revengelyne's reviews
1892 reviews
Queen of Deception by May Freighter
To finally have Isakei coming into American fantasy novels is wonderful to see. I hope that this book will encourage other American writers to dip their toes into this particular genre. I would love to see it grow.
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
5.0
When I saw that this book was inspired by the manga/manhua/manhwa with the isakei'd theme I was ecstatic. I had not seen a novel have this sort of theme attached. Mostly seen in Asian comics but never tried out in American novels. So, this was exciting to see.
Our female lead has died in her real life and has been reincarnated into a character from her favorite novel, The Cruel Kingdom. Her character, a young princess named Emilia also known as the Cursed Princess, was destined to share the same fate as her own family, but with her knowledge of the novel's plot, she uses it to her advantage - gather her own network of people and offer the information on her family to the one destined to kill them - Thessian, Duke of Darkgate.
As she navigates through this novel, she must use her knowledge of the book's details in order to continue widening her alliance while making good on her promise to make Thessian the future king of Hellion.
But as she uses the storyline to her advantage, things are starting to change in the novel, characters never mentioned have begun to appear and the novel's story is beginning to change altogether.
It is finally nice to find a strong female character in the fantasy genre. It is essential for diversifying and enriching the stories and characters in the genre. It helps break gender stereotypes and encourages inclusivity, ultimately leading to a more significant and engaged audience.
It is true that strong female leads are not always found in the Isakei realm. More often than not, they are relegated to supporting roles or are portrayed as heartless villains that need to be vanquished.
However, Emilia is an exception to this rule. She defies the stereotypical portrayal of female characters in this genre. Instead of being a passive participant in her own story, she is an active character who takes charge of her own destiny.
In addition, while romance does play a significant role in the Isakei genre, it is refreshing to see that it is not the only driving force in Emilia's story. Her character development is not solely focused on her relationship with the male lead, but rather, on her experiences and growth as an individual.
Regarding the assumption that romance may begin to appear in the second novel, it is entirely possible. However, it is also essential to note that the Isakei genre is not solely focused on romantic relationships. Therefore, it would be interesting to see how the author chooses to develop Emilia's story in future installments.
Our female lead has died in her real life and has been reincarnated into a character from her favorite novel, The Cruel Kingdom. Her character, a young princess named Emilia also known as the Cursed Princess, was destined to share the same fate as her own family, but with her knowledge of the novel's plot, she uses it to her advantage - gather her own network of people and offer the information on her family to the one destined to kill them - Thessian, Duke of Darkgate.
As she navigates through this novel, she must use her knowledge of the book's details in order to continue widening her alliance while making good on her promise to make Thessian the future king of Hellion.
But as she uses the storyline to her advantage, things are starting to change in the novel, characters never mentioned have begun to appear and the novel's story is beginning to change altogether.
It is finally nice to find a strong female character in the fantasy genre. It is essential for diversifying and enriching the stories and characters in the genre. It helps break gender stereotypes and encourages inclusivity, ultimately leading to a more significant and engaged audience.
It is true that strong female leads are not always found in the Isakei realm. More often than not, they are relegated to supporting roles or are portrayed as heartless villains that need to be vanquished.
However, Emilia is an exception to this rule. She defies the stereotypical portrayal of female characters in this genre. Instead of being a passive participant in her own story, she is an active character who takes charge of her own destiny.
In addition, while romance does play a significant role in the Isakei genre, it is refreshing to see that it is not the only driving force in Emilia's story. Her character development is not solely focused on her relationship with the male lead, but rather, on her experiences and growth as an individual.
Regarding the assumption that romance may begin to appear in the second novel, it is entirely possible. However, it is also essential to note that the Isakei genre is not solely focused on romantic relationships. Therefore, it would be interesting to see how the author chooses to develop Emilia's story in future installments.
Final Thought:
To finally have Isakei coming into American fantasy novels is wonderful to see. I hope that this book will encourage other American writers to dip their toes into this particular genre. I would love to see it grow.
Medusa by Jessie Burton
Medusa.
While mythology portrays her as an ugly woman with snakes for hair, a gaze that would petrify any who looked upon her face, and a serpentine body, she was mainly used to further the story of Perseus, a naive boy with no great deeds to his name like Hercules, a demi-god known for his strength, and the legendary hero, Achilles, who was said to be precise with his arrows. His mother had been locked away because his own grandfather had learned any child descended from his line could threaten his hold on the throne. A divine father whose lecherous eyes laid upon his mother and created Perseus. When his grandfather found out about the child, he would lock them away in chests and throw them into the water, but in a heroic story, he and his mother were saved. When his mother drew the attention of King Polydectes, the king gave him one of the most impossible tasks - find Medusa, cut off her head, and bring it before him. Perseus sets out on the task, believing that he could be the one to bring back her head.
But what about Medusa? Her world had been taken from her, destroyed by the lecherous gaze of the sea god, and transformed into this hideous creature with a stare so deadly that any who looked upon her were petrified. Her only companions are her sister and her faithful wolfhound. That is until Perseus arrives and Medusa, scared of him seeing her, only invites him to the mouth of her cave to have a conversation and dinner. It had been the most Medusa had in companionship. The two talked. Enjoyed company.
That is until the two realize their shared fates.
Medusa's tale has always meant to invoke fear among the readers. They are made to believe that this creature harassed and killed many of those who sought her head and deserved a fate worse than death. This is why we don't get much of a backstory. What is told is how a lecherous sea god, Poisedon, had turned his gaze toward her and made advances that would change Medusa into the creature she would be known today.
Imagine the fear. The loneliness. All of this she must be going through. Medusa must have craved something she knew she could never have and when Perseus arrived, she thought that her dream had come true...that someone had come to break her loneliness and give her the companionship she wanted. She may have it with Perseus but she knew it only be fleeting. Maybe she had an inkling why he had come and knew her fate would be sealed.
I felt sorry for her because regardless of the outcome, I would have loved to see her story tweaked just a bit.
And this book does it. It offers a unique outcome to the events of Medusa and Perseus. A change was needed in order to tell Medusa's story from her perspective and offer Medusa's own thoughts on the fate she knew could come. While the mythology of Medusa tends to change depending upon the told mythology or how her story is weaved into movies and books, Medusa's story is still a sad tale from beginning to end. A tale of a young woman who catches the eye of a sea god, whose advances she refused, and whose life was changed by the Goddess Athena. Medusa remains an enigmatic creature both meant to invoke fear and revilement.
Final Thought:
Overall, this book was a beautiful and poignant retelling of Medusa's story. It offered a unique perspective on mythology, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who loves these kinds of stories.
emotional
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
5.0
Woe betide any man fool enough to look upon you now!
Medusa.
While mythology portrays her as an ugly woman with snakes for hair, a gaze that would petrify any who looked upon her face, and a serpentine body, she was mainly used to further the story of Perseus, a naive boy with no great deeds to his name like Hercules, a demi-god known for his strength, and the legendary hero, Achilles, who was said to be precise with his arrows. His mother had been locked away because his own grandfather had learned any child descended from his line could threaten his hold on the throne. A divine father whose lecherous eyes laid upon his mother and created Perseus. When his grandfather found out about the child, he would lock them away in chests and throw them into the water, but in a heroic story, he and his mother were saved. When his mother drew the attention of King Polydectes, the king gave him one of the most impossible tasks - find Medusa, cut off her head, and bring it before him. Perseus sets out on the task, believing that he could be the one to bring back her head.
But what about Medusa? Her world had been taken from her, destroyed by the lecherous gaze of the sea god, and transformed into this hideous creature with a stare so deadly that any who looked upon her were petrified. Her only companions are her sister and her faithful wolfhound. That is until Perseus arrives and Medusa, scared of him seeing her, only invites him to the mouth of her cave to have a conversation and dinner. It had been the most Medusa had in companionship. The two talked. Enjoyed company.
That is until the two realize their shared fates.
Medusa's tale has always meant to invoke fear among the readers. They are made to believe that this creature harassed and killed many of those who sought her head and deserved a fate worse than death. This is why we don't get much of a backstory. What is told is how a lecherous sea god, Poisedon, had turned his gaze toward her and made advances that would change Medusa into the creature she would be known today.
Imagine the fear. The loneliness. All of this she must be going through. Medusa must have craved something she knew she could never have and when Perseus arrived, she thought that her dream had come true...that someone had come to break her loneliness and give her the companionship she wanted. She may have it with Perseus but she knew it only be fleeting. Maybe she had an inkling why he had come and knew her fate would be sealed.
I felt sorry for her because regardless of the outcome, I would have loved to see her story tweaked just a bit.
And this book does it. It offers a unique outcome to the events of Medusa and Perseus. A change was needed in order to tell Medusa's story from her perspective and offer Medusa's own thoughts on the fate she knew could come. While the mythology of Medusa tends to change depending upon the told mythology or how her story is weaved into movies and books, Medusa's story is still a sad tale from beginning to end. A tale of a young woman who catches the eye of a sea god, whose advances she refused, and whose life was changed by the Goddess Athena. Medusa remains an enigmatic creature both meant to invoke fear and revilement.
Final Thought:
Overall, this book was a beautiful and poignant retelling of Medusa's story. It offered a unique perspective on mythology, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who loves these kinds of stories.
King's Bride by Beck Michaels
Overall, while there were some characters that I disliked, the story itself was well-written, engaging, and had me hooked until the end. I recommend it to anyone who loves fantasy romance stories with a touch of darkness.
dark
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
5.0
How has no one considered the Hades and Persephone element in the story? Because it is there. The story may lean toward Beauty and the Beast but there is also Hades and Persephone. Although a bit lesser seeing widely in the novel.
Plus he has a scythe! Okay, so there could be the argument that the scythe in mythology could belong to either Chronos or Thanatos, depending on what story is being told. However, it could be considered still a weapon belonging to possibly the Underworld.
Also, allow me to continue the argument and point out that technically he could be considered Hades in both senses. He does consider himself the God of Death and he does claim souls. Now, I am well aware that Hades is simply the God of the Underworld, but his world also contains the souls of the dead. He may not be part of the judgment but he still has his hand in ushering them to their respective areas.
Sunnëva lives in a village where winter is an everyday occurrence. With food scarce and most of the hunting party gone, it is hard to find a meal anywhere on the frozen tundra. That is until the party returns carrying food and gold. Along with the party are Rune, Sunnëva's love, and her brother, Fenrir. But something happens to her brother and Sunnëva is forced to go find an incredibly rare flower from the home of the Ice Phoenix. But the moment she plucks the flower, she brings the Ice Phoenix knocking on her village doors.
Jökull, known as the Ice Phoenix and the God of Death, has come for the one who has stolen his flower. When he is offered the little thief as his bride, he takes her and spirits her away back to his home. Sunnëva believes her new husband has killed her brother and her father has threatened to harm her sister if she does not find his weakness. She sees his death as a chance to lift the curse of an eternal winter upon the tundra, but what happens when the two begin to chip away at each other's icy hearts?
Sunnëva's character, while compelling, seems to show that she is resilient, strong-willed, and brave. There are even moments of bravery when she faces her husband many times. Most of them are to kill him and even those are fruitless attempts. The downside to her character is that she does prove to be a bit of an annoying female. There are times when I would have loved to throttle her. Her character's development slows down during the moment of her arrival at her husband's castle. She continues to lament over the fact she believes he killed her brother. This seems to be a continued theme whenever we get into her head. Although I do understand, it seems to be part of a one-track mind.
The Ice Phoenix, Jökull, was a fascinating character. He was cold and distant, but you could see that there was more beneath the surface. As the story progressed, we got to see more of his past and how he became the God of Death. His love for Sunnëva grew and he became more human, but he still had his flaws and his dark side.
Now let's get down to her family. I hated both her brother, Bjorn, and her father, Thorstein. The latter was hateful toward his other children. He cared little whether any of them died and this shows when Fenrir is harmed during their expedition back home. He even discourages Sunnëva from seeking any remedy to save him. He believes in the survival of the fittest and Fenrir is nothing but a weak link in their family.
When Sunnëva brings back the rose, he offers her up to the Ice Phoenix as a way to save himself. He even sees this as an opportunity to force Sunnëva to look for a kink in her new husband's armor that would give them a way to kill him. And to make sure she follows his orders, he uses her sister to force her to obey him.
And Rune. I don't believe Sunnëva really loved him. Maybe it was just a fleeting youth when they are in the throes of falling in love. They may have planned to marry but I don't see really following through with it. They used each other, yes, but I don't see it progressing any further than that. I understand that there were points she may have started falling in love with him especially when the winter castle of the Ice Phoenix was alerted to the theft of the flower and he supposed led the Ice Phoenix's troops away, but other than that, I just don't see it happening.
I can also see the reason why he would be the bad guy. He seemed creepy even upon his return from the expedition. He was more friendly and his usage of "sweetling" seemed to offer more of a sinister side. His smile seemed to be a dead giveaway but Sunnëva didn't seem to be paying much attention to any details that screamed he was not the right choice for her.
The world-building was also excellent. The author did an incredible job of describing the frozen tundra and the mystical beings that lived there. The Ice Phoenix's home was beautifully described, and you could feel the coldness and magic that emanated from it.
Plus he has a scythe! Okay, so there could be the argument that the scythe in mythology could belong to either Chronos or Thanatos, depending on what story is being told. However, it could be considered still a weapon belonging to possibly the Underworld.
Also, allow me to continue the argument and point out that technically he could be considered Hades in both senses. He does consider himself the God of Death and he does claim souls. Now, I am well aware that Hades is simply the God of the Underworld, but his world also contains the souls of the dead. He may not be part of the judgment but he still has his hand in ushering them to their respective areas.
Sunnëva lives in a village where winter is an everyday occurrence. With food scarce and most of the hunting party gone, it is hard to find a meal anywhere on the frozen tundra. That is until the party returns carrying food and gold. Along with the party are Rune, Sunnëva's love, and her brother, Fenrir. But something happens to her brother and Sunnëva is forced to go find an incredibly rare flower from the home of the Ice Phoenix. But the moment she plucks the flower, she brings the Ice Phoenix knocking on her village doors.
Jökull, known as the Ice Phoenix and the God of Death, has come for the one who has stolen his flower. When he is offered the little thief as his bride, he takes her and spirits her away back to his home. Sunnëva believes her new husband has killed her brother and her father has threatened to harm her sister if she does not find his weakness. She sees his death as a chance to lift the curse of an eternal winter upon the tundra, but what happens when the two begin to chip away at each other's icy hearts?
Sunnëva's character, while compelling, seems to show that she is resilient, strong-willed, and brave. There are even moments of bravery when she faces her husband many times. Most of them are to kill him and even those are fruitless attempts. The downside to her character is that she does prove to be a bit of an annoying female. There are times when I would have loved to throttle her. Her character's development slows down during the moment of her arrival at her husband's castle. She continues to lament over the fact she believes he killed her brother. This seems to be a continued theme whenever we get into her head. Although I do understand, it seems to be part of a one-track mind.
The Ice Phoenix, Jökull, was a fascinating character. He was cold and distant, but you could see that there was more beneath the surface. As the story progressed, we got to see more of his past and how he became the God of Death. His love for Sunnëva grew and he became more human, but he still had his flaws and his dark side.
Now let's get down to her family. I hated both her brother, Bjorn, and her father, Thorstein. The latter was hateful toward his other children. He cared little whether any of them died and this shows when Fenrir is harmed during their expedition back home. He even discourages Sunnëva from seeking any remedy to save him. He believes in the survival of the fittest and Fenrir is nothing but a weak link in their family.
When Sunnëva brings back the rose, he offers her up to the Ice Phoenix as a way to save himself. He even sees this as an opportunity to force Sunnëva to look for a kink in her new husband's armor that would give them a way to kill him. And to make sure she follows his orders, he uses her sister to force her to obey him.
And Rune. I don't believe Sunnëva really loved him. Maybe it was just a fleeting youth when they are in the throes of falling in love. They may have planned to marry but I don't see really following through with it. They used each other, yes, but I don't see it progressing any further than that. I understand that there were points she may have started falling in love with him especially when the winter castle of the Ice Phoenix was alerted to the theft of the flower and he supposed led the Ice Phoenix's troops away, but other than that, I just don't see it happening.
I can also see the reason why he would be the bad guy. He seemed creepy even upon his return from the expedition. He was more friendly and his usage of "sweetling" seemed to offer more of a sinister side. His smile seemed to be a dead giveaway but Sunnëva didn't seem to be paying much attention to any details that screamed he was not the right choice for her.
The world-building was also excellent. The author did an incredible job of describing the frozen tundra and the mystical beings that lived there. The Ice Phoenix's home was beautifully described, and you could feel the coldness and magic that emanated from it.
Final Thought:
Overall, while there were some characters that I disliked, the story itself was well-written, engaging, and had me hooked until the end. I recommend it to anyone who loves fantasy romance stories with a touch of darkness.
To Heal an Earl by Alexa Aston
If you love the Bodice Ripper subgenre such as Downton Abbey and Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, then this is the book I recommend that will return you to a world of Regency, beautiful males and females, and a romance as endless as time.
Actual Rating: 4.8/5
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
Bodice Rippers is a subgenre of romance novels that is often characterized by its focus on historical settings, dramatic plots, and steamy love scenes. The term "bodice ripper" actually refers to a specific type of cover art that was popularized in the 1970s and 80s, featuring a muscular, shirtless male hero and a swooning heroine with her clothing in disarray.
Although the label "bodice ripper" is often used pejoratively to describe these books, they continue to have a devoted following among readers who appreciate their escapist fantasy, larger-than-life characters, and unabashedly romantic storytelling. Some well-known examples of the genre include novels by authors such as Johanna Lindsey, Kathleen Woodiwiss, and Judith McNaught.
Ultimately, the appeal of Bodice Rippers lies in the way they transport readers to a world that is both familiar and exotic, where passion and adventure reign supreme, and where true love conquers all.
I have loved this genre ever since I can remember. I had one of these books handy in my purse during school. Read them on days of testing or days we would have complete days off from school work and studying. These books were what comforted me during the weeks I caught chickenpox during my sophomore year.
And these are books I still seek out when I need something to pull me out of a reading slump. The cover of this book drew me back to the romance novels of the late 80s where a cover could draw you in rather than the premise of the novel. Some were hits in my collection and others were large misses.
Most of these novels would center around the Regency period offering glimpses of what the Ton and the coming-of-age were like at these times.
In this novel, we meet Charlotte Nott, who has just lost her father. Deciding after the funeral to walk back home where she would be called to meet her half-brother, a man who has hated her during her entire life. He makes it clear that she is no longer a member of his family and nothing short of a 'whore' much like he considered her mother to be. He wanted her gone from his house, throwing what little money he deemed fit to remove her.
Charlotte is devasted by this turn of events. She had hoped that one day her brother could come to turn but this is out of the question and Charlotte is forced to leave her childhood home. During her years away from her home, Charlotte has made headway in her life. She has been a companion and a governess and this is what she will be when she is offered a job at Grayson. But before she can even get a list of her job, both Lord Grayson and his wife are dead. With no one to take up the role of the household and take care of the three children left behind, Charlotte steps up into the role.
Much as Charlotte had been tossed on her ear so had Grayson. His elder brother had tossed him a paid military purchase commission and told him never to come back. He is slightly surprised when a letter arrives to inform him of the death of his brother and wife. He returns home to find Charlotte being the one taking over the head of the house.
The more time the two spend together. The more neither can deny the chemistry that pulls them together.
One aspect of the novel that I found bothersome is the frequent use of the word "sizzle" to describe the chemistry between characters. It became repetitive and distracting at times.
Another issue that disappointed me was the lack of closure regarding Charlotte's relationship with her brother. Despite being a significant plot point at the beginning of the book, he is never confronted or resolved in any way. It would have been satisfying to see Charlotte assert herself and prove him wrong.
While those things were the only distraction that I came across, I still enjoyed the novel immensely. This took me back and I was happy to return. I do plan to read the rest of this series very soon.
Although the label "bodice ripper" is often used pejoratively to describe these books, they continue to have a devoted following among readers who appreciate their escapist fantasy, larger-than-life characters, and unabashedly romantic storytelling. Some well-known examples of the genre include novels by authors such as Johanna Lindsey, Kathleen Woodiwiss, and Judith McNaught.
Ultimately, the appeal of Bodice Rippers lies in the way they transport readers to a world that is both familiar and exotic, where passion and adventure reign supreme, and where true love conquers all.
I have loved this genre ever since I can remember. I had one of these books handy in my purse during school. Read them on days of testing or days we would have complete days off from school work and studying. These books were what comforted me during the weeks I caught chickenpox during my sophomore year.
And these are books I still seek out when I need something to pull me out of a reading slump. The cover of this book drew me back to the romance novels of the late 80s where a cover could draw you in rather than the premise of the novel. Some were hits in my collection and others were large misses.
Most of these novels would center around the Regency period offering glimpses of what the Ton and the coming-of-age were like at these times.
In this novel, we meet Charlotte Nott, who has just lost her father. Deciding after the funeral to walk back home where she would be called to meet her half-brother, a man who has hated her during her entire life. He makes it clear that she is no longer a member of his family and nothing short of a 'whore' much like he considered her mother to be. He wanted her gone from his house, throwing what little money he deemed fit to remove her.
Charlotte is devasted by this turn of events. She had hoped that one day her brother could come to turn but this is out of the question and Charlotte is forced to leave her childhood home. During her years away from her home, Charlotte has made headway in her life. She has been a companion and a governess and this is what she will be when she is offered a job at Grayson. But before she can even get a list of her job, both Lord Grayson and his wife are dead. With no one to take up the role of the household and take care of the three children left behind, Charlotte steps up into the role.
Much as Charlotte had been tossed on her ear so had Grayson. His elder brother had tossed him a paid military purchase commission and told him never to come back. He is slightly surprised when a letter arrives to inform him of the death of his brother and wife. He returns home to find Charlotte being the one taking over the head of the house.
The more time the two spend together. The more neither can deny the chemistry that pulls them together.
One aspect of the novel that I found bothersome is the frequent use of the word "sizzle" to describe the chemistry between characters. It became repetitive and distracting at times.
Another issue that disappointed me was the lack of closure regarding Charlotte's relationship with her brother. Despite being a significant plot point at the beginning of the book, he is never confronted or resolved in any way. It would have been satisfying to see Charlotte assert herself and prove him wrong.
While those things were the only distraction that I came across, I still enjoyed the novel immensely. This took me back and I was happy to return. I do plan to read the rest of this series very soon.
Final Thought:
If you love the Bodice Ripper subgenre such as Downton Abbey and Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, then this is the book I recommend that will return you to a world of Regency, beautiful males and females, and a romance as endless as time.
Actual Rating: 4.8/5
The Only One Left by Riley Sager
This gothic chiller brings us to the 1920s when a nearly identical murder of Lizzy Borden happened. The only survivor, Lenora, was considered to be the murderer of her family but at seventeen, she was never charged. As the years go by, Lenora recluses herself in the mansion her father built.
As the story turns to the 1980s, Kit McDeere had been an in-care nurse until one of her own patients had been killed. With the suspicion turned on her, Kit was forced to look for work elsewhere. As she goes through several jobs, Kit is reoffered her job but with stipulations of becoming the in-care aide to the notorious Lenora.
As Kit arrives at the mansion, she finds herself entangled in a web of secrets and lies and she will have to find a way to untangle herself and learn the truth of what really happened that night her family was murdered.
This was my first book by Riley and it kept me glued from the moment the story started to the very end. There were twists and turns that I didn't see coming, and the characters were well-developed and relatable.
Riley's writing style was descriptive and engaging, and he did an excellent job of creating a suspenseful atmosphere throughout the book. I found myself rooting for the characters and invested in their stories.
Final Thought:
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys family dramas and mysteries. Riley is a talented writer, and I look forward to reading more of his work in the future.
dark
mysterious
slow-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? Yes
4.75
This gothic chiller brings us to the 1920s when a nearly identical murder of Lizzy Borden happened. The only survivor, Lenora, was considered to be the murderer of her family but at seventeen, she was never charged. As the years go by, Lenora recluses herself in the mansion her father built.
As the story turns to the 1980s, Kit McDeere had been an in-care nurse until one of her own patients had been killed. With the suspicion turned on her, Kit was forced to look for work elsewhere. As she goes through several jobs, Kit is reoffered her job but with stipulations of becoming the in-care aide to the notorious Lenora.
As Kit arrives at the mansion, she finds herself entangled in a web of secrets and lies and she will have to find a way to untangle herself and learn the truth of what really happened that night her family was murdered.
This was my first book by Riley and it kept me glued from the moment the story started to the very end. There were twists and turns that I didn't see coming, and the characters were well-developed and relatable.
Riley's writing style was descriptive and engaging, and he did an excellent job of creating a suspenseful atmosphere throughout the book. I found myself rooting for the characters and invested in their stories.
Final Thought:
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys family dramas and mysteries. Riley is a talented writer, and I look forward to reading more of his work in the future.
Run & Hide by Beatrix Hollow
Final Thought:
I have book two so I am debating if I really want to go further anymore with this series. I know that the first book just sets the tone for the next book and normally the series can get better. So, I might go ahead and see if book two is better.
dark
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5
Lately, there have been several books where I have struggled to place on the rating scale. The novel's premise always sounds promising. That is until you crack open the novel, read the book, and learn that the novel either did not have much character development, the world-building was underwhelming, or the story's pace just seemed to slow any progress it should already have.
The monster genre has become a favorite especially when there is a reverse harem and a new cryptid is introduced into the genre. This time a Nøkken. The Nøkken is a different breed altogether. It is a water spirit that is known to lure people into the water using its musical talents. It is said that once you are within its grasp, it will drown you and take your soul.
Nøkken is known to imprint on their fated half and crave their attention. Unfortunately for Caspian, his mother had passed away and his father craved the attention that had been lost to her death. He finds Ava's mother and the two marry sending both Caspian and his father far from their home to the lands of Norfolk, Virginia. Here would be his new home. Here he would live, but he was not expecting to find his fated half in Ava. The connection was instantaneous for Caspian and when he set out for his career, he would become famous just for her.
Fast forward five years, Caspian has achieved fame and now it was time to claim the prize he has waited all this time for - Ava. With unwanted bandmates and a cryptid loose in the woods, Caspian will have to find a way to claim Ava before someone else does.
While I did enjoy this story and its premise, I did not care too much for Ava, the bandmates, and Mothman. I did not feel that Ava's character advances any in her development. Her whole mentality of "if you don't see it or really feel it, then it is not real". This causes all sorts of problems in her character and there were times I really wanted to slap the shit out of her.
Caspian's bandmates annoyed the shit out of me. I don't see what the problem was when Caspian decided enough was enough for him. They could have continued on with their band and just rebranded it or even found another frontman. Instead, they decided they would just tag and make problems. I never thought I would see a bunch of immature bandmates ever. I can now see why Caspian would leave.
The Mothman - I don't know what to think of him. He really doesn't seem to really fit in the story except to be the next mate for Ava's harem. He was annoying and I don't think he was really needed except maybe for the creep factor that was going for him.
And let's not go there with her aunt and mother. I am not fond of either of those two.
Caspian - what can I say about him? I loved his character. I loved that he was the first Nøkken I have been introduced to and I love that he had stayed true to Ava for all these years. He grows from the first moment we see him and even in flashbacks to the beginning. He grows in character and he does everything possible to protect Ava. Who could ever turn him down?
The monster genre has become a favorite especially when there is a reverse harem and a new cryptid is introduced into the genre. This time a Nøkken. The Nøkken is a different breed altogether. It is a water spirit that is known to lure people into the water using its musical talents. It is said that once you are within its grasp, it will drown you and take your soul.
Nøkken is known to imprint on their fated half and crave their attention. Unfortunately for Caspian, his mother had passed away and his father craved the attention that had been lost to her death. He finds Ava's mother and the two marry sending both Caspian and his father far from their home to the lands of Norfolk, Virginia. Here would be his new home. Here he would live, but he was not expecting to find his fated half in Ava. The connection was instantaneous for Caspian and when he set out for his career, he would become famous just for her.
Fast forward five years, Caspian has achieved fame and now it was time to claim the prize he has waited all this time for - Ava. With unwanted bandmates and a cryptid loose in the woods, Caspian will have to find a way to claim Ava before someone else does.
While I did enjoy this story and its premise, I did not care too much for Ava, the bandmates, and Mothman. I did not feel that Ava's character advances any in her development. Her whole mentality of "if you don't see it or really feel it, then it is not real". This causes all sorts of problems in her character and there were times I really wanted to slap the shit out of her.
Caspian's bandmates annoyed the shit out of me. I don't see what the problem was when Caspian decided enough was enough for him. They could have continued on with their band and just rebranded it or even found another frontman. Instead, they decided they would just tag and make problems. I never thought I would see a bunch of immature bandmates ever. I can now see why Caspian would leave.
The Mothman - I don't know what to think of him. He really doesn't seem to really fit in the story except to be the next mate for Ava's harem. He was annoying and I don't think he was really needed except maybe for the creep factor that was going for him.
And let's not go there with her aunt and mother. I am not fond of either of those two.
Caspian - what can I say about him? I loved his character. I loved that he was the first Nøkken I have been introduced to and I love that he had stayed true to Ava for all these years. He grows from the first moment we see him and even in flashbacks to the beginning. He grows in character and he does everything possible to protect Ava. Who could ever turn him down?
Final Thought:
I have book two so I am debating if I really want to go further anymore with this series. I know that the first book just sets the tone for the next book and normally the series can get better. So, I might go ahead and see if book two is better.
Save A Vamp, Take A Crown by Sedona Ashe
This is a fun read. The characters are fleshed out. There is humor and smut that are just the right amount.
dark
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Taking place after the events of the first book, Zyon is still in his monster form after having taken out Journee's stalker. Unfortunately, Journee is about to learn that her mate has been summoned back to his home by the queen and forced to play into some sort of version of The Bachelor. Zyon can't say he has already chosen and Journee has no choice but to go along with it.
But Journee's past has secrets and both she and Zyon must not only navigate the throes of vampire women hoping to be the one Zyon's chosen, but unravel the secrets that have been hiding from Journee.
I love Sedona's novels. They have always been my favorite go-to novels when I am in a slump or I need something delicious, sinful, and smutty. Journee and Zyon are everything to each other. During the whole bachelor thing, his unwavering loyalty to Journee is always apparent. He never looks to another and he never bothers with anyone.
This is the type of couple's goal I would strive to have.
Sedona's novels are always fun to read. There is humor, romance, and fated mates. Of course, they are not entirely perfect couples and that is what draws me to her novels. This series has become one of my favorites especially next to the dinosaur shifters.
But Journee's past has secrets and both she and Zyon must not only navigate the throes of vampire women hoping to be the one Zyon's chosen, but unravel the secrets that have been hiding from Journee.
I love Sedona's novels. They have always been my favorite go-to novels when I am in a slump or I need something delicious, sinful, and smutty. Journee and Zyon are everything to each other. During the whole bachelor thing, his unwavering loyalty to Journee is always apparent. He never looks to another and he never bothers with anyone.
This is the type of couple's goal I would strive to have.
Sedona's novels are always fun to read. There is humor, romance, and fated mates. Of course, they are not entirely perfect couples and that is what draws me to her novels. This series has become one of my favorites especially next to the dinosaur shifters.
Final Thought:
This is a fun read. The characters are fleshed out. There is humor and smut that are just the right amount.
Psyche and Eros by Luna McNamara
This unique perspective on the myth of Psyche and Eros offers readers a new way to understand and work with their own desires and passions. It challenges us to examine our own relationship with intimacy, love, and meaning, and to consider how we can integrate these aspects of our lives to live more authentically and fully.
emotional
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? Yes
4.5
In the ancient world, the mythology of Eros and Psyche has been one of the most enduring and spun myths. Its story has been changed throughout the centuries, added on, embellished, retold, and interpreted differently by many. The original myth comes steep in Greek Mythology. A beautiful young woman named, Psyche, was admired and adored by many, but never married. Most of the males who came across her preferred to admire and adore her from afar, but never offered for her hand in marriage.
Many saw Psyche as a goddess and began worshipping her instead of Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love, and in doing so, angered the goddess that she made her son, Eros, take his arrows to strike Psyche into falling in love with the ugliest males. Eros went to do his mother's bidding but only ended up falling in love with her instead that he whisked her away to be his wife.
Eros and Psyche’s marriage was kept secret, and Psyche became overwhelmed by curiosity about her mysterious husband. Even her jealous sisters, seeing how well their sister was living, planted the seed in her head that he must be ugly. This would be seed enough to cause Psyche to use a light to see his face and in doing so, he would vanish from their home in order to punish her.
Psyche would plead with Aphrodite to be given the chance to see her husband again, but Aphrodite, already angered by the fact the mortal woman she had sought to punish, now stood before her pleading for help. She would be given three tasks, each one to be most difficult than the other. She would be helped by the Gods with each task and be finally reunited with her husband.
In this version of the tale, Eros is not the son of Aphrodite but rather one of the primordial gods that had been birth during the early stages of life. His arrows would cause trouble, not only with the mortal realm but also with the new Gods that would ascend to the thrones after the fall of the Titans. While he watched his gifts cause trouble, Eros would decide that he would withhold them. That is until the birth of Aphrodite, who would in turn, adopt him as her "son" and force him to do her bidding.
Psyche, on the other hand, is the daughter of a King and Queen whose bloodline goes back to one of the most heroic men in mythology, Perseus. She wanted to live up to that expectation and to the prophecy that believes she would conquer the monster. Taught by Atalanta, Psyche seeks to carve her name as her ancestor did, but when she meets Medusa, she begins to question everything about her life.
But when Psyche angers Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love sends her adopted son, Eros sends a cursed arrow to be buried into Psyche's heart, but Eros ends up pricking his finger and becomes enamored with her. Taking her with him to his home as his wife, Eros, and Psyche settle into a secret married life. To be able to spend time with her and avoid the curse of being awakened, but one night Psyche's curiosity, fed from her conversations with Zephyrus and Prometheus, gets the best of her and she brings a torch into their room to find see her husband's face. Believing the curse has been awakened, Eros flees from home leaving his wife alone.
Through the story of Psyche's journey to find and unite with Eros, McNamara explores the themes of self-discovery, transformation, and the integration of our inner selves. She argues that by embracing our own Eros and Psyche energies and finding a balance between them, we can achieve a greater sense of wholeness and fulfillment in our lives.
Many saw Psyche as a goddess and began worshipping her instead of Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love, and in doing so, angered the goddess that she made her son, Eros, take his arrows to strike Psyche into falling in love with the ugliest males. Eros went to do his mother's bidding but only ended up falling in love with her instead that he whisked her away to be his wife.
Eros and Psyche’s marriage was kept secret, and Psyche became overwhelmed by curiosity about her mysterious husband. Even her jealous sisters, seeing how well their sister was living, planted the seed in her head that he must be ugly. This would be seed enough to cause Psyche to use a light to see his face and in doing so, he would vanish from their home in order to punish her.
Psyche would plead with Aphrodite to be given the chance to see her husband again, but Aphrodite, already angered by the fact the mortal woman she had sought to punish, now stood before her pleading for help. She would be given three tasks, each one to be most difficult than the other. She would be helped by the Gods with each task and be finally reunited with her husband.
In this version of the tale, Eros is not the son of Aphrodite but rather one of the primordial gods that had been birth during the early stages of life. His arrows would cause trouble, not only with the mortal realm but also with the new Gods that would ascend to the thrones after the fall of the Titans. While he watched his gifts cause trouble, Eros would decide that he would withhold them. That is until the birth of Aphrodite, who would in turn, adopt him as her "son" and force him to do her bidding.
Psyche, on the other hand, is the daughter of a King and Queen whose bloodline goes back to one of the most heroic men in mythology, Perseus. She wanted to live up to that expectation and to the prophecy that believes she would conquer the monster. Taught by Atalanta, Psyche seeks to carve her name as her ancestor did, but when she meets Medusa, she begins to question everything about her life.
But when Psyche angers Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love sends her adopted son, Eros sends a cursed arrow to be buried into Psyche's heart, but Eros ends up pricking his finger and becomes enamored with her. Taking her with him to his home as his wife, Eros, and Psyche settle into a secret married life. To be able to spend time with her and avoid the curse of being awakened, but one night Psyche's curiosity, fed from her conversations with Zephyrus and Prometheus, gets the best of her and she brings a torch into their room to find see her husband's face. Believing the curse has been awakened, Eros flees from home leaving his wife alone.
Through the story of Psyche's journey to find and unite with Eros, McNamara explores the themes of self-discovery, transformation, and the integration of our inner selves. She argues that by embracing our own Eros and Psyche energies and finding a balance between them, we can achieve a greater sense of wholeness and fulfillment in our lives.
Final Thought:
This unique perspective on the myth of Psyche and Eros offers readers a new way to understand and work with their own desires and passions. It challenges us to examine our own relationship with intimacy, love, and meaning, and to consider how we can integrate these aspects of our lives to live more authentically and fully.
Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross
But I give you a fair warning - this book ends on a cliffhanger and the next book in the duet (?) will be out sometime toward the end of December.
dark
emotional
- 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
5.0
I have had this book on my TBR ever since it came out and I had always kept promising myself that I would eventually read it. Now, I am hitting myself for not reading this book sooner. The characters, the world-building, and the fact that the Gods walked among the mortal world was something quite different than I expected.
The relationship between Enva and Dacre feels a bit like a version of Hades and Persephone. After all, it was Dacre who had seen Enva among the mortal realm, plucking the strings of her instrument, and offering a song for the dead. This is how he finds her and he knows he must have her. Though he tries numerous times to coax her below, she declines time and time again until Dacre takes matters into his own hands and brings her down himself. This plot is slightly reminiscent of the storyline of Hades and Persephone. It may or may not have been the bases of their relationship. Either way, Enva uses the strings of her instrument to put down Dacre to sleep while she, once more escapes to the world above.
This angers Dacre and because of this, both he and Enva use the mortal realm for their war and draw in the humans to be part of it. For me, this seems a bit selfish on both of their parts. They might have their own flaws but at the same time, they are using humans for their war with really no care for the lives lost on both sides.
On the other side of the spectrum, we have Iris and Roman. Both are incredibly talented in their field and both are rivals of the same newspaper. Both worked hard to achieve gaining the promotion that the paper offered. Both come from different parts of society, while Roman is upper-class, Iris is different. Her mother is an alcoholic and her brother has gone off to join the war. This leaves Iris to be the one who takes care of not only their mother but be the one who is constantly bringing the money home.
While her mother has squandered her life on drink, Iris struggles to keep them afloat and the only thing in her life that offers any comfort is the typewriter that her grandmother left her. Every night, she uses it to write letters to her brother. Only to find them having disappeared the next day or in front of her. She never expects any reply until one day, a reply is sent back - the writer is not her brother but someone else.
I loved this book. I loved the complex characters, and the unique world-building with the mythology and urban fantasy blending together, captivating and drawing in the reader into this world.
The relationship between Enva and Dacre feels a bit like a version of Hades and Persephone. After all, it was Dacre who had seen Enva among the mortal realm, plucking the strings of her instrument, and offering a song for the dead. This is how he finds her and he knows he must have her. Though he tries numerous times to coax her below, she declines time and time again until Dacre takes matters into his own hands and brings her down himself. This plot is slightly reminiscent of the storyline of Hades and Persephone. It may or may not have been the bases of their relationship. Either way, Enva uses the strings of her instrument to put down Dacre to sleep while she, once more escapes to the world above.
This angers Dacre and because of this, both he and Enva use the mortal realm for their war and draw in the humans to be part of it. For me, this seems a bit selfish on both of their parts. They might have their own flaws but at the same time, they are using humans for their war with really no care for the lives lost on both sides.
On the other side of the spectrum, we have Iris and Roman. Both are incredibly talented in their field and both are rivals of the same newspaper. Both worked hard to achieve gaining the promotion that the paper offered. Both come from different parts of society, while Roman is upper-class, Iris is different. Her mother is an alcoholic and her brother has gone off to join the war. This leaves Iris to be the one who takes care of not only their mother but be the one who is constantly bringing the money home.
While her mother has squandered her life on drink, Iris struggles to keep them afloat and the only thing in her life that offers any comfort is the typewriter that her grandmother left her. Every night, she uses it to write letters to her brother. Only to find them having disappeared the next day or in front of her. She never expects any reply until one day, a reply is sent back - the writer is not her brother but someone else.
I loved this book. I loved the complex characters, and the unique world-building with the mythology and urban fantasy blending together, captivating and drawing in the reader into this world.
Final Thought:
But I give you a fair warning - this book ends on a cliffhanger and the next book in the duet (?) will be out sometime toward the end of December.
Fortune Fae Academy: Book One by J.R. Thorn
Did not finish book. Stopped at 25%.
I mean, if you like your female character running all the time through the book and there being no plot that moves forward, then this book is something you might enjoy. If you don't, then avoid this book all together.
Did not finish book. Stopped at 25%.
I hate when a book gives you a promising premise that draws you in, has two of your favorite genres (dark and omegaverse), and makes you extremely excited that once you have the book in hand, you just cannot wait to read it. I thought that. I had so much hope for this book but I ended up hating it. I hated that the plot stood at a standstill while to female leads just runs around trying to avoid the Alpha who is out for her.
There was nothing about this story that felt memorable about this book. The female lead, not only does not have any character growth, but all she does is "I'm An OmEgA bUt I dOn'T wAnT tHe MaLe LeAd" so she just runs around to avoid him.
I mean, this is all she has done throughout the damn story. She doesn't grow. She doesn't do anything worthy of making her a character that would stand out against the many Omegaverse characters out there that have the substance that makes them worthy of reading.
I tried pushing myself to finish this book, but I ended up skimming half of the book I had read before I put it down and decided it was not worth the finish. I don't see myself finishing up this series. It is sad because I would like to know how it ends, but I don't that it worth the torture.
There was nothing about this story that felt memorable about this book. The female lead, not only does not have any character growth, but all she does is "I'm An OmEgA bUt I dOn'T wAnT tHe MaLe LeAd" so she just runs around to avoid him.
I mean, this is all she has done throughout the damn story. She doesn't grow. She doesn't do anything worthy of making her a character that would stand out against the many Omegaverse characters out there that have the substance that makes them worthy of reading.
I tried pushing myself to finish this book, but I ended up skimming half of the book I had read before I put it down and decided it was not worth the finish. I don't see myself finishing up this series. It is sad because I would like to know how it ends, but I don't that it worth the torture.
Final Thought:
I mean, if you like your female character running all the time through the book and there being no plot that moves forward, then this book is something you might enjoy. If you don't, then avoid this book all together.