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The Bookish Box Anthology, Volume 1
12 never before read short stories from your favorite romance authors! A mix of contemporary, paranormal, fantasy, historical, and *spicy* adult romance stories! Some of the short stories within this anthology are also part of our author's existing stories/worlds that we know and love!
Includes:
Gloria by Sierra Simone
Rules of the Heart by Hailey Turner
The Edens by Devney Perry
A Most Extraordinary Match by Amalie Howard
Tuonen: Son of Death by Karina Halle
The Huntsman and the Witch by Harper L. Woods
Winter Surprise by Naima Simone
I Didn't Sign Up for This by Anita Kelly
Truce for Tonight by Kennedy Ryan
House of Rising Sands by Olivia Wildenstein
Winter's Bane by Hannah Parker
The Sex Witch by Sophie Lark
Includes:
Gloria by Sierra Simone
Rules of the Heart by Hailey Turner
The Edens by Devney Perry
A Most Extraordinary Match by Amalie Howard
Tuonen: Son of Death by Karina Halle
The Huntsman and the Witch by Harper L. Woods
Winter Surprise by Naima Simone
I Didn't Sign Up for This by Anita Kelly
Truce for Tonight by Kennedy Ryan
House of Rising Sands by Olivia Wildenstein
Winter's Bane by Hannah Parker
The Sex Witch by Sophie Lark
- GenresAnthologiesShort Stories
459 pages, Hardcover
First published December 9, 2022
About the author
Karina Halle
114 books17.7k followersKarina Halle is a screenwriter, a former music & travel journalist, and the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, & USA Today bestselling author of River of Shadows, The Royals Next Door, and Black Sunshine, as well as 70 other wild and romantic reads, ranging from light & sexy rom coms to horror/paranormal romance and dark fantasy. Needless to say, whatever genre you're into, she's probably written a romance for it.
When she's not traveling, she and her husband split their time between a possibly haunted 120 year-old house in Victoria, BC, their sailboat the Norfinn, and their condo in Los Angeles. For more information, visit www.authorkarinahalle.com
When she's not traveling, she and her husband split their time between a possibly haunted 120 year-old house in Victoria, BC, their sailboat the Norfinn, and their condo in Los Angeles. For more information, visit www.authorkarinahalle.com
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
May 17, 2023
When I first heard about this anthology I was super curious. While I haven't read most of the authors featured (don't come for me) the majority are on my TBR. So I went into this as sort of an author taster, especially since I knew many of the stories had some connection to their other works. Ranging from contemporary to fantasy and covering multiple tropes, there really is a story for every kind of romance reader here. I broke this review down by each story, including their plots and my personal opinions. The overall rating is an average of my ratings for the 12 short stories contained within.
Gloria - A Sinner Short Story by Sierra Simone
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Anything less than forever with her is too short. Anything less than everything is not enough."
As the name suggests, this story is based off of Sierra's Priest series specifically revolving around Sean and Zenny, the characters in Sinner, the second book. The plot of their story focuses around their wedding day...along with the night leading up to it. I mean, it was definitely one way to kick off the anthology. I can't say I was complaining.
Rules of the Heart by Hailer Turner
⭐⭐⭐⭐
" 'You'll let me stay here with you?'
'Yes. Forever how long you want.'
"And if it turned into forever, well, so much the better."
Sooo I tried to figure out if this story was based on one of Hailey's other books but I don't think it is. So I've come to the conclusion this was a sneak peak at a possible new project. Don't quote me on it as I've not actually read any of her books. Needless to say, this story follows warlock grad student Landon and his incubus roommate, Silas. Both of whom have been crushing on each other for quite some time and finally admit it to each other. I must say, they are very cute together. My only problem was I felt there was an unnecessary plot point thrown in, specifically the Sluagh attacks as I didn't feel it added anything. But it could just be set up for the future project. Overall, a very cute m/m urban fantasy romance.
The Edens - A Legacy Short Story by Devny Perry
⭐⭐
"How did you go six years missing a laugh and never even realize it?"
This story is based on The Edens series. 6 years ago Anne broke up with her high school sweetheart, Harrison, with no explanation. Now, their friends have invited them to a weekend retreat in a remote log cabin for a cross country ski trip. I think you can see where this is going. The Edens series ends up being about the 6 kids these two go on to have. In the end, I found the story lackluster and wasn't as impressed as I was by some of the other stories. I've just never been a fan of the small town romances.
A Most Extraordinary Match by Amalie Howard
⭐⭐⭐.5
"Darling, I would do anything for you."
The story follows Temperance, a well-off American woman, meeting her arranged betrothed, Rorke, an English duke. Fans of the Bridgerton series, or those like it, will eat this up. Specifically The Viscount Who Loved Me as there are many similarities to Anthony and Kate. Instead of a Pall-Mall game however, this story features a game of ice Cricket. Both are equally entertaining.
Tuonen: Son of Death - An Underworld Gods Short Story by Karina Halle
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"She was life, he was death."
I have actually read the first two Underworld Gods books so I actually was familiar with this world! Yay for me. Although, like the others, this can be read separately. Tuonen is Death's son and acts as a ferryman for the dead. However, Aven, the newest soul to arrive is quite set on not being dead. Tuonen is drawn to her for a reason he can't name and strikes a deal with her. She may return to life for 15 more years (until her 40th birthday) and then her soul will be collected. The catch? Her soul will now belong to Tuonen and will never rest in the City of Death with other mortal souls. This story acts as a prequel for what I assume will be Tuonen and Aven's spinoff book, as the story ends with a note from Karina saying their story is only beginning. Lets just say after this short story, I am very excited to read it.
The Huntsman and the Witch by Harper L. Woods
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Some people are worth defying my duty for. She's one of them."
This story focuses on two side characters in Harper's What Lies Beyond the Veil series. A series which I personally love so you can imagine my excitement as these two side characters (Imelda and Holt) have a ridiculous amount of tension in the main series. 10 years before the veil was formed Imelda was a young witch training in the Winter Court. When she is sent to heal a prisoner brought in by the Wild Hunt, she encounters a huntsman she can't keep her eyes off of. But what happens when relationships between Hunt members and witches are forbidden? Obviously, I very much enjoyed this story and I am quite excited to read more about these two in the next Of Flesh and Bone book.
Winter Surprise by Naima Simone
⭐⭐⭐
"Yea, I'm just a little bit consumed with each, beautiful, unique detail that make up her."
As far as I can tell this story is separate from Naima's other books, but I could be wrong. When music star Amira returns to her hometown with a big secret, her childhood best friend is there to greet her. Only, they haven't spoken since their one night stand 5 months ago. Amira's secret will either be their salvation or their downfall. Overall, I didn't love it but I didn't hate it. I've never been a fan of the trope but here it was done in a way where I didn't hate it as much as I normally do.
I Didn't Sign Up For This by Anita Kelly
⭐⭐⭐⭐
"It's been one of the best days of my life, alongside a stranger I feel like I've already somehow known forever."
This story is loosely based off of Anita's Moonlighter's series and focused on the Moonie's KJ, Kiki, when she goes on a ski trip to Switzerland after being dumped by her girlfriend. However she does not know how to ski. At all. A stranger, Maya, takes pity on her and decides to lend a helping hand. However, as the two spend the day together they start to feel less like strangers and more like something else, something better. This is a very cute f/f, cis/trans, low-angst story.
Truce for Tonight - A Rivals to Lovers Short Story by Kennedy Ryan
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"I don't believe in love at first sight, but from the moment we met, I believed in you, Sev."
Calling all academic rivals to lovers fans, have I got the perfect short story for you! Sevyn has spent her whole life being the best of the best in her class. But when new student Raphael transfers to her school in 9th grade, she encounters some serious competition. One that may have involved an accident with a Bunsen burner resulting in their parents meeting for the first time ending in wedding bells a few years later. Making our beloved academic rivals: step siblings. (Ignore my cackling in the background) Flash forward to our characters' being 30 at a family Thanksgiving dinner, and we soon find out how easily the line between love and hate can blend. I don't think this story is based on one of Kennedy's other books but I could be wrong. I'm really starting to sound like a broken record, aren't I?
House of Rising Sands by Olivia Wildenstein
⭐⭐.5
"Frightened of me, princess?"
"I'm frightened of nothing, Cathal."
This story is a prequel to House of Beating Wings and covers the meeting of Fallon's parents and the prophecy surrounding Fallon and her mother while providing an introduction to the world and its issues. I won't talk much about the details of the plot to avoid possible spoilers for the events in HOBW since I haven't read it. This story starts with quite a lot of info dumping and I found it hard to keep up with what was going on. The story deals with fated mates, a trope I usually love, however the chemistry was not there for me and felt super rushed. This is probably the only story in this anthology I would recommend reading the book it's based on first but you can manage to read it first.
Winter's Bane by Hannah Parker
⭐⭐⭐⭐
"We can face anything as long as we have each other."
This short story takes place within the world of Hannah's Autumn's Tithe series. Gaelyn is a general from the winter court who has been sent to dispatch a monster on the court's border. In the midst of a fight she meets Rush, an autumn court Fae claiming the monster is in fact a sick Faerie and he can save her. When both are injured in the fight, they retreat to a cabin in the woods to recover. But while there, secrets are revealed and betrayals lurk around every corner. As feelings develop, someone is bound to get hurt.
The Sex Witch by Sophie Lark
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"I was never meant to be a victim. I was never meant to be afraid."
This is my favorite story from this anthology. I am very much hoping this becomes a full book because I am completely hooked. Set in a world where people each have a magical ability, not having one is a curse. For 25 years, Evie has shown no sign of an ability. But after giving up her virginity she takes on the ability of who she slept with while also giving them a power boost. But it only lasts a few days. Evie soon learns all it can take is a kiss or touch to take a little power and make it her own. Basking in her newfound abilities, she is determined to find her missing sister of 14 years and is willing to stop at nothing to do so. I got the feeling we were watching Evie's villain arc and I was all here for it.
Gloria - A Sinner Short Story by Sierra Simone
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Anything less than forever with her is too short. Anything less than everything is not enough."
As the name suggests, this story is based off of Sierra's Priest series specifically revolving around Sean and Zenny, the characters in Sinner, the second book. The plot of their story focuses around their wedding day...along with the night leading up to it. I mean, it was definitely one way to kick off the anthology. I can't say I was complaining.
Rules of the Heart by Hailer Turner
⭐⭐⭐⭐
" 'You'll let me stay here with you?'
'Yes. Forever how long you want.'
"And if it turned into forever, well, so much the better."
Sooo I tried to figure out if this story was based on one of Hailey's other books but I don't think it is. So I've come to the conclusion this was a sneak peak at a possible new project. Don't quote me on it as I've not actually read any of her books. Needless to say, this story follows warlock grad student Landon and his incubus roommate, Silas. Both of whom have been crushing on each other for quite some time and finally admit it to each other. I must say, they are very cute together. My only problem was I felt there was an unnecessary plot point thrown in, specifically the Sluagh attacks as I didn't feel it added anything. But it could just be set up for the future project. Overall, a very cute m/m urban fantasy romance.
The Edens - A Legacy Short Story by Devny Perry
⭐⭐
"How did you go six years missing a laugh and never even realize it?"
This story is based on The Edens series. 6 years ago Anne broke up with her high school sweetheart, Harrison, with no explanation. Now, their friends have invited them to a weekend retreat in a remote log cabin for a cross country ski trip. I think you can see where this is going. The Edens series ends up being about the 6 kids these two go on to have. In the end, I found the story lackluster and wasn't as impressed as I was by some of the other stories. I've just never been a fan of the small town romances.
A Most Extraordinary Match by Amalie Howard
⭐⭐⭐.5
"Darling, I would do anything for you."
The story follows Temperance, a well-off American woman, meeting her arranged betrothed, Rorke, an English duke. Fans of the Bridgerton series, or those like it, will eat this up. Specifically The Viscount Who Loved Me as there are many similarities to Anthony and Kate. Instead of a Pall-Mall game however, this story features a game of ice Cricket. Both are equally entertaining.
Tuonen: Son of Death - An Underworld Gods Short Story by Karina Halle
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"She was life, he was death."
I have actually read the first two Underworld Gods books so I actually was familiar with this world! Yay for me. Although, like the others, this can be read separately. Tuonen is Death's son and acts as a ferryman for the dead. However, Aven, the newest soul to arrive is quite set on not being dead. Tuonen is drawn to her for a reason he can't name and strikes a deal with her. She may return to life for 15 more years (until her 40th birthday) and then her soul will be collected. The catch? Her soul will now belong to Tuonen and will never rest in the City of Death with other mortal souls. This story acts as a prequel for what I assume will be Tuonen and Aven's spinoff book, as the story ends with a note from Karina saying their story is only beginning. Lets just say after this short story, I am very excited to read it.
The Huntsman and the Witch by Harper L. Woods
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Some people are worth defying my duty for. She's one of them."
This story focuses on two side characters in Harper's What Lies Beyond the Veil series. A series which I personally love so you can imagine my excitement as these two side characters (Imelda and Holt) have a ridiculous amount of tension in the main series. 10 years before the veil was formed Imelda was a young witch training in the Winter Court. When she is sent to heal a prisoner brought in by the Wild Hunt, she encounters a huntsman she can't keep her eyes off of. But what happens when relationships between Hunt members and witches are forbidden? Obviously, I very much enjoyed this story and I am quite excited to read more about these two in the next Of Flesh and Bone book.
Winter Surprise by Naima Simone
⭐⭐⭐
"Yea, I'm just a little bit consumed with each, beautiful, unique detail that make up her."
As far as I can tell this story is separate from Naima's other books, but I could be wrong. When music star Amira returns to her hometown with a big secret, her childhood best friend is there to greet her. Only, they haven't spoken since their one night stand 5 months ago. Amira's secret will either be their salvation or their downfall. Overall, I didn't love it but I didn't hate it. I've never been a fan of the trope but here it was done in a way where I didn't hate it as much as I normally do.
I Didn't Sign Up For This by Anita Kelly
⭐⭐⭐⭐
"It's been one of the best days of my life, alongside a stranger I feel like I've already somehow known forever."
This story is loosely based off of Anita's Moonlighter's series and focused on the Moonie's KJ, Kiki, when she goes on a ski trip to Switzerland after being dumped by her girlfriend. However she does not know how to ski. At all. A stranger, Maya, takes pity on her and decides to lend a helping hand. However, as the two spend the day together they start to feel less like strangers and more like something else, something better. This is a very cute f/f, cis/trans, low-angst story.
Truce for Tonight - A Rivals to Lovers Short Story by Kennedy Ryan
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"I don't believe in love at first sight, but from the moment we met, I believed in you, Sev."
Calling all academic rivals to lovers fans, have I got the perfect short story for you! Sevyn has spent her whole life being the best of the best in her class. But when new student Raphael transfers to her school in 9th grade, she encounters some serious competition. One that may have involved an accident with a Bunsen burner resulting in their parents meeting for the first time ending in wedding bells a few years later. Making our beloved academic rivals: step siblings. (Ignore my cackling in the background) Flash forward to our characters' being 30 at a family Thanksgiving dinner, and we soon find out how easily the line between love and hate can blend. I don't think this story is based on one of Kennedy's other books but I could be wrong. I'm really starting to sound like a broken record, aren't I?
House of Rising Sands by Olivia Wildenstein
⭐⭐.5
"Frightened of me, princess?"
"I'm frightened of nothing, Cathal."
This story is a prequel to House of Beating Wings and covers the meeting of Fallon's parents and the prophecy surrounding Fallon and her mother while providing an introduction to the world and its issues. I won't talk much about the details of the plot to avoid possible spoilers for the events in HOBW since I haven't read it. This story starts with quite a lot of info dumping and I found it hard to keep up with what was going on. The story deals with fated mates, a trope I usually love, however the chemistry was not there for me and felt super rushed. This is probably the only story in this anthology I would recommend reading the book it's based on first but you can manage to read it first.
Winter's Bane by Hannah Parker
⭐⭐⭐⭐
"We can face anything as long as we have each other."
This short story takes place within the world of Hannah's Autumn's Tithe series. Gaelyn is a general from the winter court who has been sent to dispatch a monster on the court's border. In the midst of a fight she meets Rush, an autumn court Fae claiming the monster is in fact a sick Faerie and he can save her. When both are injured in the fight, they retreat to a cabin in the woods to recover. But while there, secrets are revealed and betrayals lurk around every corner. As feelings develop, someone is bound to get hurt.
The Sex Witch by Sophie Lark
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"I was never meant to be a victim. I was never meant to be afraid."
This is my favorite story from this anthology. I am very much hoping this becomes a full book because I am completely hooked. Set in a world where people each have a magical ability, not having one is a curse. For 25 years, Evie has shown no sign of an ability. But after giving up her virginity she takes on the ability of who she slept with while also giving them a power boost. But it only lasts a few days. Evie soon learns all it can take is a kiss or touch to take a little power and make it her own. Basking in her newfound abilities, she is determined to find her missing sister of 14 years and is willing to stop at nothing to do so. I got the feeling we were watching Evie's villain arc and I was all here for it.
November 17, 2023
Found some new authors to try out going forward. Overall this was just okay 🤷🏾♀️
Read
January 30, 2024This was not what I was expecting. I have no idea why but I thought this was going to be cozy winter short stories…. This was not that at all.
January 10, 2024
This was a Winter Anthology that Bookish Box came out with for Christmas in 2022. It didn't arrive until either Jan/Feb 2023 so I decided to wait a year. It was more fairy/fae, lots of spice and maybe some snow rather than Christmasy. It started off with a literal bang and I almost didn't bother finishing it. I'm glad I kept going because I actually liked the short stories.
Gloria - A Sinner Short Story by Sierra Simone
This is a short from the book Sinner and takes places between the end and the epilogue. A very spicy pre-wedding scene. It was suggested that it would be more better if you’d read the book prior to reading this.
Rules of the Heart by Hailey Turner
This was a roommates/warlock/incubus turned lovers short story. Unexpectedly spicy. Landon is a wizard and Silas is an incubus that feeds off the "passion" of others. I was not expecting the explicit homosexual love scenes, so be warned.
The Edens - A Legacy Short Story by Devney Perry
This is a prequel to the Legacy Series. It show how the Eden’s parents got together after spending years apart. I’ve never read any of the Legacy series, but convinced me maybe I should. Very cute.
A Most Extraordinary Match by Amalie Howard
I was confused whether this took place in the past or a parallel world. This is about an arranged marriage in which the expectations are low and they end up falling in love. Temperance is a strong character and is an American with money, marrying a duke in England for status. It has a cute Bridgerton feel with a cricket game on ice. There is an odd treehouse scene with some spice.
Tuonen: Son of Death - An Underworlds Gods Short Story by Karina Halle
This was extremely short and I barely remember it. Aven dies and arrives at the ferry and refuses to ring Death's Bell. Tuonen strikes a deal that he'll let her go back to her life for 15 years, but then she'll be his. It’s part of the River of Shadows and the Underworld Gods series.
The Huntsman & The Witch by Harper L. Woods
This one apparently takes place in the Of Flesh & Bone world. Ismelda is a which, training to serve the Queen. She falls in love with Huntsman named Holt who has brought a prisoner in to be healed. The Huntsman may be dead? and works for the queen. They fall in love and there is a very abrupt ending where he says he will defy his duty for her.
Winter Surprise by Naima Simone
Sevan is works and owns a family bar in his hometown. His childhood bestfriend and one time lover Amira walks back into his life while Sevan thinks she is ready to jump off a bridge in a snowstorm. There is a surprise pregnancy and friends to lovers. Felt longer than it needed to be.
I Didn’t Sign Up For This by Anita Kelley
A lot of skiing down a mountain. Nicole dumps her girlfriend Kiki the day before Christmas and leaves her stranded in the Swiss Alps. Kiki is determined to ski down the mountain and meets Maya, who I think is transgender. The story is interesting while a bit boring as they get to know each other going down the mountain and then realizing they live in the same town and can continue getting to know each other.
Truce For Tonight - A Rivals to Lovers Short Story by Kennedy Ryan
Confused because there was a Sevyn but this time a female. She and Raphael are step siblings that have been rivals since 16. Apparently Raphael has always been in love with Sevyn, which seems, typical male, because Sevyn has no idea and has trouble getting over the rivals thing. She does and their first time in their Jack & Jill bathroom tub was a little intense, including getting caught by the parents.
House of Rising Sands by Olivia Wildenstein
This is a prequel Olivia’s Kingdom of Crows series. I was least invested and most confused by this because they threw in a lot of names and I couldn't figure out if they were fae, or what was going on. Zendaya has freed Lorcan, some sort of crow king from 500 years of... being a statue? Zendaya's mother Meriam is the reason and is possibly dead. Enter a different crow Cathal who keeps Zendaya trapped in his bedroom because they are fated to be together and she eventually gives in... of course.
Winter’s Bane by Hannah Parker
This takes place in the world of The Severed Realms trilogy. Gaelyn, a Winter court soldier, sets out to kill a monster that Rush, an Autumn court healer is there to save, because it may be his lost mother. They turned to lovers, turned on each other, went back to each other very quickly but still felt like they couldn't trust each other.
The Sex Witch by Sophie Lark
I thought this was going to be dumb but this might be one of my favorites. Evie is a witch whose powers of magic haven't manifested yet. Her friend pays the bartender to sleep with her and she finds out lust fuels her powers and she fuels her lover. There are vampires involved. It ends on a cliff hanger that made me want to read the rest.
Gloria - A Sinner Short Story by Sierra Simone
This is a short from the book Sinner and takes places between the end and the epilogue. A very spicy pre-wedding scene. It was suggested that it would be more better if you’d read the book prior to reading this.
Rules of the Heart by Hailey Turner
This was a roommates/warlock/incubus turned lovers short story. Unexpectedly spicy. Landon is a wizard and Silas is an incubus that feeds off the "passion" of others. I was not expecting the explicit homosexual love scenes, so be warned.
The Edens - A Legacy Short Story by Devney Perry
This is a prequel to the Legacy Series. It show how the Eden’s parents got together after spending years apart. I’ve never read any of the Legacy series, but convinced me maybe I should. Very cute.
A Most Extraordinary Match by Amalie Howard
I was confused whether this took place in the past or a parallel world. This is about an arranged marriage in which the expectations are low and they end up falling in love. Temperance is a strong character and is an American with money, marrying a duke in England for status. It has a cute Bridgerton feel with a cricket game on ice. There is an odd treehouse scene with some spice.
Tuonen: Son of Death - An Underworlds Gods Short Story by Karina Halle
This was extremely short and I barely remember it. Aven dies and arrives at the ferry and refuses to ring Death's Bell. Tuonen strikes a deal that he'll let her go back to her life for 15 years, but then she'll be his. It’s part of the River of Shadows and the Underworld Gods series.
The Huntsman & The Witch by Harper L. Woods
This one apparently takes place in the Of Flesh & Bone world. Ismelda is a which, training to serve the Queen. She falls in love with Huntsman named Holt who has brought a prisoner in to be healed. The Huntsman may be dead? and works for the queen. They fall in love and there is a very abrupt ending where he says he will defy his duty for her.
Winter Surprise by Naima Simone
Sevan is works and owns a family bar in his hometown. His childhood bestfriend and one time lover Amira walks back into his life while Sevan thinks she is ready to jump off a bridge in a snowstorm. There is a surprise pregnancy and friends to lovers. Felt longer than it needed to be.
I Didn’t Sign Up For This by Anita Kelley
A lot of skiing down a mountain. Nicole dumps her girlfriend Kiki the day before Christmas and leaves her stranded in the Swiss Alps. Kiki is determined to ski down the mountain and meets Maya, who I think is transgender. The story is interesting while a bit boring as they get to know each other going down the mountain and then realizing they live in the same town and can continue getting to know each other.
Truce For Tonight - A Rivals to Lovers Short Story by Kennedy Ryan
Confused because there was a Sevyn but this time a female. She and Raphael are step siblings that have been rivals since 16. Apparently Raphael has always been in love with Sevyn, which seems, typical male, because Sevyn has no idea and has trouble getting over the rivals thing. She does and their first time in their Jack & Jill bathroom tub was a little intense, including getting caught by the parents.
House of Rising Sands by Olivia Wildenstein
This is a prequel Olivia’s Kingdom of Crows series. I was least invested and most confused by this because they threw in a lot of names and I couldn't figure out if they were fae, or what was going on. Zendaya has freed Lorcan, some sort of crow king from 500 years of... being a statue? Zendaya's mother Meriam is the reason and is possibly dead. Enter a different crow Cathal who keeps Zendaya trapped in his bedroom because they are fated to be together and she eventually gives in... of course.
Winter’s Bane by Hannah Parker
This takes place in the world of The Severed Realms trilogy. Gaelyn, a Winter court soldier, sets out to kill a monster that Rush, an Autumn court healer is there to save, because it may be his lost mother. They turned to lovers, turned on each other, went back to each other very quickly but still felt like they couldn't trust each other.
The Sex Witch by Sophie Lark
I thought this was going to be dumb but this might be one of my favorites. Evie is a witch whose powers of magic haven't manifested yet. Her friend pays the bartender to sleep with her and she finds out lust fuels her powers and she fuels her lover. There are vampires involved. It ends on a cliff hanger that made me want to read the rest.
December 13, 2023
It’s hard to rate anthologies because some stories are bangers while others fall extremely flat. Such as one that mentions phlegm coughing. Can’t get over that. Overall this was like a 3.7⭐️ I enjoyed it for what it was, a collection of short stories, and even found some authors I’d be interested in reading. A lot of these you can find online and download for free. Check the authors websites!
Gloria - A Sinner Short Story by Sierra Simone
3⭐️ F/M
This is a short from the book Sinner and it takes places between the end and the epilogue. A cute and spicy wedding scene.
I do feel like it would be more enjoyable if you’ve read the book prior to reading this. I loved the book and the forbidden aspect of it so it’s a great read if you’re looking for some forbidden romance between a brother’s sinful best friend and the sister that is studying to be a nun.
Rules of the Heart by Hailey Turner
2.5⭐️ M/M
This was a roommates/warlock/incubus short. Spicy and cute. My only issue is there was one point where the names were swapped. It said Landon when it should’ve been Silas a couple times. It’s dual POV tho so it makes the story much better when it comes to mutual secret pining.
The Edens - A Legacy Short Story by Devney Perry
3.5⭐️ F/M
This is kind of a prequel to the Legacy Series. It’s how the Eden kid’s parents got together. I liked it since I’ve never read any of the Legacy series and have zero clue what it’s about. I’m thinking small town romances?? Anyways, this was nice because I didn’t feel like I was lost reading this 50 page short story. It was a cute second chance romance with a bit of spice.
Honestly I’m a sucker for the “Darlin’” nickname.
A Most Extraordinary Match by Amalie Howard
4.2⭐️ F/M
Ah this one was adorable! It was an arranged marriage. Gave very historical fiction vibes. The FMC was very likable, she doesn’t conform to societal standards and the MMC liked her for it. Their banter was enjoyable.
The treehouse scene was sweet but also spicy. Although this was a short story it was well written and it ended well enough to where I didn’t feel unsatisfied.
Tuonen: Sonny of Death - An Underworlds Gods Short Story by Karina Halle
3.5⭐️ F/M (no spice)
“She smelled like spring. She smelled like everything that he wasn’t. She was life, he was death.”
This was extremely short and I badly wanted more. A freaking cliffy! It’s part of the River of Shadows and the Underworld Gods series. It can be read without reading the series but definitely makes you want to read the series. The Son of Death makes a deal with a woman trying to cheat death.
The Huntsman & The Witch by Harper L. Woods
3⭐️ F/M (no spice)
“I was worth more than that—more than an afterthought that someone dismissed as soon as I was out of sight. I would tolerate nothing less than a man who would move the Void itself to be with me.”
This one I was actually enjoying and it ended so abruptly. Is there a continuation because wtf. It takes place in the Of Flesh & Bone world. I was invested!!! BOOOOO. Was there a character limit here cause I’m left so unsatisfied!
Winter Surprise by Naima Simone
3⭐️ F/M
This was a spicy little surprise pregnancy and friends to lovers. Which is my least favorite tropes but I think because it was so short I didn’t mind it so much.
I Didn’t Sign Up For This by Anita Kelley
1⭐️ F/F (no spice)
This was just really boring. At one point one of them coughs up phlegm? Then I couldn’t get past thinking about it! That’s such an ick for me. Worse than a surprise pregnancy trope.
Truce For Tonight - A Rivals to Lovers Short Story by Kennedy Ryan
4.5⭐️ F/M
OMG the tension, the pining, the step sibling rivalry. I was living for it!! I just loved this little spicy number and both the FMC and MMC were extremely likable. Also the setting was an interesting twist.
House of Rising Sands by Olivia Wildenstein
4.5⭐️ F/M
I haven’t read Olivia’s Kingdom of Crows series but this little prequel has made me want to pick it up sooner rather than later. I love some shifter/mating bond romance. Plus there are fae so it sounds like this series may have it all.
Winter’s Bane by Hannah Parker
3⭐️ F/M
Takes place in the world of The Severed Realms trilogy. This was a spicy short between an Autumn court healer and a Winter court soldier. Gaelyn set out to kill a monster, Rush was there to save it. It’s got close proximity and one bed trope. It felt a little too insta love for me, compared to the rest of the shorts because there wasn’t much underlying depth/time to the relationship. Still the writing was enjoyable.
The Sex Witch by Sophie Lark
3.7⭐️ F/M
I mean the title explains it all. It’s kind of like an Anti-Hero origin story. Evie has always wanted magic and when she finally gets it, her ability for revenge increases. It ends on a cliffy but definitely caught my attention.
Gloria - A Sinner Short Story by Sierra Simone
3⭐️ F/M
This is a short from the book Sinner and it takes places between the end and the epilogue. A cute and spicy wedding scene.
I do feel like it would be more enjoyable if you’ve read the book prior to reading this. I loved the book and the forbidden aspect of it so it’s a great read if you’re looking for some forbidden romance between a brother’s sinful best friend and the sister that is studying to be a nun.
Rules of the Heart by Hailey Turner
2.5⭐️ M/M
This was a roommates/warlock/incubus short. Spicy and cute. My only issue is there was one point where the names were swapped. It said Landon when it should’ve been Silas a couple times. It’s dual POV tho so it makes the story much better when it comes to mutual secret pining.
The Edens - A Legacy Short Story by Devney Perry
3.5⭐️ F/M
This is kind of a prequel to the Legacy Series. It’s how the Eden kid’s parents got together. I liked it since I’ve never read any of the Legacy series and have zero clue what it’s about. I’m thinking small town romances?? Anyways, this was nice because I didn’t feel like I was lost reading this 50 page short story. It was a cute second chance romance with a bit of spice.
Honestly I’m a sucker for the “Darlin’” nickname.
A Most Extraordinary Match by Amalie Howard
4.2⭐️ F/M
Ah this one was adorable! It was an arranged marriage. Gave very historical fiction vibes. The FMC was very likable, she doesn’t conform to societal standards and the MMC liked her for it. Their banter was enjoyable.
The treehouse scene was sweet but also spicy. Although this was a short story it was well written and it ended well enough to where I didn’t feel unsatisfied.
Tuonen: Sonny of Death - An Underworlds Gods Short Story by Karina Halle
3.5⭐️ F/M (no spice)
“She smelled like spring. She smelled like everything that he wasn’t. She was life, he was death.”
This was extremely short and I badly wanted more. A freaking cliffy! It’s part of the River of Shadows and the Underworld Gods series. It can be read without reading the series but definitely makes you want to read the series. The Son of Death makes a deal with a woman trying to cheat death.
The Huntsman & The Witch by Harper L. Woods
3⭐️ F/M (no spice)
“I was worth more than that—more than an afterthought that someone dismissed as soon as I was out of sight. I would tolerate nothing less than a man who would move the Void itself to be with me.”
This one I was actually enjoying and it ended so abruptly. Is there a continuation because wtf. It takes place in the Of Flesh & Bone world. I was invested!!! BOOOOO. Was there a character limit here cause I’m left so unsatisfied!
Winter Surprise by Naima Simone
3⭐️ F/M
This was a spicy little surprise pregnancy and friends to lovers. Which is my least favorite tropes but I think because it was so short I didn’t mind it so much.
I Didn’t Sign Up For This by Anita Kelley
1⭐️ F/F (no spice)
This was just really boring. At one point one of them coughs up phlegm? Then I couldn’t get past thinking about it! That’s such an ick for me. Worse than a surprise pregnancy trope.
Truce For Tonight - A Rivals to Lovers Short Story by Kennedy Ryan
4.5⭐️ F/M
OMG the tension, the pining, the step sibling rivalry. I was living for it!! I just loved this little spicy number and both the FMC and MMC were extremely likable. Also the setting was an interesting twist.
House of Rising Sands by Olivia Wildenstein
4.5⭐️ F/M
I haven’t read Olivia’s Kingdom of Crows series but this little prequel has made me want to pick it up sooner rather than later. I love some shifter/mating bond romance. Plus there are fae so it sounds like this series may have it all.
Winter’s Bane by Hannah Parker
3⭐️ F/M
Takes place in the world of The Severed Realms trilogy. This was a spicy short between an Autumn court healer and a Winter court soldier. Gaelyn set out to kill a monster, Rush was there to save it. It’s got close proximity and one bed trope. It felt a little too insta love for me, compared to the rest of the shorts because there wasn’t much underlying depth/time to the relationship. Still the writing was enjoyable.
The Sex Witch by Sophie Lark
3.7⭐️ F/M
I mean the title explains it all. It’s kind of like an Anti-Hero origin story. Evie has always wanted magic and when she finally gets it, her ability for revenge increases. It ends on a cliffy but definitely caught my attention.
July 16, 2023
I would have given this a 5-star rating as the majority of these stories were fun. But the Harper L Woods story....I can't. I literally was cringing through the entire thing. It felt like she wrote it in an hour and then just submitted it. There was another mediocre one, but I'm not mad at it. It's gotta be hard to have any form of character development in a short story. It seems like a completely different skill set. A Novella would be easier.
What I enjoyed the most about this was sampling authors I had never read before. I was able to see who I would enjoy and who I would rather pass. I can't wait for Volume 2 this winter! One of my favorite boxes from Bookish Box so far!
What I enjoyed the most about this was sampling authors I had never read before. I was able to see who I would enjoy and who I would rather pass. I can't wait for Volume 2 this winter! One of my favorite boxes from Bookish Box so far!
December 27, 2023
I enjoyed most of the stories and there were a couple that I wished were full length books because I enjoyed them so much!
The majority of the stories were self contained and enjoyable in themselves, but a couple seemed to rely upon the author’s previous works to have an understanding of the world building that led into the short stories.
The majority of the stories were self contained and enjoyable in themselves, but a couple seemed to rely upon the author’s previous works to have an understanding of the world building that led into the short stories.
January 17, 2024
The Soulbound short story!!!
July 12, 2024
***read the Sex Witch by Sophie Lark***
I loved this story. I wish it is eventually turned into a full length novel.
I loved this story. I wish it is eventually turned into a full length novel.
August 20, 2024
using this as a place holder for The Joker by sophie lark
December 21, 2023
A Most Extraordinary Match by Amalie Howard 3 stars
The Edens - A Legacy Short Story by Devney Perry 3 stars
Winter Surprise by Naima Simone 3 stars
Truce for Tonight by Kennedy Ryan 3.75 stars
Rules of the Heart by Hailey Turner 4 stars
Winter's Bane by Hannah Parker 2.5 stars
Tuonen: Son of Death by Karina Halle 2.5 stars
The Huntsman & the Witch by Harper L Woods 3 stars
The Sex Witch by Sophie Lark 4 stars
The Edens - A Legacy Short Story by Devney Perry 3 stars
Winter Surprise by Naima Simone 3 stars
Truce for Tonight by Kennedy Ryan 3.75 stars
Rules of the Heart by Hailey Turner 4 stars
Winter's Bane by Hannah Parker 2.5 stars
Tuonen: Son of Death by Karina Halle 2.5 stars
The Huntsman & the Witch by Harper L Woods 3 stars
The Sex Witch by Sophie Lark 4 stars
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