readingbetweenthespines21's reviews
18 reviews

Satan's Affair by H.D. Carlton

dark funny tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Haunting Adeline by H.D. Carlton

adventurous dark emotional mysterious reflective tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

In a definite fan of this author. I find her fmc’s to be mostly relatable, and while i don’t always agree with the mmc’s I find their pov’s to be hot.

What you have to know about this book is that the mmc is a villain, cut and dry, no if ands or buts about it. He is unapologetically a stalker, rapist and killer. Granted the people he kills are bad, but he’s only slightly better in that he doesn’t hurt children.

There was a mystery to be solved in this book and I figured it out right away, but was still very intrigued.

I had finished the prequel (satan’s affair) the day before this and I immediately started the sequel (hunting Adeline) so as you might guess I loved it, but there are very dark scenes that can be mentally taxing, and the second book only gets darker so read with caution for your mental health 

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Rape

Minor: Child abuse

The Stars Would Curse Us by Stephanie Combs, Valerie Rivers

adventurous medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

Surprising twist

Of Love and Time by L.J. Burkhart

adventurous medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

Of Love and Time is an engaging WWII novel with a unique twist: time travel.

It follows Noah a modern man who ends up in the middle of the war and falls for a nurse, Daphne.

The time travel adds a cool twist, but the real charm is in the heartfelt and spicy romance. It’s a great pick if you’re into love stories set against historical backdrops.

A Demon in the Dawn by L.J. Burkhart

adventurous dark emotional reflective fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

L.J.s’ novel explores the transformation of a once ordinary individual into a formidable villain whose motivations are as complex as they are chilling.

Demonica’s evolution from an insignificant demon to a figure of malevolent power is portrayed with meticulous detail, weaving together elements of tragedy, ambition, and betrayal. Burkhart deftly navigates the character's descent into darkness, unraveling a web of influences that shape their destiny, and challenges readers to confront the inherent duality of human nature.

What sets "Demon in the Dawn" apart is its nuanced portrayal of the antagonist's motivations. Burkhart masterfully balances empathy with revulsion, inviting readers to empathize with the character's vulnerabilities while recoiling from their increasingly sinister choices. The exploration of power dynamics, moral ambiguity, and the consequences of unchecked ambition lends depth and urgency to Demonica’s arc, ensuring that their transformation resonates long after the final page.

A thought-provoking exploration of how circumstances and choices can mold even the most ordinary individual into a figure of terror. L.J. Burkhart's novel is a must-read for fans of moral ambiguity, showcasing a villain whose journey challenges and captivates in equal measure.

Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross

adventurous dark emotional slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

I felt the romance was rushed and forced and I find myself more interested in a storyline that’s more background than the main plot

Local Woman Missing by Mary Kubica

dark emotional mysterious sad tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? N/A
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

“Local Woman Missing" by Mary Kubica is an intense thriller that grips you from the first page. Kubica masterfully weaves a tale of suspense and mystery that keeps you on the edge of your seat until the very end. The story is both chilling and heart-wrenching, with twists and turns that will leave you breathless. Be prepared to be scared and emotionally invested in this gripping novel that explores the dark secrets hidden within a seemingly quiet community.

The Fire Inside Me by L.J. Burkhart

emotional reflective 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

5.0

a sizzling contemporary romance that sets the pages on fire with its passionate love story. The chemistry between the two leading ladies is electric, drawing readers into a world of desire, longing, and steamy encounters. Against the backdrop of modern life, the characters navigate the complexities of their relationship with authenticity and depth. Burkhart’s vivid prose and captivating storytelling keep the reader hooked from the first page to the last, making "the Fire Inside Me" a must-read for fans of spicy lesbian romance. With its blend of heat, heart, and authenticity, this novel is sure to leave readers breathless and yearning for more.

Light Me Up by L.J. Burkhart

adventurous dark emotional hopeful inspiring reflective medium-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

5.0

Burkhart has a knack for crafting contemporary stories that feel both familiar and fresh. Her writing style is characterized by relatable characters, authentic dialogue, and compelling plotlines that resonate with readers. Whether exploring themes of friendship, self-discovery, or love, Burkhart's narratives are filled with heart and emotion. 

A Blaze in the Shadows by L.J. Burkhart

adventurous emotional 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? Yes

5.0

L.J. Burkhart's writing is consistently captivating, filled with rich world-building, complex characters, and gripping plots. Their ability to weave together elements of fantasy and adventure creates an immersive reading experience that keeps readers eagerly turning the pages. Burkhart's attention to detail and knack for crafting suspenseful narratives makes her work a must-read for fans of romantasy, you're sure to be drawn into a world of magic, mystery, and adventure.