A Vow in Vengeance

By Jaclyn Rodriguez 

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 6 STARS — A Book That Owns My Soul Until 2026

There are books that linger in your mind… and then there are books that haunt you until you get your hands on the next one. This book? It wrecked me, in the best way. And the worst part? Book one isn’t even coming out until 2026. If the sequel isn't already in the works, I will personally light a candle and pray to the publishing gods. Because I need more.

This was an easy 6-star read for me, blown away doesn’t even begin to cover it. There’s adventure, peril, three mysterious kingdoms of immortals, forced proximity, fated mates, one bed (YES!), and a magical system inspired by tarot cards that felt fresh, unique, and so well-executed. Oh, and did I mention the slow burn romance? Because wow. It hurt so good.

💥 The World & Premise

Each year, 100 mortals are chosen by immortal kingdoms as punishment for a failed rebellion generations ago. Rune, our fierce and unforgettable heroine, wants to be selected, not out of desperation, but because it’s her only chance to uncover the truth about her missing family. Alone since she was 14, Rune has survived by being sharp, guarded, and completely self-reliant. She doesn’t trust easily, how could she? Survival was her only priority. But beneath that hardened shell is the kind of FMC I live for: smart, scrappy, spirited, and unapologetically strong.

👑 The Romance (and the Prince Who Stole My Heart)

Then there's Draven. Prince of one of the immortal realms. He’s not your typical gray brooder, he’s confident, a little arrogant, and yet still feels like the softest cinnamon roll underneath all that bravado. He’s drawn to Rune immediately but respects her fire. He doesn’t try to smother her independence, he supports it, even when it hurts. Their chemistry? Electric. Their tension? Deliciously unbearable.

🔮 The Magic System

Even if you don’t know a thing about tarot, don’t worry, this book makes the magic system completely accessible. It’s inspired by tarot symbolism, but in a way that adds depth, mystery, and magic without ever feeling confusing or overdone. Every aspect of the worldbuilding, from the lore to the politics to the stakes, feels thoughtful and fully realized.

If you love romantasy with high stakes, emotionally complex characters, an addictive slow burn, and a rich, immersive world, this is the book for you. I’m not just recommending it, I’m begging you to read it. Just be prepared: it will own your heart and leave you screaming for more.

Bring on book two. I’ll be first in line.

 Ashes Don't Bloom by Lenore Nox

A Wild Ride Through Rattlesnake Ridge,  But It’s Not Without Bumps

Ashes Don’t Bloom takes readers deep into the dusty, dangerous world of Rattlesnake Ridge, where love is as fierce as the engines revving beneath its characters. The story follows two couples, Delilah & Diesel and Sedona & Duke, as they navigate cartel conflict, buried trauma, found family, and high-speed thrills.

Sedona, Diesel, and Duke are ex-military living under one roof, while Delilah, the fiery newcomer with a southern drawl and charm to spare, shows up ready to stir the pot. There’s no shortage of drama: we’ve got PTSD, high-octane racing, sizzling chemistry, and small-town secrets. And yes, there’s spice. The characters are what really shined for me. Each had distinct personalities and backstories, though I would have loved more depth for Delilah, especially since she was my favorite. Her sass, wit, and weaponized "southern belle" act made every scene she was in a delight. The structure, however, was a challenge. This was my first experience with a third-person dual POV, technically, a quadruple POV, and I personally found it overwhelming. While I love getting into characters’ heads, the constant perspective shifts in third person made it harder to connect, and the dual-couple storyline might have worked better spread across two books. That way, both couples, and their arcs, could’ve had room to breathe. The racing scenes were an absolute highlight. As someone who grew up around cars, those moments had my heart racing. They brought the kind of adrenaline I’d hoped to feel throughout the rest of the book.

On the downside, Delilah and Diesel’s relationship moved way too fast for me. While Sedona and Duke’s dynamic felt earned due to their shared past, the other couple’s romance felt rushed, almost like it was driven more by plot pacing than character development. This also didn’t feel like a true dark romance to me. While it had gritty moments, it leaned more toward romantic suspense or desert noir.

Final thoughts:
This book had elements I really enjoyed, especially the characters and racing, but overall, it didn’t quite hit the mark for me. I probably won’t continue the series, but readers who enjoy third-person, multi-POV romance with spice, crime, and speed might find this to be their kind of thrill ride.

 Kingdom of Stolen Crowns 

by Stephanie Storm

A Darkly Fun Fantasy Romp with Fated Mates and Fierce Chemistry!

I had such a blast diving into this adventure with Victor and Runa!

While it took a couple of chapters to fully pull me in—the opening leans a bit slower—the moment Victor’s POV kicked in, I was hooked. His chapters quickly became the highlight for me, adding tension, depth, and just the right amount of edge.

The dual POV is handled seamlessly, offering balanced insight into both characters and keeping the story dynamic. Once the pacing picks up, it stays steady, with the plot delivering enough twists and intrigue to keep the pages turning. The world-building strikes a great balance—it’s immersive without ever feeling overwhelming, making it easy to settle into the universe.

Although you’ll catch familiar fantasy elements—vampires, shifters, dragons, an Empyrean, and a brutal trial—there’s still a refreshing originality in how it all comes together. It pays homage to beloved tropes while confidently standing on its own.

What to expect:

·         ✨ Fated mates

·         💘 He falls first

·         ⚔️ Mild enemies to lovers

·         🏠 Forced proximity

·         🤝 Reluctant allies

·         👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Found family vibes

If you're a fan of fantasy romance with a good dash of action, strong character dynamics, and just the right amount of emotional tension, this one’s worth the read!

 The Quiet Side by Casey Blair

I’ll be honest, when I first started the book, the dynamic between Kovan and Tasa felt a bit much. Their immediate intensity came off more like obsession than curiosity, which made it harder to ease into their connection. They’d flip from mutual admiration to sharp-edged conflict so fast it gave me whiplash. That emotional whiplash wasn’t always believable, but then again, relationships aren't always tidy.

That said, once I settled in, I found myself unexpectedly drawn to both of them. Kovan, with all his quiet strength and practical thinking, felt like the embodiment of control, except when it came to figuring out where he fit in the world. Watching him wrestle with the weight of other people’s expectations versus his own voice felt deeply personal. I’ve been there. It hit.

Then there's Tasa, stubborn, independent, almost allergic to vulnerability. She’s so used to surviving on her own that accepting help feels like weakness. And yet, it’s in that hardened exterior that we see her unravel, slowly, beautifully.

What really made their story shine for me wasn’t the drama or the romance, but the raw, almost painful way they saw the best in each other, while being completely blind to those same qualities in themselves. There’s something tender about that, something real. Watching them begin to unpack those old, self-inflicted wounds together was honestly my favorite part.

And I haven’t even mentioned the setting, dragons and cozy vibes? That combination is an absolute win. You get softness wrapped in scales and fire, and somehow, it works.

I’m seriously looking forward to the rest of the series. Will it stay safe and soft? Or are we headed for darker skies? Either way, I’m buckled in, I won’t be missing a page.

 Up in Molten Lights by E.B. Golden 

"Up in Molten Lights" doesn’t just raise the stakes, it sets them on fire.

From the first page, this sequel slams the gas pedal and never lets up. If Behind the Crimson Curtain was a slow, seductive waltz through shadows and secrets, Molten Lights is an all-out sprint through a minefield. Explosive, fearless, and emotionally gutting, this book will claw into your chest and refuse to let go until the very last word.

The world is darker now, more dangerous. The president’s twisted vision for the regime morphs into full-blown tyranny, and Golden paints this unraveling with vivid, terrifying precision. Every scene crackles with danger, you can practically smell the smoke and fear in the air. It's suffocating in the best way.

And Firin, oh, Firin. She’s still wearing masks like armor, still walking the knife’s edge between survival and rebellion. Her internal war is just as gripping as the physical one outside. Watching her balance of love, duty, deception, and identity is like watching a storm try to hold itself together. And at the center of it all is him, the man she loves, the one she can’t tell the truth to. The tension between them is off the charts: intimate, heartbreaking, and charged with all the things they wish they could say but can’t.

Golden doesn’t just twist the plot, she detonates it. Just when you think you know where it’s going, the ground crumbles. Allegiances flip, secrets bleed into daylight, and every uncovered truth feels like a slap. Nothing is safe. No one is safe. And as a reader, you’re caught in that glorious chaos, flipping pages like your life depends on it.

Where Crimson Curtain was a lyrical descent into a broken world, Molten Lights is its violent reckoning. It’s bold. It’s brutal. It’s brilliant. This is the kind of finale that burns, in your memory, in your heart, in every place you didn’t expect to feel it.

Prepare to be wrecked, and to love every second of it.

 Silvercloak by L.K. Stevens

Silvercloak isn’t just cool as hell, it’s utterly gripping from start to finish. At its heart is Saffron Killoran, a detective mage tasked with infiltrating one of the most dangerous gangs in the city. But this isn’t just another assignment. This gang is responsible for the brutal murder of her parents two decades ago, and Saff’s not just going undercover, she’s chasing justice with a vengeance. Or maybe revenge. Either way, there’s a score to settle, and she’s not walking away until it’s paid in full.

The worldbuilding here is fresh and inventive in the best way. The magic system alone had me wide-eyed: in Saff’s world, magic draws from a reservoir of pleasure and pain, quantity and quality determined by the emotional highs and lows of the user. It’s intimate, risky, and entirely original. As Saff navigates this brutal landscape, it becomes clear she’s playing by her own rules, with a few tricks no one saw coming.

Her descent into the city’s criminal underworld is a masterclass in tension. It’s dark, dangerous, and constantly keeps you on edge. The twists never feel cheap; they’re perfectly timed gut-punches that keep the plot sharp and the stakes sky-high. And then there’s the romantic subplot, messy, magnetic, and infuriating in the best possible way. I genuinely couldn't decide whether I wanted to throw my Kindle or write fanfic. It’s that kind of dynamic.

If I had one critique, it’s that the conclusion felt just a little too fast. With so many high-stakes threads converging, the final showdown veered into chaos, and I wished for just a bit more breathing room to fully appreciate the payoff. Also, since I read the e-ARC, I’m crossing my fingers that the final edition includes a map, I found myself craving a visual layout of the various territories, especially as the political intrigue started ramping up.

That said, these are minor gripes in a book that completely owned me. The (tragically short) epilogue left me feral in the best way. I’m fully invested, already obsessing over theories, and counting down the days until the next installment. This series has claws, and I’m not getting out unscathed.

 Augmented by Kenechi Odogu

This book had me hooked from page one, claustrophobic in the best way.

Imagine an Earth so ravaged by climate change that even stepping outside requires a full-body suit and an airlock. That’s the terrifyingly immersive backdrop of this dystopian sci-fi, and it felt disturbingly plausible. The world-building was airtight (pun not intended?), and it hit me hard how close we might be to living in a world like this.

What really struck me, though, was how the story explored the idea of power and potential in a system built to sort, surveil, and suppress. The society here is meticulously structured, privilege is doled out in teaspoons, and individuality gets run through an aptitude scanner. So when our main character, Akaego, a skilled coder already, suddenly develops a rare and highly prized ability, the system grabs hold of her with both hands. She’s fast-tracked, spotlighted, and practically handed to the mayor on a silver platter. But... at what cost?

There’s this simmering question throughout the story: Is she being elevated or exploited? It made me think about the way we value people based on their "usefulness," and how easily gifts can become cages.

💡 What I loved:

·         The sharp, necessary commentary on technology, how it can be both a weapon and a lifeline, depending on who’s holding the controls.

·         The pacing! It struck that perfect balance between action and emotion, tension and tenderness. The final act? Nail-biting.

·         Akaego felt real. So did her relationships, even in a high-stakes, unfamiliar world. Her fears, doubts, and soft moments were handled with care.

·         And yes, there's a touch of romance, and it is so sweet, like a beam of sunlight breaking through a thick smog.

·         Also, whoever designed the cover deserves a medal. The art, the edges, it’s the kind of book that looks as good as it reads.

This isn’t just a cool sci-fi. It’s a story about identity, resilience, and choosing who you are in a world that’s constantly trying to define it for you. And I’ll be thinking about Akaego’s journey for a long time.

 

Arc of the Universe by Nikki Alexander 

A Bold, Brilliant, and Unflinchingly Honest Look at the World We Live In

The Arc of the Universe by Nikki Alexander is one of those rare books that grabs hold of your mind and refuses to let go. From the very first page, I found myself completely immersed in a story that, while rooted in science fiction, feels hauntingly and heartbreakingly real.

Told from the perspective of Carrie, our fierce and intelligent main character, the novel begins with what seems like a dream come true, she lands the job she’s worked tirelessly for. But what follows isn’t just a story of ambition and success. It’s a deep dive into the cracks in our society, a reimagining of power, justice, and what could happen if someone dared to challenge the foundations of an unjust system.

Alexander crafts a compelling narrative that dares to ask the impossible: What if you could rewrite the Constitution? Through Carrie’s eyes, we explore this provocative idea, how systemic racism, sexism, and corruption might be dismantled and rebuilt in a way that truly serves everyone. It’s a chillingly realistic thought experiment cloaked in science fiction, and it forces readers to confront uncomfortable truths about the world we live in.

What sets this book apart is not only the originality of its premise but the emotional depth of its characters. Carrie isn’t a one-dimensional heroine; she’s layered, flawed, and deeply human. The supporting cast is just as richly drawn, with every interaction adding to the complexity of the story and its themes. You don’t just read about these characters, you feel with them.

The writing itself is nothing short of breathtaking. It’s lyrical, powerful, and razor-sharp, pulling no punches as it explores oppression, resilience, and the fight for a better future. There were moments that felt like punches to the gut, passages that made me pause and sit with what I’d just read. This isn’t a light or easy read, but it is an essential one.

By the time I turned the final page, I wasn’t the same person I was when I started. The Arc of the Universe made me question everything I thought I understood about justice, equality, and the systems that claim to protect us. It’s a deeply thought-provoking book that doesn’t just entertain, it challenges, educates, and inspires.

If you’ve ever asked yourself what real change could look like, or if you’ve ever felt crushed beneath the weight of a system that was never built with you in mind, this book will speak to your soul. And even if you haven’t, especially if you haven’t, it’s a story you need to read.

Final thoughts: This is more than just a sci-fi novel. It’s a call to awareness, a spark for conversation, and maybe even a blueprint for hope. Don’t miss it.

Prince of Power by Skyler Mason 

I picked this book up at 8 p.m. last night and I. Did. Not. Stop. I was lucky enough to receive both the ARC of the book and the audiobook, and let me tell you, being immersed in a story like this is an experience you do not want to miss.

If you're into dark romance, this book was made for you. There's a whole menu of trigger warnings, yes, I read them like appetizers before the main course, and they only added to the delicious sense of danger. There’s something thrilling about opening a book and knowing it's going to leave you gasping. Skylar Mason’s writing is razor-sharp, her plotting absolutely top-tier. I love when a book lets me think I’ve got it all figured out, only to twist the knife in a way I never saw coming.

The story centers on a secret society where the entry price is… a virgin sacrifice. Of course, it’s men pulling the strings, and of course, our FMC, Ava, is caught in the middle. Ava is a smart, book-loving student who’s too clever for her own good. She has morals, boundaries, and a will of steel, until she meets Damian. He challenges everything she thought she knew about herself. Is she really as pure as he hopes? Or as she thinks?

Damian is controlling, cold, and calculating, but how could he not be? His life has been scripted by his powerful family and the twisted organization he's destined to lead. He’s determined to hold all the power in the world. Then Ava stumbles into his orbit, and he decides to pull her under. She doesn’t know his world, but he’s going to drag her into it, inch by inch, heartbeat by heartbeat.

And the audiobook? Phenomenal. I’ve liked a lot of voice actors, but Corvin King? I fell hard. His voice could make me love words I normally hate. Seriously, I would listen to him read a grocery list and swoon. The entire narration cast brought this story to life in a way that made it even more unforgettable.

Also, shoutout to the author for not making Ava some clueless damsel. She’s sharp. She knows something’s wrong. And she still walks into the fire.

So if you're craving danger, spice, forbidden love, and a dark secret society, grab this book immediately. It drops on July 5th and the best part? The audiobook releases the same day. Do yourself a favor: get both. You’ll thank me later.

 Hold Me for Now by Lexi Davis

Short, Steamy, and Surprisingly Deep, A Must-Read Novella

Hold Me For Now by Lexi Davis completely surprised me, in the best way. I’m not usually a fan of novellas; they often feel rushed or incomplete, like they’re missing the emotional depth of a full-length novel. But this one? It delivers everything in just a few powerful pages.

The story centers around two strangers, let’s call them T and K, who both struggle with the same intimate problem: they can’t finish during sex. Desperate for answers, they each join a clinical trial designed to help participants overcome this exact issue. Their paths cross in the program, and what starts as awkward (and honestly, kind of hilarious) slowly evolves into something deeply emotional and unexpectedly beautiful.

Lexi Davis does something incredible here: she builds rich, believable characters and a compelling emotional arc in a very short time. Nothing feels rushed or underdeveloped. The chemistry is real, the pacing is tight, and the vulnerability is raw in a way that makes you feel for these characters, fast.

Whether you're already a fan of novellas or skeptical like I was, Hold Me For Now is absolutely worth your time. It’s steamy, emotional, and full of heart. Go ahead and add it to your TBR, it’s available now and it won’t disappoint.

 Our Vicious Oaths

by N.E. Davenport

Review: Our Vicious Oaths by N.E. Davenport

Our Vicious Oaths by N.E. Davenport is an absolute standout, a thrilling, immersive read that I can’t stop thinking about. If you’re craving a fantasy that blends high-stakes magic, dragons, a fierce female lead, and a swoon-worthy shadow-wielding king, this belongs at the top of your TBR.

This book delivers a perfect mix of beloved tropes: enemies to allies, forced proximity, a slow-burn romance (though let’s be real, the spice is on the page early), and even a political forced marriage. Add in an all-female dragon-riding warrior squad, elemental magic, and a villain so vile you’ll actively root for their downfall, and somehow, it never feels like too much. Every element is intentional, and the world-building is seamless.

Kadeesha, our main character, is the heart of the story. She's strong, loyal, and unwilling to compromise who she is, even when caught between duty and desire. Her convictions never waver, and watching her fight for her people and her truth is empowering. Then there’s Malachi, the brooding, deadly, drop-dead gorgeous king who oozes charisma and power. He’s arrogant, intense, and absolutely delivers on every front. The chemistry between them is electric, and the dynamic they share gives the story depth and fire.

The supporting cast is just as memorable, adding richness and emotion to the world. And if all of that isn’t enough to hook you, Kadeesha’s dragon is named Zahzah. Yes, it’s as epic as it sounds.

This book hits shelves October 28^th, do yourself a favor and pre-order it or mark your calendar. Our Vicious Oaths is the kind of fantasy you’ll want to devour and then immediately talk about with everyone you know.

 King Maximilianus by P.E. Nylund

One of the things that stood out to me most about this book was how refreshingly uncluttered it felt. So many stories in this genre tend to get bogged down with repetitive dialogue or overly drawn-out scenes, but this one moved with a clean, confident pace. I never felt like I was treading the same ground twice, which made the reading experience feel smooth, intentional, and surprisingly refreshing.

I’ve always had a deep respect for indie authors. Putting your work out into the world, especially in a space as competitive and vocal as the shifter genre, takes serious guts. And this author did more than just show up, they carved out a niche. The choice to have the male lead narrate the story felt bold and unexpected, and it really worked. It gave the narrative a fresh angle I don’t often see in paranormal romance, and I appreciated that risk.

It’s also clear that the author made a genuine effort to flesh out each character, not just the leads, but the supporting cast too. That said, I think there’s room to push further, especially in terms of emotional development and backstory. I found myself wanting to know more about the motivations behind their actions, to dive deeper into their connections and relationships. The chemistry was there; it just needed a little more time to simmer.

I’m especially hoping we get more focus on the female lead in the next book. She has so much potential as a character, and I’d love to see her grow into a stronger presence and voice in the story.

Overall, this was a solid and enjoyable read with plenty of heart and a unique voice. It’s clear this is just the beginning of something bigger, and I’m excited to see how it all evolves in the next installment.

 Spellcaster by Jaymin Eve

From the moment Paisley sets foot on the mysterious grounds of Weatherstone College, it’s clear she’s in for more than just classes and campus life. Ancient secrets linger in the shadows, and danger pulses beneath every ivy-covered corner. What truly makes this story sing, though, is Paisley herself—her inner monologue sparkles with wit, vulnerability, and a refreshingly sharp sense of humor. As she grapples with the pressure of legacy, the weight of her mother’s memory, and her own unpredictable magic, readers can’t help but root for her.

At the center of the romantic storm is Logan Kingston—Weatherstone’s most dangerous spellcaster and the brooding son of Paisley’s family’s longtime rivals. His dark reputation, fueled by tantalizing whispers and school gossip, only adds to his magnetic pull. Paisley's spicy, swoon-inducing dreams about him add heat to the slow-burn build-up, making their eventual first kiss nothing short of electric. Their dynamic is a perfect blend of snark, simmer, and longing—the kind of tension that makes every shared glance feel like a spark ready to catch fire.

But this story is more than just steam and sparks. The fantasy elements are vivid and immersive, from magical beasts to thrilling spells and richly described potion-making. Paisley’s love for herbs and alchemy adds a unique and grounding layer to the worldbuilding, giving her an identity beyond the romantic and magical drama. As the dangers haunting Weatherstone grow darker and more urgent, the stakes climb with them—and the unlikely alliance between Paisley and Logan becomes essential to uncovering the truth.

Weatherstone is a crackling romantasy packed with magic, mystery, and magnetic chemistry. With richly layered worldbuilding, unforgettable characters, and a romance that’ll leave you breathless, this story casts a spell that lingers long after the final page. I’m already desperate for book two—because Paisley and Logan? They're just getting started.

 

A Witch and Her Dragon

by Emberly Wyndham

I was lucky enough to get an early copy of this ebook, and by the time I reached the end, I genuinely enjoyed it! Going in, I had a general idea of the synopsis, but I somehow missed that it was described as a “cozy spicy fantasy romance.” Had I noticed that from the start, I think I would’ve clicked with the tone a lot sooner. As it was, I found myself struggling a bit to stay engaged around the 40–50% mark. That lull had more to do with my own expectations than the book itself, but I still think it’s worth mentioning, since it shaped my personal reading experience and my final rating.

That said, once I settled into the vibe, low-stakes fantasy, warm friendships, a touch of romance, and charming animal companions, it really started to shine. The cozy elements are blended beautifully with just enough heat to keep things interesting without ever overshadowing the heart of the story. Now that I know what kind of experience this author is crafting, I’m fully on board and excited to see where the series goes next. I’d absolutely read more from them.

If you’re someone who enjoys Legends and Lattes by Travis Baldree or The Spellshop by Sarah Beth Durst, this book will likely be right up your alley. It leans into that comforting, feel-good magic with relatable characters, a soft and satisfying romance, and the kind of world you’d want to curl up in with a blanket and tea. I especially adored the main character’s bond with her friends and the delightful animal companions that added so much warmth to the story.

In short: if you’re craving something cozy, a little spicy, and full of heart, this is definitely worth a spot on your TBR.

 Pitcher Perfect by Tessa Bailey

If you’re looking for a quick, low-stakes, fun, and steamy read, Pitcher might just hit the spot.

For me, this book felt very on-brand for Tessa Bailey. It was cute, totally fine, and got the job done. Not groundbreaking by any means, but I didn’t walk away disappointed either. Robbie and Skylar probably won’t stick with me long-term, but the spice? Oh, that was definitely a win. When she’s not going completely over the top, Tessa really knows how to write a good steamy scene.

The story itself was quick and entertaining, definitely something you could knock out in a single sitting. It did feel a little too busy for my taste (a few too many plot threads competing for attention), but hey, who doesn’t love a little extra drama now and then?

Overall, if you're in the mood for a fun romance with very spicy moments, this is a solid pick to curl up with.

 

 

One Dark Kiss by Rebecca Zanetti

I am absolutely OBSESSED with One Dark Kiss by Rebecca Zanetti! Easily a 5-star read for me. This book completely pulled me in, it’s a dark, intense Snow White retelling (which I totally didn’t realize at first until I saw someone mention it on TikTok 😅), but once I saw it… everything clicked. The parallels were so clever!

I had the chance to both listen to the audiobook and read it at the same time, and wow, game changer. The narrators were incredible. The accents? Spot on. The way they brought these characters to life made the whole story feel even more immersive. I honestly felt like I was living every moment with them.

This is a love story wrapped in danger, obsession, and revenge. Alexei, ugh, where do I even begin? He’s the imprisoned, outcast son of the Russian mob, and he’s not done fighting for what was stolen from him. He’s raw, determined, and absolutely magnetic. The moment he sees Rosalie, it’s over, he’s decided she’s his, and there’s no turning back.

And Rosalie? She’s everything. Smart, sharp, and stubborn with a fire in her that I LOVED. She has no business taking on a criminal case this high-stakes, but she’s doing it anyway, and when she meets Alexei, she knows she should run far, far away. But her body has other plans, and fate is just not letting her off the hook.

This book has everything I crave in a dark romance, danger, heat, emotional tension, and a storyline that keeps you hooked. Just a heads-up: definitely check the trigger warnings before diving in, because it doesn’t hold back. But if you’re like me and love a gritty, emotionally intense romance where you fall for the people you probably shouldn’t… this one is absolutely worth it.

 Ruthless Devotion by Rebecca Kenney

Unexpectedly Captivating – A Dark, Twisting Tale of Love and Obsession

I truly didn’t expect to fall so hard for Ruthless Devotion. It’s a bit outside my usual comfort zone—I tend to gravitate toward romantasy rather than modern paranormal romance—but this book surprised me in all the best ways. What drew me in initially was the comparison to Wuthering Heights, one of my all-time favorite classics. And while it draws on that same tragic, intense emotional core, Ruthless Devotion puts its own bold, fresh spin on the concept—delivering the devastation without shattering your heart completely.

Heathcliff is anything but a conventional romantic lead. He’s raw, damaged, and more than a little abrasive, especially early on. His approach to love is far from gentle, and his inner monologue is steeped in self-loathing and weariness. But that vulnerability made him instantly compelling to me. His voice is gritty and authentic, and it grounds the entire story in a very real, emotional place. Once I adjusted to his tone, I was completely hooked.

Cathy is pure, chaotic magnetism. She’s fierce, flawed, and fiercely alive—her grief, rage, and desires all feel so palpable. I was rooting for her from the beginning, especially against the oppressive backdrop of the community around her. When she and Heathcliff finally come together, their chemistry is undeniable. Their relationship is messy, obsessive, and completely enthralling—the kind of love that feels inevitable, like gravity pulling them toward each other no matter the cost.

The setting also deserves praise. The author crafts a beautifully eerie atmosphere full of small-town secrets, cultish undertones, and a constant sense of something sinister just out of sight. It’s immersive and unsettling in the best way.

If I had one minor critique, it would be that the narrative voice—particularly Heathcliff’s—takes a little time to get used to. His coarseness can feel jarring at first, but once the rhythm settles, it becomes one of the story’s strengths.

Overall, this was a bold, addictive, emotionally intense read. Ruthless Devotion is perfect for fans of dark, obsessive love stories with a paranormal edge and a touch of danger. I’m giving it a solid 4 stars.

 The Girl I Was by Jeneva Rose

Review of The Girl I Was by Jeneva Rose

The Girl I Was by Jeneva Rose was more than just a book to me, it was a balm. Though it’s clear the author wrote it as part of her own healing journey, I found pieces of my own heart tucked into its pages. It made me laugh, cry, and reflect in ways I wasn’t expecting.

The premise, meeting your younger self, hit me harder than I thought it would. It was funny at times, sure, but deeply emotional too. As I read, I caught myself kicking my feet, smiling, wondering: What would I say to the younger me? That question stayed with me long after I closed the book. Because the truth is, at some point, we all have to face the person we once were. We all carry our younger selves inside us, their fears, their wounds, their dreams, and we have to decide what to do with them. Forgive them. Comfort them. Maybe even thank them.

There were so many moments that struck a personal chord. I found myself frustrated with younger Lexi, she could be impulsive, emotional, a little immature. But then it clicked: she was a child. Of course she was still figuring things out. And isn’t that what we all were once? Kids trying to navigate a world that often taught us to shrink ourselves. That realization shattered something in me. I cried, for the little girls who didn’t know they were enough. For the years we spent trying to love ourselves in a world that didn’t always love us back.

One part of the book that truly gutted me was the theme of loss, especially the longing for one more moment with someone we love. I lost my mother five years ago. There isn’t a single thing I wouldn’t give for one last conversation with her. Reading this, my heart cracked open. It broke, and then it mended, and then it broke again. Because I know—I know—she would be proud of the woman I’ve become. I wish she could see her grandchildren. I wish she could see me, now. This book made me feel that loss again, but it also helped me sit with it in a gentler way.

This wasn’t the first time I’ve cried reading a book by Jeneva Rose, but it may be the one that left me changed. If you're looking for a book that will make you feel seen, that will gently peel back your layers and ask you to look inward, this is the one. It’s not just a story, it’s a mirror. And the question it leaves you with is this: If you had to face yourself, raw and bleeding, in order to heal… would you?

 Fall I want by Lyra Parish

This book pulled me in right away—it started strong, with a fun, flirty energy that made it easy to root for the characters. I’m not usually someone who gravitates toward instalove, but this premise felt fresh: a literal dream guy, a sister’s prophecy, and a connection that walks the line between fate and fantasy. I really loved how unique that setup was, and it made me want to see how things unfolded.

Zane and Autumn had undeniable chemistry, and their banter had me laughing out loud more than once. Their dynamic was playful and charming, and even though their relationship progressed quickly, it didn’t feel forced in the beginning. Lyra Parish did a great job building up tension and creating that slow-burn satisfaction—even in a fast-paced romance.

But around the halfway, the story lost the plot. It felt like they got together and that was it.

Still, there’s a lot to love here. Fall I Want is sweet, steamy, and delightfully whimsical—a fun romance with a dreamy twist. I’d absolutely recommend it to fans of swoony, fate-driven love stories, with the note that the ending does lose a bit of steam.

 

 A Heart of Crimson Flames

by A.K. Mulford

Returning to the world of A Heart of Crimson Flames felt like slipping into something familiar and comforting, yet still full of surprises. This installment delivered a satisfying blend of rich magic, swoo

ny romance, and layered political intrigue that kept me engaged from start to finish. One of the most commendable aspects of the book is its commitment to inclusivity—there’s such thoughtful and authentic representation woven throughout, and it was genuinely refreshing to see characters who reflect a broad spectrum of identities, backgrounds, and experiences. It made the story feel more grounded, more human, and ultimately more powerful. The relationships between characters—both romantic and platonic—brought a lot of warmth to the story. There are some truly tender, heart-melting moments that had me grinning, as well as a few unexpected twists that added tension and kept me on my toes. That said, I did feel like the pacing could have been more consistent. Certain chapters moved too slowly and felt overly drawn out, while other key scenes—particularly emotional or high-stakes moments—seemed to fly by before they had time to really land. I found myself wishing for more depth and introspection in those sections, especially when the characters were dealing with grief, longing, or internal conflict. The groundwork was there, but I wanted it to linger longer and hit harder. Despite these pacing issues, I still thoroughly enjoyed the ride. This book leans into the “romantasy” genre in all the right ways, offering an adventurous yet heartfelt narrative with just the right amount of personal growth. It may not be flawless, but it's vibrant, full of heart, and undeniably worth picking up if you're looking for an inclusive, character-driven story that balances magic and emotion with grace.