I had a long drive and after a friend’s recommendation, I decided to give this one a try. I love that these audible originals sound more like a movie I had a long drive and after a friend’s recommendation, I decided to give this one a try. I love that these audible originals sound more like a movie than a book, with a full cast of different voices playing the characters and all of the typical book descriptions are missing–it was just dialogue and oh, so cute! It was basically like watching a story unfold in my head. I loved the voices and I loved the story line.
After being sucked into a wormhole during a solar flare, high school English teacher June finds herself 85 years in the future. Somehow, after 5 years, her phone starts working and she connects with gym teacher and coach, Mikey, from her teaching days. He was someone she didn’t know well, and kindled a friendship with him to help her future self.
I found it interesting and poignant, with very sweet relationships. I will be looking for more originals by this author.
I think this book was written before the term “romantasy” was used, but that’s what I would consider it to be. Alice ventures into the enchanted woodsI think this book was written before the term “romantasy” was used, but that’s what I would consider it to be. Alice ventures into the enchanted woods and makes a deal with the Fae marquis in exchange for her brother’s freedom and what ensues is delicious, forbidden, and heart-wrenching.
The way this author builds up the world of the fae is appealing and the sprinkles of mysteries are so intriguing. An impermissible love to top these strong and vibrant characters completely captured me. This reads like a beloved fairytale, with everything so tantalizing and peculiar, dangerous and alluring, but the tendrils of love are there, waiting to catch the fall like a delicate fairy net.
I couldn’t get enough of this sweet story and hope to continue on with the series.
When Alana sort of hits a moth faerie prince with her car, her supposed dreams come true. I loved being thrust into the world of Faerie and found it tWhen Alana sort of hits a moth faerie prince with her car, her supposed dreams come true. I loved being thrust into the world of Faerie and found it to be such a fascinating and unique place. And honestly–I was wondering what in the world I was reading at first, but as the story marinated in my heart and mind, I fell for it. Hard.
“What happens if I fall? “I will catch you.”
All the messy parts of being human are exhibited in Alana, as she struggles to find a place of belonging, borders on crazy, and deals with deep, dark depressive episodes. She’s broken and chaotic, thinking that being in Faerie and having an evil, misunderstood soulmate will fix her, but she still finds herself wanting. I love the way this author tackles these topics, but also wraps them up in a glimmer of laughter, with fantastical characters and situations, giving the weightier bits a lighter feel.
I was swept away in a flurry of wings and antennae to a beautiful story of forced proximity, royalty, moths, and a deep, destined connection. The touch-her-and-die vibe is tangible and irresistible. I wasn’t sure what to expect with this unlikely mash-up of tropes, but I’m hooked and want to go back and read the other books in the series. Call me completely intrigued.
Content: talk of mental health issues; fade to black romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*...more
A genie in a teapot. Make that a BRITISH genie. And a chaotic, emotional, lovably odd young woman. All this and more is the basis of a delightfully magicA genie in a teapot. Make that a BRITISH genie. And a chaotic, emotional, lovably odd young woman. All this and more is the basis of a delightfully magical tale, full of humor and heart.
“Do you believe in magic?”
I’ve always loved genie shows and cartoons, but never really thought about what being a genie would entail and I adored how this author placed ideas and feelings into my heart and mind about what it could be like. While the whole story was quirky and fun, especially with the whole cast of unique characters, I felt an underlying thread of sadness and longing. However, when the swoony moments were slapped into my heart, all those despairing thoughts dissipated in a poof. The gamut of emotions were felt through the progression of these pages and it was a fun journey.
The setting, a small town right on the coast in New England, was perfect. I felt the pacing of the story reflected the stride of small town life, and it was entertaining to visit places the locals hold in regard.The disarray of the antique shop was a reflection of Clementine’s life and I loved how blunt and honest Alaric was–they had a very interesting relationship that was pure joy (and laughter) to watch.
Put a pin in Carousel Cove. I can’t wait to read more about it!
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*...more
A homeschooled girl. A cursed boy. One touch turns his brown eyes black.
Thankful’s mom is very sick and she has to go to public school for the first timA homeschooled girl. A cursed boy. One touch turns his brown eyes black.
Thankful’s mom is very sick and she has to go to public school for the first time to finish out her high school career. Liam is an illusive, intriguing guy and Thankful can’t help but be attracted to him. A whole cast of new friends and experiences, new romantic feelings to investigate and an undercurrent of secrets yet to be discovered give this young adult fantasy an interesting vibe. The real question is: who can really be trusted?
I found myself breathlessly anticipating each twist in this story and awaiting something to strike. While things slowly unfolded, a feeling of foreboding and mystery swirled through the pages, subtly winding the plot tighter and tighter, until it finally burst and I was taken off guard. I love a book that can do that for me.
These characters were fun to watch. It was endearing to see Thankful and Liam develop a friendship and more. Everyone wants to be where their name is known and where they feel loved and accepted for who and what they are and it was sweet to watch them each settle into a comfortable pattern.
I loved the mystical elements that tainted this small “normal” town. It will be fun to see where this series goes.
Content: mild romance; mild moments of danger/peril; a parent with a terminal disease
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*...more
LeBaron hits the mark with this delightfully charming and magical romance.
Mason and Thea were once childhood sweethearts and were lucky enough to expLeBaron hits the mark with this delightfully charming and magical romance.
Mason and Thea were once childhood sweethearts and were lucky enough to experience a puppy love and a forbidden teen romance, but were ripped apart immediately following a tragedy (a late term miscarriage).
I love how bookwormish Thea is and how she relates so many things in her life to her love of fiction. Who wouldn’t want to have a love like the one read about in books? Thea definitely wants that, but the road to find that true love again isn’t easy at all. She and Mason are at odds and that friction gives off a subtle waft of attraction and connection that kept me flying through the pages.
“She wanted to stick her nose in the air, pivot on her heels, and walk away. Really give him the Anne Shirley treatment and rain all over his Gilbert Blythe confidence. But the hope that shone from his eyes…she couldn’t indulge it, not when her heart was so torn.”
There are so many things to love about Moonrise Cove and its quirky and magical residents. I absolutely loved the variety and dimension these supernatural elements gave to the story, and the magnetic power of deep bonds.
Content/TW: late term miscarriage; mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own and were voluntarily given.*...more
This epic fantasy romance (romantasy?) has it all. One name, two cousins. One is the heir, the other the spare. Both with purple hair. Okay, that was This epic fantasy romance (romantasy?) has it all. One name, two cousins. One is the heir, the other the spare. Both with purple hair. Okay, that was a little cheesy...but it's all true.
The lines between the roles taken by Eleanora (Elea and Nora) are a little hazy at first, but as the story progresses, they become quite clear. The reader is also treated to a captain and a king, and what results is a tangled up story full of necessary battles for good, and all the deceit, betrayal, swoon, passion, jealousy, loyalty, and love that encompasses these intense feelings. I enjoyed watching a prophecy become fulfilled, just as much as I loved watching unlikable characters grown and morph, coming into who they are meant to be, which made them much more likable in my eyes.
I really loved getting to know Elea, Nora, Matteo, and Gerard, and was enthralled watching their journeys. It was nice to have the story told in alternating points-of-view between this group, to really get inside their heads and to understand them each better. The powers and strengths these characters all possess were so intriguing. I love the connections and sorting things out in my mind, and the action and twists are breathtaking.
Samantha Hastings does such a good job of incorporating so many creative elements into this story. I was immersed and very invested in it to see how things would come together. Fantasy isn't one of my go-to genres, but I was very pleased with this one.
Content: moderate violence (war is violent, but this isn't graphic--death, blood, beheadings, etc); mild+ romance (kissing, some passionate; fade-to-black between married couple)
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own and were voluntarily given.*...more
Several points of view told this tale full of secrets, love, and yes, rebellion.
Princess Alana has some pretty cool water bending skills and is embroiSeveral points of view told this tale full of secrets, love, and yes, rebellion.
Princess Alana has some pretty cool water bending skills and is embroiled in an angsty love triangle, while Griff is across the river in a completely different kingdom. The poor guy is secretly in love with his brother's fiance. We also get Koa's point of view. He's handsome, artistic, and sweet, with some mad sword skills. I loved how each point-of-view and story (within the story) pieced together so well. I enjoyed the pacing, plot, and twists.
I loved the magical, earthy elements that these characters possessed and it was interesting to watch how some used their talents for good and some for evil. Danger, intrigue, adventure, and love are all wrapped up in these words, but I just have to say--that ending was a major cliffhanger. I hope we don't have to wait long to get more of the story because I'm now invested and need to know how it all ends.
Content: mild romance (kissing), mild moments of peril/danger/death
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*...more
This zippy little tale took me by surprise with the magical elements and fantasy set in the Victorian times.
When Merritt unexpectedly inherits a houseThis zippy little tale took me by surprise with the magical elements and fantasy set in the Victorian times.
When Merritt unexpectedly inherits a house in Rhode Island, he isn't planning on the house being temperamental and haunted. There were some humorous moments hidden away in these pages, especially where the house was involved. The story volleys between RI and England in years previous to set up the reasons for the cursed estate. I enjoyed the sweet romance as well.
I really enjoyed the plot and the characters and was thoroughly entertained. Holmberg does a great job of creating an outlandish scene with very interesting characters, and I especially loved the villain and how she set all that up. I'm looking forward to seeing where else Holmberg takes us in the Whimbrel House series....more
This was a fun sequel to Daughter of the Pirate King and it was interesting to read about discovering the mother's side. The battles were intense and This was a fun sequel to Daughter of the Pirate King and it was interesting to read about discovering the mother's side. The battles were intense and the romance was more vivid (not too descriptive). I loved the adventure and discovery.
This charming tale of a mouse in a castle was adorable. Despereaux defied all odds of survival and the adventures he had in the castle and the way sevThis charming tale of a mouse in a castle was adorable. Despereaux defied all odds of survival and the adventures he had in the castle and the way several stories converged was entertaining. What a sweet children's story....more
This has been a really fun series and it was kind of bittersweet to see it come to an end.
I've always been fascinated by space--the stars, planets, aThis has been a really fun series and it was kind of bittersweet to see it come to an end.
I've always been fascinated by space--the stars, planets, and more have captivated me, so it was very intriguing to read a sweet romance about characters who not only love that, but books as well.
The way Claire's and Daniel's lives meshed and mingled was so interesting and I loved those serendipitous moments. Claire's discoveries about her self and her family secret, her close relationship with her cousins, and the way she interacted with Daniel were so heartening. Daniel's math and science nerdiness were adorable and the combination of these two was a perfect equation.
I'm a firm believer there is someone for everyone out there and it's all in the timing and this story made me feel right about that. So adorable, magical, and sweet!
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*...more
I listened to this one for book club and it followed a fairly familiar and typical formula for a fantasy/dystopian story. It was entertaining and I alI listened to this one for book club and it followed a fairly familiar and typical formula for a fantasy/dystopian story. It was entertaining and I always find it fascinating to see what other people imagine.
This magical story has a fabulous setting that really drew me in with its coziness. But it was the characters who really stole the show. **4.5 Stars**
This magical story has a fabulous setting that really drew me in with its coziness. But it was the characters who really stole the show. Charlie is out to find the perfect man for Christmas and the dating app results were unbelievably hilarious. My heart broke a little bit for the trials she's had to endure, especially at the hands of so-called family (isn't blood thicker than water?), but I loved watching her grow through her realizations and experiences. Nick and his dog, Wingman, were absolutely perfect and added such a rich complement to Charlie.
The love, laughter, and sprinkles of magic were the perfect way to propel this story through the holidays and the overall charm of this story settled right into my soul. I enjoyed every last drop and will be checking out more of this author's books.
Content: mild romance; mild bullying
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*...more
Who doesn't love a do-over? Second changes are so sweet and this one was magical...in more ways that one.
Carter and Eden have another shot at lMagical
Who doesn't love a do-over? Second changes are so sweet and this one was magical...in more ways that one.
Carter and Eden have another shot at love, but it's not an easy road. There were so many things to love about this book and the characters were at the top of the list. Eden and her slew of cousin and headed up by Grandma Tansy, were a delight. Eden's profession was fascinating, especially as she merged it with her familial roots in this fascinating setting, which resulted in inexplicable magic. I loved the plant and herb descriptions and how to use them--I'm all about using nature when possible. Carter's career was intriguing as well.
There are secrets that caused and resulted from the initial breakup and it was enjoyable to watch as they were gradually revealed throughout the book, as Carter and Eden learned to embrace their true selves. This small-town wonder was a hit for me!
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*...more
I remember reading Twilight years ago and was completely captivated by this world of vampires and werewolves, set in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. I remember reading Twilight years ago and was completely captivated by this world of vampires and werewolves, set in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. Although this book is long, it was so wonderful to see the story from Edward's point of view, to understand where he was coming from, and to connect the relationship in a deeper, more complete way.
I listened to this one and thought the narrator did a great job of voicing Edward. There were parts of long, inner dialogue and thinking, but I really enjoyed it.
First off, Camille Peters has the best covers ever! Not only are they gorgeous, but they display a good snippet of what the reader will find inside.
IFirst off, Camille Peters has the best covers ever! Not only are they gorgeous, but they display a good snippet of what the reader will find inside.
I've read Peter's Kingdom Chronicles series and loved it and was expecting more of the same, but this one fell a little short for me. Although straight up fantasy isn't my go-to genre, when well done, I'm hooked. I felt like this one was almost too "young" for what I was anticipating.
The premise to this book is very intriguing and hopefully as the series progresses, the dots will start to connect more and the characters will grow and develop, yielding the deepness that I craved. It's obvious that Peters spent a lot of time creating a wonderful world, which showcased her creativity, imagination, and talent. The imagery was very descriptive and vivid, but I personally had a hard time connecting with Eden. I wanted to see a beautiful character arc, as Eden is very headstrong, stubborn, and almost immature, but it didn't quite happen. Don't worry--I'm holding out hope that it will eventually.
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*...more
Mysteries and secrets swirl around the magical hedge that has Zuhra and her sister, Inara, locked within. This story captures the depthGreat fantasy!
Mysteries and secrets swirl around the magical hedge that has Zuhra and her sister, Inara, locked within. This story captures the depth of a sister bond well, also allowing for their individual growth as they strive to unravel things. The danger, adventure, tension, budding romances, and complicated relationships (especially with family) drew me right in. There is an underlying sense of urgency flowing in a current beneath the plot that sometimes left me feeling a bit anxious, but I loved the traditional fantasy elements that were showcased in a unique way.
Larson does a good job of incorporating the beliefs of two clashing worlds and the persistence and loyalties needed to merge and compromise such a skirmish. I liked the characters right from the start and enjoyed watching this new world develop throughout the pages. The magical elements were well done and although the story started out a little slow, it gained momentum as the book progressed and the culmination of events was definitely worth the wait.
It's a little cliche for a werewolf book to have a Wolfe family, but don't let that scare you off. Although thisIntriguing start to a new wolf series
It's a little cliche for a werewolf book to have a Wolfe family, but don't let that scare you off. Although this isn't my typical go-to genre, I found it to be interesting and entertaining. I love the world Skelly created, merging humans with werewolves. Although the main characters are teens, there are many moments of swoon, danger, and mystery swirling around them.
Sam and Megan are believable protagonists, acting their ages with the drama, jealousy, indecisiveness, and immaturity, but after a slowish accidental start, the growth that occurred within each of them and between them was as intense as the flourishing plot. I found myself deeply caring about what would happen and wondering how it would all resolve, especially when a few twists made their appearances.
This isn't a one-and-done story, but is the start of something intriguing, and I'm looking forward to reading more to see how it will all come together.
Content: moderate (PG-13) romance (passionate kissing, some innuendo, fade-to-black between a married couple, frank talk of sex); mild+ (PG/PG-13) violence (wolf bites and fights/injuries); mild language
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*...more
Zuhra and Inara have a sisterly bond like no other and I love that. I have two sisters myself and love that intangible thread that tieGreat conclusion
Zuhra and Inara have a sisterly bond like no other and I love that. I have two sisters myself and love that intangible thread that ties us together, although theirs extends a little more than mine does through magic. Just a warning--this is the second book in the duology and MUST be read after the first.
I enjoyed this book a bit more than the first, due to the fact that there was more action and romance verses world building. I loved watching these sisters gain strength and confidence in the roles they were thrust into and it was satisfying to watch the people come together for a common cause. The points of view alternated between the sisters and there were times when it was murky trying to figure out who was speaking, but I loved getting the insights from both sides.
It's no secret that I'm all about the romance and the sparkles of attractions that glimmered through the conflict and suspense were life. Larson did a good job of tying all these wonderful fantasy elements together--magic, friction, loyalty, and love.