alanadcr's reviews
905 reviews
Bazaar Girls by Cynthia St. Aubin, Kerrigan Byrne
emotional
funny
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
The Undertaking of Hart and Mercy by Megan Bannen
adventurous
emotional
funny
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
This was an odd, wildly creative world and fun romance. There is too much to get into in detail for this review so I'll broad stroke it. Here, Bannen has created a world with gods old and new, portals, zombie like "dunges", and marshals that protect.
I wanted to like this one more than I did and I feel bad about it. I was a big fan of the world building here and would happily delve back into a story like this. Much like other epistolary type romances that I've read in the past, this one was thoroughly enjoyable during the letters. I loved Mercy's family (for the most part) and their bond was one I haven't seen much since the Moore family from The Widow of Rose House by Diana Biller.
All that said, I teetered on DNFing around 65%. I really struggled with the lies by omission on Hart's behalf. Especially because it was such a silly thing to not disclose. And while I started off really enjoying Mercy, she quickly got on my nerves. Hart had some fabulous character growth but I didn't feel like Mercy kept up her end.
Ultimately, I'm glad I powered through with this one because I got to see the rest of Hart's growth and some of the explanations to questions I had. I will definitely read Bannen in the future!
I wanted to like this one more than I did and I feel bad about it. I was a big fan of the world building here and would happily delve back into a story like this. Much like other epistolary type romances that I've read in the past, this one was thoroughly enjoyable during the letters. I loved Mercy's family (for the most part) and their bond was one I haven't seen much since the Moore family from The Widow of Rose House by Diana Biller.
All that said, I teetered on DNFing around 65%. I really struggled with the lies by omission on Hart's behalf. Especially because it was such a silly thing to not disclose. And while I started off really enjoying Mercy, she quickly got on my nerves. Hart had some fabulous character growth but I didn't feel like Mercy kept up her end.
Ultimately, I'm glad I powered through with this one because I got to see the rest of Hart's growth and some of the explanations to questions I had. I will definitely read Bannen in the future!
Bookshops & Bonedust by Travis Baldree
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
It's rare when I come across a book that I desperately want to live inside. I'm going to start this out with a confession... I enjoyed this one more than Legends and Lattes. But I mean, when I say enjoyed... I mean I want to force everyone I know to read this book. You, dear reader. I am attempting to peer pressure you into reading this gem of a cozy fantasy.
A young Viv gets the taste of the slow life after she is forced into a somewhat lengthy convalescence when she is injured. I really do think this time in the sleepy Murk is what plants the seed of a quiet life post-mercenary adventures. Our time is spent with Viv in dusty bookshops, between the pages of a book, and experiencing a sweet hint of romance.
I would happily keep Fern and Pot Roast company. Much like it's predecessor, Bookshops & Bonedust has all the goodness; found family, friendships, first loves, and a hint of action and adventure. Truly, I think this read is in contention for my 2023 Favorite Read!
Travis Baldree, along with a couple other authors, have convinced me that I love cozy fantasy. If you loved Legends & Lattes, you will love getting to spend more time with Viv here. If you haven't, but you are curious about cozy fantasy? Allow me to peer pressure you. I highly recommend the audiobook as it is expertly performed by the author. This was the quickest I've listened to an audiobook all summer!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced listening copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you, Macmillan Audio!
A young Viv gets the taste of the slow life after she is forced into a somewhat lengthy convalescence when she is injured. I really do think this time in the sleepy Murk is what plants the seed of a quiet life post-mercenary adventures. Our time is spent with Viv in dusty bookshops, between the pages of a book, and experiencing a sweet hint of romance.
I would happily keep Fern and Pot Roast company. Much like it's predecessor, Bookshops & Bonedust has all the goodness; found family, friendships, first loves, and a hint of action and adventure. Truly, I think this read is in contention for my 2023 Favorite Read!
Travis Baldree, along with a couple other authors, have convinced me that I love cozy fantasy. If you loved Legends & Lattes, you will love getting to spend more time with Viv here. If you haven't, but you are curious about cozy fantasy? Allow me to peer pressure you. I highly recommend the audiobook as it is expertly performed by the author. This was the quickest I've listened to an audiobook all summer!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced listening copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you, Macmillan Audio!
Between Us by Mhairi McFarlane
emotional
funny
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
My gourd, this one is so tough because it started so strong! I adore Mhairi McFarlane and her trademark humor and angst. True to form, McFarlane tackles complex subjects; toxic relationships (romantic and otherwise), gaslighting, complicated family dynamics, and the self-care and growth as our FMC is put through the ringer.
Roisin is straight up fun! She is funny, down to earth, and a loyal friend. McFarlane has done her dirty though and has her paired with *gag* Joe. To make up for it, Roisin is part of a robust friend group that has been through triumphs and heartbreaks. Unfortunately, even this mainstay in Roisin's life appears to be more weather-worn and brittle than she realized. I loved watching Roisin's journey through all the heartache in Between Us. At times, it was like watching a wreck (can't look away!) but the self care, love, and growth themes grew along with Roisin and I loved it!
That said, readers that struggle with their MCs being in a committed relationship with someone other than the intended love interest may have a tough time here. Readers won't see Roisin with her "second chance" relationship until the latter part of the book and even then it is overshadowed by her journey through toxic relationships.
Unfortunately, Between Us ended up middling for me. This read closer to women's fiction than contemporary romance for me and I was disappointed by the lack of real development in the final relationship. Overall, it was a solid women's fiction story but it didn't quite hit my mark for romance. Even with my complaints, Mhairi McFarlane remains an auto-buy author and I'm excited to see what she dreams up next.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Roisin is straight up fun! She is funny, down to earth, and a loyal friend. McFarlane has done her dirty though and has her paired with *gag* Joe. To make up for it, Roisin is part of a robust friend group that has been through triumphs and heartbreaks. Unfortunately, even this mainstay in Roisin's life appears to be more weather-worn and brittle than she realized. I loved watching Roisin's journey through all the heartache in Between Us. At times, it was like watching a wreck (can't look away!) but the self care, love, and growth themes grew along with Roisin and I loved it!
That said, readers that struggle with their MCs being in a committed relationship with someone other than the intended love interest may have a tough time here. Readers won't see Roisin with her "second chance" relationship until the latter part of the book and even then it is overshadowed by her journey through toxic relationships.
Unfortunately, Between Us ended up middling for me. This read closer to women's fiction than contemporary romance for me and I was disappointed by the lack of real development in the final relationship. Overall, it was a solid women's fiction story but it didn't quite hit my mark for romance. Even with my complaints, Mhairi McFarlane remains an auto-buy author and I'm excited to see what she dreams up next.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
With Love, from Cold World by Alicia Thompson
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
(4.5 stars)
Alicia Thompson has been on my to-read list for a hot minute and I was so excited to be granted a digital ARC through a Berkley giveaway!
Lauren and Asa are so much fun! Each navigating the world with their own experiences and traumas made their romance all the sweeter as it developed. Lauren is exacting, some may say rigid, and works to keep a strict separation between work and home. She lives in a way that makes it easy to pick up and leave, whether she realizes it or not.
The entire "competition" for Cold World's revamp was the perfect way for Asa to mess with Lauren. Their efforts to antagonize each other had me laughing, rubbing away chest pains and tears. I had emotions and it was delightful and terrible. It's absolutely adorable to see Asa's POV and his attraction while Lauren's fall is more gradual and requires one or two lightbulb moments with one hefty friend smack.
The miscommunication trope dances about in this romance but it was handled in a way that moved the story forward in an authentic way. I wish the conversation with Asa and his sister felt more finished but the rest of the family conflict I appreciated the open ended way Thompson left it. Family is nice, but we don't need toxic nonsense. After all...
I love a good found family angle and Thompson absolutely delivered! Even though the story 100% focused on Lauren and ASA, I found myself enjoying each of the secondary characters in the small parts they played. I really hope we get to see some HEAs for the entire friend group!
This was such a cute, cozy, and heartfelt read and I am absolutely picking up a physical copy for my shelves. Its been a couple days since I finished reading and I still feel all the squishy cozy feelings. 10/10 Recommend!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you Berkley for my review copy!
Alicia Thompson has been on my to-read list for a hot minute and I was so excited to be granted a digital ARC through a Berkley giveaway!
Lauren and Asa are so much fun! Each navigating the world with their own experiences and traumas made their romance all the sweeter as it developed. Lauren is exacting, some may say rigid, and works to keep a strict separation between work and home. She lives in a way that makes it easy to pick up and leave, whether she realizes it or not.
The entire "competition" for Cold World's revamp was the perfect way for Asa to mess with Lauren. Their efforts to antagonize each other had me laughing, rubbing away chest pains and tears. I had emotions and it was delightful and terrible. It's absolutely adorable to see Asa's POV and his attraction while Lauren's fall is more gradual and requires one or two lightbulb moments with one hefty friend smack.
The miscommunication trope dances about in this romance but it was handled in a way that moved the story forward in an authentic way. I wish the conversation with Asa and his sister felt more finished but the rest of the family conflict I appreciated the open ended way Thompson left it. Family is nice, but we don't need toxic nonsense. After all...
I love a good found family angle and Thompson absolutely delivered! Even though the story 100% focused on Lauren and ASA, I found myself enjoying each of the secondary characters in the small parts they played. I really hope we get to see some HEAs for the entire friend group!
This was such a cute, cozy, and heartfelt read and I am absolutely picking up a physical copy for my shelves. Its been a couple days since I finished reading and I still feel all the squishy cozy feelings. 10/10 Recommend!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you Berkley for my review copy!
Business or Pleasure by Rachel Lynn Solomon
emotional
funny
inspiring
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
This was my first Rachel Lynn Solomon book and it won't be the last! From deliciously awkward meet cute with terrible sex (outright hysterical) to a sweet HEA, Chandler and Finn's friendship and romance was a joy to read! Both MCs were well-crafted and relatable. Chandler had moments where I truly wanted to throttle her, but Finn was a delight. Bonus, he was a quick study with the dirty talk!
Mid-level spice with some really amazing, frank conversations between Chandler and Finn. Communication is sexy both in and out of the bedroom! Plus, who doesn't want to read a solid nod to comic cons? One of the biggest perks, outside of the sex positivity, was all the representation! From Jewish characters (and culture and cuisine) to mental health representation (OCD) and discussions on imposter syndrome, Solomon really nailed this romance.
I think my only minor complaint is wishing the supporting cast had been more present. This was a fast paced read and I wish we had more time really getting to know Chandler and Finn in how they interact with others for a full picture. We get a bit with Chandler but Finn's was pretty limited. But I know I'm being a bit greedy here.
Business or Pleasure was an incredibly cozy read and would be a great vacation or beach read! I'm really looking forward to reading more of her work!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed and advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you, Berkley Romance for my review copy!
Mid-level spice with some really amazing, frank conversations between Chandler and Finn. Communication is sexy both in and out of the bedroom! Plus, who doesn't want to read a solid nod to comic cons? One of the biggest perks, outside of the sex positivity, was all the representation! From Jewish characters (and culture and cuisine) to mental health representation (OCD) and discussions on imposter syndrome, Solomon really nailed this romance.
I think my only minor complaint is wishing the supporting cast had been more present. This was a fast paced read and I wish we had more time really getting to know Chandler and Finn in how they interact with others for a full picture. We get a bit with Chandler but Finn's was pretty limited. But I know I'm being a bit greedy here.
Business or Pleasure was an incredibly cozy read and would be a great vacation or beach read! I'm really looking forward to reading more of her work!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed and advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you, Berkley Romance for my review copy!
The Twisted Ones by T. Kingfisher
adventurous
dark
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
The September House by Carissa Orlando
dark
funny
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
The September House is the first book in the past month that I have completely abandoned adult responsibilities to keep reading. A deliciously dark mix of horror, psychological thriller, and dark humor absolutely captivated me from the first page. I laughed far more often than I expected going in as Margaret treated these objectively horrifying occurrences in her home as mere day to day inconveniences. To be honest, I really want my own ghostly housekeeper now.
Orland expertly wove snippets of Margaret's history and relationships into the story. Between the lines we see a story of trauma, mental health struggles, and more. The dark humor remains throughout, but the atmosphere turns sinister as September unfolds and readers learn more about where Hal might be, their history, and the grisly history of the house itself.
My only complaint is the abrupt twist/shift at the end. I wish there had been some little hints just before to make it feel a bit less jarring. That said, I still enjoyed the whirlwind, bananas ending!
Overall, this was a fantastic, dark and twisty debut! In fact, Mr B. invaded our kindle and turned it into a buddy read with me because I kept nattering on about how wild it was. He ended up devouring it before I did!
Carissa Orlando will be on our authors-to-watch! Out in September (which I absolutely love) just in time for spooky season!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you Berkley for my review copy!
Orland expertly wove snippets of Margaret's history and relationships into the story. Between the lines we see a story of trauma, mental health struggles, and more. The dark humor remains throughout, but the atmosphere turns sinister as September unfolds and readers learn more about where Hal might be, their history, and the grisly history of the house itself.
My only complaint is the abrupt twist/shift at the end. I wish there had been some little hints just before to make it feel a bit less jarring. That said, I still enjoyed the whirlwind, bananas ending!
Overall, this was a fantastic, dark and twisty debut! In fact, Mr B. invaded our kindle and turned it into a buddy read with me because I kept nattering on about how wild it was. He ended up devouring it before I did!
Carissa Orlando will be on our authors-to-watch! Out in September (which I absolutely love) just in time for spooky season!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you Berkley for my review copy!
My Rogue to Ruin by Erica Ridley
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
It has been a little bit since I've been so excited to start a historical romance! The second my arc for My Rogue to Ruin came in, I pounced on the chance to escape into a world with Wynchesters. I am a big fan of found family. I also adore enemies to lovers and this certainly has a vibe of enemies. And it has homing hedgehogs! Adrian and Marjorie's story is incredibly cute and floofy. The danger stays relatively low angst which makes this a great easy, romantic summery read.
I adore Marjorie! I may be biased since I am a huge Wynchester fan but her loyalty and stagehand work behind the scenes in the family's schemes make her one of my absolute favorites. We see her insecurities but more importantly her strength and determination both on her own and supported by family and, later, Adrian.
I didn't really understand what made Adrian such a rogue, beyond the initial exile. Maybe he is just my sort of hero and I'm staring at him with rose colored glasses? I feel like this may be an instance of the mystery/threat in the story overshadowing the character building on Adrian's side since we only get a chapter or so before he is thrust into the counterfeit scheme against his will.
I love the diversity and representation that Ridley has given us in the Wynchesters! I can't wait to read more about their shenanigans. Especially Elizabeth. I am desperate for Elizabeth's HEA!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I adore Marjorie! I may be biased since I am a huge Wynchester fan but her loyalty and stagehand work behind the scenes in the family's schemes make her one of my absolute favorites. We see her insecurities but more importantly her strength and determination both on her own and supported by family and, later, Adrian.
I didn't really understand what made Adrian such a rogue, beyond the initial exile. Maybe he is just my sort of hero and I'm staring at him with rose colored glasses? I feel like this may be an instance of the mystery/threat in the story overshadowing the character building on Adrian's side since we only get a chapter or so before he is thrust into the counterfeit scheme against his will.
I love the diversity and representation that Ridley has given us in the Wynchesters! I can't wait to read more about their shenanigans. Especially Elizabeth. I am desperate for Elizabeth's HEA!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
How to Sell a Haunted House by Grady Hendrix
challenging
dark
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5