I love this world so much and loved returning to it and my beloved characters. So much has changed since the beginning of book one. For one thing, we I love this world so much and loved returning to it and my beloved characters. So much has changed since the beginning of book one. For one thing, we now have the Neverseen King's POV, which I love so much! I absolutely adored seeing him and Nadira slowly growing closer together as they figured out their brand new marriage and how to work as a team. And it is absolutely imperative that they work as a team, because between the portals, the city, and the treacherous Fae, they need each other or else everything will crumple.
Personally, I could read about Nadira and the Neverseen King bantering for hours and love this book so much for giving me that. But it came at a cost, and now my heart is broken and I'm left with a cliffhanger, so there's that to. But you should definitely read it because I know the third book will be worth it.
Note to more sensitive readers: on-page violence, tragic deaths, and exploration of trauma and its consequences.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
Anyway, I laughed, I cried, and fell in love with the Neverseen King all over again....more
Love is a beautiful entity- and racism is a hideous monster. When Tori and Jeb meet at an art show, they start on a path that shows them the truth of Love is a beautiful entity- and racism is a hideous monster. When Tori and Jeb meet at an art show, they start on a path that shows them the truth of both realities. The readers share their dual path, as we witness the whirlwind love story between two graduate students, one a white American girl struggling with feeling unwanted, and the other a black Ghanian boy who is struggling with guilt. But we also witness the terrible racism they face as complete strangers take offense at their relationship, and their own families disapprove. Will love surmount all? Will he still be able to become chief of his village if he marries an outsider? And will they both be able to earn the degrees they worked so hard to earn? Read to find out, but be ready for a rollercoaster.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, and the opinions are my own.
Love is a beautiful entity- and racism is a hideous monster. When Tori and Jeb meet at an art show, they start on a path that shows them the truth of both realities. The readers share their dual path, as we witness the whirlwind love story between two graduate students, one a white American girl struggling with feeling unwanted, and the other a black Ghanian boy who is struggling with guilt. But we also witness the terrible racism they face as complete strangers take offense at their relationship, and their own families disapprove. Will love surmount all? Will he still be able to become chief of his village if he marries an outsider? And will they both be able to earn the degrees they worked so hard to earn? Read to find out, but be ready for a rollercoaster.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, and the opinions are my own.
I love this ancient Roman style fantasy world and am so excited to return to it with a new series. The next thing I love after the world is the dynamiI love this ancient Roman style fantasy world and am so excited to return to it with a new series. The next thing I love after the world is the dynamic between the characters. It was hate at first sight when Nadiya and Lateo meet, but everyone else is concerned about the underlying chemistry that can never be realized by law.
This book is perfect to get lost in, with the perfect blend of my favorite tropes (bodyguard, training together, he falls first) and a unique world, complicated characters, and a fun magic system with its own chosen one.
Note to more sensitive readers: A tragic death (and my favorite character too- my only complaint).
This book is perfect for YA audiences on up interested intricate world building and complicated characters....more
This is my favorite arranged marriage fae romance and it is my comfort read. I read it as a Vella, read it again as an ARC, and I fully intend to readThis is my favorite arranged marriage fae romance and it is my comfort read. I read it as a Vella, read it again as an ARC, and I fully intend to read it once again when it is a gorgeous hardback.
Stella is relatable heroine, trained to be demure and trapped by a stutter, but a secret spitfire waiting to spread her wings. Ash is a swoony hero, on one hand cunning and cutthroat in a dangerous game of chess, but on the other flirty and funny. They are well suited to each other in their arranged marriage is a character all its own.
The world is immersive, the High King is creepy and Evil with a capital E, and the stakes are high. But there is so much romance and even humor mixed into the tension as the perfect blend.
Note to more sensitive readers: On-screen death; past childhood abuse; married couple flirting (fade-to-black).
I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
This book is peak romantasy and is pretty much as perfect as books can be....more
This was such a great conclusion to the Ribbons & Claws trilogy! It gave a satisfying climax to Caroline's story while hinting at all the tales yet toThis was such a great conclusion to the Ribbons & Claws trilogy! It gave a satisfying climax to Caroline's story while hinting at all the tales yet to come from the Shifter Alliance. I love the grumpy-sunshine dynamic between Caroline and Morgan as well as the power team they make now that they're both on the same page. Also loved seeing all my favorite characters including the mayor and a certain dark elf- really hope to get more of their stories.
Note to more sensitive readers: There was some light course language and a lot of flirting with innuendos.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
Anyway, if you want to dive into a unique urban fantasy world with all kinds of paranormal creatures to meet and romances to witness, definitely start here!...more
I absolutely loved the chemistry between Theo and Aria. After a couple years of attraction on his part and antagonism on hers, they are finally forcedI absolutely loved the chemistry between Theo and Aria. After a couple years of attraction on his part and antagonism on hers, they are finally forced together to save the Christmas festival for the town. I loved getting to read about them individually dealing with their family issues, job stresses, and dreams. But I enjoyed even more watching them discover what a great team they made. Also, their communicating through the shared wall was adorable.
Note to more sensitive readers: nothing notable.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
If you're looking for something a Christmas rom-com sweeter than cheesecake, this one is for you!...more
This book is nonstop. Poor Clara never gets a chance to catch her breath, and neither did I. There is a lot to process as the stakes climb higher and This book is nonstop. Poor Clara never gets a chance to catch her breath, and neither did I. There is a lot to process as the stakes climb higher and the sacrifices to stave off the end of everything pile up. The epic-scale of everything cannot be undermined, but in order to help others, Clara first needs to learn how to defeat her own demons once and for all.
The book was heartbreaking, and I will need a while to recover from all that has come to pass. But I absolutely loved not only the theme of how to face trauma in a healthy way, but also of motherhood itself. I love exploring the concept of motherhood in fantasy, and this book celebrates that so much. And, of course, this book features a certain Prince who is one of my favorite fantasy characters, so there's that too.
Note to more sensitive readers: There is one spice scene in the middle of the book that can be easily skipped. There is also horror elements and violence including a tragic number of character deaths, onscreen and off. Also, there are discussions of parental abuse and neglect, alcoholism, drug addiction and attempted infanticide. And a character is taken advantage of by another character (the same one who got him involved with drugs).
I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
If you love to read about tricky fae, not-your-average librarians, and learning to overcome your nightmares, this is the series for you!...more
So, I saw this book and knew I had to pre-order. Not only that, I was counting down to my chance to dive into the story. And it was worth the wait! I So, I saw this book and knew I had to pre-order. Not only that, I was counting down to my chance to dive into the story. And it was worth the wait! I love marriage of convenience and vengeance schemes, and this book combined both so perfectly. It also combined both the romance and the comedy and was just honestly such a fun book in a stressful season. The friendship chemistry between these two was such a great foundation for the rest of their relationship.
Note to more sensitive readers: there were a few scattered instances of foul language (PG-13, I think) and innuendo between a married couple.
Definitely one of my favorite Christmas books and going into the seasonal traditions!...more
It's Christmas season and I've been looking forward to this rom-com release! An estranged couple are forced on a road trip while they are working out It's Christmas season and I've been looking forward to this rom-com release! An estranged couple are forced on a road trip while they are working out their marriage. Can they even figure out where home is in time for Christmas?
I loved these two. Spencer is still completely in love with his wife but is way too absent minded for his own good. And Amelia is trying to convince herself that the resentment between them has replaced the love they had at first. But for all their quarreling, they do make a good team. Even if neither are ready to drive an RV. Sparks fly and zany fun ensues; I both laughed and swooned for this one.
Note to more sensitive readers: minor innuendos and, obviously, tensions between a married couple.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
This fun, sweet rom-com is definitely one to add to your Christmas reading list!...more
This book was spectacular! The masquerades, mixed up identities, and master plans that went into a family reunion in Cancun was both extremely interesThis book was spectacular! The masquerades, mixed up identities, and master plans that went into a family reunion in Cancun was both extremely interesting and laugh-out-loud funny. The romance was unique and, of course, I was shipping them from the back of the book, especially since another marriage was at stake in these games. This is definitely one of my favorite books of the summer, if not the year. Could not put it down. A clean, clever summer read- or any sort of day you want to escape to Cancun with family drama, romantic angst, and the wrong Dawson brother.
Merged review:
This book was spectacular! The masquerades, mixed up identities, and master plans that went into a family reunion in Cancun was both extremely interesting and laugh-out-loud funny. The romance was unique and, of course, I was shipping them from the back of the book, especially since another marriage was at stake in these games. This is definitely one of my favorite books of the summer, if not the year. Could not put it down. A clean, clever summer read- or any sort of day you want to escape to Cancun with family drama, romantic angst, and the wrong Dawson brother....more
I was extremely fortunate to get to be an arc reader for this gem, and let me tell you, this book has everything you could possibly want from a Loki aI was extremely fortunate to get to be an arc reader for this gem, and let me tell you, this book has everything you could possibly want from a Loki and Sigyn romance meets Norse saga. Including . . .
The "man":
Loki: He was definitely an entity entirely comprised of chaos, but in a lovable way (excluding his violent tendencies toward small rodents). Even when he was trying to be good, he was still chaotic. His nature was unavoidable, but there was more to him, too. He was cunning with a strange sort of innocence. And as the protector of outcasts, he was an outcast himself, but one who never wanted anything more. But Odin knew there was something he needed . . .
Sigyn: She's just a former mortal making her way among the immortals, losing herself in her position as a Valkyrie. But Odin has seen a different future for her than his warrior. Sigyn is unapologetically herself, but in a way that lets others, even Loki, be themselves. And she is so different in the way she reacts to a situation, taking control of only that which is within her control: herself.
The myth: Nicki Chapelway did her homework about Norse mythology. The first few chapters really take you into the worlds of the tree of life. I learned more about the subject reading this book than I did in school, and it was a LOT more compelling than any textbook. The legend:
But Norse mythology isn't the only part of this epic tale; the legends of several Norse heroes are also included as Loki and Sigyn are forced to work together to secure her divinity so they don't both get dragged into the afterlife. And it's against this backdrop that their unorthodox romance shines. She's bound by duty, and he's destined for chaos. Yet somehow, it is because of these things that they are so perfect.
My favorite quote:
"I don’t see how this man who blushes if his wife looks at him for too long can be the malevolent being who is going to bring about the end of the world. I simply cannot wrap my mind around such a notion."
Note to more sensitive readers: this book contains violence. It also touches on some grittier Norse myths and legends, but with tact and grace.
Anyway, this book is perfection, and its only failing is that it was too short. So, if you can properly gird yourself against that disappointment, you will most certainly enjoy this rare gem of a story that is so close to the source material, but in the most original way.
To summarize:
❤️Loki (he is true to the legends and also very similar to a certain Marvel character of the same name . . .) ❤️Loki and Sigyn- one of the most compelling Norse mythology couplings if not the MOST compelling. ❤️ An arranged marriage NEITHER of them want. ❤️ Forced proximity because Odin saw that coming. ❤️An immortal bard ❤️ DEEP Norse mythology lore ❤️ VIKINGS ❤️ Only one bear rug ;) ❤️ Learning to be true to another without being false to yourself.
I was extremely fortunate to get to be an arc reader for this gem, and let me tell you, this book has everything you could possibly want from a Loki and Sigyn romance meets Norse saga. Including . . .
The "man":
Loki: He was definitely an entity entirely comprised of chaos, but in a lovable way (excluding his violent tendencies toward small rodents). Even when he was trying to be good, he was still chaotic. His nature was unavoidable, but there was more to him, too. He was cunning with a strange sort of innocence. And as the protector of outcasts, he was an outcast himself, but one who never wanted anything more. But Odin knew there was something he needed . . .
Sigyn: She's just a former mortal making her way among the immortals, losing herself in her position as a Valkyrie. But Odin has seen a different future for her than his warrior. Sigyn is unapologetically herself, but in a way that lets others, even Loki, be themselves. And she is so different in the way she reacts to a situation, taking control of only that which is within her control: herself.
The myth: Nicki Chapelway did her homework about Norse mythology. The first few chapters really take you into the worlds of the tree of life. I learned more about the subject reading this book than I did in school, and it was a LOT more compelling than any textbook. The legend:
But Norse mythology isn't the only part of this epic tale; the legends of several Norse heroes are also included as Loki and Sigyn are forced to work together to secure her divinity so they don't both get dragged into the afterlife. And it's against this backdrop that their unorthodox romance shines. She's bound by duty, and he's destined for chaos. Yet somehow, it is because of these things that they are so perfect.
My favorite quote:
"I don’t see how this man who blushes if his wife looks at him for too long can be the malevolent being who is going to bring about the end of the world. I simply cannot wrap my mind around such a notion."
Note to more sensitive readers: this book contains violence. It also touches on some grittier Norse myths and legends, but with tact and grace.
Anyway, this book is perfection, and its only failing is that it was too short. So, if you can properly gird yourself against that disappointment, you will most certainly enjoy this rare gem of a story that is so close to the source material, but in the most original way.
To summarize:
❤️Loki (he is true to the legends and also very similar to a certain Marvel character of the same name . . .) ❤️Loki and Sigyn- one of the most compelling Norse mythology couplings if not the MOST compelling. ❤️ An arranged marriage NEITHER of them want. ❤️ Forced proximity because Odin saw that coming. ❤️An immortal bard ❤️ DEEP Norse mythology lore ❤️ VIKINGS ❤️ Only one bear rug ;) ❤️ Learning to be true to another without being false to yourself.
Somehow, it's almost the Christmas season already. Trying to ease myself into it with this Christmas rom-com (with a tasty looking recipe included!).
ISomehow, it's almost the Christmas season already. Trying to ease myself into it with this Christmas rom-com (with a tasty looking recipe included!).
I loved the push-pull between these two. They were antagonistic personalities yet attracted physically from the beginning. Their careers and personalities were at odds, but once they clicked their jobs together, everything else seemed to fall into place or fall apart depending on the angle . . . Anyway, all around cute romance. Also, I really want to go to a Dickinson themed festival now.
Note to more sensitive readers: nothing objectionable that I can recall.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
This is the culinary Christmas rom-com to get you into the Christmas spirit....more
I enjoyed book one and was glad to see all the characters again. This series is perfect as a comfort read. Lots of romance and action, but also so mucI enjoyed book one and was glad to see all the characters again. This series is perfect as a comfort read. Lots of romance and action, but also so much banter and humor, and the books are long enough to get comfortable.
Of course, the dynamic between Morgan and Caroline was so precious, with Morgan trying to figure out their bond and Caroline having no idea. That seemed like the only secret anyone could keep, since the characters were always tell the others to anyone new on the team they decided they could trust. Must be a shifter intuition thing. But no one seemed to like the newest addition to the household except me. He was hilarious and added another fun dynamic to the shifter subculture.
Anyway, I'm super excited to conclude the trilogy AND read the companion novel.
Note to more sensitive readers: some innuendos and flippant comments.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
This is the perfect quirky and sweet paranormal romance you've been looking for....more
I do not normally read books about witches because it makes me uncomfortable. However, this book does not feature any actual witchcraft, just made-up I do not normally read books about witches because it makes me uncomfortable. However, this book does not feature any actual witchcraft, just made-up magic with Hollywood witch aesthetics like Bewitched, so I was able to enjoy it considerably. Speaking of aesthetics, this book felt like a fun homage to the aesthetics of Halloween, Christmas, and even Thanksgiving. It was like shopping in Hobby Lobby without spending any money and strangely therapeutic somehow.
As for the characters, I loved Emma and Oliver (and his little niece). They were both so sweet and innocent, as was there romance. Except for a love potion mishap, their love story was super wholesome and adorable. The concept of a house swap is completely new to me, so that was fun to learn about, too. Also, the ending was just perfect!
Note to more sensitive readers: some innuendos.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
The perfect sweet-and-not-too-spooky read for October and beyond....more
This book was such a fun read. Caroline and Morgan had such great chemistry, and the world they are in is so vast- there is room for so many books in This book was such a fun read. Caroline and Morgan had such great chemistry, and the world they are in is so vast- there is room for so many books in it. Especially with all the fun side characters who I want to read more about, too. There is so much to explore- and that's not even taking into consideration the main characters' own complicated pasts, or the things they still need to learn about each other.
The kidnapping bit was kind of weird to me, especially with how OK some of the characters were about it after a while. I'd personally be spending every second of the day planning a horrifying revenge, but maybe that's just me. Anyway, the tone of the book is light and happy with dark pasts and high stakes and I love that vibe so much.
I love fated love when done well, and it was. So was the enemies to . . . friends who flirt. Loved watching the characters grow in relation to one another and can't wait to see where the next adventure takes them.
Note to more sensitive readers: there are a few innuendos, some mild language, and violence. I would recommend this book for everyone who enjoys urban fantasies and romcoms.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
Merged review:
This book was such a fun read. Caroline and Morgan had such great chemistry, and the world they are in is so vast- there is room for so many books in it. Especially with all the fun side characters who I want to read more about, too. There is so much to explore- and that's not even taking into consideration the main characters' own complicated pasts, or the things they still need to learn about each other.
The kidnapping bit was kind of weird to me, especially with how OK some of the characters were about it after a while. I'd personally be spending every second of the day planning a horrifying revenge, but maybe that's just me. Anyway, the tone of the book is light and happy with dark pasts and high stakes and I love that vibe so much.
I love fated love when done well, and it was. So was the enemies to . . . friends who flirt. Loved watching the characters grow in relation to one another and can't wait to see where the next adventure takes them.
Note to more sensitive readers: there are a few innuendos, some mild language, and violence. I would recommend this book for everyone who enjoys urban fantasies and romcoms.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own....more
This is an intense high-stakes epic fantasy with more than a touch of romance. Prepare to be immersed in a world defined by elements out of balance anThis is an intense high-stakes epic fantasy with more than a touch of romance. Prepare to be immersed in a world defined by elements out of balance and a struggle of good vs. evil that is both political and spiritual.
There are two main POVs in this book, the apparent chosen one and the apparent heir to the evil throne. I enjoyed both POVs and the burgeoning romances in both, but I think the prince is my favorite character. I loved exploring the world through both characters and all the sociopolitical from the gypsy caravan to the royal palace. It ends on a cliffhanger, so definitely have to continue the story.
Note to more sensitive readers: violence and death, including the death of a sibling.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
An epic fantasy for those who want to be swept away into an adventure....more
This is my second Tate brothers romance, and while I enjoyed the previous one, I loved this one even more. It includes some of my favorite tropes of gThis is my second Tate brothers romance, and while I enjoyed the previous one, I loved this one even more. It includes some of my favorite tropes of grumpy/sunshine and boss/assistant. Also, I usually like the stories about the eldest siblings most in these kinds of series, so that helps too.
These two had great chemistry from the start, and the shenanigans they get into are hilarious. I also really appreciated it that the characters made it clear that while they remained close to each other before they married, they lived in separate residences. Also, even though the eldest brother's story is done, I am intrigued to learn more about the next brother. I had a lot of fun reading this book and enjoy the series as a whole.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
A sweet and swoony rom-com for some fun escapism....more
The point of no return has been crossed, and now it's time to find out if the characters will survive the consequences.
Getting the queen's POV was honThe point of no return has been crossed, and now it's time to find out if the characters will survive the consequences.
Getting the queen's POV was honestly nightmare fodder. But she made an interesting contrast to Luna and Sebastion. Every decision she makes is out of what she believes is a love of power, but is actually fueled by hate. While they do everything for actual love, but that means seizing power in order to survive. I thought getting the queen's POV would make me more sympathetic to her, but nope. She is still one of the most horrifying bad guys I've ever read, perfect for a gothic vampire story. The stakes (wooden or otherwise) are super high, with a kingdom in the balance, as well as Sebastian and Luna's happily ever after.
Note to more sensitive readers: as the author mentions in the blurb, there is adult language, violence and death, and a really bad villainous. Honestly, I think she is the most morally black villainous I've ever come across, so expect a lot of evil from her. In her POV there is more depiction of her violent crimes and assaults. For the romance, there are four or five easily skippable open-door scenes I was able to jump over without detracting from the plot.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
A good ending of the trilogy perfect for vampire lovers....more
Another reading mood I get is gothic vampire romance. If you're the same way, this is the trilogy for you.
Things have been irrevocably changed after tAnother reading mood I get is gothic vampire romance. If you're the same way, this is the trilogy for you.
Things have been irrevocably changed after the events of book one. It was really fun exploring Luna's vampire transformation with her. There was a little more of the prophecy, a few more flashbacks, and an elevation of the stakes as the story took a darker turn. Also, there's a vampire tournament, so what more can you ask for?
Note to more sensitive readers: as the author mentions in the blurb, there is adult language, violence and death, and a really bad villainous. Honestly, I think she is the most morally black villainous I've ever come across, so expect a lot of evil from her. The romance is also edgier now that the married couple have confessed their feelings.There were two easily skippable open-door scenes I was able to jump over without detracting from the plot.
A good continuation of the trilogy perfect for vampire lovers....more
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