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444 reviews
Santa's Coming by Serena Pier
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
This review is also available on my blog: Wine Cellar Library
First, I would like to thank the author and Grey's Promotions for providing me with an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
“Can I straddle you and then be looking back at the camera like I was just caught with Santa?”
Tropes:
holiday romance
small-town romance
single mom
he falls first
Christmas
light roleplay
later-in-life romance
banter
A fun-size, sweet-and-steamy Christmas romance novella!
After sitting on Santa’s lap for a risqué photo-op, Emily puts herself on Saint Nick’s naughty list. But instead of coal for Christmas, Nicholas has a hotter gift in mind.
This steamy novella packs a lot of spice, but also a hefty amount of tenderness. Nicholas is sweet, thoughtful, and playful. I just wish the book had been longer so that I could connect more with their story. I can't wait to read the upcoming holiday novellas in the series!
First, I would like to thank the author and Grey's Promotions for providing me with an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
“Can I straddle you and then be looking back at the camera like I was just caught with Santa?”
Tropes:
holiday romance
small-town romance
single mom
he falls first
Christmas
light roleplay
later-in-life romance
banter
A fun-size, sweet-and-steamy Christmas romance novella!
After sitting on Santa’s lap for a risqué photo-op, Emily puts herself on Saint Nick’s naughty list. But instead of coal for Christmas, Nicholas has a hotter gift in mind.
This steamy novella packs a lot of spice, but also a hefty amount of tenderness. Nicholas is sweet, thoughtful, and playful. I just wish the book had been longer so that I could connect more with their story. I can't wait to read the upcoming holiday novellas in the series!
Content Warnings
Moderate: Sexual content
Hannah and the Hitman by Vanessa Vale
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
This review is also available on my blog: Wine Cellar Library
First, I would like to thank the author and Valentine PR for providing me with an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Tropes:
standalone romance
romantic comedy
magical realism
cat dad
he falls first
insta-love
dual POV
obsessed MMC
supernatural twist
small town
touch her and die
"mine"
Who hasn’t fantasized about meeting their soulmate at 30,000 feet? I know I have.
Jack is stunned by the sexy, smut-reading good girl on his flight from Las Vegas to Denver. Reading over her shoulder leads to an NSFW conversation about their sexual preferences before landing, expecting never to see each other again. That is…until Jack shows up at Hannah’s library to ask her out. He’s a hitman, but he’s not the only one with a shocking secret.
Hannah and the Hitman is a funny, light-hearted standalone romantic comedy. I generally only like romantic comedies in film, but Vanessa Vale’s latest book is a refreshing change of pace for me. While humor is definitely at its core, Jack breaks through Hannah’s insecurities and builds her up throughout the story. Whereas her family makes her feel invisible and insignificant despite having recently recovered from a brain tumor, Jack relishes every ounce of her, physically and mentally. Together, they explore the spicy romance tropes of Hannah’s dreams, revving up her wild side while simultaneously allowing Jack to merge out of the fast lane.
First, I would like to thank the author and Valentine PR for providing me with an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Tropes:
standalone romance
romantic comedy
magical realism
cat dad
he falls first
insta-love
dual POV
obsessed MMC
supernatural twist
small town
touch her and die
"mine"
Who hasn’t fantasized about meeting their soulmate at 30,000 feet? I know I have.
Jack is stunned by the sexy, smut-reading good girl on his flight from Las Vegas to Denver. Reading over her shoulder leads to an NSFW conversation about their sexual preferences before landing, expecting never to see each other again. That is…until Jack shows up at Hannah’s library to ask her out. He’s a hitman, but he’s not the only one with a shocking secret.
Hannah and the Hitman is a funny, light-hearted standalone romantic comedy. I generally only like romantic comedies in film, but Vanessa Vale’s latest book is a refreshing change of pace for me. While humor is definitely at its core, Jack breaks through Hannah’s insecurities and builds her up throughout the story. Whereas her family makes her feel invisible and insignificant despite having recently recovered from a brain tumor, Jack relishes every ounce of her, physically and mentally. Together, they explore the spicy romance tropes of Hannah’s dreams, revving up her wild side while simultaneously allowing Jack to merge out of the fast lane.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Sexual content and Violence
Minor: Body shaming, Fatphobia, and Murder
Unexpected Proof by Dani Grimes
hopeful
inspiring
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
This review is also available on my blog: Wine Cellar Library
Inspired by a true story, a love torn apart by World War II brings two people together decades later.
"Come on. Shut me up, Adrian. Or are you worried you can’t do it?" (p.227)
First, I would like to thank the author and Grey's Promotions for providing me with an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
In the wake of a broken engagement and the death of her grandmother, Sutton arrives in Boston determined to learn more about the man her grandmother had loved and lost so many years ago. Sutton and Adrian, the owner of a sports bar, clash immediately. Adrian has no patience for Sutton’s attitude. Unfortunately for him, his grandfather is the man Sutton came from New York City to meet.
Dani Grimes wrote Unexpected Proof based on a family story of love lost during World War II. In this touching reimagining of how her great uncle’s story could have been written, Dani Grimes has created the emotional foundation for Sutton and Adrian’s love story. My own grandmother had Alzheimer’s dementia, and the way in which Ray’s character is portrayed is raw, delicate, and realistic.
The banter between Sutton and Adrian evolves from genuine, irritated frustration to sexual frustration to something more. Their slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers, cautious journey to love is so fun and their sexual chemistry is exquisite.
Unexpected Proof is a brilliant opener to the Boston series, and I am really looking forward to reading Unexpected Offer, which releases in just 2 weeks!
Inspired by a true story, a love torn apart by World War II brings two people together decades later.
"Come on. Shut me up, Adrian. Or are you worried you can’t do it?" (p.227)
First, I would like to thank the author and Grey's Promotions for providing me with an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
In the wake of a broken engagement and the death of her grandmother, Sutton arrives in Boston determined to learn more about the man her grandmother had loved and lost so many years ago. Sutton and Adrian, the owner of a sports bar, clash immediately. Adrian has no patience for Sutton’s attitude. Unfortunately for him, his grandfather is the man Sutton came from New York City to meet.
Dani Grimes wrote Unexpected Proof based on a family story of love lost during World War II. In this touching reimagining of how her great uncle’s story could have been written, Dani Grimes has created the emotional foundation for Sutton and Adrian’s love story. My own grandmother had Alzheimer’s dementia, and the way in which Ray’s character is portrayed is raw, delicate, and realistic.
The banter between Sutton and Adrian evolves from genuine, irritated frustration to sexual frustration to something more. Their slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers, cautious journey to love is so fun and their sexual chemistry is exquisite.
Unexpected Proof is a brilliant opener to the Boston series, and I am really looking forward to reading Unexpected Offer, which releases in just 2 weeks!
Content Warnings
Moderate: Dementia
Minor: Child death, Death, and Domestic abuse
Crown of Lies by Pepper Winters
dark
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
Trembles of the Heart by Frankie Sutton
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.0
Paris and the Reaper by Layla Reyne
dark
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
The Bone Key by Mary Rajotte
dark
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Evergreen Academy by Heather Schneider
lighthearted
mysterious
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
The full review is available on my blog: Wine Cellar Library
Evergreen Academy by Heather Schneider is a cozy, atmospheric young adult fantasy with an intriguing, well-developed plant magic system. The ways in which the professors test for plant affinities to determine which magical powers Briar may have are really fascinating. Callan, Briar’s tutor and a descendent of the Academy’s founding magical botanists, is so charming and attentive. The slow-burn, forbidden romance that is building between Callan and Briar has left me desperate for the second book in the Society of Magical Botanists series to be published. I am so eager to find out how Briar will fit into the hierarchy of magical botanists in her second year at the school. The revelations about her possible lineage and her magical abilities have set up the second book to be very exciting!
Evergreen Academy by Heather Schneider is a cozy, atmospheric young adult fantasy with an intriguing, well-developed plant magic system. The ways in which the professors test for plant affinities to determine which magical powers Briar may have are really fascinating. Callan, Briar’s tutor and a descendent of the Academy’s founding magical botanists, is so charming and attentive. The slow-burn, forbidden romance that is building between Callan and Briar has left me desperate for the second book in the Society of Magical Botanists series to be published. I am so eager to find out how Briar will fit into the hierarchy of magical botanists in her second year at the school. The revelations about her possible lineage and her magical abilities have set up the second book to be very exciting!
A Way With Darkness by Zoe T. Conley
dark
hopeful
inspiring
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
This review, as well as the author's Spotify playlist, are available on my blog: Wine Cellar Library
First, I would like to thank the Reedsy Discovery and author for providing me with an advanced review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. (This review is slightly modified from the editorial review that I wrote for Reedsy.)
Before, Adelaide would do anything for Nathan–even steal ancient magic to save his sister. A mutual betrayal leaves Adelaide cursed with dark, uncontrolled magic and Nathan in prison. One year later, Nathan is back at the University of Mysteries while he awaits a formal trial, flanked by his cocky former cellmate, and Adelaide struggles with her conflicting feelings. The strict rules that the Council enforces on the pledges forbid unsanctioned relationships, but some loves are too powerful to deny. While Adelaide’s status and future career are on the line, Nathan faces being returned to the prison that broke him.
This book has me in its thrall. Adelaide starts her final year at university as a shell of herself. Emaciated and depressed, she has isolated herself from everyone who cares about her. As she repairs her friendships and becomes confident in her magic, she slowly grows in confidence. While she still has doubts, her journey in healing is glorious. Her growth to become unapologetically herself is inspiring. A Way With Darkness by Zoe T. Conley is written beautifully, from the prose to the strong bonds of friendship and love to the call for women's empowerment. As Adelaide begins to question the chokehold that the Council has on its pledges, she starts to rebel, and it awakens a drive within her to master her talents, explore her sexuality, make a statement with her appearance, and embrace her dark magic.
The friendships in the story are to be envied, being mutually forgiving, understanding, devoted, and supportive. While Adelaide and Nathan do stumble, they communicate in a healthy way and recognize and admit to their faults. It’s truly refreshing to read a book bursting with healthy relationships. I will definitely read anything Zoe T. Conley publishes in the future.
A Way With Darkness is a stellar addition to the romantasy genre. With dark academia and magical vibes, it is a cozy, slow-burn friends-to-enemies-to-lovers romance with moderate open-door sexual content, making it appropriate for new adult and adult audiences.
First, I would like to thank the Reedsy Discovery and author for providing me with an advanced review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. (This review is slightly modified from the editorial review that I wrote for Reedsy.)
Before, Adelaide would do anything for Nathan–even steal ancient magic to save his sister. A mutual betrayal leaves Adelaide cursed with dark, uncontrolled magic and Nathan in prison. One year later, Nathan is back at the University of Mysteries while he awaits a formal trial, flanked by his cocky former cellmate, and Adelaide struggles with her conflicting feelings. The strict rules that the Council enforces on the pledges forbid unsanctioned relationships, but some loves are too powerful to deny. While Adelaide’s status and future career are on the line, Nathan faces being returned to the prison that broke him.
This book has me in its thrall. Adelaide starts her final year at university as a shell of herself. Emaciated and depressed, she has isolated herself from everyone who cares about her. As she repairs her friendships and becomes confident in her magic, she slowly grows in confidence. While she still has doubts, her journey in healing is glorious. Her growth to become unapologetically herself is inspiring. A Way With Darkness by Zoe T. Conley is written beautifully, from the prose to the strong bonds of friendship and love to the call for women's empowerment. As Adelaide begins to question the chokehold that the Council has on its pledges, she starts to rebel, and it awakens a drive within her to master her talents, explore her sexuality, make a statement with her appearance, and embrace her dark magic.
The friendships in the story are to be envied, being mutually forgiving, understanding, devoted, and supportive. While Adelaide and Nathan do stumble, they communicate in a healthy way and recognize and admit to their faults. It’s truly refreshing to read a book bursting with healthy relationships. I will definitely read anything Zoe T. Conley publishes in the future.
A Way With Darkness is a stellar addition to the romantasy genre. With dark academia and magical vibes, it is a cozy, slow-burn friends-to-enemies-to-lovers romance with moderate open-door sexual content, making it appropriate for new adult and adult audiences.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Sexual assault and Violence
Minor: Self harm
The Thief's Keeper (An Enemy's Keeper Prequel): A Heartwarming Coming-of-Age Medieval Adventure by Kyrie Wang
adventurous
hopeful
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
The full review, an audiobook sample, and a link to the free e-book from the author's newsletter are all available on my blog: Wine Cellar Library
First, I would like to thank the author for providing me with a review copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
The Thief’s Keeper is a full-length prequel in the Enemy’s Keeper historical fantasy series by Kyrie Wang. A reimagining of history, The Thief’s Keeperbrings civilizations together on English soil, including Normans, Celts, and Norsemen in AD 1070. Kyrie Wang’s world-building shines, demonstrating a high level of research without losing the story to excessive detail. With each challenge the teenagers face, their bond strengthens. The book touches on poverty, intolerance, and prejudice while maintaining themes of hope, loyalty, and love.
The narrators, Michael Hajiantonis and Kiera Rhodes, are both versatile, performing different accents flawlessly. Kiera Rhodes’s voice for Aliwyn’s dialogue was a bit more childlike than I would have imagined, but otherwise, both narrators gave a fantastic performance, and the sound production was excellent.
The Thief’s Keeper builds a strong foundation for the Enemy’s Keeper series, full of adventure and triumph, and I am looking forward to reading Healer’s Blade.
First, I would like to thank the author for providing me with a review copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
The Thief’s Keeper is a full-length prequel in the Enemy’s Keeper historical fantasy series by Kyrie Wang. A reimagining of history, The Thief’s Keeperbrings civilizations together on English soil, including Normans, Celts, and Norsemen in AD 1070. Kyrie Wang’s world-building shines, demonstrating a high level of research without losing the story to excessive detail. With each challenge the teenagers face, their bond strengthens. The book touches on poverty, intolerance, and prejudice while maintaining themes of hope, loyalty, and love.
The narrators, Michael Hajiantonis and Kiera Rhodes, are both versatile, performing different accents flawlessly. Kiera Rhodes’s voice for Aliwyn’s dialogue was a bit more childlike than I would have imagined, but otherwise, both narrators gave a fantastic performance, and the sound production was excellent.
The Thief’s Keeper builds a strong foundation for the Enemy’s Keeper series, full of adventure and triumph, and I am looking forward to reading Healer’s Blade.