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teaand_tomes's reviews
403 reviews
Phantasma by Kaylie Smith
dark
emotional
mysterious
fast-paced
4.0
Thank you Forever Publishing and NetGalley for the gifted review copy!
A dark, steamy, and thrilling fantasy reminiscent of Caraval but with its own unique twists. With a seductive romance, high-stakes challenges, and plenty of twists, Phantasma delivers an engaging, heart-pounding adventure. Perfect for fans of A Court of Thorns and Roses and Caraval, this is a must-read for lovers of dark fantasy.
A dark, steamy, and thrilling fantasy reminiscent of Caraval but with its own unique twists. With a seductive romance, high-stakes challenges, and plenty of twists, Phantasma delivers an engaging, heart-pounding adventure. Perfect for fans of A Court of Thorns and Roses and Caraval, this is a must-read for lovers of dark fantasy.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Gore, Mental illness, Sexual content, Violence, Blood, and Murder
Moderate: Death of parent
Witty in Pink by Erica George
The audiobook narration significantly enhanced the listening experience as their performances skillfully captured the characters’ emotions. The narrators’ talent added depth to the story, creating an immersive experience that created a stronger connection with the characters and their evolving relationship.
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
5.0
A charming Regency romance that skillfully blends classic elegance with modern wit. The story's witty banter, evolving characters, and refreshing plot make it a delightful read. Fans of heartfelt and humorous historical romances will find this book a true gem.
The audiobook narration significantly enhanced the listening experience as their performances skillfully captured the characters’ emotions. The narrators’ talent added depth to the story, creating an immersive experience that created a stronger connection with the characters and their evolving relationship.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Sexism and Classism
A Werewolf's Guide To Seducing a Vampire by Sarah Hawley
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
5.0
A charming and humorous paranormal romance novel featuring Ben, a werewolf with anxiety, and Eleanora, a vampire succubus. The book offers delightful chemistry between the main characters, an authentic portrayal of anxiety, and engaging character development, especially for Eleanora. The audiobook narration is well-executed, and overall, it's considered a standout in its series, blending humor, heart, and paranormal elements.
I found the audiobook narration by Helen Laser to be excellent. Her French accent for Eleanora was spot-on without being exaggerated, and she captured Ben's quiet sweetness perfectly. In my opinion, her performance truly brought the story to life, and I wholeheartedly recommend the audiobook version.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
Moderate: Blood and Toxic friendship
Minor: Confinement, Violence, and Fire/Fire injury
Magical Meet Cute by Jean Meltzer
emotional
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
5.0
Thank you HTP Books and The Hive for the gifted review copy!
A delightful and enjoyable book featuring eccentric characters like Faye, who humorously obsesses over Greg being a golem, and Nelly, whose Nazi hunting antics add humor. Greg's kind and thoughtful nature adds warmth to the story. The book addresses serious topics such as child abuse, emotional abuse, racism, and anti-Semitism, reflecting today's society and adding depth to the narrative. Despite these darker elements, the book maintains a light-hearted romantic comedy tone. Jean Meltzer's writing is engaging and rich in detail, making this book a highly recommended read.
A delightful and enjoyable book featuring eccentric characters like Faye, who humorously obsesses over Greg being a golem, and Nelly, whose Nazi hunting antics add humor. Greg's kind and thoughtful nature adds warmth to the story. The book addresses serious topics such as child abuse, emotional abuse, racism, and anti-Semitism, reflecting today's society and adding depth to the narrative. Despite these darker elements, the book maintains a light-hearted romantic comedy tone. Jean Meltzer's writing is engaging and rich in detail, making this book a highly recommended read.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism, Antisemitism, and Religious bigotry
Moderate: Sexual content
Minor: Excrement
A Demon's Guide to Wooing a Witch by Sarah Hawley
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
5.0
A delightful and steamy sequel that surpasses the first book. Calladia and Astaroth’s chemistry is intense and comedic, with standout moments from Astaroth’s mother, Lilith. The plot is engaging, well-paced, and filled with humor, culminating in a satisfying resolution. This blend of romance, humor, and action makes it a highly recommended read for fans of contemporary paranormal romance.
Helen Laser's narration enhances the experience by effectively portraying the distinct personalities of characters like Astaroth and Calladia. Her perfect pacing and emotional depth make the audiobook particularly enjoyable.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
A Witch's Guide to Fake Dating a Demon by Sarah Hawley
🎧 Helen Laser's narration was exceptional, bringing characters to life with distinct voices and intonations, particularly excelling in her portrayal of female characters and posh accents for male characters like Oz and Astaroth.
emotional
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
5.0
A captivating and heartwarming book filled with humor, romance, and supernatural elements. The engaging characters, Mariel Spark and Ozroth the Ruthless, have electric chemistry and their evolving relationship is both charming and entertaining. The plot is well-paced and the world-building is vivid, making it easy to immerse in the story. The author, Sarah Hawley, has crafted a delightful narrative that is both emotionally resonant and frequently laugh-out-loud funny. Highly recommended for a delightful read.
🎧 Helen Laser's narration was exceptional, bringing characters to life with distinct voices and intonations, particularly excelling in her portrayal of female characters and posh accents for male characters like Oz and Astaroth.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
Truly Madly Magically by Hazel Beck
fast-paced
5.0
Thank you Harlequin Trade Publishing and The Hive for the gifted review copy!
A delightful addition to the Witchlore series, featuring well-crafted character development of Ellowyn and Zander and exploring themes of found family and support within the Riverwood coven. The book delves into the familial bonds among coven members, adding depth and context to their motivations. The camaraderie and genuine support among the coven members make the story endearing and engaging. Overall, it's a charming, cozy, and witchy read that leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next installment.
A delightful addition to the Witchlore series, featuring well-crafted character development of Ellowyn and Zander and exploring themes of found family and support within the Riverwood coven. The book delves into the familial bonds among coven members, adding depth and context to their motivations. The camaraderie and genuine support among the coven members make the story endearing and engaging. Overall, it's a charming, cozy, and witchy read that leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next installment.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Sexual content, Pregnancy, and Fire/Fire injury
Big Little Spells by Hazel Beck
fast-paced
5.0
A compelling second installment that follows Rebekah's return home after a ten-year absence, where she faces emotional challenges and rekindles a romance with Nicholas. The narrative skillfully blends themes of sisterly love, friendship, and family bonds with a gripping mystery as Rebekah and her sister uncover dark secrets in their town. The character development, particularly Rebekah's and Nicholas's evolving relationship, adds emotional depth. The detailed world-building and seamless integration of magical elements enhance the story's immersive atmosphere.
Natalie Duke's narration significantly enhances the listening experience by bringing characters to life and maintaining consistency across the series, making it feel immersive and engaging.
Small Town, Big Magic by Hazel Beck
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
5.0
A captivating and humorous read, set in the charming town of St. Cyprian. The book features excellent writing, witty dialogue, and a well-constructed plot that keeps readers engaged. The protagonist, Emerson Wilde, is an inspiring and relatable character with a strong female perspective. Her dynamic with Jacob North adds a heartwarming romantic element. The book blends fantasy, romance, and humor, making it an unforgettable and highly recommended read that celebrates women's power and small-town charm.
🎧 The audiobook narrator excellently portrayed Emerson's strong, feminist personality, enhancing the listening experience by vividly bringing characters to life, including her confrontations with Mayor Skip Simon and her discovery of hidden magical powers.
What Monstrous Gods by Rosamund Hodge
🎧 Exceptional narration brought the characters to life, particularly Lia, adding depth and emotion to the story and making moments between Lia and Ruven especially poignant.
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-paced
5.0
A deeply captivating story set in a perilous, religious world with intricate politics and diverse cults. The narrative features mysterious characters with hidden layers, a slow-burning romance, and a plot full of twists culminating in a surprising ending. The main character, Lia, undergoes a profound crisis of faith after her goddess rejects her, leading her to sorcery and complex interactions with the villain, Ruven. The story's focus on faith, morality, and personal growth adds emotional depth and distinguishes it from typical love stories, making it a standout read.
🎧 Exceptional narration brought the characters to life, particularly Lia, adding depth and emotion to the story and making moments between Lia and Ruven especially poignant.