Wicked Beasts

by Shelley Leigh Crane

The story follows Amara Rose, who takes a position at the isolated Black Manor, where she finds herself drawn to the enigmatic Mr. Black and his alluring brother. The plot is laced with gothic atmosphere and mystery, steadily unfolding with unexpected twists and deeply emotional moments. While undeniably steamy, the romantic elements are balanced well with suspense and character-driven storytelling. What sets this novel apart is the author's writing style, lyrical, fluid, and cinematic. The prose paints vivid, often ethereal imagery that makes the scenes feel almost tangible. I often found myself pausing just to appreciate the language itself. The pacing is consistent, and the narrative structure gradually deepens both the romance and the underlying mystery in satisfying ways.

Character development is another standout. Each character feels layered and emotionally complex, especially as the themes of identity, grief, and transformation take center stage. The chemistry between the leads is magnetic, charged with both tenderness and volatility, and their individual arcs are compelling and well-earned. Though the book leans heavily into sensuality, the steamy scenes are tastefully written and serve the emotional stakes of the story.

It’s mysterious, magnetic, and beautifully haunting, with a dark romanticism that lingers long after the final page. If you enjoy gothic tales with modern edge, lyrical writing, and emotionally intense romance, this is a must-read.

 

 Review for The Shattered King (audiobook)

by Charlie N. Holmberg

I read The Shattered King a few months ago and absolutely loved it, but getting the chance to experience it again through the audiobook was such a blessing. The story I already adored felt brand new, as the narrator truly brought the characters to life in a way that added even more depth and emotion. I’ve listened to her before, and once again she impressed me with her ability to weave a world together so seamlessly, painting every scene so vividly in my mind. She’s a truly gifted storyteller, and her voice gave the book an entirely new dimension. If you’re looking for a story that feels unique, with a world unlike anything else you’ve read, I can’t recommend The Shattered King enough,  whether you read it first or dive straight into the audiobook, it’s an experience worth having.

A Curse so Cruel 

by Mia Hartson 

A Curse So Cruel was such a fun mix of dark, dramatic, and just plain entertaining. Shade is not your typical badass heroine, she’s clumsy, loves snacks way too much, and would rather be curled up with a book than fighting shadow monsters. But that’s honestly what makes her so relatable and easy to root for.

Then there are her professors… four ridiculously hot, dangerous shadow warriors who are supposed to be her enemies/fated mates. The catch? They’re convinced she’s basically a walking curse thanks to a prophecy, so instead of swooning over her, they’re constantly fighting their feelings. It adds a ton of tension, drama, and angst, and I was here for it.

Shade does give in to them a little too quickly sometimes, but by the end she’s really starting to stand on her own, which makes me excited to see how she keeps growing in the next book.

If you like reverse harems with dark academia vibes, messy relationships, and a heroine who refuses to let the world crush her spirit, this one’s worth picking up. I’m definitely grabbing the next in the series!

 The Dravenhearst Brides

by Lindsay Barrett

The Dravenhearst Brides is a haunting gothic romance that blends atmosphere, mystery, and emotional depth beautifully. Margaret Greenbrier, an heiress burdened by scandal and fragile health, enters a marriage of convenience with bourbon heir Merrick Dravenhearst, only to uncover the chilling legacy of the “Dravenhearst brides,” generations of women who met tragic ends within the family estate.

The novel captures both the eerie supernatural elements and the very human struggles with grief, mental health, and family secrets. Margaret is a compelling heroine whose strength grows as the story unfolds, while Merrick is a brooding yet tender counterpart with demons of his own. The shifting timelines, ghostly visions, and vivid writing create a rich, immersive atmosphere reminiscent of Rebecca and Crimson Peak.

Dark, romantic, and unsettling, this story is perfect for readers who enjoy gothic tales with emotional resonance. A gripping fall read I highly recommend.

 A Matched Made in Hell 

by Charlotte Ingham

(I don't know which I like more so I shared both!)

A Match Made in Hell by Charlotte Ingham is a delightful and fast-paced read that blends humor, charm, and just the right touch of the paranormal. From the very first chapter, the witty banter and lighthearted tone kept me engaged, making it easy to fly through in a single sitting.

The story strikes a balance between being cozy and entertaining, with enough playful twists to keep readers invested without ever feeling heavy. The characters are well-drawn and likable, and their chemistry adds warmth to the supernatural setting. I especially appreciated how the world felt both imaginative and accessible, giving the paranormal elements a fun, almost whimsical quality.

If you’re searching for an enjoyable, feel-good romance with a fall feel, this book makes a perfect companion for fall reading. It’s light, charming, and leaves you with a smile, ideal for fans of cozy paranormal romance who want something both quick and satisfying.

Where Darkness Bloomed BY K.D. Stark

 Where Darkness Blooms

by K.D. Stark

ARC Review - Where Darkness Bloomed

Where Darkness Bloomed is a masterful weaving of literary talent, mythology, and storytelling that ensnares the reader in rapture, despair, and an ache that lingers long after the last page. This is a story to be felt, savored, and dissected, perfect for readers who love to uncover the beauty hidden in every word. With its intricate layers, rich prose, and monumental moments, it is nothing short of genius incarnate.

For anyone fascinated by Greek mythology, this book is a dream come true. Stark brings the myths to life, exploring the tragic and powerful story of Hades and Persephone, the heroic and tumultuous tales of Hephaestus, the epic war of Troy, and the pivotal role of Achilles. Even the introduction to Odysseus’s journey was a perfect touch, leaving me eager to explore more of his story in the future. The narrative, divided into multiple POVs, flows seamlessly, each perspective feeling distinct yet harmonized, creating a puzzle that falls beautifully into place.

The plotlines are deeply engaging. From Hades and Persephone’s complex relationship to Helen of Troy’s kidnapping and her reliance on Achilles, every storyline captivates and drives the story forward. The characters are vivid, the stakes are high, and the worldbuilding effortlessly immerses the reader in ancient times filled with gods, battles, and legendary myths.

I am truly grateful for the opportunity to read this book. It exceeded all expectations, delivering a gripping, mythological adventure that will resonate with fans of classical tales and modern retellings alike.

 Darkness Births the Stars

by Sarah Lee Wohn

From the moment I picked up this ARC, I had a feeling it was going to be something special, and it absolutely delivered. This story quickly earned a spot among my favorites.

The world itself is lush and cinematic, with lore that immediately felt surreal. The opening alone had me imagining Galadriel’s voice narrating, pulling me right into the atmosphere.

Told through a dual timeline, the narrative unfolds piece by piece, slowly revealing secrets and connections. At the center are two star-crossed characters, given the rare chance to rediscover themselves, and each other, in a reality that has changed everything. Their dynamic is electric: sharp banter balanced with aching longing, making the slow burn romance impossible to resist. Every conversation drops small breadcrumbs that keep you anticipating the moment their shared history will finally come into focus.

And the ending, shook!

I would recommend this book for people who love good story telling and a world build so beautifully. This book had it all!

 The Song of Sunrise

by Monica J. Deloy

Review of The Song of Sunrise

This book was an absolute standout for me, I was hooked from the very first page and genuinely disappointed when I realized I’d have to wait for the sequel. What impressed me most was how unpredictable the story was. I thought I knew where the romance was heading, but the author completely surprised me in the best way.

The worldbuilding is rich and immersive, with a well-constructed magic system supported by layered politics and history that gave real depth to the plot. The writing also shines in its inclusivity and thoughtful representation, which only added to my appreciation of the story.

Akemi, our fierce female lead, felt refreshingly real. Her choices, flaws, and resilience made her an easy character to admire, and I loved watching her grow stronger with every challenge. Then there’s Atlys—dark, magnetic, and impossible to forget. The tension between them absolutely leapt off the page, and their dynamic had me breathless. The romantic elements, combined with tropes like enemies-to-lovers, trials, and a hint of a love triangle, were executed in a way that felt familiar yet entirely fresh.

The premise itself is captivating: Akemi Nox, an apprentice bard, joins a military academy for magic wielders after her hometown is destroyed by Underlings. Driven by vengeance and a desire to protect humanity, she risks everything to compete in deadly trials for a stone powerful enough to shield human settlements. This journey delivers not only magic and mythical beings, but also themes of resilience, justice, and belonging.

The magic system is particularly compelling. Humans aren’t naturally magical, but they can channel power through stones, categorized as Sun Watchers, Moon Watchers, or the rare Star Watchers. This layered system, combined with vivid descriptions of the world, made it easy to lose myself in the setting, it felt alive and enchanting.

From found family bonds to mythical creatures to a slow-burn romance full of tension, The Song of Sunrise had everything I could want in a romantasy. The cliffhanger ending was brutal (you’ve been warned!), but I have absolutely no regrets diving into this book. It’s a fresh, imaginative, and exhilarating story that blends unique worldbuilding with some of my favorite tropes. I’ll be eagerly waiting for the next installment.

Beneath Your Lies

by Nicole J. Owens

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

From the very first chapter, this dark romance captured my attention and refused to let go. It opens with Veronica’s shocking discovery of her husband Richard’s betrayal, a powerful District Attorney whose response to being confronted is both cruel and manipulative. He demands that Veronica pursue her own affair, though only under his control and with a partner of his choosing. This unsettling premise sets the stage for a tense, emotional journey.

As Veronica seeks her own path forward, she encounters Ronan, a brooding hitman haunted by his past. Their connection is immediate and magnetic, but also dangerous. The forbidden attraction between them builds with every encounter, layering suspense on top of passion. The chemistry is undeniable, and the tension simmers as their lives begin to intertwine in ways neither expected.

The story escalates into a gripping mix of thriller, crime, and romance. The balance between plot and intimacy is handled with finesse: the intimate scenes are not only vivid and well-executed but also serve the story, heightening the stakes and deepening the emotional bond between the characters. Supporting figures, such as Ronan’s hacker confidante Sylvie, add depth and texture, ensuring that every thread feels meaningful.

Richard, as the antagonist, is chilling in his control and reach. His influence over the city creates a constant sense of danger, making him a villain readers will relish despising. Twists along the way keep the tension alive, culminating in a shocking final chapter that both satisfies and leaves the door open for more to come.

By the end, Veronica and Ronan’s story proves to be more than just a dark romance, it is a tale of resilience, trust, and the possibility of healing through love, even when surrounded by chaos. This novel delivers a potent combination of suspense, passion, and emotional depth, making it a must-read for fans of layered, genre-blending romance.

 

 Kissed by the Gods

by Caty Rogan

ARC Review — Kissed by the Gods by Caty Rogan

Kissed by the Gods is an exhilarating start to a brand-new romantasy series, and it exceeded all of my expectations. From the opening chapter, the story swept me away with its fast pacing, fierce battles, and high emotional stakes. Leina’s journey, from losing her family to becoming the first female altor (warrior), is one of resilience, rage, and survival. When she crosses paths with Ryot, a powerful warrior with his own secrets, her life changes forever. Her training pushes her to her limits, and she quickly learns that being the first of her kind makes her both a weapon and a target.

Leina is a truly compelling heroine. She’s strong, passionate, and unafraid to fight for those she loves, but her vulnerability makes her all the more relatable. Ryot serves as her reluctant ally, and their chemistry is a perfect balance of tension, frustration, and slow-burn romance that builds beautifully throughout the book.  The worldbuilding is one of the strongest aspects of the novel. Rogan crafts a setting filled with gods, monsters, secrets, and a magic system that feels both unique and exciting.

What I loved most is how the novel balances action with emotion. There are moments of humor, devastation, tension, and triumph, each one pulling me deeper into Leina’s story. The final chapters left me reeling, and the cliffhanger ending has me counting the days until book two.

Kissed by the Gods is perfect for readers who love found family, slow-burn romance, fierce heroines, and lush worldbuilding with a mythological edge. It’s a powerful debut to a six-book series that I’ll be following closely, and I highly recommend it to anyone craving their next romantasy obsession.

OceanSong C.W. Rose

Oceansong by C.W. Rose

Enemies to lovers… but make it Alaskan wilderness meets shimmering underwater kingdoms. Oceansong throws you headfirst into a world where humans and mermaids are at war yet manages to sneak in a love story that feels both tender and exhilarating.

Our heroine is exactly the kind of character I want leading the charge, sharp, unyielding, unwilling to back down no matter who tries to intimidate her. Every warning that came her way only made her backbone shine brighter. On the other side of the ocean current? A hero who starts off disdainful of all human things, but who slowly, carefully, learns to see her differently. Their romance doesn’t waste time pretending to be a slow burn, but it also avoids the pitfall of rushing—it simmers just long enough to feel believable, then blossoms into something soft, sweet, and fierce. The kind of love that makes you think, yes, he would absolutely risk everything for her.

The setting itself was a delight, half grounded in the rugged beauty of Alaska, half submerged in a dazzling mer-world. I especially loved the moments spent exploring the male lead’s underwater home; those quieter scenes made me wish the story had lingered a little longer before chaos came crashing in. Still, the mix of icy mountains and glowing sea palaces made for a backdrop unlike anything I’ve read before.

The side characters stirred up plenty of feelings too (sometimes frustration, sometimes fury). The mer-queen? Let’s just say she’s begging for a wake-up call. And the human men? Not exactly winning awards here. But every aggravating moment added fuel to the conflict, sharpening the stakes of the forbidden romance at the heart of it all.

As for the Romeo-and-Juliet-meets-Little-Mermaid pitch? Spot on. The forbidden love, the family feud, the clash of two worlds, it’s all here. And while I noticed a few pacing hiccups and tonal shifts, they didn’t stop me from being swept away by Angie and Kaden’s story. Their relationship is what anchored the book for me: complicated, forbidden, but achingly tender in all the right places.

By the end, I was already curious about where the series will dive next. More of these main characters, more of this world, and more of that heartfelt romance, yes, please.

 

The Heartbeat Heist by

Florence Gray

Review: The Heartbeat Heist by Florence Gray (Out August 26, 2025) ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Heartbeat Heist is an exciting mix of high-stakes romance, rebellion, and intrigue. Florence Gray introduces readers to Evelyn, the enigmatic “Bird of Bordeaux”, a master thief navigating a glittering world of underground auctions and whispered betrayals. With a mysterious employer known only as The Reaper and a charismatic partner-in-crime named Jaq, Evelyn sets off on a mission full of secrets, risks, and unexpected twists.

Gray’s writing is slick and stylish, and the tension, romantic and otherwise, keeps the pages turning. If you enjoy morally gray characters, intricate heists, and slow-burn dynamics, this novel checks many boxes. The atmosphere is evocative, and the narrative momentum rarely falters.

That said, the worldbuilding left me with mixed feelings. The setting is described as a magical realism or light urban fantasy take on post-Revolutionary France, but this backdrop wasn’t consistently grounded in historical detail. The tone and dialogue felt distinctly modern, and frequent anachronisms (sprung mattresses, carabiners, eclairs, jumpsuits, etc.) were distracting. While this could be intentional due to the alternate timeline, it sometimes came across as underdeveloped rather than deliberate. A stronger integration of historical elements, beyond just corsets and vague references to Paris, could’ve enriched the setting and added depth.

Character-wise, I found myself going back and forth. Evelyn is compelling but occasionally inconsistent in her motivations and choices. Jaq’s charm is undeniable, but some of their dynamics felt underexplored or erratic. A few plot twists were predictable, while others felt abrupt or unearned.

And while the ride was entertaining, the ending didn’t quite land for me. Without spoiling anything, it felt a bit senseless and disconnected from the emotional investment built earlier in the story.

Overall, The Heartbeat Heist is a bold, entertaining read with great pacing, a memorable lead, and an immersive heist plot. While some of the historical and character details could be more refined, it’s still a fun and stylish book that will appeal to fans of morally gray protagonists and suspenseful storytelling.

 

 Vicious Princess by Karolina Wilde

Vicious Princess was an engaging read that kept my attention from start to finish, even if I suspected from early on that it was setting up for another installment. While the ending wasn’t a huge, jaw-dropping cliffhanger, it left enough unanswered questions to make me eager for book two.

The story kicks off with a surprising spicy scene, immediately setting a bold tone. From there, the plot delivers plenty of action, trials, and a satisfying revenge arc. Phoenix, the FMC, is a standout, strong, determined, and relentless when it comes to achieving her goals. I appreciated her unwavering drive, though I’m hoping the next book ties up some of the loose ends involving side characters.

The romance was solid and realistic, though I personally didn’t connect as strongly with the MMC this time around. He was likable enough and served his role in the story, but the emotional pull wasn’t as strong for me as it was in other books.

Overall, this is a great choice if you enjoy action-packed stories with romance, a fierce female lead, and plenty of high-stakes moments. Expect trials, death, and more than a few morally questionable decisions along the way.

Something Wicked by 

Falon Ballard

Review: Something Wicked by Falon Ballard
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3/5)

Something Wicked caught my eye with its absolutely stunning cover (seriously, chef’s kiss), and the opening chapters quickly pulled me in. This romantasy debut blends forbidden magic, slow-burn romance, and political tension in a world of seductive power and rebellion. Think Macbeth meets Moulin Rouge, with a magical twist.

The story centers around Callum, the disgraced son of a dethroned king who’s being groomed to reclaim power, by killing his own father. Opposite him is Lady Caterine, a “Gifted” courtesan with a rare and unique ability: she can manipulate emotions through touch. Their paths collide in a lush, high-stakes environment filled with secrets, manipulation, and emotional seduction.

Ballard sets the stage beautifully. La Puissance, Cate’s elite sex club, is described with vivid, sensory detail, and the interspersed journal entries and letters between chapters were a standout element, they helped deepen the emotional context and really pulled me in.

That said, for all its strengths in atmosphere and aesthetic, the book didn’t fully land for me. The world-building felt underdeveloped. The concept of the “Gifted”, women born with powers, is intriguing, but we’re given only vague hints about their societal status, origins, and limits. The political dynamics, too, feel like they’re only half-explored.

The plot is serviceable, but relatively predictable. I could see the major turns coming early on, which made it harder to stay fully engaged. The pacing also fluctuates, some parts are intense and captivating, while others dragged and lacked emotional depth.

Still, if you’re in the mood for a romance-forward fantasy with high heat, court intrigue, and a lightly magical backdrop, this might be the escape you’re looking for. It’s an easy, entertaining read with strong vibes and a sultry slow-burn at its core.

Final Thoughts:
A stylish and steamy debut that delivers on aesthetics, tension, and romance, but falls a bit short on depth and complexity. With a bit more layered world-building and character development, this could’ve been a standout. As it stands, it’s a fun, escapist read with major potential, and I’d definitely be curious to see what the author does next.

 

 Hollow by Celina Myers

Review: Hollow by Celina Myers
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3.5/5, rounded up)

I really wanted to love Hollow, and while parts of it worked for me, I think my initial anticipation set the bar a little too high. That said, it’s a fast-paced, emotionally accessible story that reimagines vampire lore with a fresh, modern spin.

The novel opens with a compelling hook: Mia Adair dies and wakes up to discover that death is only the beginning. Now part of a hidden world filled with rival vampire clans, supernatural politics, and long-buried magic, Mia must rediscover herself and her forgotten ability to communicate with the dead. As she reconnects with her powers, she's also faced with a difficult choice between two vampire families, the Bellamys and the Suttons, each with its own secrets, darkness, and appeal.

Celina Myers’ writing is approachable and emotionally grounded. She brings humor, atmosphere, and a strong sense of found family to the forefront. While the prose can feel simple and occasionally leans toward a YA tone, even though it’s not marketed as such, the emotions land well, and the relationships feel genuine. The character Margo, in particular, was a standout for me every time she was on the page.

Plot-wise, this is more of a straightforward, character-focused story than a deeply intricate vampire saga. If you're looking for a dense, lore-heavy read with layered worldbuilding and complex mythology, this probably won’t scratch that itch. But if you want something lighter, faster, and rooted in character growth, identity, and supernatural family dynamics, it absolutely delivers.

There were moments where the pacing felt a bit too quick, and the ending left me with more questions than answers, especially thanks to a bold cliffhanger that definitely sets up a sequel. I'm hopeful that book two will build on the foundation laid here and expand both the world and Mia’s arc.

Overall, Hollow is a solid urban paranormal read. It might not redefine vampire fiction, but it doesn’t need to. Sometimes, a story that’s easy to follow, entertaining, and heartfelt is exactly what you're in the mood for, and this book fits that space perfectly.

 Love and Other Killers

by Brynne Weaver

A wickedly fun, fast-paced ride you won’t want to miss!

This novella was such a treat, quick, chaotic, and absolutely delightful! For the best experience, I highly recommend reading Butcher & Blackbird first, since this story picks up with familiar faces from the Ruinous Love Trilogy, and you'll appreciate all the delicious callbacks even more.

Told entirely from Sloane’s POV (which, let’s be real, is iconic), we dive headfirst into the annual August Hunt, a bloody, hilarious tradition featuring your favorite morally questionable couples. This time, their target? Allan Munster. He raises chickens... and kills more than just them. Seriously.

Sloane’s inner monologue had me laughing out loud more than once,she’s sharp, chaotic, and endlessly entertaining. It also weaves in some perfect nods to the Scythe & Sparrow epilogue, while cleverly introducing the heroine of Tourist Season, linking the two series in a way that feels effortless and exciting.

From the spicy moments to the gasp-worthy twists, Brynne Weaver delivers everything. I was giggling, kicking my feet, and fully unhinged from start to finish.

 The Black Carnival

by Harlequin Grim

Review: The Black Carnival by Harlequin Grimm

The Black Carnival is a darkly atmospheric, genre-bending novel that blends the grotesque beauty of a gothic circus with gritty historical fiction. Set in the 1800s, it captures the era with an immersive voice and rich, moody descriptions that made me feel transported to another time. While the book didn’t fully work for me, there’s a lot to admire in its ambition.

The strongest aspects, in my opinion, are the setting and the atmosphere. The circus backdrop is vivid and eerie in all the right ways, haunting, strange, and uniquely compelling. Grimm’s use of language is elegant, and their prose effectively evokes a sense of unease. The “found family” theme, while subtle, adds a touch of heart that helps ground the darker elements of the story.

That said, the pacing was a real challenge for me. The first half felt overly slow, with a heavy emphasis on worldbuilding and scene-setting. While this eventually pays off to some extent, the plot felt uneven overall. Most of the action and emotional payoff is packed into the final chapters, which made the structure feel unbalanced. I think a bit more momentum earlier in the book could have helped maintain engagement and allowed for deeper immersion in the later twists.

The shifting points of view were intriguing but didn’t always feel necessary. Atherton stood out as the most compelling character, and I found myself wishing the narrative had centered more firmly around him, or perhaps just him and Boo. Some characters, like Lester, showed real promise but didn’t get the development or page time they seemed to deserve.

Dialogue, while authentic to the historical setting, was at times hard to follow. I appreciated the commitment to period accuracy, but I found myself occasionally lost in the language early on. Fortunately, that eased as the story progressed.

Overall, The Black Carnival is a beautifully written novel with a unique concept and standout characters, but its slow pace and uneven plot progression made it hard for me to stay fully invested. Readers who enjoy rich atmosphere, moral ambiguity, and slow-burn storytelling will likely find more to love here. It’s a book I wanted to love more than I ultimately did, but I’m still intrigued by Harlequin Grimm’s voice and vision, and I’d be open to reading more from them in the future.

 The Reveal by Megan Crane

Review: The Reveal, A Fresh Take on Monsters, Mayhem, and Human Survival

The Reveal is one of those stories that pulls you in right from the start and doesn’t let go. From the first chapter, I was hooked, following the main character as her perception of the world slowly unraveled and reassembled itself was a fast-paced, thrilling experience. I loved watching her come to terms with the truth that had been hidden in plain sight and watching enemies shift into allies, monsters into something more complex, and dreams into something terrifyingly real. The start of this journey was wild, addictive, and left me eager for more.

The concept itself felt refreshingly original. A post-apocalyptic world ruled by monsters, with humans hanging on by a thread, wasn’t something I’d encountered before, and it gave the story a creative edge that set it apart from other fantasy or supernatural reads. The worldbuilding was a major strength, particularly in the way different monsters coexisted and interacted with gifted humans. I actually wished there had been more time spent developing this ecosystem and the rules of this new society, it’s a compelling foundation that deserves even deeper exploration in future installments.

Gran was a standout character for me. I loved her quiet wisdom, her strategic long game, and the sense that she always knew more than she let on. She added emotional weight to the story and helped ground some of the more chaotic plot elements.

As for the romance, it took me by surprise. I didn’t expect the level of spice, which isn’t necessarily a negative, but I felt the relationship between Winter and Ariel leaned too heavily on intense attraction without as much emotional depth. Their bond felt more driven by instinct and compulsion than a connection that was allowed to evolve naturally. Some of the intimate scenes also felt repetitive and occasionally disrupted the pacing, making me wish for a bit more balance between action, worldbuilding, and romance.

I also found that key story moments, especially during big reveals or conflicts, were sometimes glossed over or resolved too conveniently. This may have been a pacing issue, as things moved so quickly that there wasn’t always space for tension to build or resolutions to fully land.

That said, if you're a fan of fast-paced fantasy, supernatural romance, and unique post-apocalyptic settings, The Reveal is an entertaining ride. It’s bursting with imagination, high stakes, and an evolving world I’d love to see explored even further.

 Crown of Briars by R.L. Perez

A Thornless Crown and a Beastly Romance: A Mixed Bag

“Crown of Briars” promises thorns and tangled paths, but what I found was more of a lightly bristled stroll through familiar tropes with occasional sparks of originality.

Let’s start with the premise: a Beauty and the Beast retelling with magic, dragons, and a mysterious assassin heroine? Sign me up. But somewhere between page one and the final chapter, the book lost its footing. The title, for one, sets a darker, more tangled expectation, “Briars” implies danger, consequence, stakes. Ironically, there are no briars. Not metaphorical ones either, unless “mild confusion” counts.

The relationship between Sybelle and Varius is where I struggled most. Their dynamic is full of potential: enemies-to-lovers, power imbalances, emotional wounds, but the execution felt rushed and emotionally erratic. One minute it’s murder threats, the next it’s undying devotion. Varius proclaiming he'd abandon his kingdom after a few interactions felt more like a plot device than authentic character growth. The emotional payoff never quite lands because the groundwork simply isn’t there.

Stylistically, the book reads like a YA fantasy that occasionally dips a toe into more mature waters, without fully committing to either tone. That genre-blending can work, but here, it creates tonal whiplash. The prose itself is clear and accessible, which I appreciated, but the thematic depth didn’t match the story’s ambitions.

Sybelle is introduced as a deadly, highly trained assassin, but rarely behaves like one. Her choices often seemed reactive, confused, or flat-out contradictory. It was hard to reconcile her reputation with her actions on the page. Similarly, her dragon companion, Azure, is both delightful and underutilized. I wanted way more of that bond, and way more worldbuilding in general. Why is she the only one of her kind? What’s with the dragon’s sudden appearance? These lingering questions weren’t the good kind of mystery; they just felt like narrative loose threads.

There are glimmers of real creativity here. Sybelle’s magic system had a fresh feel, and the story occasionally flirted with compelling fairy tale atmosphere. There’s definitely a market for this kind of spicy, fantastical romance, and I can see it clicking for fans who want a high-drama, low-subtlety kind of ride.

It didn’t quite hit the mark for me, but I don’t regret the read. Sometimes a book doesn’t work on a personal level, but still has value, and Crown of Briars is one of those. If you enjoy fairy tale retellings with a moody beast, a fiery heroine, and a dose of steam, this may still be your cup of enchanted tea.

 Shadow of Silver by Daphne D.H.

A Gripping Fantasy Debut That Casts a Spell from Page One!

Shadows of Silver is a breathtaking fantasy adventure that had me hooked from the very first chapter. It follows the journey of Alora, a young woman who’s always felt like an outsider in her quiet, sheltered village. Longing for something more, her wish is unexpectedly granted when a mysterious traveler arrives, one who promises to show her the world… but instead, upends it entirely.

What begins as an adventure quickly spirals into something much darker. Alora is taken, kidnapped, and delivered to a powerful master in a kingdom thought long lost. There, she’s forced to participate in a series of twisted, high-stakes quests, all in a desperate bid to earn her freedom and unravel the secrets behind a deadly winter curse that holds the kingdom in its grip.

The story is rich with hidden magic, ancient curses, and mythical beings, all wrapped in a mystery that deepens with every page. The plot is fast-paced and full of unexpected twists, yet it never skimps on the world-building. Every realm, creature, and piece of lore is brought to life with vivid detail.

Alora is a compelling heroine, resilient, determined, and braver than she realizes. Her past is laced with grief, having been orphaned young and raised alongside an adoptive sister who may not be as loyal as she seems. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Alora’s destiny is tied to the fate of the cursed kingdom in ways she never imagined.

I especially loved the multi-POV structure, which added depth and intrigue. Ryu's character, in particular, completely captured my attention, there’s clearly much more beneath the surface, and I can’t wait to learn more about his role in the coming books.

Though romance takes a back seat in this installment, I didn’t miss it. The story stands powerfully on its own, and the mystery surrounding a certain dark and enigmatic prince has left me desperate to know more. I genuinely can’t predict where Alora’s journey is headed, or who she’ll end up trusting, and that unpredictability is exactly what makes this series so addictive.

Shadows of Silver releases August 1st, and it’s an absolute must-read for fantasy lovers craving mystery, magic, betrayal, and heart-racing adventure. I’m already counting down the days for the sequel!

 

 My Name isn't Paul 

by, 

This book was definitely a wild and unconventional ride, and I’m still not sure if it was weird in a good way or just… weird. That said, it absolutely stands out as a unique reading experience.

At its best, the story explores fascinating themes of identity, existence, and what it means to be (or not be) human. The protagonist, Paul, who isn’t quite Paul, was compelling, especially early on, and I really appreciated the use of stream of consciousness as a narrative device. It gave Paul’s inner experience a raw, surreal quality that felt well-matched to the story’s offbeat horror tone.

The first part of the novella had me hooked: it was original, unsettling, and strangely funny. The writing was vivid and confidently bizarre. However, as the story progressed, the pacing began to feel rushed. A lot of things started happening in a short span, and the plot began to lose clarity for me. The lore, particularly surrounding the alien-like “mirror people”, was intriguing but underexplored. I found myself wishing the author had taken more time to flesh out the world and its strange rules.

Also, while I appreciate weird horror and absurdism, the frequent focus on the...let’s say, insectoid horniness of the characters began to wear thin. It often overshadowed the deeper themes the story introduced early on, which was disappointing because those moments of philosophical reflection were where the novella really shined.

Still, I admire the boldness of this story. It’s strange, risky, and unlike anything I’ve read recently. I think it would have benefitted from a longer format to fully develop its ideas, but it left me curious enough to want to explore more of the author's work.

Recommended for fans of surreal, experimental horror who don’t mind a little bug-lust mixed into their existential dread.