Black by Elin PeerMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
What the what even was that?
I could not even believe what I was reading.
But clearly, I kept on reading, like a serial killer watching a crime scene. I just couldn’t look away.
I picked this up, because I read the Men of the North series by this author, which made me want to read all of her novels, and this one just came out of the blue and side smacked me across the face with a shovel. I have rarely been so absolutely stunned when reading a story. I just don’t even know how to put anything that I felt into words.
It ranged from curious:
To absolutely dumbfounded:
To strangely excited, though I didn’t want to admit it:
To shocked:
To slightly disgusted:
To outraged:
To intrigued:
Back to momentarily disgusted:
To shocked again:
And then back to this:
Followed by really into this:
And concluding with the most traditional ending ever for a truly nontraditional story, which made me feel all:
I still don’t know what in the world I just read, but clearly I liked the majority of this weird, messy, totally unexpected shit that occurred, even though if it had happened to anyone I know in real life, I’d have advised them to run the *** away and report malpractice to the feds.
But it wasn’t in real life, so instead I watched this go down like:
The narration by Noelle Bridges and John Masterson is spot on. John has a nice, deep, sexy voice, and Noelle reads with a lot of emotion.
**My original review for this book was censored and edited, for language and content, for the purposes of this blog (by me). Find me on Goodreads for the unedited truth.
Violet by Elin PeerMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the most bizarre series, which I'm really enjoying, and I am seriously a big fan of Elin Peer. She writes such interesting stories that don't feel repetitive of everything else I've read, which can be hard especially in the romance genre and because I read a lot.
Book one was kind of crazy, and book two took things in a whole different yet interesting direction. These 2 characters, at their core, have very different beliefs and values, so watching them try to reconcile that kept things tense and emotional.
What I like most is that when I open each new book in this series, I have absolutely no idea what to expect. Then, just once I think I'm settling into the story and know what's going on, there's always something throw in that takes me absolutely by surprise. I like that.
The narration for the audiobook is by Noelle Bridges and John Masterson, and they do an excellent job. I enjoy the contrast between the two readers.
Green by Elin PeerMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is another enjoyable opposites attract story in the Clashing Colors series. I occasionally wanted to smack the male lead, while also being amused and charmed by him. He was a handful, but also fun and sweet.
The female lead is feisty and emotional. My only one minor complaint is that they both wasted too much time bouncing around with other partners that weren't that well-developed, so I could have used less of that. Otherwise, it was a good read. I am really enjoying how different this series is from other contemporary romance.
Blue by Elin PeerMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
I loved this one! It's so funny, sexy, and sweet, another opposites attract situation. There's a theme of hidden identities, as well as some delicious Scottish yumminess. Plus **
I gave this 4 stars originally, but I think it actually deserves 4.5, so I've gone ahead and rounded up. It was my favorite in the series so far.
**My original review for this book was censored and edited, for language and content, for the purposes of this blog (by me). Find me on Goodreads for the unedited truth.
Yellow by Elin PeerMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
Such an unlikely couple, which made this an engaging read. I especially loved how this novel tied in the title, as well as the series title. It's like the whole thing came full circle, and I really enjoyed that.
This one has lots of drama and silly mix-ups, as well as a twin swap that amused me. Both characters had to reevaluate who they were and what they really wanted in life. It made for an interesting journey, though I do wish they had stayed in the woods longer.
Happily Ever After by Kelly OramMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Well, I'm just obsessed with Brian and Ella, so I really enjoyed having a bit more time in their world. This was a good addition that only made me want more books in this series. It also addressed a lot of issues, in regards to body image, in a healthy and real way, which I appreciated.
I really need to read more stuff by this author, as she does an excellent job showing how characters can grow. This story tugs at all of my emotions, and I appreciate the struggles paired with occasional wins.
The narration by Kirsten Leigh is clear and emotional.
Making Upby Helena Hunting
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Cosy and Griff are adorable. There's a bit of an age difference and plenty of humor in the way they meet up. A few things are a bit to convenient, but that is often the way with romance novels. I enjoyed this read. Side characters could have been more relevant and developed better, but overall, it is a decent and interesting read.
Handle With Careby Helena Hunting
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a really fun office romance. Linc and Wren totally won over my heart with their stubbornness and banter. There are lots of fun moments, paired up with plenty of drama and family issues.
#Junkie by Cambria HebertMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
I adore Trent and Drew, and this story has lots of heart. The only thing I don't like is the chopped off cliff-hanger ending that provides no resolution. It makes this feel like an incomplete story, which basically, it is. I guess there's a second thing that I don't like, and that's some of the stereotypes in this story. I could do without those, as well. Otherwise, it's a good read.
The narration is by Luke Itzvic and Guy Locke, both who do a great job.
#Rev by Cambria HebertMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the second half of Drew and Trent's story, and while I like it fine, I wish these first 2 books had been combined to create one better story. I don't think it all needed to be drug out for so long, especially considering that some things still weren't addressed very well. I think if this had been edited down to the heart of their story, then it could have easily been one book, which would have made it stronger overall.
Despite that, I still read and mostly enjoyed this story. There are some things I wish would have been handled better, but Drew and Trent are both so lovable that it pushed me to look past gaps in the storytelling. It's all pretty predictable, in terms of how things occur, so for needing 2 books to tell their story, I guess I just wished for something more.
This is a 3.5 for me, so I've rounded up to 4 stars.
#Swag by Cambria HebertMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
There are a lot of elements that I really loved with this story, including two outcasts coming together. It gave us an opportunity to see the softer sides of both. I also thought it was interesting that this addressed a lot of gender and sexism issues, though I do wish the female lead would have handled a few things differently along the way. Despite that, I really enjoyed this story. Things get heated quickly, and there's plenty of clashing.
#Blurby Cambria Hebert
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
My favorite in the series so far. Lots of depth and emotional range, with two fantastic main characters.
#Nerdby Cambria Hebert
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This has a bit of a One Tree Hill vibe that I enjoyed. But I’m a big sucker for the nerdy girl gets the hot guy trope.
#Hater by Cambria HebertMy rating: 2 of 5 stars
What a disappointing book 2. It completely fails to offer anything new, Including a solid story structure. Since I generally liked the characters in book one, it shouldn’t have been so difficult to keep my attention.
Unfortunately, this story is a lot of unnecessary melodrama that both starts and ends on a cliffhanger...but not the kind of cliffhanger that comes after some resolution. Don’t expect any resolution or growth for that matter. It’s just the same stuff over and over again, and I’m over it and stopping the series here.
And I’m bummed, because I liked these characters. Having more time with them should have been a good thing, but it was mostly meh.
Underneath It All by Kate CanterbaryMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a racy, provocative read with lots of rough play and raw emotions, as well as a touch of humor. I pretty much wanted to bite Matthew about as much as he always wanted to constantly bite Lauren. Yum. Architect and school teacher. Nice combo (says the former school teacher who would like to meet a nerdy, intelligent architect).
This story has a strong, independent female lead (Lauren). It was a nice change of pace for Matthew to push for more with Lauren, while she was off busy conquering the world and pursuing her dreams. He also never asks or expects her to stop doing that, despite him wanting to have more of her in his life, which was refreshing.
The extended families were both interesting, so I look forward to getting to know them all even more in the next books.
The Space Between by Kate CanterbaryMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed Andy's open enthusiasm and determination, versus Patrick's growly, no nonsense nature. This was a strong pairing, and there's a lot of romantic tension that creates a feeling of impatience in the reader, despite the fact that this book delivers pretty quickly.
The narration for the whole series if by Christian Fox and Lucy Rivers. Lucy is excellent, easy to listen to and understand, with a vibrant and emotional voice. Christian Fox has a deep voice that is super sexy, but it comes across a bit growly and mumbly at times. However, I'm sure if you listen at regular speeds you will have no problem understanding him, whatsoever. I just have a brain that works fast, so I like to listen at faster speeds (between 2.5 and 3), which is a bit more difficult with Christian, especially if listening while driving. There's just enough of a low hum in his voice that blurs some of the words together if you aren't paying close attention. So either listen in easy to hear situations, and/or keep your speed at a more reasonable level than I do.
Necessary Restorations by Kate CanterbaryMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
I absolutely adore Sam and would read more books about him, and Tiel was the perfect companion to ground him, while at the same time pushing his limits and bringing him out of his shell more. This was a complex, layered read, full of angst and conflicting emotions. Plus, it's both cuddly to the max and also still sensual.
Both characters had a lot of shit to deal with and get over, in order to successfully be together, but even when it was frustrating watching them get in their own way, it was also rewarding watching life prove some of their theories wrong and forcing them to grow together.
I need a Walsh in my life. These guys are so steamy, and I think I could be good friends with the ladies, as well. I'm enjoying seeing the family dynamics change and learning more about the other siblings. I can't wait until Riley has his story, as I think his siblings totally underestimate him and I expect some amazing things when he gets his turn at love.
The Cornerstone by Kate CanterbaryMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Holy yum. This was full of fire, and I finally understand Shannon on a whole new level that just made me absolutely adore her. She so strong and tough, and I am happy she found an equal in Will. I also love how he sees her soft sides and wants to protect her, even when she doesn't need it. Super sweet.
I think with every new book that I read, I fall more in love with this whole family.
View all my reviews
Restoredy Kate Canterbary
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I was really excited about a second book for Sam and Tiel, but I didn't enjoy this one quite as much as I expected. I still love them both and enjoyed having more time in their world, but it fell just a bit short of my expectations, for some reason.
The Spire by Kate CanterbaryMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
I absolutely loved how unusual and nontraditional this romance story was. Making a long distance relationship work is difficult, so starting a relationship out followed by immediate distance for extended periods of time has to be even harder. **
I appreciated how patient Nick is. He never asks or expects Erin to be someone that she isn't, which is refreshing. She keeps her life, career, travels, and studies, while somehow, they learn to make it all work. While relationship is about compromise, sometimes it's also about letting both people get what they need and want and accepting some of the difficulties that come with that.
I really enjoyed this one. The male narration is still a bit too muffled for me, but otherwise a great read.
Preservation by Kate CanterbaryMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed Riley's story. It's fun and sexy, and it's nice getting inside his head, finally. Also, he's hung up on someone he shouldn't be, because she showed him some kindness during a dark point in his life. I can totally relate to that, and I'm glad when he comes out on the other end and sees things for what they are.
Initially, Riley was a bit of an underdog in this series, but I think he actually edged his way in above Sam in my affections.
The Bastard by Lisa Renee JonesMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
This has a very disjointed and illogical start, but it gets better. It just takes about 1/3 of the book for you to finally settle into an actual story, but even then, it's only a partial story.
You will not get a full story out of this book, so don't expect it. There will be no full story cycle and no resolution. It's basically like someone took an axed and chopped the story, in order to create a cliffhanger. So the construction of the story is bad, but there's tons of drama, melodrama, angst, and misunderstandings, which will have you pushing forward despite the structural issues.
If you like what you are reading, then have book 2 ready to go, as you will need to start it immediately, since this isn't a complete story. However, despite all that, if you like telenovellas, then this might appeal to you. There's high drama and a lack of realness/honesty in the characters and their lives, actions, behaviors, and dialogue. You have to be along for the ride and not expect too much from people.
The Princess by Lisa Renee JonesMy rating: 2 of 5 stars
Just no. There are a whole lot of reasons why this book and I cannot be friends, but typing them all out here will just make me angry again. And I would like to avoid that, so let me just say the following without the full explanations:
1. You can't always replace communication with sex and expect people to stay interested in the characters and story.
2. People with a disability or disorder, or friends and family members of those with disabilities and/or disorders, don't constantly bring up the issue every moment of the day, in every thought and converstation. In the end, a person is just a person, regardless of having a unique brain. Every single thing they say and do does not need to be clarified by reminding the reader of the disability. We know. So all that was awkward, unnatural, and insensitive, especially the terminology choice.
3. If someone has a brain that works differently, that should be reflected in the character's voice, as well as actions, throughout the whole story. It can't just be something you parade out occasionally, whenever it is convenient to the story, but that doesn't really exist otherwise. That's some of the worst character development I've ever read, and I think it's dangerous ground to tackle writing about something like this, if you don't know what you are doing. It comes off all kinds of wrong and is full of way too many offensive stereotypes.
I wanted to ignore all of the above, because the story is also dramatic and sexy, which tends to appeal to me, but this just all became so frustrating and annoying that I couldn't stop fixating on it, because it was constantly being shoved in the reader's face. So needless to say, I'm quitting this series here, as I can't put myself through another book of this nonsense.
Two stars, because maybe this could have been good, if things had been handled better.
Dirty Rich One Night Stand by Lisa Renee JonesMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
Nicole recommended this series to me, but I had trouble connecting with this first book. It started out great, and it's super sexy. The problem is that despite the exciting moments, there were a lot of moments of meh, in which I sort of tuned out.
This had a good premise but pretty weak character development, which was hard for me. It's also lackluster in the emotions department, except for emotions related to sex. The suspense was weak, and there just was not enough real tension to carry the story forward.
I obviously didn't hate it, but I also didn't love it. I enjoyed moments of it but felt it wasn't as solid and cohesive of a story as it could have been. That being said, I did decide to continue on in the series and found book 2 to be significantly better.
On the positive sides, the male lead is really hot and knows exactly what he wants, and the narration is excellent.
Dirty Rich Cinderella Story by Lisa Renee JonesMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
Book 2 was so much better than book 1 was for me. I'm glad I continued onward. This has stronger character development, though there's a bit too much of the plot being all over the place, when more time could have been spent developing other aspects of the characters and their relationships to others.
The suspense/tension is slightly better in this story, too, though I could still use more. It seems like random new plot elements are just thrown in here and there to try to increase the tension and conflict, but it mostly doesn't and just feels too random. So I could actually do without that and would like some more, real, authentic types of conflict.
It's definitely really sexy and takes the reader through a broader range of emotions, though they still do seem pretty limited to anger, frustration, desperation, and joy. The problem with this story, for me, was that the two main characters never really learn to communicate and/or compromise with each other, which leads to a lot of running roughshod over each other and the relationship, with inevitably one or the other giving in. They don't really learn to be a partnership, which is a bit disappointing.
Regardless, this was still steamy and even though I've been feeling a bit over the rich man saves poor girl theme in romance novels, the female lead in this one does a good job of being self-sufficient and not annoying me further on that front.
Dirty Rich Obsessionby Lisa Renee Jones
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was spicy and the best of the 3 books so far. It has a cohesive story with a strong female lead and a supportive alpha male. They are a nice compliment to each other, both professionally and in their relationship. I really enjoyed this one.
Dirty Rich Betrayal by Lisa Renee JonesMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
This was a second chance romance for the characters from book one, which I had trouble connecting with, and I felt the same about this story. It does have lots of spicy moments, but the male lead is a bit too commanding and never bothers to explain himself. The couple really needs to learn to communicate better.
I struggled to get invested and stay invested in this book, but it does have some really sexy moments, which were probably the bright spots. Unfortunately, that wasn't enough for me. I really wanted a solid storyline and good character growth, and that was harder to come by.
Dirty Rich Cinderella Story: Ever Afterby Lisa Renee Jones
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Okay. I love this couple. Everything is so hot and angsty, with lots of tension and suspense. Their second story is also really emotional and dramatic, with lots of power struggles. I enjoyed revisiting these 2, and this was a lot better than book 4.
Just My Type by Tara SivecMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is absolutely freaking adorable and hilarious, and Tara Sivec is an auto-buy author for me, in both Kindle and Audible formats. James Cavenaugh and CJ bloom narrate this story and give it just the right amount of sass and snark to suit the voice and the author's style.
There are so many things I loved about this one, but it's the humor, paired with the sexiness, as well as the somewhat crass comments that just really amuse the heck out of me. The characters know when to be serious adults and when to just let loose and take life for the hilarious, chaotic mess that it often is.
The female lead in this one gets jerked around at the start off the story, so I'm so happy when she pulls her shit together and really comes into her own.
This is one story that I would read again some day, just for the hedge hog commentary alone.
Perky by Julia KentMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
The premise was interesting, and the start of the book was good. The ending was sexy. It's pretty much everything that is in between that I felt meh about. This whole storyline just went nowhere fast. I was really excited for all that could have been done with this, and instead, it just drags on rehashing the same thing over and over again in as many different ways as possible.
I liked the characters, who were opposites, but even they needed better development and a more enjoyable storyline. They were far too interesting to languish in such boring, repetitive melodrama. I wanted something more intriguing, with more tension.
Little Miss Perfectby Julia Kent
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This was okay, if you just really like backstory. It's not really a full story, more like a snippet. I was hoping for something a bit more satisfying. Unless you are just obsessed with book one, you can probably skip this. It doesn't provide much more in the way of depth or character development, and the basis of what happens in this novella was already referenced in book one.
Fluffy by Julia KentMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
I picked this up to read, because the premise was just absolutely hilarious. I'm pleased to report that the story is also funny. I enjoyed the silliness paired with deeper emotions. It added some nice variety and depth, which made my reading experience better.
Unfortunately, this took some random, windy paths through the middle of the story that weren't quite as interesting and compelling to me, but overall, it was still a good read.
The audiobook version is particularly cute. It's narrated by Erin Mallon, who does a good job of adding some additional personality to the voice of the story.
Rebel Heirby Vi Keeland
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Well, shit. Totally didn’t see that one coming, and so now I’m onward to get my hands on book 2. I’ll add my thoughts there, since it appears as if both stories together tell the full story of Rush and Gia.
The audiobook version is excellent and a fast read. I'm really starting to enjoy both Penelope Ward and Vi Keeland, but especially when the write together.
Rebel Heart by Penelope WardMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the second half to book one, and together, they make one somewhat lengthy story. I was mostly satisfied with how things wrapped up. There are a few things I could have done without, or that were resolved a bit too quickly for me. Overall, I wanted the characters to put their actions where their words were a bit more, but not everyone is like that.
Both these books were narrated by Maxine Mitchell and Sebastian York. Maxine is expressive but still clear in her narration, and everyone and their dog loves Sebastian York. There's probably an audiobook shrine for him somewhere, since he's so popular and beloved.
Cocky Bastard by Penelope WardMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
So, this romance novel was referenced in another book that I read. It said something about a sexy Australian guy and a goat, and apparently those are selling factors for me, as then I aggressively googled to identify and locate this book, in order to read it next.
It's has a very strange and unexpected storyline, which I think is definitely in its favor, though I could have used just a bit more explanation and clarity at times and a whole lot less of the mild stalking and endless grovelling. I actually loved the concept for this one. I just would have liked some changes in the overall execution.
The goat situation cracks me up, and I enjoyed the second chance romance trope.
The narration is good, with Australian accents that slowed me down a bit from my usual listening speeds but didn't impact my ability to listen and understand.
Beautiful Mistake by Vi KeelandMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
I listened to this audiobook as part of a Second Chance romance collection, and there are some things I definitely loved about it, everything from the two MCs getting off on the wrong feet, down to the Professor /TA relationship dynamic.
I wish the two would have employed a bit more communication and honesty in their relationship with each other, but then I guess that would have run the story short on conflict. Even though they were given an over-the-top happy ending, I think they definitely still have growing to do as a couple.
That being said, it was a sassy, sexy read with a lot of fun moments, and overall, I enjoyed reading it.
Drunk Dial by Penelope WardMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
This started out so great! And who hasn't been there and done that with the crazy drunk dial that you should live to regret? This cracked me up, but quickly became sweet and supportive.
Some of the stuff that occurred in the 2nd half of the book didn't seem quite as compelling and necessary to me, but I still enjoyed the story overall, even if things were occasionally a bit convoluted.
I think it's really that I could have used for the character development to be a bit deeper and stronger, rather than just hinging on some big tragic events. I wanted to get more into the deep dark sides of who the characters really were, and while things got complicated, it all stayed a bit too surface-level for me. I wanted it to dig deeper and brush off some of the surface moments and tricks which created drama but didn't always lead to the right emotional connections that I was craving.
Don't get me wrong. I still enjoyed the story and am glad that I read it. I just couldn't help wishing for just a bit more from it.
The audiobook is narrated by Andi Arndt, who is always fantastic and brings a bit of extra life and emotion to every story.
Mister Moneybags by Vi KeelandMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
Based on the title, I confess I had pretty low expectations going into this story, but I enjoy the authors and wanted to give it a try. The premise was fun and caused a significant amount of mess and conflicting emotions, which kept things interesting.
I would have preferred a bit more realness in the second half and a bit less perfect, classic, storybook ending that everyone is supposed to want. But that's a common complaint with me with romance these days, and it's something a lot of other readers really like. Also, there's one thread of the storyline that I pretty much hated and that felt unnecessary. Unfortunately, that ate up the last 3rd of the book. It was there for drama and conflict, but I could have done without it. It took away from the story more than it added to it.
This was best in the first half, and it lost steam for me in the second half. But overall, it's an enjoyable and sexy read. The narration for the audiobook was good, and the banter between the two main characters was fantastic through the first half of the book.
Bossman by Vi KeelandMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
Well, with a title like this, I figured that I knew what to expect from this story, but I was mostly wrong. It had more depth and layers than I thought I was going to get, though I could have done with a lot less running away from shit and weird stalking and a lot more stepping up and dealing with issues.
The funny thing about this one, is it has a deep running theme of unaddressed mental health issues with a homeless side character, but neither of the two main characters can seem to understand that they both have some rather serious and unaddressed mental health issues that they should also deal with. That complete judgement of other's issues but lack of awareness or effort to fix their own bothered me some and is why this story can't get 5 stars.
The audiobook was good, though, and the story was sexy. I'm just not sure I believe the 2 are actually going to be happy for long, since neither of them really dealt with their shit in an adult way.
Say You'll Stay by Corinne MichaelsMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
There’s lots of telling and backstory upfront that isn’t helpful to settling into the story, but it ends pretty fast. So just hang in there through that first bit, and this becomes a good read. There are some things that I wish had been handled better or that had more resolution, but overall, I enjoyed the characters and story. Side characters are interesting and deserved more development, especially family members.
I also do enjoy a story with kids.This one is pretty tragic at first, and it is a lot about how Presley has had so little control her whole life, and then she is suddenly forced into a situation where she needs to find some, as well as her voice to speak up for what she wants and needs. Before this story started, Presley was doing a lot of letting life happen to her. Instead of living her life, it was kind of living her, and it takes some pretty dark circumstances for her to acknowledge that and make some big changes. That is what makes this story such an interesting read.
Since I really loved some of the side characters, I wanted more of them, but that could just be me being greedy. Also, this author seems to like the really classic, old-school romance novel endings, which are never my favorite, but it is what it is. It was the journey that mattered to me, not the picture perfect ending.
The audiobook is narrated by Andi Arndt and Sebastian York, which is a classic romance narrator pairing that pretty much makes everyone happy.
Say I'm Yours by Corinne MichaelsMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
They say this is a second chance romance, but it’s more like 15th chance, not that I’m complaining. I actually got my hands on this book first, as part of a collection, which encouraged me to go back and read book one, as well.
The audiobook is excellent, and I really did enjoy this story, though I confess, there were some moments when I really wanted Grace to make completely different choices than she did. She let people jerk her around a lot, which wasn't an attractive quality. Sometimes, when you get the short end of the stick for 20 years, it's a sign that you should throw the stick out and find a new one. That's all I'm saying.
Narration was spot on, and I enjoyed the story, even though I wish I could have changed a few things, especially in regards to the poor behaviors of the male MC. But that's life. This was one of those romances where what you get isn't always that romantic and often feels like less than you need or want, but you hang on and just hope for the best and the people really can make major changes.
Say You Won't Let Goby Corinne Michaels
My rating:
3 of 5 stars
Not quite as convincing and satisfying as I wanted it to be. But not bad, either.
Joys R Usby Kim Fielding
My rating:
3 of 5 stars
Kind of abrupt, but it has a great message.
Claimed by her Cougarby Felicity Heaton
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Definitely not bad, but it also doesn't have anything really new to offer, if you have read a lot of other or better shifter books. The world is not particularly special or intriguing. In fact, there really isn't much world building at all.
Switch Hitterby Sara Ney
My rating:
4 of 5 stars
It was a good listen. I'm glad I read it.
Grayson's Vowby Mia Sheridan
My rating:
4 of 5 stars
Messy, tragic, and emotional, with a convoluted ending.
Jock Rowby Sara Ney
My rating:
4 of 5 stars
A solid read. I will move on to book 2. I enjoyed this story.
Jock Ruleby Sara Ney
My rating:
4 of 5 stars
I'm enjoying this series and might have to look for more books by Sara Ney.
Jock Roadby Sara Ney
My rating:
3 of 5 stars
It ended way too abruptly for me. Otherwise, good.
Unbreak Meby Lexi Ryan
My rating:
3 of 5 stars
It's just okay. I honestly can't even remember what happened.
The Cowboyby Vanessa Vale
My rating:
4 of 5 stars
Amusing premise with lots of confusion and conflict.
The Outlawby Vanessa Vale
My rating:
4 of 5 stars
Ridiculously domineering male, but in a fun sort of way.
Sweet Justiceby Vanessa Vale
My rating:
4 of 5 stars
Old-fashioned bounty hunter captures the wrong person scenario.
Western Widowsby Vanessa Vale
My rating:
4 of 5 stars
Three short novellas about Western widows who have to consider new partnerships.
The Earl of Pembroke: The Wicked Earls' Club by Lauren SmithMy rating: 1 of 5 stars
The premise sounded fun, but that is where the fun ended with this one. Very little of this made any sense, especially at the start of the book. I had lots of WTF moments while attempting to read this one.
However, I seem to be the odd one out, considering the other glowing reviews. I picked this up in a Chirp sale, after seeing all the good reviews, hoping for the best. Instead, I spent most of the time frustrated and wishing it would end already.
The writing and storytelling are weak. The first chapter is particularly tedious. The second isn’t much better. There’s lots of telling, passive statements, and unnecessary adjectives being used to cover up weaknesses in the writing and storytelling and scene setting. This wore me down fast.
Character intros are poor, so it is difficult to figure out who anyone is or why I should even care. As I started to figure it out, I found the characters to be mostly unbelievable and annoying, and there is no real growth or development.
This story also didn’t inspire me to feel any real emotions, other than anger at myself for continuing to read such a mess, which is why I chose to DNF halfway though.
The narrator is excellent, since I listened to the audiobook. However, while her voice is pleasant and interesting, it wasn’t enough to make the story any better. I would definitely listen to her read something else, though.
Captivated By The Captain by Amanda MarielMy rating: 1 of 5 stars
The writing, plot, character development, and overall storytelling elements are all weak. But hey, pirates. Although, the pirates really are not that exciting or pirate-y, unfortunately.
Overall, this was a swing and a miss for me. I hoped for a gem, but it really fell flat. It's basically emotionless, and none of the characters have any depth. For being such a short book, I couldn't wait for it to end already. Something about it feels way to clinical, and there's just not enough believable adventure and excitement.
Also, this should technically be labeled historical romance, though it didn't feel like there was very much that was historically accurate with this one.
The one thing that I did like was the narrator for the audiobook (James Young).
Viking's Prizeby Tanya Anne Crosby
My rating:
2 of 5 stars
Nope.
January by Audrey CarlanMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
This concept totally has my attention. Book one is a full story, but at the same time, I don't think I'm going to get a final resolution until I read all 12 stories.
Pages: 136
Februaryby Audrey Carlan
My rating:
4 of 5 stars
Please, sir, may I have some more.
Pages: 102
Marchby Audrey Carlan
My rating:
4 of 5 stars
Great change of pace. I'm enjoying the depth in her journey.
Pages: 106
Aprilby Audrey Carlan
My rating:
4 of 5 stars
Amused.
Pages: 100
Mayby Audrey Carlan
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Compared to the others, this one just didn't really do it for me. It had some good elements but fell flat overall and there was almost zero focus on her client and job.
Pages: 100
Juneby Audrey Carlan
My rating:
3 of 5 stars
Nice contrast but less interesting overall. Lots of trying to shove messages down our throats with this one.
Page: 100
Julyby Audrey Carlan
My rating:
4 of 5 stars
This was still a good read, but my interest might be slipping just a bit at this point.
August by Audrey CarlanMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
This book moves the story in another unexpected direction, and while I appreciate that, there is a part of me that just wants it to wrap up already. Come on, December. Also, while I read a lot of stuff that isn't romance, I picked up this series for the romance and have found it lacking as the series progresses.
The narrator, Summer Morton, does an excellent job. She is crisp and clean in her delivery, while still bringing a lot of emotion to the story. This allows me to listen at faster speeds than usual, which is helpful, as this series had drug on for too long in a way that is starting to become a bit tedious.
I do still really enjoy this overall concept and this reflective journey that our MC, Mia is on. The month by month approach is good, because it's showing how much a person's life can change over the course of the year if they are open to new experiences and relationships. I even love the idea of Max's entry into Mia's life, but it seems like some of the spark has gone missing.
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September by Audrey CarlanMy rating: 2 of 5 stars
This book contains everything, including the kitchen sink, and I have to say it's not a great look. It's almost as if someone brainstormed a list of every ridiculous, dramatic, and over-the-top thing that could occur to create some tension, and then they tried to cram it all into one book. As a result, it came off as ridiculous and lacking in honesty in the storyline, rather than being helpful towards creating drama, suspense, and conflict in the story.
I feel exhausted after reading this one, and not in a good way. Plus, I'm not sure I'm a fan of how much the author uses trauma to advance her storyline, nor of how she handles the trauma after it is inflicted on characters. Also, the whole hitting you over the head with the lessons and points she is trying to make becomes tedious. I'm even tired of the super supportive behaviors of side characters, which at this point is starting to seem inauthentic and cloying. It's okay for one of your friends to say---woman, what in the hell are you doing?--rather than just running to the aid of the MC every 5 seconds. At this point, it feels like everyone is enabling her to continue to make poor choices on a massive scale, and I'm weary of it.
I thought about quitting the series here, but after reading 9 books, I really want to know how all of this chaos wraps up. And there are some things I still do like about the series, even if those are starting to fade into the background a bit. I guess that means I will finish the last 3 months, unless October starts out rough. If it does, I may just skip ahead to December.
Summer Morton is still doing an excellent job as the narrator.
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