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Review

Fool Me Once: A Novel by Ashley Winstead – My Review

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Title: Fool Me Once: A Novel

Author: Ashley Winstead

Release Date: April 5th 2022

Genre: Romantic Comedy, Second Chance

“A simmering slow burn bursting with banter… This is a romance for anyone who’s ever felt too messy to be loved.”

—ROSIE DANAN, author of The Roommate

In this fierce and funny battle of the exes, Ashley Winstead’s Fool Me Once explores the chaos of wanting something you used to have.

Lee Stone is a twenty-first-century woman: she kicks butt at her job as a communications director at a women-run electric car company (that’s better than Tesla, thank you), and after work she is “Stoner,” drinking guys under the table and never letting any of them get too comfortable in her bed…

That’s because Lee’s learned one big lesson: never trust love. Four major heartbreaks set her straight, from her father cheating on her mom all the way to Ben Laderman in grad school—who wasn’t actually cheating, but she could have sworn he was, so she reciprocated in kind.

Then Ben shows up five years later, working as a policy expert for the most liberal governor in Texas history, just as Lee is trying to get a clean energy bill rolling. Things get complicated—and competitive—as Lee and Ben are forced to work together. Tension builds just as old sparks reignite, fanning the flames for a romantic dustup the size of Texas.

Fool Me Once is a quirky and fun read. Lee Stone is smart, strong, and funny. She also has her issues which we see come out during the story. While this was a fun read for me, it had some cringe moments. It made me say “Girl what are you doing?!” more than once. I think that is what makes Lee relatable. The other characters are not perfect and some are not likable at all. The energy between Lee and Ben is great. The playful banter between the two had me laughing. I kept saying “Just kiss already!”

This is not my normal kind of read and I’m glad I took a chance on it! It was fun along with some heartfelt moments that caused me to tear up. This is a new to me author and I will be looking into her other book. If you love fun quirky romance reads, I highly recommend you check this book out! I give it 4 stars.

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion*

Review

Such a Pretty Smile: A Novel by Kristi DeMeester – My Review

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Title: Such a Pretty Smile: A Novel

Author: Kristi DeMeester

Release Date: January 18th 2022

Genre: Psychological Thriller, Paranormal Suspense

“Brutal and shocking, lush and evocative. DeMeester is a highly-original voice in horror.” – emily m. danforth, bestselling author of Plain Bad Heroines

A biting novel from an electrifying new voice, Kristi DeMeester’s Such a Pretty Smile is a heart-stopping tour-de-force about powerful women, angry men, and all the ways in which girls fight against the forces that try to silence them.

There’s something out there that’s killing. Known only as The Cur, he leaves no traces, save for the torn bodies of girls, on the verge of becoming women, who are known as trouble-makers; those who refuse to conform, to know their place. Girls who don’t know when to shut up.

2019: Thirteen-year-old Lila Sawyer has secrets she can’t share with anyone. Not the school psychologist she’s seeing. Not her father, who has a new wife, and a new baby. And not her mother—the infamous Caroline Sawyer, a unique artist whose eerie sculptures, made from bent twigs and crimped leaves, have made her a local celebrity. But soon Lila feels haunted from within, terrorized by a delicious evil that shows her how to find her voice—until she is punished for using it.

2004: Caroline Sawyer hears dogs everywhere. Snarling, barking, teeth snapping that no one else seems to notice. At first, she blames the phantom sounds on her insomnia and her acute stress in caring for her ailing father. But then the delusions begin to take shape—both in her waking hours, and in the violent, visceral sculptures she creates while in a trance-like state. Her fiancé is convinced she needs help. Her new psychiatrist waives her “problem” away with pills. But Caroline’s past is a dark cellar, filled with repressed memories and a lurking horror that the men around her can’t understand.

As past demons become a present threat, both Caroline and Lila must chase the source of this unrelenting, oppressive power to its malignant core. Brilliantly paced, unsettling to the bone, and unapologetically fierce, Such a Pretty Smile is a powerful allegory for what it can mean to be a woman, and an untamed rallying cry for anyone ever told to sit down, shut up, and smile pretty.

This is a pretty dark read and I was here for it! As you begin to read, there’s a sinister feeling. Like an unseen evil lurking around every corner. Caroline and Lila. Mother and daughter. You bounce between the present and Caroline’s past. Disturbing unexplained events unfold and you’re in for one crazy ride. I love how the author was able to both creep and fascinate me at the same time with how she described certain scenes. Fantastic writing style! Parts of the story were extremely slow but not enough for me to stop reading. It didn’t end like i thought it would. Which is a very good thing. As a whole, there’s an important message in this book. Read it to find out for yourself.

If you’re a fan of dark suspense reads, this book is for you. This is my first Kristi De Meester read and it won’t be my last. I plan on checking out her other books. I give this 3 stars.

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion*

Review

End Game: A Valentine Wedding (Games we Play) by Lindsey Powell – My Review

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Title: End Game: A Valentine Wedding (Games we Play)

Author: Lindsey Powell

Release Date: April 22nd 2022

Genre: Erotic Suspense

The underworld never sleeps, not even when there’s a wedding…

Joey and Paige.

King and Queen.

Meant to be.

And now they are about to make their union official.

A sprinkle of murder, a whole lot of steam, and A Valentine Wedding.

A Games We Play short story.

 

*It is advised to read Checkmate before End Game as it may enhance your reading experience if you do.*

This seductive short story is addicting and entertaining. Did I mention steamy? The chemistry between Paige and Joey is scorching. I’m surprised my fingers didn’t burn from kindle screen! *fans self*

I love that we got to read about their wedding. It’s truly not a Valentine story without some murder and revenge.

If you haven’t read any of the books in this series, do yourself a favor and read them today! It’s got everything my little black heart desires. Action, revenge, strong women and the alpha men who love them. I can’t wait to see what comes next from Miss Powell. I give this 5 stars.

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion*

Review

No One Will Miss Her: A Novel by Kat Rosenfield – My Review

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Title: No One Will Miss Her: A Novel

Author: Kat Rosenfield

Release Date: October 12th 2021

Genre: Thrillers, Psychological

A smart, witty, crackling novel of psychological suspense in which a girl from a hardscrabble small town meets a gorgeous Instagram influencer from the big city, with a murderous twist that will shock even the most savvy reader.

On a beautiful October morning in rural Maine, a homicide investigator from the state police pulls into the hard-luck town of Copper Falls. The local junkyard is burning, and the town pariah Lizzie Oullette is dead—with her husband, Dwayne, nowhere to be found. As scandal ripples through the community, Detective Ian Bird’s inquiries unexpectedly lead him away from small-town Maine to a swank city townhouse several hours south. Adrienne Richards, blonde and fabulous social media influencer and wife of a disgraced billionaire, had been renting Lizzie’s tiny lake house as a country getaway…even though Copper Falls is anything but a resort town.

As Adrienne’s connection to the case becomes clear, so too does her connection to Lizzie, who narrates their story from beyond the grave. Each woman is desperately lonely in her own way, and they navigate a relationship that cuts across class boundaries: transactional, complicated, and, finally, deadly. A Gone Girl for the gig economy, this is a story of privilege, identity, and cunning, as two devious women from opposite worlds discover the dangers of coveting someone else’s life.

After I finished this book, I gave myself some time to think on both the story and my feelings. My feelings were all over the place! Let’s start with with story. This story had lots of twists and turns. Some unexpected and some I saw coming. The whole story had a dark vibe to it. Which I really liked. The characters are not very likable. Which wasn’t a bad thing. I did have trouble believing some of the actions and scenes that played out. Especially for the main character. It just wasn’t realistic. Yes, I know this story is fiction. Read the story to know what I mean! I think that’s why my feelings were all over the place. While I enjoyed the story, those twists made me feel some type of way. The story is well written. Very detailed. I really liked that ending though! 

Over all, this is a pretty entertaining read with lots of twists. This is a new to me author and I look forward to reading another book from her. I give this 3 stars. 

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion*

Review

Wrecking Ball by Lindsey Powell – My Review

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Title: Wrecking Ball

Author: Lindsey Powell

Release Date: November 21st 2021

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Erotic Suspense

He’s a Crime Lord.
I’m just a small business owner.
I shouldn’t even be on his radar… But I am.
And now I’m being forced to make the biggest decision of my life. Marry him or die. Quite a choice, huh?
Clearly, there isn’t one, and as I become the wife of the notorious and ruthless leader, Nate Knowles, I have to prepare myself for what is to come.
He says he wants to break me.
He says he wants to own me.
And I have to be smart if I’m ever going to get out alive…

Wrecking Ball is a stand-alone romance with darker elements.

This book got its claws into me and didn’t let go. Even after I was done. Holy heck! The story is addicting and a total guilty pleasure read. Although I didn’t feel guilty when I was reading it! Miss Powell has a gift for writing those strong couples. You know the ones right? A strong woman. A man who knows what he wants. The push and pull and when they finally come together, it’s like fireworks! Oh yes!

I find a new favorite couple every time I read one of her books. If you love romance with hints of darkness, this book is for you! Add it to your TBR! I give it 5 stars.

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion*

Review

Horns and Halos by Nia Rose – My Review

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Title: Horns and Halos

Author: Nia Rose

Release Date: March 1st 2022

Genre: Christian Fantasy

My World is Built on Debts and Deals.

Beneath them all, you’ll find horrific secrets that we all hide. It’s lives. It’s souls. Scattered and countless, the dead have built towns, cities, and nations. They are forever damned in the afterlife because they wanted to live without fear. But did they really live without fear, or was it all an illusion?

A pact between devils is the only thing that keeps villages out in the desert-like land untouched by the scourge of this planet. The world we once knew is destroyed and what remains are those left behind trying to build homes to escape the reality that the end has already come. But are we any better than the creatures that loom, roam, tear, and destroy? Are we really worth saving?

At the age of nineteen, I was chosen and cast out of my village as a sacrifice. Now, I have no choice but to make a deal of my own or die out in the endless stretch of the Wastes.

Horns and Halos is a captivating read. A tale of light and dark. Evil and good. The balance between the two and most importantly, faith.

Once I began reading, I was immediately intrigued. I could picture the landscape. The desolate areas. The terrors that awaited after the sun went down. Miss Rose is a master at word play. As the story went on, I became more and more invested. I needed to know what would happen next! Our main character’s journey isn’t an easy one. Sia is tested at every corner. That ending though…it’s safe to say I did not see it coming. Very nice. Well done. This tale may invoke some feelings about certain characters and what they represent. You’ll have to read the book to know what I mean.

If you’re looking for a different read, this book is for you. This right here is your next read. I promise you, you won’t be the same after reading it. I look forward to whatever comes next from Nia Rose. I give this 5 stars.

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion*

New Release · Review

Faded (Starbound Book 2) by K.L. Bone and Greg Wilkey – My Review

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Title: Faded (Starbound Book 2)

Author: K.L. Bone & Greg Wilkey

Release Date: April 28th 2022

Genre: Dark Fantasy

Stars dim, darkness rises, starlight shines anew.

***

Heartbroken after the events of Fallen, Rosalind returns to Oxford, unaware of the dangers which stalk her. Cloaked in shadows, secrets hidden in her unrelenting dreams hint at a perilous destiny to come.

Haunted by the same nightmares—and determined to reclaim Rosalind’s heart—Zeke embarks on his own journey to England. But the journey is rampant with danger as those who serve the faded are determined to keep them apart at any cost. And Zeke is not the only one vying for Rosalind’s hand.

Meanwhile, Ursula continues to unfold her sinister plot, one which may see darkness conquer all.

A tale of stars, destiny, and darkness.

Once again, I was wowed by the fascinating storytelling of K.L. Bone and Greg Wilkey. As soon as I started reading, the real world melted away and soon I was in Zeke and Rosalind’s world. The chemistry between the two is scorching and magnetic. One of my favorite characters from the first book is back and we learn a lot more about her and her past. Lots of things are put into motion and when the ending finally came, I was left speechless and heartbroken. These are good things, trust me. Once you read these books, you can join me in my book hangover.

I look forward to and not so patiently for the third book. This is a highly must read and should be added to your TBR today! I give this 5 stars.

New Release · Review

The Sylvan and the Sand: A Standalone Enemies to Lovers Fantasy Romance (The Book of All Things (Kingdom of the White Sea) by Sarah M. Cradit – My Review

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Title: The Sylvan and the Sand: A Standalone Enemies to Lovers Fantasy Romance (The Book of All Things (Kingdom of the White Sea)

Author: Sarah M. Cradit

Release Date: May 10th 2022

Genre: Dark Fantasy, Epic Fantasy

Marry your enemy. Dare to survive.

From the USA Today Bestselling Author of Kingdom of the White Sea comes a new series of standalone fantasy romance tales set in the same vibrant world: The Book of All Things. Disappear into this scintillating tale of mortal enemies forced into a perilous, passionate marriage.

Yesenia Warwick artfully dodges her father’s talks of marriage, set on proving she is just as capable as her brothers. Her three loves—kin, homeland, and independence—are all she needs.

Corin Quinlanden suffers under the cruel contempt of his ruthless father and brother as they scheme and plot from their castle in the trees. He’s given up wishing for happiness. A strategic marriage, far from home, is as high as he dare dream.

But the king of this realm has his own plan.

Everything the gilded Quinlandens have “earned” was stolen from the Warwicks. So when all the leaders of the realm are summoned to a celebration with the king, both houses approach this fete balancing on a sharp blade’s edge.

But the king’s celebration quickly turns to horror. The lords and ladies can only watch, helpless, as the devious king masterminds a series of marriages between their children, spinning the kingdom into chaos.

Brash, fearless Yesenia Warwick is now the unwilling bride of tender-hearted Corin Quinlanden. Neither her silver-tongued wit, nor her unmatched skill with daggers, can erase what has been done.

The choice ahead of her is simple, but impossible.

Embrace her dangerous new life in the den of her enemy, or send the kingdom to war.

Just when I think Miss Cradit has broken me for the last time, she writes a new book and the process happens all over again. This book captivated me from the start. I knew after reading the prologue and first chapter, I wouldn’t be the same.

So many events, both tragic and harmonious happen in this tale of enemies to lovers. There is a certain event that happens and the author has given you a first row seat. As it unfolds, you’re powerless to stop what’s happening. The characters are very well written. They always feel like old friends. The emotional rollercoaster that is this book is enchanting and entertaining.

If you enjoy epic fantasy tales that make you feel your feels and want to learn how to sword fight, this book is for you. A tale packed with action, intrigue, betrayal, murder, and hope, this book is a must read! Skip adding it your TBR and read it today! I give it 5 stars.

 

Review

The Midnight Lie (Forgotten Gods Book 1) by Marie Rutkoski – My Review

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Title: The Midnight Lie (Forgotten Gods Book 1)

Author: Marie Rutkoski

Release Date: March 3rd 2020

Genre: LGBTQ+, Fantasy, Romance

Set in the world of the New York Times–bestselling Winner’s Trilogy, Marie Rutkoski’s The Midnight Lie is an epic LGBTQ romantic fantasy about learning to free ourselves from the lies others tell us—and the lies we tell ourselves.

Where Nirrim lives, crime abounds, a harsh tribunal rules, and society’s pleasures are reserved for the High Kith. Life in the Ward is grim and punishing. People of her low status are forbidden from sampling sweets or wearing colors. You either follow the rules, or pay a tithe and suffer the consequences.

Nirrim keeps her head down, and a dangerous secret close to her chest.

But then she encounters Sid, a rakish traveler from far away, who whispers rumors that the High Kith possess magic. Sid tempts Nirrim to seek that magic for herself. But to do that, Nirrim must surrender her old life. She must place her trust in this sly stranger who asks, above all, not to be trusted.

This is one of those reads where you’re unexpectedly surprised at how much you end up loving it. The beginning of the story you meet Nirrim. The story is slow moving, along with a feeling of despair. Nirrim lives a life that is hard. No dreams or even hope can change that. Then one night everything starts to change for her. At that point the story slowly blossoms into one of adventure and curiosity with a slight hint of danger. Vivid scenery and debauchery was easily pictured in my mind, thanks to the incredible writing talent of the author. There are some twists and secrets. None of which I saw coming and I loved that. I wasn’t expecting that ending. Mind blown. 

This book was unputdownable! The story was fascinating and refreshing. It left me wanting more! Marie Rutkowski is a new to me author. I can’t wait to read the next book or any of her future works. I highly recommend this book! I give this 5 stars.

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion*

New Release · Review

The Wolf of the Woods: A Little Red Riding Hood Retelling (Forbidden Fables Book 1) by Savvy Rose – My Review

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Title: The Wolf of the Woods: A Little Red Riding Hood Retelling (Forbidden Fables Book 1)

Author: Savvy Rose

Release Date: February 15th 2022

Genre: Fairytale Retelling

Lux
My father handed my mother to the men who burned her on a pyre.
I was left with my Gran, tucked away inside a cabin in the Welsh woods.
My mother’s books were all I had left of the brave woman I once idolized.
Soon, the woods began to call to me, the dark depths seeming more inviting than my own reality.
It wasn’t until I awakened that I realized just what my curiosity had done.
Before me stood not a beast, but a man. A man so fierce, that I would willingly forsake my God, just to worship him.

Fenrir
Exiled, for murder. All because of the beast inside me. Blood, war, and women roused him; the full moon stilled him.
I did not hunt these woods for women; but the men in the black coats do. I pay no mind to them because they leave offerings at my doorstep. I am no God, but I enjoyed being revered.
My thoughts never strayed from day-to-day tasks, until the day I saw the fox-haired girl.
She was to be mine, and I would shed as much blood as Odin would allow to make that so.

Oh Miss Savvy Rose! You know the way to my little black heart. 

This book had everything I desire in a dark romance read. Wickedly delightful woman, check. Hot alpha man, check. The heat between the two is off the charts. Once I was done, I was craving for more. 

The growth in which this author’s writing has grown, is amazing and impressive. This is author not to sleep on! She has a way with words and this book is one you don’t want to miss. Especially if you love dark romance like I do! I give it 5 stars.

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion*