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957 reviews
An Honored Vow by Melissa Blair
4.0
"An Honoured Vow," the final instalment in Melissa Blair's "Halfling Saga," had high expectations to meet as part of one of my favourite series. While it succeeded on many fronts, a few elements left me disappointed, making this my least favourite book in the quartet.
Keera's journey has been one of growth, resilience, and complexity. This book highlights her enduring strength, and her decision to take time for herself after the war felt both realistic and empowering. The action scenes were well-paced and gripping, and the build-up to the climactic battle was tense and satisfying. The supporting cast, especially Gerarda, truly stood out and added levity and heart to the story. Gerarda's arc made her one of my favourite characters in the series.
While Keera's character was compelling, she did frustrate me at times. It felt inconsistent for her to condemn others for mistakes and behaviours similar to those she has struggled with throughout the series. Additionally, her dynamic with Riven was another disappointing aspect. Riven, once a strong and commanding presence, felt diminished in this book, appearing more like a shadow of his former self. This shift weakened the powerful couple dynamic I had loved in earlier instalments.
The predictability of some plot elements, especially the deaths, detracted from the tension. I found myself guessing key moments early on, which diminished the emotional impact. Furthermore, although Gwen's storyline was fascinating, it felt like a missed opportunity for a more satisfying payoff. Despite these frustrations, I remained deeply invested in these characters, which attests to Blair's ability to create an emotionally resonant narrative.
"An Honoured Vow" is a solid conclusion to the "Halfling Saga." The emotional highs, strong supporting cast, and thrilling action scenes make it a worthy read for fans of the series. While it didn't quite live up to the heights of earlier instalments for me, it still provided a fitting end to a beloved saga.
Melissa Blair has crafted a rich and immersive world with deeply human characters. This series remains a favourite of mine, and I will fondly remember the journey it took me on. For anyone seeking romantasy filled with heart, grit, and complex themes, "The Halfling Saga" is not to be missed.
Keera's journey has been one of growth, resilience, and complexity. This book highlights her enduring strength, and her decision to take time for herself after the war felt both realistic and empowering. The action scenes were well-paced and gripping, and the build-up to the climactic battle was tense and satisfying. The supporting cast, especially Gerarda, truly stood out and added levity and heart to the story. Gerarda's arc made her one of my favourite characters in the series.
While Keera's character was compelling, she did frustrate me at times. It felt inconsistent for her to condemn others for mistakes and behaviours similar to those she has struggled with throughout the series. Additionally, her dynamic with Riven was another disappointing aspect. Riven, once a strong and commanding presence, felt diminished in this book, appearing more like a shadow of his former self. This shift weakened the powerful couple dynamic I had loved in earlier instalments.
The predictability of some plot elements, especially the deaths, detracted from the tension. I found myself guessing key moments early on, which diminished the emotional impact. Furthermore, although Gwen's storyline was fascinating, it felt like a missed opportunity for a more satisfying payoff. Despite these frustrations, I remained deeply invested in these characters, which attests to Blair's ability to create an emotionally resonant narrative.
"An Honoured Vow" is a solid conclusion to the "Halfling Saga." The emotional highs, strong supporting cast, and thrilling action scenes make it a worthy read for fans of the series. While it didn't quite live up to the heights of earlier instalments for me, it still provided a fitting end to a beloved saga.
Melissa Blair has crafted a rich and immersive world with deeply human characters. This series remains a favourite of mine, and I will fondly remember the journey it took me on. For anyone seeking romantasy filled with heart, grit, and complex themes, "The Halfling Saga" is not to be missed.
The Briar Club by Kate Quinn
4.5
“The Briar Club" by Kate Quinn is an absolutely captivating read that drew me in from the very first page. Set against the backdrop of 1950s Washington, D.C., this novel provides a refreshing perspective on a period often overlooked in historical fiction. The vibrant atmosphere, engaging characters, and meticulously researched storyline kept me hooked from start to finish.
Every character, regardless of their role, feels like a fully developed individual. Grace March possesses a quiet, enigmatic allure that keeps you intrigued, while the challenges faced by the Nelson children are both relatable and heart-wrenching. I also appreciated how the male characters, who are often underdeveloped in female-led narratives, are thoughtfully crafted and memorable. They are not one-dimensional; instead, they are complex, flawed, and layered, making their journeys satisfying to follow.
Initially, I was uncertain about the prologue and the whimsical interludes from Briar House’s perspective. I wasn't sure if they would resonate with me. However, as the story progressed, I found myself loving this unique approach. Having the house act as a sort of narrator added charm and enhanced its significance in the characters’ lives.
The tale unfolds through longer, character-driven vignettes spanning four years, with shifts in perspective throughout. While this narrative style may not appeal to everyone, I found it to be incredibly engaging. The transitions between characters felt effortless, and I appreciated that the plot didn’t rely on grand, dramatic secrets to maintain my interest. Beginning with thirteen-year-old Pete’s viewpoint was a brilliant choice, providing a sense of innocence and intrigue without feeling forced.
In the latter half of the book, the emphasis on patriotism felt somewhat excessive, with frequent reminders of America's greatness. Initially, this seemed fitting for the time period, but eventually, it came across more as a message than an organic part of the story. Nonetheless, there are moments where the narrative acknowledges America's flaws, helping to create a balance.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I have a fondness for character-driven stories, and this one truly delivers. The characters are imperfect yet endearing, the themes are well-developed, and the setting is vividly brought to life. I even found delight in the recipes sprinkled throughout the book, which is a rarity for me. They were cleverly integrated into the plot. If you enjoy character-driven historical narratives featuring complex, well-rounded women and a strong theme of found family, this book is for you.
Every character, regardless of their role, feels like a fully developed individual. Grace March possesses a quiet, enigmatic allure that keeps you intrigued, while the challenges faced by the Nelson children are both relatable and heart-wrenching. I also appreciated how the male characters, who are often underdeveloped in female-led narratives, are thoughtfully crafted and memorable. They are not one-dimensional; instead, they are complex, flawed, and layered, making their journeys satisfying to follow.
Initially, I was uncertain about the prologue and the whimsical interludes from Briar House’s perspective. I wasn't sure if they would resonate with me. However, as the story progressed, I found myself loving this unique approach. Having the house act as a sort of narrator added charm and enhanced its significance in the characters’ lives.
The tale unfolds through longer, character-driven vignettes spanning four years, with shifts in perspective throughout. While this narrative style may not appeal to everyone, I found it to be incredibly engaging. The transitions between characters felt effortless, and I appreciated that the plot didn’t rely on grand, dramatic secrets to maintain my interest. Beginning with thirteen-year-old Pete’s viewpoint was a brilliant choice, providing a sense of innocence and intrigue without feeling forced.
In the latter half of the book, the emphasis on patriotism felt somewhat excessive, with frequent reminders of America's greatness. Initially, this seemed fitting for the time period, but eventually, it came across more as a message than an organic part of the story. Nonetheless, there are moments where the narrative acknowledges America's flaws, helping to create a balance.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I have a fondness for character-driven stories, and this one truly delivers. The characters are imperfect yet endearing, the themes are well-developed, and the setting is vividly brought to life. I even found delight in the recipes sprinkled throughout the book, which is a rarity for me. They were cleverly integrated into the plot. If you enjoy character-driven historical narratives featuring complex, well-rounded women and a strong theme of found family, this book is for you.
Knife Skills for Beginners by Orlando Murrin
adventurous
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
3.5
"Knife Skills for Beginners" by Orlando Murrin is a captivating culinary mystery centred on Paul, a grieving chef who steps in to teach a course at a prestigious cooking school. Things take a dark turn when his friend Christian—who encouraged him to fill in—is found murdered. Suddenly, Paul is not just teaching knife skills; he's trying to solve a murder while keeping himself out of trouble.
The premise of a chef turned amateur detective is refreshing, and the plot is engaging. It begins as a cozy culinary drama but quickly evolves into a tense whodunit. At first, Paul's motivations for getting involved in the investigation seem unclear. Still, they become more logical as the stakes rise, and he becomes a suspect.
The characters are generally well-developed. Paul stands out with his emotional baggage and grief, adding depth to his character. However, I wish the students in the cooking class were more fleshed out, as they mainly serve to advance the plot. On a positive note, the setting is superb: the cooking school, housed in an old, atmospheric building, creates a perfect blend of cozy and ominous.
Murrin's writing is smooth and engaging. While the pacing is good, some scenes—particularly Paul's interactions with the students—drag a bit. Streamlining these sections would improve the overall flow. Themes of grief and trust are present but could be explored more deeply; I am hopeful that future books will flesh them out further.
Sebastian Humphreys delivers an excellent performance in the audiobook narration, infusing it with personality and maintaining the tension throughout. His voice work significantly enhanced the listening experience for me.
If you enjoy culinary mysteries infused with emotional depth and a side of suspense, this book is definitely worth a read. It's a solid start to what promises to be an exciting series!
This book is now available for purchase! Thank you to Orlando Murrin, RBmedia, Recorded Books, and NetGalley for the ARC!
The premise of a chef turned amateur detective is refreshing, and the plot is engaging. It begins as a cozy culinary drama but quickly evolves into a tense whodunit. At first, Paul's motivations for getting involved in the investigation seem unclear. Still, they become more logical as the stakes rise, and he becomes a suspect.
The characters are generally well-developed. Paul stands out with his emotional baggage and grief, adding depth to his character. However, I wish the students in the cooking class were more fleshed out, as they mainly serve to advance the plot. On a positive note, the setting is superb: the cooking school, housed in an old, atmospheric building, creates a perfect blend of cozy and ominous.
Murrin's writing is smooth and engaging. While the pacing is good, some scenes—particularly Paul's interactions with the students—drag a bit. Streamlining these sections would improve the overall flow. Themes of grief and trust are present but could be explored more deeply; I am hopeful that future books will flesh them out further.
Sebastian Humphreys delivers an excellent performance in the audiobook narration, infusing it with personality and maintaining the tension throughout. His voice work significantly enhanced the listening experience for me.
If you enjoy culinary mysteries infused with emotional depth and a side of suspense, this book is definitely worth a read. It's a solid start to what promises to be an exciting series!
This book is now available for purchase! Thank you to Orlando Murrin, RBmedia, Recorded Books, and NetGalley for the ARC!
The Unplanned Wedding by L. Steele
2.0
I recently picked up "The Unplanned Wedding" (The Davenports #3) by L. Steele, as my first read from Hambright PR. Attracted by the intriguing marketing that described it as a blend of "Beauty and the Beast" and "Fifty Shades of Grey." I love a good fairytale retelling, so I was eager to see how this one would unfold. Unfortunately, I found the experience to be somewhat disappointing, largely due to misleading elements in the synopsis and issues with how the central relationship was portrayed.
To start, the spice level in this book might be too intense for readers like me who aren’t seeking overly graphic content. I knew going in that it would explore BDSM themes, which can be compelling if handled with care and authenticity. However, while I have read other books that delve into this territory without feeling off-putting, this one missed the mark. My biggest issue with the portrayal of BDSM in this book is how one-dimensional it feels. Though I am not a member of this community, I have heard that in a healthy BDSM dynamic, trust and care are foundational. The submissive voluntarily gives over control, trusting that the dominant will meet not only their physical needs but also their emotional and psychological ones. However, in this story, the dynamic feels skewed. Instead of a balanced give-and-take relationship, the submissive is often subjected to arbitrary discipline, seemingly to reinforce the dominant’s control without any reciprocal care or nurturing. This approach oversimplifies BDSM into something purely about power and punishment, neglecting the deeper elements of trust, affection, and emotional support.
What frustrated me most is that the book seems to perpetuate harmful ideas about relationships, normalizing unhealthy dynamics in which one partner exercises control without genuine care for the other. This reinforces the troubling notion that objectifying or mistreating someone can be glamorous or desirable, which couldn’t be further from the truth. If you are going to write about BDSM or other complex relationship dynamics, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research and present a more holistic view rather than focusing solely on shock value.
This was my first time reading a book by L. Steele, and unfortunately, it didn’t leave me eager to explore her other works. I am open to giving her writing another shot if I come across a book that promises better balance and character development. As it stands, “The Unplanned Wedding” left me feeling more disappointed than entertained.
To start, the spice level in this book might be too intense for readers like me who aren’t seeking overly graphic content. I knew going in that it would explore BDSM themes, which can be compelling if handled with care and authenticity. However, while I have read other books that delve into this territory without feeling off-putting, this one missed the mark. My biggest issue with the portrayal of BDSM in this book is how one-dimensional it feels. Though I am not a member of this community, I have heard that in a healthy BDSM dynamic, trust and care are foundational. The submissive voluntarily gives over control, trusting that the dominant will meet not only their physical needs but also their emotional and psychological ones. However, in this story, the dynamic feels skewed. Instead of a balanced give-and-take relationship, the submissive is often subjected to arbitrary discipline, seemingly to reinforce the dominant’s control without any reciprocal care or nurturing. This approach oversimplifies BDSM into something purely about power and punishment, neglecting the deeper elements of trust, affection, and emotional support.
What frustrated me most is that the book seems to perpetuate harmful ideas about relationships, normalizing unhealthy dynamics in which one partner exercises control without genuine care for the other. This reinforces the troubling notion that objectifying or mistreating someone can be glamorous or desirable, which couldn’t be further from the truth. If you are going to write about BDSM or other complex relationship dynamics, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research and present a more holistic view rather than focusing solely on shock value.
This was my first time reading a book by L. Steele, and unfortunately, it didn’t leave me eager to explore her other works. I am open to giving her writing another shot if I come across a book that promises better balance and character development. As it stands, “The Unplanned Wedding” left me feeling more disappointed than entertained.
The Z Word by Lindsay King-Miller
4.0
I wasn’t sure what to expect from The Z Word, but I certainly didn’t anticipate having this much fun. A zombie apocalypse unfolding during a Pride festival? Count me in! This book felt reminiscent of Shaun of the Dead, infused with vibrant rainbow glitter and sharp social commentary, alongside plenty of chaotic zombie-slaying action to keep the excitement alive. It’s a fast-paced, campy adventure that doesn’t take itself too seriously—and that’s precisely what makes it enjoyable.
Wendy, the main character, was... fine. Eventually. Initially, I found myself thinking, "Girl, there are zombies everywhere—maybe it's not the best time to fixate on your ex?" However, she does exhibit significant character development by the end, which helped redeem her. As for Leah, Wendy’s ex, I wasn’t particularly fond of her either. There was foreshadowing throughout, making the plot easy to predict, but honestly? I wasn’t here for unexpected twists.
The real highlight of this book lies in the side characters. Sunshine, the easy-going pizza delivery driver, was undoubtedly the best part of the story. I would gladly read an entire spin-off series about them battling zombies with nothing but snacks and good vibes. Beau, the wise elder butch lesbian, brought heart and insight [and I would have appreciated her more in the story], while Logan, the socially awkward drag queen, was delightfully charming. These characters added humour and depth, keeping me engaged even when the main storyline was pretty predictable.
In terms of plot, it’s exactly what you’d anticipate: zombies, gore, ex-girlfriend drama, and plenty of frantic running. While the reveals didn’t surprise me, and the identity of the ‘big bad’ was obvious, the narrative flowed well and offered clever commentary. The critique of corporate Pride culture and the encroachment of consumerism into everything—from celebrations to identity—was spot-on. The author skillfully makes fun of capitalism without allowing the story to become weighed down by heavy-handed messaging.
The ending hints at a potential sequel, and honestly? I’d be excited for a second installment. Was this groundbreaking? No. Did I need it to be? Also no. It’s campy horror brimming with personality, delivering exactly what it promises—zombies, humour, and social satire. If you’re in the mood for something quick, fun, and slightly gory, The Z Word is definitely worth a read.
Wendy, the main character, was... fine. Eventually. Initially, I found myself thinking, "Girl, there are zombies everywhere—maybe it's not the best time to fixate on your ex?" However, she does exhibit significant character development by the end, which helped redeem her. As for Leah, Wendy’s ex, I wasn’t particularly fond of her either. There was foreshadowing throughout, making the plot easy to predict, but honestly? I wasn’t here for unexpected twists.
The real highlight of this book lies in the side characters. Sunshine, the easy-going pizza delivery driver, was undoubtedly the best part of the story. I would gladly read an entire spin-off series about them battling zombies with nothing but snacks and good vibes. Beau, the wise elder butch lesbian, brought heart and insight [and I would have appreciated her more in the story], while Logan, the socially awkward drag queen, was delightfully charming. These characters added humour and depth, keeping me engaged even when the main storyline was pretty predictable.
In terms of plot, it’s exactly what you’d anticipate: zombies, gore, ex-girlfriend drama, and plenty of frantic running. While the reveals didn’t surprise me, and the identity of the ‘big bad’ was obvious, the narrative flowed well and offered clever commentary. The critique of corporate Pride culture and the encroachment of consumerism into everything—from celebrations to identity—was spot-on. The author skillfully makes fun of capitalism without allowing the story to become weighed down by heavy-handed messaging.
The ending hints at a potential sequel, and honestly? I’d be excited for a second installment. Was this groundbreaking? No. Did I need it to be? Also no. It’s campy horror brimming with personality, delivering exactly what it promises—zombies, humour, and social satire. If you’re in the mood for something quick, fun, and slightly gory, The Z Word is definitely worth a read.
The Dagger and the Flame by Catherine Doyle
3.5
Going into this book, I knew it was a YA novel, so I fully expected to encounter some familiar tropes—and it delivered in that regard. We got the whole package: "the chosen one," "rivals to lovers," and "star-crossed lovers." Was it predictable? Yes. But honestly, sometimes that's precisely what you want, and it worked well enough here.
The main thing that kept me reading was the chemistry between Ransom and Seraphine. Their dynamic felt genuine and had that spark that makes you root for them. However, the side characters were a different story. They felt flat and forgettable, which was cringeworthy at times. There were moments, especially toward the end, where the plot felt overly convenient—like it needed to wrap up quickly. Hence, everything just magically fell into place.
Despite these issues, I can't deny that I had fun. It wasn't a mind-blowing, life-changing read, but I enjoyed it for what it was. The world was well-described and immersive enough to draw me in, and the pacing was solid. It never dragged, which is always a plus. Still, I wish the story had spent more time building up to some of those "big" moments instead of just dropping them in for convenience.
As for the themes, they were present: love, destiny, sacrifice—the typical YA mix. However, they didn't explore these themes very deeply. I never found myself reflecting on them after I finished the book. While I appreciated the overall vibe of the story, it didn't bring anything new to the table. If you've read a lot of YA novels, this one will feel familiar—perhaps a little too familiar.
Still, despite the clichés and generic side characters, I had a good time reading it. Sometimes, you just want a light, trope-filled read that doesn't require too much emotional investment, and this book is delivered on that front. Plus, I'll probably pick up the sequel when it comes out because, despite its flaws, I'm curious to see where the story goes next.
The main thing that kept me reading was the chemistry between Ransom and Seraphine. Their dynamic felt genuine and had that spark that makes you root for them. However, the side characters were a different story. They felt flat and forgettable, which was cringeworthy at times. There were moments, especially toward the end, where the plot felt overly convenient—like it needed to wrap up quickly. Hence, everything just magically fell into place.
Despite these issues, I can't deny that I had fun. It wasn't a mind-blowing, life-changing read, but I enjoyed it for what it was. The world was well-described and immersive enough to draw me in, and the pacing was solid. It never dragged, which is always a plus. Still, I wish the story had spent more time building up to some of those "big" moments instead of just dropping them in for convenience.
As for the themes, they were present: love, destiny, sacrifice—the typical YA mix. However, they didn't explore these themes very deeply. I never found myself reflecting on them after I finished the book. While I appreciated the overall vibe of the story, it didn't bring anything new to the table. If you've read a lot of YA novels, this one will feel familiar—perhaps a little too familiar.
Still, despite the clichés and generic side characters, I had a good time reading it. Sometimes, you just want a light, trope-filled read that doesn't require too much emotional investment, and this book is delivered on that front. Plus, I'll probably pick up the sequel when it comes out because, despite its flaws, I'm curious to see where the story goes next.
Book People by Jackie Ashenden
3.0
Jackie Ashenden's "Book People" transports us to a charming village in small-town England, where two rival bookshops serve as both adversaries and the backdrop for a blossoming romance. On one side, we meet Kate, the optimistic newcomer who has revitalized her late mother's property into “Portable Magic,” a lively sanctuary for romance, cozy mysteries, and thrillers. Across the street stands Sebastian Blackwood, the town's brooding book lover, whose shop, “Blackwood Books,” appeals to serious literature enthusiasts and Booker Prize fans. Their relationship is a classic case of… well, tension-filled proximity.
The narrative unfolds six months after Kate's arrival, as her frustration with Sebastian's frosty demeanour grows. At the same time, he seems just as annoyed by her cheerful presence—and the very existence of her bookstore. Complicating matters is a long-standing family feud, subtly hinted at early in the story and intricately woven throughout the plot, alongside the impending deadline of a literary festival that Sebastian is organizing.
Ashenden's prose shines, skillfully capturing the idiosyncrasies of village life and the pleasures (and occasional challenges) of running a bookshop. Both Kate and Sebastian are intriguing characters, and the author’s playful examination of their contrasting personalities—sunshine versus storm cloud—infuses the story with humour and warmth.
However, the romance doesn't always progress as seamlessly as one might wish. While Sebastian's gruff exterior can be charming, his recurring self-doubt and belief that he is unworthy of love sometimes burden the narrative. The chemistry between him and Kate, though often endearing, can occasionally feel uneven because of this.
Nonetheless, "Book People" provides a delightful escape into a world filled with literary banter, charming characters, and heartfelt moments. Fans of opposites-attract romances with a literary flair will find plenty to enjoy in this enchanting tale.
Thank you to Jackie Ashenden, Headline Eternal, a division of Hachette, and NetGalley for providing an eARC in return for my honest review. Publication Date: January 28, 2025
The narrative unfolds six months after Kate's arrival, as her frustration with Sebastian's frosty demeanour grows. At the same time, he seems just as annoyed by her cheerful presence—and the very existence of her bookstore. Complicating matters is a long-standing family feud, subtly hinted at early in the story and intricately woven throughout the plot, alongside the impending deadline of a literary festival that Sebastian is organizing.
Ashenden's prose shines, skillfully capturing the idiosyncrasies of village life and the pleasures (and occasional challenges) of running a bookshop. Both Kate and Sebastian are intriguing characters, and the author’s playful examination of their contrasting personalities—sunshine versus storm cloud—infuses the story with humour and warmth.
However, the romance doesn't always progress as seamlessly as one might wish. While Sebastian's gruff exterior can be charming, his recurring self-doubt and belief that he is unworthy of love sometimes burden the narrative. The chemistry between him and Kate, though often endearing, can occasionally feel uneven because of this.
Nonetheless, "Book People" provides a delightful escape into a world filled with literary banter, charming characters, and heartfelt moments. Fans of opposites-attract romances with a literary flair will find plenty to enjoy in this enchanting tale.
Thank you to Jackie Ashenden, Headline Eternal, a division of Hachette, and NetGalley for providing an eARC in return for my honest review. Publication Date: January 28, 2025
The Empress: a Towerfall novel by Kristin Cast
3.0
In The Empress: A Towerfall Novel by Kristin Cast, we follow Hannah, a twenty-something from present-day Chicago, as she’s thrown into an alternate realm brimming with magic. It’s a tarot-inspired historical fantasy told from a single point of view, with all the tropes that romantasy fans love: a fake marriage, a secret identity, an awkward “only one bed” situation, and of course, a morally gray love interest. This book kicks off a brand-new series.
Honestly, it took me a bit to get into the story. The opening scene was a little jarring—I wasn’t sure what to expect right away, but things got more intriguing as the plot moved forward. Once Hannah landed in Towerfall and Kane entered the picture, things picked up, and I really started to enjoy it. I especially liked the friendships Hannah formed in this magical world.
That said, the pacing felt a bit uneven. The lead-up to the major action was slow, and Hannah often made rash, impulsive choices that left me frustrated. While the climax was exciting, it felt a bit rushed, and I would’ve liked more time to process the resolution. Still, the ending tied things up well, delivering that classic “good versus evil” payoff.
The characters were a bit hit or miss for me. Some felt one-dimensional, but I did appreciate Hannah’s personal growth. For readers who enjoy tarot themes or are on the lookout for a fantasy romance with a bit of emotional depth, this book might hit the mark.
While I loved the concept—alternate realms, tarot vibes, magic—it didn’t quite live up to its potential for me. Hannah’s decisions often felt inconsistent, and Kane’s instant fascination with her didn’t always make sense. That said, the world of Towerfall was fascinating, and I just wish the story had leaned into it more with a stronger female lead.
Thank you to Kristin Cast, SOURCEBOOKS Bloom Books, and NetGalley for providing an eARC in return for my honest review. Publication Date: January 7, 2025.
Honestly, it took me a bit to get into the story. The opening scene was a little jarring—I wasn’t sure what to expect right away, but things got more intriguing as the plot moved forward. Once Hannah landed in Towerfall and Kane entered the picture, things picked up, and I really started to enjoy it. I especially liked the friendships Hannah formed in this magical world.
That said, the pacing felt a bit uneven. The lead-up to the major action was slow, and Hannah often made rash, impulsive choices that left me frustrated. While the climax was exciting, it felt a bit rushed, and I would’ve liked more time to process the resolution. Still, the ending tied things up well, delivering that classic “good versus evil” payoff.
The characters were a bit hit or miss for me. Some felt one-dimensional, but I did appreciate Hannah’s personal growth. For readers who enjoy tarot themes or are on the lookout for a fantasy romance with a bit of emotional depth, this book might hit the mark.
While I loved the concept—alternate realms, tarot vibes, magic—it didn’t quite live up to its potential for me. Hannah’s decisions often felt inconsistent, and Kane’s instant fascination with her didn’t always make sense. That said, the world of Towerfall was fascinating, and I just wish the story had leaned into it more with a stronger female lead.
Thank you to Kristin Cast, SOURCEBOOKS Bloom Books, and NetGalley for providing an eARC in return for my honest review. Publication Date: January 7, 2025.
Blitzed: Drugs in the Third Reich by Norman Ohler
4.0
I picked up "Blitzed: Drugs in the Third Reich" by Norman Ohler while attempting (and spectacularly failing) to conquer the first challenge of the "2025 StoryGraph Onboarding Challenge." Spoiler alert: it didn’t count toward my goal, but wow—what a wild, drug-fueled romp through history! Who knew methamphetamines were practically a staple in the Third Reich pantry? Meth-laced chocolates at the grocery store? Not saying I’m eager to time travel to Nazi Germany, but let’s be real—imagine the productivity boost!
This quick, punchy read dives headfirst into the drug spectacle of Nazi Germany on two fronts: the literal battlefields, where hopped-up soldiers fought like they were in a twisted action movie, and Hitler’s own bloodstream, courtesy of his personal pill-pusher, Dr. Morell. The Blitzkrieg wasn’t just a clever strategy—it was a full-on party fueled by Pervitin-laced adrenaline! Sure, it helped soldiers battle for days without blinking, but as Ohler reminds us, what goes up must come crashing down in a glorious disaster. By the time everything started falling apart, the Nazis were basically running on fumes and some truly poor life choices.
Then there’s Hitler, whose pharmaceutical buffet makes your local pharmacy look like a quaint corner shop. Morell’s syringe menu included everything from vitamins to concoctions made of questionable animal parts. But it was when he started pumping Hitler full of Eukodal (the fancy name for oxycodone), cocaine, and possibly Pervitin that things truly went off the rails. Ohler makes a solid case that Hitler’s erratic behaviour and ultimate meltdown had less to do with grand ideology and more to do with, well, drug withdrawal when the supply chains dried up. Talk about a crash landing!
To his credit, Ohler admits that some of his conclusions are built on thin evidence and a sprinkle of creative license. But honestly, portraying Hitler as a strung-out mess? It tracks. Even if he had to jump through a few hoops to get there, I didn’t mind—it was just too entertaining. Plus, it’s a cheeky reminder that history’s worst villains can still be sidelined by their appalling personal habits.
This quick, punchy read dives headfirst into the drug spectacle of Nazi Germany on two fronts: the literal battlefields, where hopped-up soldiers fought like they were in a twisted action movie, and Hitler’s own bloodstream, courtesy of his personal pill-pusher, Dr. Morell. The Blitzkrieg wasn’t just a clever strategy—it was a full-on party fueled by Pervitin-laced adrenaline! Sure, it helped soldiers battle for days without blinking, but as Ohler reminds us, what goes up must come crashing down in a glorious disaster. By the time everything started falling apart, the Nazis were basically running on fumes and some truly poor life choices.
Then there’s Hitler, whose pharmaceutical buffet makes your local pharmacy look like a quaint corner shop. Morell’s syringe menu included everything from vitamins to concoctions made of questionable animal parts. But it was when he started pumping Hitler full of Eukodal (the fancy name for oxycodone), cocaine, and possibly Pervitin that things truly went off the rails. Ohler makes a solid case that Hitler’s erratic behaviour and ultimate meltdown had less to do with grand ideology and more to do with, well, drug withdrawal when the supply chains dried up. Talk about a crash landing!
To his credit, Ohler admits that some of his conclusions are built on thin evidence and a sprinkle of creative license. But honestly, portraying Hitler as a strung-out mess? It tracks. Even if he had to jump through a few hoops to get there, I didn’t mind—it was just too entertaining. Plus, it’s a cheeky reminder that history’s worst villains can still be sidelined by their appalling personal habits.
This Girl's A Killer by Emma C. Wells
4.0
This Girl's a Killer by Emma C. Wells completely hooked me! The story kicks off with Cordelia Black rushing cupcakes to her goddaughter's school—pretty normal, right? But then you find out she's got a predator drugged and tied up at home, just waiting for her to "handle" after her day job as a pharmaceutical rep. Oh, and did I mention she uses their blood to create art? Yeah, this book dives into the wild stuff pretty quickly.
I read the whole thing in one go during a 10-hour car ride home with my parents after visiting family. You know how boring those drives can be, but this book had me so engrossed that I didn't even feel the urge to scroll through my phone. No doom scrolling, no social media rabbit holes—just me, Cordelia, and her insane life.
Cordelia is such a fascinating character. She balances this double life—vigilante by night, caring best friend, and successful career woman by day. She does all those regular things with her bestie Diane, like checking out dating apps while also, you know, taking out bad guys. The tension really ramps up when she starts dating a cop who's stressed out about all the missing men… talk about awkward!
When choosing who will end up meeting her particular justice, Cordelia looks for the "smoke in his eyes." It's such a unique touch, and I kept waiting for it to be explored more. It added this eerie, almost supernatural vibe that I wish the book had leaned into a bit more.
If you enjoy morally grey characters, dark humour, and a story that keeps you on your toes, then this is definitely for you. Emma C. Wells really knocked it out of the park with this one. My only regret is not pacing myself— I gobbled it up way too quickly!
I read the whole thing in one go during a 10-hour car ride home with my parents after visiting family. You know how boring those drives can be, but this book had me so engrossed that I didn't even feel the urge to scroll through my phone. No doom scrolling, no social media rabbit holes—just me, Cordelia, and her insane life.
Cordelia is such a fascinating character. She balances this double life—vigilante by night, caring best friend, and successful career woman by day. She does all those regular things with her bestie Diane, like checking out dating apps while also, you know, taking out bad guys. The tension really ramps up when she starts dating a cop who's stressed out about all the missing men… talk about awkward!
When choosing who will end up meeting her particular justice, Cordelia looks for the "smoke in his eyes." It's such a unique touch, and I kept waiting for it to be explored more. It added this eerie, almost supernatural vibe that I wish the book had leaned into a bit more.
If you enjoy morally grey characters, dark humour, and a story that keeps you on your toes, then this is definitely for you. Emma C. Wells really knocked it out of the park with this one. My only regret is not pacing myself— I gobbled it up way too quickly!