

The ending was absolutely perfect, leaving me eager for Coltor's story and the rest of the series. This world is richly imagined and filled with fascinating characters. Thank you, L. Alexander, for creating such a captivating and unique series.

"Fevered Star" is a compelling sequel that builds upon the strengths of its predecessor. The world-building remains impressive, and the characters continue to evolve in engaging ways. While it may not have quite reached the same level of excitement as the first book, it still delivers a thrilling and satisfying reading experience. I'm eager to see where the story goes next.

While not without its flaws, I'm giving this book 5 stars because I absolutely adored it. Returning to this world and reconnecting with these characters was pure magic. Rebecca Yarros has created something truly special with this series.

This installment shone a spotlight on the supporting characters, and I finally feel a genuine connection with them. Garrick, Ridoc, and Aaric quickly became my favorites! I appreciated that the romance took a backseat to the compelling plot, allowing for more focus on politics, scheming, and intriguing villains.

While there were moments of confusion, I trusted that the story would eventually come together, and it did. However, the repetitive elements occasionally slowed the pace.

But oh, that ending! The cliffhanger left me utterly devastated and craving the next book. I haven't felt this way about a book in ages. It truly finished me.

Powerless by Lauren Roberts is a thrilling debut novel that will leave you breathless. The story follows Paedyn Gray, an Ordinary girl in a world where Elites with powers rule. When Paedyn saves the life of a prince, she is thrust into the dangerous world of the Elites, where she must hide her lack of powers to survive.

Roberts has created a fascinating world with complex characters and a fast-paced plot that will keep you hooked from beginning to end. Paedyn is a strong and resourceful heroine, and her relationship with the prince is full of tension and intrigue. The supporting characters are also well-developed, and they add depth to the story.

One of the things that makes Powerless so compelling is the way it explores themes of power, privilege, and prejudice. The Elites' treatment of the Ordinaries is a powerful reminder of the dangers of discrimination, and Paedyn's struggle to survive in their world is both heartbreaking and inspiring.

Following the delightful My Date with a Pair of Gray Sweatpants, I eagerly anticipated Dakota's next installment in the Sentient Object Holiday series. This charming novella delivered! The theater setting provided a unique and entertaining backdrop for the romance between Annalise and Michael, whose chemistry is absolutely captivating. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of their budding relationship. 

"Black Sun" is an epic and intimate exploration of generational trauma, displacement, and the complexities of identity. Roanhorse masterfully subverts traditional fantasy tropes, weaving a narrative that is both deeply personal and profoundly political.

The novel grapples with weighty themes: the struggle for belonging, the blurred lines between hero and villain, and the enduring power of indigenous cultures. The world-building is breathtaking, transporting readers to a vibrant and richly imagined landscape.

The characters are complex and compelling, each grappling with their own demons and desires. From the bisexual mermaid captain to the non-binary assassin, the diverse cast reflects a refreshing inclusivity. The intimate moments, like sharing a bed or tracing someone's palm, are beautifully rendered, while the more brutal scenes, such as the "gratuitous mass murders via a murder of crows," are unflinching in their depiction of violence.

"Black Sun" is more than just a novel; it's an immersive experience. Roanhorse's masterful storytelling will sweep you away on a journey of self-discovery and transformation, leaving you breathless and yearning for the next installment."

This story had me hooked! I especially loved how the FMC experienced relatable tummy troubles - I've definitely risked it all for a good slice of pizza, knowing the consequences!

The blend of time travel, magic, and mystery was a delightful surprise. Dakota never disappoints! I can't wait to see what adventures await in this series.

And crazier is, I started reading this the same day the story began on Jan 21st, 2025. 😆