Scan barcode
haveyoureadreviews's reviews
103 reviews
Crown of Roses by N.B. Snook
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
reflective
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
4.0
I want to start out by thanking Snook for this ARC copy. And being ok with a delayed review.
I had the honor of reading the first book, “Ash and Roses”. With this book there was a Beauty and the Beast, adult, fairytale retelling. So I jumped at the chance to read book two, “Crown of Roses”.
This book had it all! A love triangle, death, life, drama, shifters, and so much more. I Still love Jade. The first love interest who I was kinda hoping got something. And Abby! Oh Abby she blames herself for everything. Even things out of her control, that she didn’t know about. I feel that the true character of Abby was released in this book. But that there is still so much more to come. Speaking of characters, let's talk about our favorite “Beast” Quinn.
I know that Quinns’ character is one that beats himself up a lot. And sometimes acts like a baby because of his own emotions, making him want to punish himself. But as much as I did like Quinn. There were alot of times where he and his interactions with Abby. Made me want to slap him in the back of the head and say, “really child?”
Still even with those moments I fell in love with this book. And can hardly wait to see what will happen in book three. But that is probably why this book, like the first. Received a 8/10 rating from us. If you're interested in checking this book out. I recommend going to Kindle Unlimited now and checking out both books now.
#HaveYouReadReviews
I had the honor of reading the first book, “Ash and Roses”. With this book there was a Beauty and the Beast, adult, fairytale retelling. So I jumped at the chance to read book two, “Crown of Roses”.
This book had it all! A love triangle, death, life, drama, shifters, and so much more. I Still love Jade. The first love interest who I was kinda hoping got something. And Abby! Oh Abby she blames herself for everything. Even things out of her control, that she didn’t know about. I feel that the true character of Abby was released in this book. But that there is still so much more to come. Speaking of characters, let's talk about our favorite “Beast” Quinn.
I know that Quinns’ character is one that beats himself up a lot. And sometimes acts like a baby because of his own emotions, making him want to punish himself. But as much as I did like Quinn. There were alot of times where he and his interactions with Abby. Made me want to slap him in the back of the head and say, “really child?”
Still even with those moments I fell in love with this book. And can hardly wait to see what will happen in book three. But that is probably why this book, like the first. Received a 8/10 rating from us. If you're interested in checking this book out. I recommend going to Kindle Unlimited now and checking out both books now.
#HaveYouReadReviews
Fire in His Kiss by Ruby Dixon
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
So that is what happened to Sasha!
This is book two in the “Fireblood Dragon” series. In this book we get to find out what happens after Dakh grabs Sasha out of the air saving her from falling to her death. Now this book is funny because Sasha has no idea what being a dragon mate means.
the reason that is funny? Dakh doesn’t really understand humans. But each person tries their best to understand each other and give what the other needs.
There is one part in here which every person who is a bookworm will love. This thing brings both characters together and creates a warm and loving moment between the two.
There is also a side character which pushes the story along and helps the characters come together a little.
I felt this book helped put more of the plot together. Adding a villain that we didn’t know we had. Though I personally can not wait to see how they affect the rest of the story.
As much as I enjoyed this book I did give it a 6/10 rating. I didn’t feel anything was wrong or that it wasn’t a good book. But it did feel like that rating to me. So take this as a “Dragon’s Challenge”. And go read “Fire In His Kiss” and tell us what rating you gave the story.
#HaveYouReadReviews
This is book two in the “Fireblood Dragon” series. In this book we get to find out what happens after Dakh grabs Sasha out of the air saving her from falling to her death. Now this book is funny because Sasha has no idea what being a dragon mate means.
the reason that is funny? Dakh doesn’t really understand humans. But each person tries their best to understand each other and give what the other needs.
There is one part in here which every person who is a bookworm will love. This thing brings both characters together and creates a warm and loving moment between the two.
There is also a side character which pushes the story along and helps the characters come together a little.
I felt this book helped put more of the plot together. Adding a villain that we didn’t know we had. Though I personally can not wait to see how they affect the rest of the story.
As much as I enjoyed this book I did give it a 6/10 rating. I didn’t feel anything was wrong or that it wasn’t a good book. But it did feel like that rating to me. So take this as a “Dragon’s Challenge”. And go read “Fire In His Kiss” and tell us what rating you gave the story.
#HaveYouReadReviews
The Savage King by Michelle M. Pillow
adventurous
challenging
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? It's complicated
4.0
When Pillow reached out to me asking if I would be interested in reading her book, I couldn’t help but jump at the chance. When she offered an audio book there was no way I was going to say no!
Thanks to Ruby Dixon I had gotten back into the shifter romance stories. Pillow definitely reached my very high bar. I was immediately intrigued by both Ulyssa and Kirill. I loved the Fact it was by another's actions that brought these two together.
The attention to detail through the book was just enough to paint a beautiful picture in the story. While the character build up is both slow and interesting. Yet also holds its own amount of detail. It was amazing to listen, as two very stubborn and bullheaded characters. Try to fight each other, while also coming together. As with all wonderful romances, to finally admit they like each other.
Michael Ferraiuolo was the narrator for this book. The reading he did really pulled you into the story. Almost as if putting you under a trance. I could not wait to find out what happened. The way he read this, gave it new life.
Speaking of new life. Don’t think for a moment this is just a romance book. No! It has drama, action, science, and a little more in it. But if you don’t believe me. Then I recommend you head to Amazon and check it out now. After all, it did get an 8/10 rating from us.
Thanks to Ruby Dixon I had gotten back into the shifter romance stories. Pillow definitely reached my very high bar. I was immediately intrigued by both Ulyssa and Kirill. I loved the Fact it was by another's actions that brought these two together.
The attention to detail through the book was just enough to paint a beautiful picture in the story. While the character build up is both slow and interesting. Yet also holds its own amount of detail. It was amazing to listen, as two very stubborn and bullheaded characters. Try to fight each other, while also coming together. As with all wonderful romances, to finally admit they like each other.
Michael Ferraiuolo was the narrator for this book. The reading he did really pulled you into the story. Almost as if putting you under a trance. I could not wait to find out what happened. The way he read this, gave it new life.
Speaking of new life. Don’t think for a moment this is just a romance book. No! It has drama, action, science, and a little more in it. But if you don’t believe me. Then I recommend you head to Amazon and check it out now. After all, it did get an 8/10 rating from us.
The Playful Prince by Michelle M. Pillow
adventurous
emotional
funny
inspiring
relaxing
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? It's complicated
4.0
Pillow did it again in her “Lords Of The Var” series, with her second book “The Playful Prince”.
I was so excited to have received this book from Pillow to review once I had finished her first book “The Savage King”. Knowing this was going to be a fantastic tale.
In this book we get to find out about the hot, stubborn, and had a little issue with communication. But that's ok because Dr. Elliot had the same issue as Prince Quinn.
This book continued the firefly passion that should come with a cat, shape shifter, romance. The back and forth with the hot spice, and the smut was completely on point in this one. I really enjoyed the stubbornness of both characters. Mostly because in the end, both of them just want to protect the world they were in.
Something I did find interesting, Was that Elliot had her own team. Which really encased the feeling of family for her. Speaking of which, there was a small teaser that we may have a spin off of one of the characters from Elliot’s past.
This was a wonderful addition to “Lords Of The Var”. Which makes me truly believe that Pillow could not have picked a better brother to make this book about. Which is why it was given a 8/10 rating from us. Even if it did have “Really interesting dirt”.
#HaveYouReadReviews
I was so excited to have received this book from Pillow to review once I had finished her first book “The Savage King”. Knowing this was going to be a fantastic tale.
In this book we get to find out about the hot, stubborn, and had a little issue with communication. But that's ok because Dr. Elliot had the same issue as Prince Quinn.
This book continued the firefly passion that should come with a cat, shape shifter, romance. The back and forth with the hot spice, and the smut was completely on point in this one. I really enjoyed the stubbornness of both characters. Mostly because in the end, both of them just want to protect the world they were in.
Something I did find interesting, Was that Elliot had her own team. Which really encased the feeling of family for her. Speaking of which, there was a small teaser that we may have a spin off of one of the characters from Elliot’s past.
This was a wonderful addition to “Lords Of The Var”. Which makes me truly believe that Pillow could not have picked a better brother to make this book about. Which is why it was given a 8/10 rating from us. Even if it did have “Really interesting dirt”.
#HaveYouReadReviews
Winterwood by Shea Ernshaw
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Let me start by saying that this is a young adult book. And that I gave it a rating of 10/10. Ernshaw has a nice easy writing style. Which with how the story went, was an added bonus.
The book starts with Nora and Oliver. Along with a haunted forest, and a witch mother who doesn’t want to admit she is also a witch. It doesn’t help that there is a summer camp with a bunch of boys who are getting haunted.
Oh I almost forgot about the mystery lake! I really fell in love with the iced over lake. It takes and takes. But it also gives to the characters at the times they need it.
I really bonded with Nora’s character. Being into herbalism I connected with Nora’s want to learn and know more.
While the mystery around Oliver drew me in. His character was both sweet and loving, but also mysterious and confusing.
I fell hard for the love story these two fought through. The choices both characters had to make, and try to follow through on. Well lets just say sometimes I had to shut the book to avoid throwing it.
Ernshaw did a great job of keeping us on our toes while reading. I was able to guess a few things. But I was also surprised at others. I was so excited when I found out that this book was one of two. After reading “Winterwood”, I was left with this feeling of wanting more of the characters. And was excited to continue their story.
Though I was a little hesitant to read this book. I was happy to say I quickly fell in love with it. It was an added bonus that this book was appropriate for anyone over the age of pre-teen.
#HaveYouReadReviews
The book starts with Nora and Oliver. Along with a haunted forest, and a witch mother who doesn’t want to admit she is also a witch. It doesn’t help that there is a summer camp with a bunch of boys who are getting haunted.
Oh I almost forgot about the mystery lake! I really fell in love with the iced over lake. It takes and takes. But it also gives to the characters at the times they need it.
I really bonded with Nora’s character. Being into herbalism I connected with Nora’s want to learn and know more.
While the mystery around Oliver drew me in. His character was both sweet and loving, but also mysterious and confusing.
I fell hard for the love story these two fought through. The choices both characters had to make, and try to follow through on. Well lets just say sometimes I had to shut the book to avoid throwing it.
Ernshaw did a great job of keeping us on our toes while reading. I was able to guess a few things. But I was also surprised at others. I was so excited when I found out that this book was one of two. After reading “Winterwood”, I was left with this feeling of wanting more of the characters. And was excited to continue their story.
Though I was a little hesitant to read this book. I was happy to say I quickly fell in love with it. It was an added bonus that this book was appropriate for anyone over the age of pre-teen.
#HaveYouReadReviews
The Lost legend by Aseret Franco
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Loveable characters? N/A
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
5.0
This review was given in exchange for an ARC.
Let me start off by stating that I had received the first ARC, started it, and was immediately drawn in. But due to timing and life issues had to stop. Which turned out to be a good thing because Franco changed a lot of stuff, and then released a new ARC.
I wanted to point this out because the second ARC was much better. Meaning the actual story should be great.
Now lets talk about the book. I found the writing to be written in a “Young Adult” fashion. Which worked perfectly with the magical, fantasy style the book seemed to go for. And for anyone looking for a more Y.A. feeling for a read.
I did really like the relationships that were built in the book. Though at some points I did feel like some of relationships and details were forced. Which is very easy to do when creating the first book in a series. Oops did you not know its was going to be a series? Well it is.
I thought the character development was interesting. The book as a whole started off slow, but as it continued the plot and characters gained a lot of build up. The world building also had a lot of design which draw the reader in.
All in all, I thought the book was pretty good and gave it a 5/10 rating. If your looking to branch out from your normal. Or have a young reader that is looking for something interesting. Then I suggest grabbing a copy of “The Lost Legend” once it is released.
#HaveYouReadReviews
Let me start off by stating that I had received the first ARC, started it, and was immediately drawn in. But due to timing and life issues had to stop. Which turned out to be a good thing because Franco changed a lot of stuff, and then released a new ARC.
I wanted to point this out because the second ARC was much better. Meaning the actual story should be great.
Now lets talk about the book. I found the writing to be written in a “Young Adult” fashion. Which worked perfectly with the magical, fantasy style the book seemed to go for. And for anyone looking for a more Y.A. feeling for a read.
I did really like the relationships that were built in the book. Though at some points I did feel like some of relationships and details were forced. Which is very easy to do when creating the first book in a series. Oops did you not know its was going to be a series? Well it is.
I thought the character development was interesting. The book as a whole started off slow, but as it continued the plot and characters gained a lot of build up. The world building also had a lot of design which draw the reader in.
All in all, I thought the book was pretty good and gave it a 5/10 rating. If your looking to branch out from your normal. Or have a young reader that is looking for something interesting. Then I suggest grabbing a copy of “The Lost Legend” once it is released.
#HaveYouReadReviews
Savage Deal by Ella Jade
challenging
emotional
funny
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
“Savage Deal” is advertised as an age gap romance. But it is so much more than that. It is about a young woman named Emmie. Who has a real scumbag for a father. This guy borrowed a large amount of money from some really bad people. Then when it came to payment time, the guy skips town. Not caring that those bad people will come after his daughter for the money, or worse.
That's what we open the story with. Emmie is in a bad situation, running to a horse barn because it's safe, and because she had nowhere to go. Then in walks Jude. No really, he actually walked into the barn, and shined a flashlight on her. This is the start to their complicated relationship.
Jade has made a well written book that I found myself unable to put down. I really feel with all the characters she wrote. And all their differences. That the horse tender Anthony was my favorite. After all, if he hadn't had a lapse of judgment, and a kind heart. We wouldn’t have a book.
I will say I was extremely upset, when I finished the book. Jade did one of the worst things an author could do. She left on a beautiful, terrifying, cliffhanger that made me want to grab the next book immediately. The reason this is bad? Book two “Savage Soul”, is not coming out until June 26th, 2023. I finished “Savage Deal” on June 1st, 2023.
That's what we open the story with. Emmie is in a bad situation, running to a horse barn because it's safe, and because she had nowhere to go. Then in walks Jude. No really, he actually walked into the barn, and shined a flashlight on her. This is the start to their complicated relationship.
Jade has made a well written book that I found myself unable to put down. I really feel with all the characters she wrote. And all their differences. That the horse tender Anthony was my favorite. After all, if he hadn't had a lapse of judgment, and a kind heart. We wouldn’t have a book.
I will say I was extremely upset, when I finished the book. Jade did one of the worst things an author could do. She left on a beautiful, terrifying, cliffhanger that made me want to grab the next book immediately. The reason this is bad? Book two “Savage Soul”, is not coming out until June 26th, 2023. I finished “Savage Deal” on June 1st, 2023.
One Dark Night by Molly Garcia
adventurous
challenging
hopeful
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
Are you looking for a light thriller, that will cause you to keep guessing? Then I have some good news for you. You will find all that and more in the third book in Garcia’s “Ethan Quinn” series.
Now I was given the audible book which is read by Grant Love. If you like Sam Heughan's voice, then you have to get the audible of this book. Love does another amazing reading. I love how he brings the story to life. Which with how many characters are in this book. That can sometimes be hard to do.
I enjoyed the diverse cast in this book. We do see a couple repeats, though most of the characters are new. I also liked the side main character Ginger. I felt like there maybe more to her story than Garcia gave. Does this mean Ginger will end up with her own story?
All I know for sure was that this book received a 8/10 rating from us. Between the characters, detail to story. The twisty plot, and the ending. It was hard not to give it such a high rating. I honestly cannot wait to see what happens in Ethan’s next book. One thing that we can bet on, is that we will get a little more into his character. And deeper into what makes Ethan Ethan.
If you're thinking of joining me on the “Ethan Quinn” journey. I highly recommend getting the audible book. Though there are other options on amazon. Nice thing is, as long as you get the book. There is no wrong choice.
#HaveYouReadReviews
Now I was given the audible book which is read by Grant Love. If you like Sam Heughan's voice, then you have to get the audible of this book. Love does another amazing reading. I love how he brings the story to life. Which with how many characters are in this book. That can sometimes be hard to do.
I enjoyed the diverse cast in this book. We do see a couple repeats, though most of the characters are new. I also liked the side main character Ginger. I felt like there maybe more to her story than Garcia gave. Does this mean Ginger will end up with her own story?
All I know for sure was that this book received a 8/10 rating from us. Between the characters, detail to story. The twisty plot, and the ending. It was hard not to give it such a high rating. I honestly cannot wait to see what happens in Ethan’s next book. One thing that we can bet on, is that we will get a little more into his character. And deeper into what makes Ethan Ethan.
If you're thinking of joining me on the “Ethan Quinn” journey. I highly recommend getting the audible book. Though there are other options on amazon. Nice thing is, as long as you get the book. There is no wrong choice.
#HaveYouReadReviews
Mating With Mothman by Mr. J
adventurous
emotional
funny
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Wow. This story started off with a TW list that felt like a mile long. And I was so ready for it. After I feel like the only real TW the book actually needs is that there is a kidnapping, and non-con.
I was pleasantly surprised when I started this book. All I really knew about it was that this was a monster x human romance. And that it was also heavy with smut. After reading it I felt like more needs to be added to this.
The story starts out with a young woman moving to her mothers old town to start a new life. She moves in with her aunt and her twin cousins. Frank is nice but a little bit of a drunk. Where Ed is a dick with a really nice girlfriend. Her aunt…yeah no you gotta find out about that one.
I really loved the start of Sam and May’s relationship. It really had that small town romance that Mr. J was trying to keep it in his book. I enjoyed watching May come out of her shell, and grow as a person. Which brings up the plot!
Although this story was set up as a smutty monster romance. This story actually has plot, character development, and details! I was pleasantly surprised by how much was in this short story.
We did give this book a 8/10 rating, mostly because of the ending. Sam is a nice guy, true. But I couldn’t fully believe the ending that we were given. I did enjoy how in the last few chapters. Justice was given to some of the characters. Either the ones who had been wronged, or the ones who deserved it. But what happened to the character who would be considered the “villain”... I just felt like they got off easy, and wasn’t fully believable.
But what do I know? The Author left the story a little open at the end. Which makes me wonder if we will be getting more of our new favorite characters. Or did we get a happy ending and are leaving it there?
If you're thinking of starting “Mating With Mothman”, I recommend going now. While it is on KU.
This review was given honestly, in exchange for an ARC. Thank you Mr. J for reaching out to me.
#HaveYouReadReviews
I was pleasantly surprised when I started this book. All I really knew about it was that this was a monster x human romance. And that it was also heavy with smut. After reading it I felt like more needs to be added to this.
The story starts out with a young woman moving to her mothers old town to start a new life. She moves in with her aunt and her twin cousins. Frank is nice but a little bit of a drunk. Where Ed is a dick with a really nice girlfriend. Her aunt…yeah no you gotta find out about that one.
I really loved the start of Sam and May’s relationship. It really had that small town romance that Mr. J was trying to keep it in his book. I enjoyed watching May come out of her shell, and grow as a person. Which brings up the plot!
Although this story was set up as a smutty monster romance. This story actually has plot, character development, and details! I was pleasantly surprised by how much was in this short story.
We did give this book a 8/10 rating, mostly because of the ending. Sam is a nice guy, true. But I couldn’t fully believe the ending that we were given. I did enjoy how in the last few chapters. Justice was given to some of the characters. Either the ones who had been wronged, or the ones who deserved it. But what happened to the character who would be considered the “villain”... I just felt like they got off easy, and wasn’t fully believable.
But what do I know? The Author left the story a little open at the end. Which makes me wonder if we will be getting more of our new favorite characters. Or did we get a happy ending and are leaving it there?
If you're thinking of starting “Mating With Mothman”, I recommend going now. While it is on KU.
This review was given honestly, in exchange for an ARC. Thank you Mr. J for reaching out to me.
#HaveYouReadReviews
Silverlake by Colin Darney
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
slow-paced
4.0
When Darney Reached out asking if I would like to review book two of his “Resthaven” series. I had to agree. I needed to know what would happen to Tommy and the rest of the gain.
So let me start by saying that I felt this book's flow went a little slower than the first book. That being said, that is the only negative thing I have to say about the book.
I really enjoyed the characters that we had come to love, and cheer for. While he also brought new characters to life. The main plot is the same. Donnor and his made family and son, are walking with the army they had created. Trying to spot the Ondilaani, from killing everyone and everything. I felt that we got another deeper, almost newer understanding of each character.
This is shown in one way, with Tommy and Ari. The growth and healing that both of these went through. It shows how strong each character became. I also enjoyed getting a new look at Mikus. I felt like in the first book, we got a small look into this character. While in book two, we get more into his thinking, and build up.
I felt the war scenes were done with taste, and talent. Neither over doing the details or cutting them short. It was interesting to see the Ondilaani get more detailed. And learn more about these beastly things.
All in all, I am very happy with this story, and the way things went. Which is why I gave it a 8/10 rating. And why I am excited to continue the story with book three “Windysprings”.
Thank you Colin for giving me “Silverlake” to review.
#HaveYouReadReviews
So let me start by saying that I felt this book's flow went a little slower than the first book. That being said, that is the only negative thing I have to say about the book.
I really enjoyed the characters that we had come to love, and cheer for. While he also brought new characters to life. The main plot is the same. Donnor and his made family and son, are walking with the army they had created. Trying to spot the Ondilaani, from killing everyone and everything. I felt that we got another deeper, almost newer understanding of each character.
This is shown in one way, with Tommy and Ari. The growth and healing that both of these went through. It shows how strong each character became. I also enjoyed getting a new look at Mikus. I felt like in the first book, we got a small look into this character. While in book two, we get more into his thinking, and build up.
I felt the war scenes were done with taste, and talent. Neither over doing the details or cutting them short. It was interesting to see the Ondilaani get more detailed. And learn more about these beastly things.
All in all, I am very happy with this story, and the way things went. Which is why I gave it a 8/10 rating. And why I am excited to continue the story with book three “Windysprings”.
Thank you Colin for giving me “Silverlake” to review.
#HaveYouReadReviews