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zahraaloujain's reviews
76 reviews
Out On a Limb by Hannah Bonam-Young
Bo, in particular, is a rare and precious character—a love interest whose tenderness and empathy shine despite his trauma, steering far from the trope of the “broken” character. His quiet strength and sensitivity provide a refreshing portrayal of masculinity, marked by respect and care.
The disability representation in Out On a Limb is a standout, crafted with such care and respect that it becomes seamlessly part of Win and Bo’s story. This novel emphasizes the significance of telling these stories authentically, and Bonam-Young’s insight and empathy for her characters create an inclusive story that feels deeply real.
challenging
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
Out On a Limb is a touching romance about two people, Win and Bo, who each carry personal wounds and find healing and connection in each other’s kindness. Through genuine disability representation and tender moments, Bonam-Young crafts a beautifully relatable story about vulnerability, resilience, and finding solace in true acceptance.
“It’s so much easier to communicate insecurities when you don’t need to communicate them at all. Isn’t that all we ever want? To be seen and heard? Validated, even when we’re not able to ask for it.”
This novel feels like a warm embrace, leaving readers with a deep sense of comfort and hope. Win and Bo are refreshingly gentle characters, not driven by flaws to fix, but by emotional scars that need tending. Watching them journey through these moments, gradually opening up to each other, is healing for the reader as well. Bonam-Young beautifully captures the need to be seen and heard in all of our messy, unspoken insecurities, reminding us how powerful and transformative genuine understanding can be.
“[…] I can tell life has not been easy or always kind to you, but you haven’t let it turn you hard. Not like a stone. You became like water. You move with it all. You’re soft… but powerful.”
“Everyday we seem to talk about nothing and everything all at once. Every thought, every feeling, every memory recounted until we run dry. We continue to pour all of ourselves out to each other. Until our histories and stories started becoming more of a woven tapestry than a blank slate.”
Bo, in particular, is a rare and precious character—a love interest whose tenderness and empathy shine despite his trauma, steering far from the trope of the “broken” character. His quiet strength and sensitivity provide a refreshing portrayal of masculinity, marked by respect and care.
“I never wanted to risk your safety because you were more worried about my feelings than your own.”
“Revelling in the simple notion that he is real. That someone could love me this much. Choose to fill me up instead of pour me out. Build a fire to keep me warm instead of burn me out.”
The disability representation in Out On a Limb is a standout, crafted with such care and respect that it becomes seamlessly part of Win and Bo’s story. This novel emphasizes the significance of telling these stories authentically, and Bonam-Young’s insight and empathy for her characters create an inclusive story that feels deeply real.
This story is an absolute 5-star read, touching on themes of love, acceptance, and the power of healing with someone who understands. With characters and prose that leave a lasting impact, Out On a Limb is a journey of acceptance and tenderness that will stay with readers long after the final page.
“I love you, Win. I love you so much it makes me feel like I’ve hated everything else in my life up until now. Nothing compares to what I feel for you. Not even close.”
“You are my soul’s purpose, Win. To know you, to love you, to build a family with you, to spend every day taking care of you, to watch you shine and get all the good things you deserve out of this life.”
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content and Pregnancy
Moderate: Ableism and Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Cancer, Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, Suicide, Vomit, Abortion, and Death of parent
Drown Me with Dreams by Gabi Burton
Saoiras, on the other hand, is one of the most compelling heroines to emerge in recent fantasy fiction. Her journey is filled with moments of vulnerability, doubt, and growth as she learns to overcome her survival instincts, open her heart, and let herself be loved. Burton expertly navigates Saoirse’s complex emotional landscape, capturing the challenge of balancing loyalty and forgiveness in her friendship with Carrik. Her struggle with betrayal and conflicted loyalty feels deeply authentic, and Burton captures these internal conflicts with a realism that is refreshing.
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
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
5.0
Drown Me with Dreams takes readers on an emotional journey of growth, love, and resilience as it explores themes of trust, betrayal, and redemption. Gabi Burton’s sophomore novel builds beautifully on the foundation of her debut, delivering a captivating sequel that is rich in character development and emotional intensity.
Burton has a gift for crafting complex, flawed characters, and in Drown Me with Dreams, her portrayal of Hayes and Saoirse is a testament to her ability to create emotionally resonant relationships. Hayes, with his innate kindness and loyalty, is an absolute gem, embodying warmth and empathy despite a life lacking love and nurturing. He stands as a testament to resilience, and his love for Saoirse is unwavering, showing readers what it means to love deeply and with complete acceptance. His patience and acceptance towards Saoirse’s flaws create a dynamic that feels genuinely healing.
“He’s patient when I don’t deserve it. Understanding when I’m rash. Kind when he doesn’t have to be. Funny and charming and self-reflective and thoughtful and passionate and warm and beautiful, all around, and I would rather have an eternity of chaos with him by my side than peace without him.If he never forgives me after this, I won’t blame him. But at least I’ll know I saved his life. ”
“You could do anything, say anything, break me time and time again, and the pieces left of me would crawl their way back to you.”
Saoiras, on the other hand, is one of the most compelling heroines to emerge in recent fantasy fiction. Her journey is filled with moments of vulnerability, doubt, and growth as she learns to overcome her survival instincts, open her heart, and let herself be loved. Burton expertly navigates Saoirse’s complex emotional landscape, capturing the challenge of balancing loyalty and forgiveness in her friendship with Carrik. Her struggle with betrayal and conflicted loyalty feels deeply authentic, and Burton captures these internal conflicts with a realism that is refreshing.
“You’re treating Hayes like he’s just another man you have to trick to do your bidding. He’s not. He loves you. You don’t have to manipulate him. Just ask.”
“[…] there’s more to my relationship with Carrik than forgiveness—or lack thereof. I don’t need to forgive him to understand his rage. It’s the same anger that’s been festering in me for just about as long as I can remember.”
Burton may not yet be a master of prose, but her skill lies in her ability to create beautifully developed characters whose journeys resonate on a deeply emotional level. She portrays complex relationships with such nuance that readers are fully invested, whether it’s in Saoirse’s moments of internal conflict, her fragile friendship with Carrik, or her blossoming love with Hayes. By the end, it’s impossible not to feel connected to the characters and the richly emotional world Burton has created.
“Lying is instinct. For so long, it’s been necessary for survival. But I don’t have to lie to Hayes. No matter what faults he finds with me—and there are several—he loves me.”
As a debut series, Drown Me with Dreams not only fulfills its promise but exceeds expectations, deserving a solid 5-star rating. This novel cements Gabi Burton as an author to watch, and I eagerly anticipate seeing where her talent takes her in future works.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Death, Violence, Blood, Grief, Murder, Abandonment, and Injury/Injury detail
Minor: War
The Reappearance of Rachel Price by Holly Jackson
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
The Reappearance of Rachel Price is an emotional journey of mystery and redemption, weaving complex themes of loss, love, and the unexpected returns of people who shaped us. Holly Jackson’s writing is strikingly authentic, with a cast of fully realized characters who drive the story’s profound emotional impact.
“[…] she didn’t always have to pick the way that hurt less. Some hurts were good: friends grew apart, people moved away, they left. It didn’t have to last forever to count. Things ended, this was ending, but that didn’t mean it never mattered.”
“The people who loved you, the ones who really cared, they would always come back. Sometimes, they even came back from the dead.”
One of the most powerful aspects of Jackson’s storytelling is the way she creates characters who feel real, flawed, and deeply relatable. The protagonist, Bel, is not easy to like at first—she’s rough around the edges, her pain sharp and almost abrasive—but that’s precisely what makes her journey so compelling. By the end, Bel’s character arc becomes a testament to healing and self-forgiveness. In grappling with her trauma, she learns to embrace the idea that things don’t have to last to matter and that the people who truly care will always find a way back.
The relationship between Bel and Ash is a subtle yet deeply affecting thread in the novel. Their journey, particularly that last scene, carries a bittersweet beauty, leaving readers both hopeful and heartbroken. Jackson’s talent for emotional complexity is apparent here, as Bel and Ash share a bond that feels destined, even if not straightforwardly “happily ever after”. Their ending is left open enough to inspire a sense of faith in their future. At least that’s what I have convinced myself of.
True to her style, Jackson keeps readers on edge with her plot twists, making The Reappearance of Rachel Price impossible to put down. While some twists may be anticipated, others come out of nowhere, keeping the experience both unpredictable and emotionally intense. This roller coaster of emotions—anger, heartbreak, and ultimately peace—leaves a lasting impression, making the book hard to shake even after the last page is turned. And Jackson’s inclusion of diverse characters feels effortless, lending authenticity without seeming forced or performative.
In short, The Reappearance of Rachel Price is a must-read, earning a solid 5 out of 5 stars. Holly Jackson’s gift for authentic character development and her nuanced exploration of trauma make this novel unforgettable. It’s a story that lingers, one that feels achingly real, and it’s clear that Jackson has become a treasured staple on my bookshelf.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Emotional abuse and Gaslighting
Moderate: Confinement, Death, Misogyny, Dementia, Death of parent, and Abandonment
Bitter Deception by Akwaah K
fast-paced
3.25
Bitter Deception is the sequel to Sweetest Deception, continuing the tumultuous and dramatic relationship between Remo and Aurora. While this second installment offers some improvement over the first book, particularly in terms of Remo’s character development and emotional groveling, it still struggles with familiar issues like weak character depth and pacing.
The most notable highlight is the groveling, particularly by the male protagonist, Remo. Lines such as “You are my reason for living now, amore. You are the only person who can make me drop to my knees in worship to you, the only person who can stop me or kill me,” showcase the emotional fervor and devotion Remo displays throughout the novel. However, this intensity, while initially gripping, fades under the weight of underwhelming character development and rushed resolutions. Aurora’s forgiveness, especially after repeatedly mentioning the traumatic moment of Remo holding a gun to her head, felt too hasty and unsatisfactory given the gravity of their past.
Additionally, the book suffers from a lack of diversity, with characters who are as stereotypically white as they come. This is particularly surprising given that the author herself doesn’t seem to be white, which leaves much to be desired in terms of representation. The series’ origins on Wattpad are evident, as it feels like a blend of the platform’s weaker tropes rather than showcasing its best qualities. While Remo’s groveling moments, including lines like “Te amo abbastanza da morire per te” (“I love you enough to die for you”) and “I am not letting the man who touched my wife walk on this earth any longer, because you are too precious for me to not cause mayhem for,” bring intensity, they can’t mask the lack of deeper character exploration.
In comparison to the first book, this sequel is definitely an improvement, but it still struggles to break free from its Wattpad roots. The repetitive nature of Aurora’s internal conflict, followed by an anticlimactic resolution, detracts from what could have been a more gripping storyline. Though the book holds some appeal for fans of groveling romance, it lacks the depth needed to fully invest in the characters’ journey.
Overall, Sweetest Deception earns 3.25 out of 5 stars. While there’s some appeal in Remo’s dramatic gestures, the book’s lack of diversity and rushed emotional arcs leave much to be desired. If I do continue this series, it will likely be out of boredom rather than genuine intrigue.
The most notable highlight is the groveling, particularly by the male protagonist, Remo. Lines such as “You are my reason for living now, amore. You are the only person who can make me drop to my knees in worship to you, the only person who can stop me or kill me,” showcase the emotional fervor and devotion Remo displays throughout the novel. However, this intensity, while initially gripping, fades under the weight of underwhelming character development and rushed resolutions. Aurora’s forgiveness, especially after repeatedly mentioning the traumatic moment of Remo holding a gun to her head, felt too hasty and unsatisfactory given the gravity of their past.
Additionally, the book suffers from a lack of diversity, with characters who are as stereotypically white as they come. This is particularly surprising given that the author herself doesn’t seem to be white, which leaves much to be desired in terms of representation. The series’ origins on Wattpad are evident, as it feels like a blend of the platform’s weaker tropes rather than showcasing its best qualities. While Remo’s groveling moments, including lines like “Te amo abbastanza da morire per te” (“I love you enough to die for you”) and “I am not letting the man who touched my wife walk on this earth any longer, because you are too precious for me to not cause mayhem for,” bring intensity, they can’t mask the lack of deeper character exploration.
In comparison to the first book, this sequel is definitely an improvement, but it still struggles to break free from its Wattpad roots. The repetitive nature of Aurora’s internal conflict, followed by an anticlimactic resolution, detracts from what could have been a more gripping storyline. Though the book holds some appeal for fans of groveling romance, it lacks the depth needed to fully invest in the characters’ journey.
Overall, Sweetest Deception earns 3.25 out of 5 stars. While there’s some appeal in Remo’s dramatic gestures, the book’s lack of diversity and rushed emotional arcs leave much to be desired. If I do continue this series, it will likely be out of boredom rather than genuine intrigue.
Sweetest Deception by Akwaah K.
adventurous
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? Yes
3.0
“Sweetest Deception” by Akwaah K is an entertaining read, though it has its highs and lows. While the plot kept me intrigued enough to finish, there were a few aspects that fell short for me. Most notably, the lack of diversity in the characters was disappointing, and the spelling mistakes throughout the book detracted from the overall reading experience. However, the ending was a redeeming factor, it leaves you curious about what’s to come, and I have a feeling the sequel might improve on the foundation laid in this first installment. Overall, I’d rate this book 3/5.
Cross the Line by Simone Soltani
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.25
“Cross the Line” by Simone Soltani turned out to be a delightful surprise! I was drawn to the prospect of an F1 romance featuring two people of color as the leads, but I never expected to enjoy it this much. While pure romance books aren’t typically my go-to, this one definitely hit the spot.
The beginning was a bit slow, and I’ll admit I felt a little bored during the first few chapters, but that didn’t last long. Willow and Dev’s relationship develops so naturally and refreshingly drama-free that it left me pleasantly baffled. Their dynamic felt authentic, with the perfect balance of chemistry and understanding.
I also appreciated the insights into Willow’s chronic illness and Dev’s experience as one of the few non-white racers in F1. Though Willow’s chronic pain wasn’t as prominent as I anticipated or would have liked, it was still handled well and added a meaningful layer to her character.
Overall, this book manages to be a light, enjoyable read while still touching on important issues. It definitely deserves a high rating. I’m giving it 4.25 stars, only holding back on a full 5-star rating because I reserve those for truly spectacular reads, and while this was close, it’s not quite there. That said, I’m eagerly awaiting the second book in the series and can’t wait to see what else Simone Soltani has in store!
The beginning was a bit slow, and I’ll admit I felt a little bored during the first few chapters, but that didn’t last long. Willow and Dev’s relationship develops so naturally and refreshingly drama-free that it left me pleasantly baffled. Their dynamic felt authentic, with the perfect balance of chemistry and understanding.
I also appreciated the insights into Willow’s chronic illness and Dev’s experience as one of the few non-white racers in F1. Though Willow’s chronic pain wasn’t as prominent as I anticipated or would have liked, it was still handled well and added a meaningful layer to her character.
Overall, this book manages to be a light, enjoyable read while still touching on important issues. It definitely deserves a high rating. I’m giving it 4.25 stars, only holding back on a full 5-star rating because I reserve those for truly spectacular reads, and while this was close, it’s not quite there. That said, I’m eagerly awaiting the second book in the series and can’t wait to see what else Simone Soltani has in store!
When Life Gives You Lemons by Noor Sasha
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.25
"When Life Gives You Lemons" by Noor Sasha certainly offers a unique reading experience. The beautiful cover art is what initially caught my attention, and it didn’t disappoint in terms of aesthetic appeal. However, the journey through the pages was quite an interesting one, reminiscent of the early days of Wattpad, but not always in the best way.
The novel shines in its representation of Pakistani culture and the nuanced portrayal of a character with epilepsy. This is particularly significant given the rarity of such representation in literature. Knowing that the author herself has epilepsy adds a layer of authenticity and bravery, as she channels her personal struggles into the narrative, providing a rare and invaluable perspective.
It's important to recognize that women of color often face an uphill battle in gaining recognition. The mediocrity of white authors frequently garners undue praise, while authors of color have to surpass extraordinary expectations to be noticed. Although this book may not be a literary masterpiece, it certainly surpasses many works by more celebrated authors. It’s a commendable effort that deserves acknowledgment.
One aspect that didn’t quite resonate with me was the portrayal of religion. While I understand that the author did not intend for the story to represent Muslims universally, the depiction felt somewhat inauthentic. It seemed more like an attempt by an outsider to earn inclusivity points rather than a genuine portrayal. Personally, I would have preferred if religion had been omitted entirely.
Despite these critiques, I am open to exploring more of Noor Sasha’s work in the future. Her debut may have had its flaws, but it also showcased a promising talent.
The novel shines in its representation of Pakistani culture and the nuanced portrayal of a character with epilepsy. This is particularly significant given the rarity of such representation in literature. Knowing that the author herself has epilepsy adds a layer of authenticity and bravery, as she channels her personal struggles into the narrative, providing a rare and invaluable perspective.
It's important to recognize that women of color often face an uphill battle in gaining recognition. The mediocrity of white authors frequently garners undue praise, while authors of color have to surpass extraordinary expectations to be noticed. Although this book may not be a literary masterpiece, it certainly surpasses many works by more celebrated authors. It’s a commendable effort that deserves acknowledgment.
One aspect that didn’t quite resonate with me was the portrayal of religion. While I understand that the author did not intend for the story to represent Muslims universally, the depiction felt somewhat inauthentic. It seemed more like an attempt by an outsider to earn inclusivity points rather than a genuine portrayal. Personally, I would have preferred if religion had been omitted entirely.
Despite these critiques, I am open to exploring more of Noor Sasha’s work in the future. Her debut may have had its flaws, but it also showcased a promising talent.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Chronic illness
Not in Love by Ali Hazelwood
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
Love, Theoretically by Ali Hazelwood
hopeful
lighthearted
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
"Love, Theoretically" by Ali Hazelwood is an enjoyable and entertaining read, as I've come to expect from her works. I appreciated the increasing incorporation of academic aspects into her novels, even though physics isn't my favorite subject.
The main character's arc was particularly lovely to follow, showcasing Hazelwood's knack for creating relatable and well-developed characters.
While I thoroughly enjoyed this book, I look forward to seeing more diversity in Hazelwood's future releases. Despite a few areas for improvement, "Love, Theoretically" is a solid 3.5 to 4-star read and reinforces Hazelwood as a staple author on my reading list.
The main character's arc was particularly lovely to follow, showcasing Hazelwood's knack for creating relatable and well-developed characters.
While I thoroughly enjoyed this book, I look forward to seeing more diversity in Hazelwood's future releases. Despite a few areas for improvement, "Love, Theoretically" is a solid 3.5 to 4-star read and reinforces Hazelwood as a staple author on my reading list.
Check & Mate by Ali Hazelwood
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
relaxing
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
5.0
"Check & Mate" by Ali Hazelwood has managed to do the impossible: it's earned a 5-star rating from me, a rarity for a romance novel. While it may not be a groundbreaking story, it is undeniably entertaining and utterly captivating from start to finish.
Ali Hazelwood has firmly established herself as a staple in my reading list. Despite romance not being my go-to genre, her books consistently provide a refreshing escape from the heavier topics that dominate my usual reads. I particularly appreciate how she integrates scientific elements into her narratives, adding an extra layer of interest for readers who enjoy a touch of academia.
The main character, Mallory, is incredibly relatable, having had to mature quickly and shoulder responsibilities beyond her years. Hazelwood's emphasis on the struggles women face in male-dominated fields is another highlight, reflecting real-world issues in a thoughtful and engaging manner.
But the standout for me was Nolan Sawyer, my favorite Hazelwood love interest to date. There's something about him that had me completely hooked, and I found myself wishing for even more content featuring him and Mallory together.
"Check & Mate" is a book I can see myself revisiting in the near future, despite my usual aversion to rereading. It's a testament to Hazelwood's talent that she can craft stories that are both enjoyable and resonant. I highly recommend this novel to anyone looking for a delightful romance.
Ali Hazelwood has firmly established herself as a staple in my reading list. Despite romance not being my go-to genre, her books consistently provide a refreshing escape from the heavier topics that dominate my usual reads. I particularly appreciate how she integrates scientific elements into her narratives, adding an extra layer of interest for readers who enjoy a touch of academia.
The main character, Mallory, is incredibly relatable, having had to mature quickly and shoulder responsibilities beyond her years. Hazelwood's emphasis on the struggles women face in male-dominated fields is another highlight, reflecting real-world issues in a thoughtful and engaging manner.
But the standout for me was Nolan Sawyer, my favorite Hazelwood love interest to date. There's something about him that had me completely hooked, and I found myself wishing for even more content featuring him and Mallory together.
"Check & Mate" is a book I can see myself revisiting in the near future, despite my usual aversion to rereading. It's a testament to Hazelwood's talent that she can craft stories that are both enjoyable and resonant. I highly recommend this novel to anyone looking for a delightful romance.