Mini Reviews – December Wrap Up

I didn’t quite hit the new reading goal I set for myself to hit by the end of 2022 but let’s see what I did read this month.

The Lost Hero by Rick Riordan, Robert Venditti, & Nate Powell – This is the graphic novel version of the first  book in the Heroes of Olympus series.  I decided to skip rereading the first three books to continue on with the series so to refresh I’m reading these and some reviews online.  I really liked this, it refreshed my memory more than some of the reviews I’ve read as well.  Just like the books, these are larger than normal graphic novels.  If you love the book, you’ll love this as well.  3/5

The Son of Neptune by Rick Riordan, Robert Venditti, & Orpheus Collar – I really enjoy these graphic novels, I don’t know why they didn’t continue past this one.  It really helped me out remembering everything – here’s hoping I don’t feel completely blindsided by starting the next book. 3/5

A Cosmology of Monsters by Shaun Hamill – I got about a third of the way through and just wasn’t motivated to continue.  It was listed as horror and there really wasn’t much in the bit I read.  I did read a review that the first half is basically a completely different book than the second half but it just lost me.  DNF

The Demon’s Bargain by Katee Robert – Book two in the Peculiar Tastes series and book four (though three hasn’t come out) in the Deal With a Demon series.  After reading this one I think I won’t be continuing the Peculiar Tastes series but will stick with the Deal With the Demon one.  I liked this one more than the Kraken one but not by much.  The story felt off somehow.  3/5

The Becoming by Nora Roberts – Book two in the Dragon Heart Legacy series.  It took me a while to start this one, I carried it around a lot, but once I started I read it pretty quickly.  I really like that Ms Robert’s books have a plot but not something that is complicated to follow and wrap up pretty quickly.  My only real issue (if you could even call it that) with this one is how her BFF seemed a bit too over the top/cliché.  I do look forward to the last book of the trilogy, I hope there is at least one wedding in it.  4/5 

The Choice by Nora Roberts – Book three in the Dragon Heart Legacy series.  I dragged my feet on finishing book two but for book three I had to hurry because my library loan was overdue.  YIKES.  This was a great series, I wish we had gotten a bit more romance for the MC but it was a great story overall.  Nora Roberts’ books are kind of like Hallmark movies, a new one is always there but they are satisfying all the same.  I like that it is fantasy but doesn’t dig too deep so I can easily stop and start the book without overthinking.  If you never read high fantasy, etc but would like to branch in that direction I think a series like this would be a good starting point. 4/5

Barbarian’s Prize by Ruby Dixon – Book five in the Ice Planet Barbarians series. I’m trying to get back to this series since I’m keeping my kindle unlimited subscription for the time being.  It was a quick read as they all have been but hands down I’m looking forward to the next book just for how things ended in this one.  Overall though the books are the same plot, just different names.  3/5

Barbarian’s Mate by Ruby Dixon –  Book six in the Ice Planet Barbarians series.  Man, these men (aliens) that are thought to be bullies but are just so guarded are breaking my heart.  I was super excited for this one because Josie was such a delight in the other books and with the grumpy/sunshine aspect but I just didn’t like her.  She was horrible.  All she wanted was to be wanted but she so violently and publicly kept rejecting her mate.  She came around in the end, which isn’t a shocker, LOL.  3/5

Having the Barbarian’s Baby by Ruby Dixon – Book 6.1 in the Ice Planet Barbarians series.   This is just a quick novella surrounding Megan and Cashol around the birth of their baby.  Cute overall.  3/5

Ice Ice Babies by Ruby Dixon – Book 6.2 in the Ice Planet Barbarians series. Another novella, following Nora and Dagesh after the birth of their twins.  It was ok but I think I would have liked a story more around the birthes.  3/5

Demon in the Wood by Leigh Bardugo – A graphic novel about the Darking?  SIGN ME UP.  I’d really love a prequel series about his rise to power.  Love it, not shocked.  4/5

Blood Kiss by J. R. Ward – Book one is the Black Dagger Legacy.  I’m bothered that we have others that haven’t had full books yet and not only are some couples getting two books but people that have literally been in one or none are getting one?  With that being said it was hard to connect with the characters.  I like the idea of the training center and bringing in “new blood” but Butch and V are two of my least favorites and were the ones running the show so it didn’t hit for me, true?  (See what I did there?) I’m also not a fan of the way the say things.  It comes off douchey.  Fingers crossed we hit a good patch in the books soon.  3/5

The House of Hades by Rick Riordan – Book four in the Heroes of Olympus series.  I thought I’d never started this one but according to my goodreads I did read about 25% before but I can safely admit I didn’t remember a bit of what I should have read the first go.  These books always make me drag my feet because of their size but once you start them the story moves so quickly. 

How to Do Nothing by Jenny Odell (audio) – I’m not 100% where I saw this one, maybe on goodreads?  Anyhow – this was not good.  The idea behind it and what was in the majority of the book didn’t match. I do not know the author so I’m not sure if she is popular in certain circles but this was just a book about her personal experiences and referencing a few other works.  Also?  The entire book was six chapters long.  SIX.  If I wouldn’t have listened to it I would have never made it through.  All that aside, I finished the book so it gets a mid rating.   3/5

Everything For You by Chloe Liese (audio) – Book five in the Bergman Brothers series.  I really do like this series but the narrator threw me on this one.  I could hear him swallowing when I’m assuming he was drinking while reading?  Also, the way he pronounced “refrigerator” made me do a double take so he took away from the story for me.  I like that this author has some sort of normal issues with everyone that makes these stories much more realistic.  This one follows Oliver and his love interest. a fellow soccer player.  I think if I would have read this instead of listening I might have enjoyed this a bit more. 3/5

Grief is Love by Marisa Renee Lee (audio) – It’s been roughly seven years since I lost my mother but I still struggle with it daily so I always seek books on grief.  This hands down is the most relatable one I’ve found to date. If you struggle with grief in any way this book will make you feel less alone in the world. 4/5

What about you? What are you reading now? Have 2023 reading goals? Let me know! I’m heading over to goodreads now to set my new goal.

Happy Reading!

Mini Reviews – November Wrap Up

I have (or had since I’m posting this the month after writing) two months left and I want to keep up my reading momentum.  I really need to buckle down and start saving again so the more I read the less I shop.  I’m setting myself a goal for November for 20 books.  I think this is absolutely possible as I’m off the entire week of Thanksgiving, but who knows – Christmas is coming and shopping for gifts will need to start soon. 

What did I read this month? Well, first I only got to 8 or the 20 I was hoping for so I wasn’t off to a great start but to be fair to myself I got sick during Thanksgiving week (which tends to happen when I take time off).

The Lost Ticket by Freya Sampson – I really enjoyed The Last Chance Library so I’d been looking forward to this book for a while now.  Did I like it?  Yes.  Was it as good as Last Chance Library?  No.  Overall a great story, I cried at least once, I feel like we skimmed the surface of the “romance” in the book; it felt a little too insta love.  Still an author I’ll be sure to follow for future books. 3/5

The Demigod Files by Rick Riordan – Continuing on my re-read to finish the series’, book 4.5 in the Percy Jackson series.  This one has three novellas, character interviews, and information/drawings on the Gods.  Something quick, skipping it would have been ok, it was just a few adventures from between books. 3/5

Stranger Things:  Into the Fire by  Jody Houser – A graphic novel set in the world of Stranger Things that follows the kids from the lab that escaped trying to find others that made it out.  Being as this didn’t really have the Stranger Things people it was just ok for me.  3/5

Stranger Things:  The Bully by Greg Pak – A graphic novel set in the world of Stranger Things.  This barely had any of the characters from the story so I’m happy it was so short because I wasn’t drawn in at all.  I finished it though so. . . 3/5

The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna – This was a book I was very excited for – when you compare The House in the Cerulean Sea I’m in, plus this was a buddy read with some book friends (Daphne included).  In short?  I LOVED IT.  It was 100% its own story but I can see where it had the same vibes of Cerulean.  I truly love a found family and the sprinkle of magic didn’t hurt. I’m happy I ordered a special edition because this is a book I will want to read again. 5/5

Percy Jackson and the Singer of Apollo by Rick Riordan – A quick novella where Percy and Grover run a quick errand for a God.  Cute as always.  3/5

A Very Krampus Holiday by Katee Robert – A kindle unlimited novella just in time for the holiday season.  A quick read and as always I’m always surprised by how much Katee can fit into such a small novella (that’s what she said).  3/5

The Death God’s Sacrifice by Jenny Nordbak – Book one in the Peculiar Tastes series, a monster romance series by different authors but set in the same world.  I picked these up because Katee Robert’s book in the series is a character in another series she has that I’ve been reading.  I’d say this one was just ok, though this story felt like it wasn’t over.  I didn’t see anything upcoming on the author’s page but there is a lot of potential to keep going.  3/5

As you can see I failed miserably at meeting the goal this month but I did hit 200 books for the year so far! I hope I can do better to close out the year with a bang.

What about you? What are you reading? What are your top 2023 anticipated titles?

Mini Reviews – October Wrap Up

Another month of being behind on posting what was read, it is over halfway through November!  I’m going to attempt to again make monthly reading lists just for the sake of really needing to downsize the books I own.  It is getting out of hand and my shelves are maxed out but something tells me I’m only going to read library books or books I know I want to keep, it is a vicious circle. SIGH.  

Suicide Forest:  The Mystery of Aokigahara by Roger Harrington –  This was something I found on Kindle Unlimited.  I’ve always wanted to know more about this forest, I guess morbid curiosity but the grammar was horrible.  I had to reread some parts several times to understand the meaning behind certain pieces.  3/5

Barbarian Mine by Ruby Dixon – Book four in the Ice Planet Barbarians series.  I got this one from KU because I didn’t want to start a full book yet.  This one was a bit strange.  The lack of understanding the language felt awkward to read  at times.  I like that we are finally seeing some of the babies be born though.  3/5

Ice Planet Honeymoon:  Rukh & Harlow by Rudy Dixon – Book 4.5 in the Ice Planet Barbarians series.  These are just ok, no real story on the honeymoons since they are busy with “other” things. 3/5

A Mirror Mended by Alix E Harrow (audio) – Book two in the Fractured Fables series.  A quick listen, entertaining but some things seemed forced and not like the first story.  The vibe was off.  3/5

A Lady of Rooksgrave Manor by Kathryn Moon – Book one in the Tempting Monsters series.  I started this one a long time ago and gave up but with kindle unlimited I’m trying to go back to the books I started.  I actually like this one, there was a story though not much of one.  I look forward to the next book in the series.  3/5

I Choose Darkness:  A Holiday Essay by Jenny Lawson (audio) – A super quick listen, just an essay about Halloween.  Cute.  Nostalgic.  3/5

Night Country by Meslissa Albert (audio) – Book two in The Hazel Wood series.  I like where this story went but the build up seems a bit much so the ending was more rushed to me.  I want the pay off.  3/5

The Boy Who Didn’t Come Home by Melissa Albert (audio) –  Book 1.5 in The Hazel Wood series. This follows Finch after they separated at the end of book one.  A good read but not mind blowing.  3/5

Ice Planet Holiday by Ruby Dixon – Book 4.75 of the Ice Planet Barbarians. This was a longer novella surrounding the girls as they try to recreate the holidays to cheer everyone up.  I liked this but the small glimpse we got of the new couple makes me sad because I would have loved a full book with them.  There was the potential for a great story.  3/5

Aokigahara:  The Truth Behind Japan’s Suicide Forest by Tara A. Devlin – Another Suicide Forest book on KU.  Another book with a severe grammar issue.  I do find the forest interesting, I would like to read something a bit more put together about it.  3/5

The Company of Fiends by Kathryn Moon – Book two in the Tempting Monsters series from KU.  This one follows a MC that performs at the theatre featured in book one.  I did not care for this one much.  The “why choose” is fine but it didn’t feel like it made sense.  It felt more like I don’t want to lose her so I’ll do this as opposed to actually wanting/being ok with the set up.  3/5 

Fairy Tale by Stephen King (audio) – Hands down the best book I’ve read all year!  This is something completely different that I would never associate with SK’s name and it was really good.  You give me someone who would do anything for the dog and I’m in.  Spoiler alert if you need – the dog lives.  I was very worried and had to spoil the end for myself to make sure. This would have been 5 stars but at the end it felt a bit weird and some of the scenes didn’t mesh into the story IMO.  4/5

Other Birds by Sarah Addison Allen – This is my first book by this author and it will absolutely not be my last.  I’m not sure where I saw someone talking about this one but I was intrigued enough to pick it up from the library.  This is one of the best books I’ve read in a long time, I think I got about 30% in or so and knew I’d read this again and that it would be a five star read unless the story took a dramatic turn.    For anyone struggling with loss, anxiety/rejection, etc this is your book.  It read quickly, had multiple POVs (which I personally love) and found family, something we all could do with a bit more of.  5/5

Lightlark by Alex Aster (audio) – Book one in the Lightlark series.  First, Booktok is toxic AF.  This book wasn’t bad, but very predictable – typical of a YA trope.  I’d definitely pick up the second book but it would more than likely be borrowed from the library.  This did have Hunger Games vibes but mixed with Caraval.  The romance(s) could have used a bit more work and the villain aspect/consequences of their actions would have come off more believable if there was a bit more work put in.  3/5

The Kraken’s Sacrifice by Katee Robert – Book two in the Deal With a Demon series.  This was extremely disappointing.  This was not a monster romance, there was too much going on with the amount of grief and then the aborted pregnancy so if anything more like monster fiction?  While both topics that are 100% ok to include in books and talk about that took up at least 80-90% of the book and while I generally enjoy this author’s books it felt like she was trying to force too many contemporary elements into a book that isn’t long enough.  I’m hoping this will pick back up on the momentum for the next book.  3/5

Stranger Things: Science Camp by Jody Houser – A graphic novel set in the Stranger Things world, this takes place while Dustin is at camp.  Cute, these are really helping tide me over until whenever the next season comes out though I know for a fact I will run out way before that point.  3/5

Stranger Things and Dungeons & Dragons by Jody Houser – A graphic novel set in the Stranger Things world, this shows the introduction to Dungeons & Dragons so fantasy within a fantasy.  Cute, though the more I see him the more annoyed I am with Mike. 3/5

The Ballad of Never After by Stephanie Garber (audio) – Book two in the Once Upon a Broken Heart series.  SIGH.  I think I’m just growing away from YA books because my God I want to punch this girl.  I had to quit, maybe I’ll be in the mood to continue at a later date but this was just too juvenile – much more so that I’d say for a YA and for the second book in a series.  DNF

Let’s see how long it takes me to post November’s wrap up next month, LOL. What are you guys reading? Any recs?

Have a great holiday break!

Mini Reviews – September Wrap Up

Another slow month reading and a slow post to follow. Real life work takes up a lot of time right now. Let’s see what I got to this month. . .

Heir by Katee Robert – Book two of the Vampire Bloodlines series.  I’m not sure how to feel about this one.  Though the previous book ended in a cliffhanger I was a bit less invested in this one.  I loved that there is a crossover with the Demon series though, that series seems more entertaining overall.  3/5

Queen by Katee Robert – Book three of the Vampire Bloodlines series.  I’m not sure what I expected for the conclusion other than SPOILER ALERT I wish we would have actually found out who the father was?  3/5

Barbarian Alien by Ruby Dixon (audio) – Book two in the Ice Planet Barbarians series.  My library got books 2-4 so I shall continue on!  I find this one was a bit repetitive; some areas could have used a thesaurus.  Also, the fact that the alien knows some graphic terms in regards to certain acts but doesn’t understand “nope”? I mean I get it, it is all made up but those two things don’t mesh IMO.    Also, it was very obvious that parts of the audio were re-recorded and patched in – it was not a seamless transition.  Will I keep reading? Absolutely.  3/5

Ice Planet Honeymoon: Raahosh & Liz by Rudy Dixon – Book 2.5 in the Ice Planet Barbarians series, just a quick trip to see what they have been up to but the Raahosh in this novella did not seem like the same from the book, the vibe was off.  3/5

Sense and Second-Degree Murder by Tirzah Price (audio) –  Sense and Sensibility is hands down my favorite of the Austen titles so I was very excited but like the first in this series it fell flat for me.  Overall entertaining but it just feels like it didn’t reach its potential. 3/5

Left on Tenth by Delia Ephron (audio) –  This was a strange memoir.  I loved the second love found late in life and having a great support system for when she was sick but it didn’t feel like any of the stories were told fully, more like a quick summary and move on.  I would have liked more. 3/5

Book of Night by Holly Black (audio) – I dragged through the first half or so of this one. . . it wasn’t boring but it didn’t pull me in either.  I saw a few people mention a twist so I was looking forward to finding out what happens and then when I got to it I wasn’t shocked at all.  I don’t know, maybe I’ve just read too many similar books?  I’m still going to read the sequel, though probably from the library.  3/5

Barbarian Lover by Ruby Dixon (audio) –  Book three in the Ice Planet Barbarians series, one of the “fan favorite” guys I believe?  Overall the one with the most plot so far though I know many aren’t there for the plot.  I am starting to be bothered by Vektal though, the caveman mentality is good in small doses. not constantly. 3/5

Ice Planet Honeymoon: Aehako & Kira by Ruby Dixon – Book 3.5 in the Ice Planet Barbarians series.  I mean, there isn’t much to say about these quick blurbs.  Entertaining. I’m always amazed at how much can be put into this novellas. 3/5

Most of what I read was on kindle unlimited, so I guess a win?  I’m using the free time I have! I think I’ll keep it for now and see if it continues to be a beneficial investment. What did you read?

Mini Reviews – August Wrap Up

This was a very slow reading month. The last few months of the year are always busy so it is not surprise. Let’s see what I read.

Stuck with You by Ali Hazelwood – Novella two in the STEMinist series and probably my favorite.  I’m not sure what got me; the forced proximity, the insta love (well not quite but pretty dang close), or the big silent mountain sized man.  What does that add up to?  A very cute story.  It was weird reading these out of order, I read the third, then first, and then the second one last due to library holds.  It wasn’t as horrible as I thought to do this but I hope I never have to again.  4/5

Maggie Moves On by Lucy Score (audio) – Another fun read from who seems to be a new favorite author.  It was kept light-hearted for the most part but I do feel that the MC’s “issues” were a bit ridiculous.  I know everyone processes things differently but from what happened to her to how she was acting didn’t match IMO.  I loved the ending, wrapped everything up and I truly appreciated that.  4/5

When He Was Wicked by Julia Quinn (audio) – Book six of the Bridgerton series.  I took a break from my reread and now I’m back.  Francesca is the one kid we barely see in the entire series but she by far has one of the best books.  I love the setting but I’m not a fan of the second choice feeling here.  I always wanted Michael to be the first but I’m glad the families were so kind and understanding about it. I’m really curious how they will portray her first marriage in the show.   3/5

When He Was Wicked by Julia Quinn: Second Epilogue (audio) – A great second epilogue, it makes me happy that they were able to have the child they wanted so much.  4/5

Bravely by Maggie Stiefvater – Merida and Stiefvater?!  Sign me up.  Merida is my favorite princess, I love a good mother/daughter dynamic so I was beyond excited to start this one.  Finish though?  Unfortunately that took awhile.  I found the story a bit boring but the idea of it was great.  There is a lot that could be expanded here and if I’m to believe that ending I’m going to need more details on the inbetween (Don’t want to spoil for anyone so vague it is).  This could have been twice as long or at least two books so the rest could be fleshed out but it is Merida so that alone gets a decent rating.  3/5

Do you Want to Start a Scandal by Julia Quinn – Book five of Spindle Cove and book four of Castles Ever After.  I’m not sure if this is the last book in these two series?  They were published five years ago so there is a good chance.  This book was just ok to me.  There was a larger age difference but I’m not sure how big since the male MC age wasn’t specifically said that I can remember and that was a bit off putting but I think the bigger issue is this didn’t happen in Spindle Cove or a castle, the whole point of the two series.  This was just a character from each series.  I also felt like there were some unresolved issues that weren’t addressed with minor characters.  3/5

The Secret Life of Albert Entwistle by Matt Cain – When I saw the blurb on this one it just gave heartwarming vibes that I knew I needed to pick it up.  I can say after reading the “if you like Fredrik Backman & T.J. Klune” I was very excited, I haven’t read a book of either author that I haven’t loved. When I was about halfway through I stopped and ordered a copy because I knew I’d want to keep it (I’d originally picked it up from the library.) Albert was so relatable about how scars as young adults can shape your adult life and how we treat ourselves like we are not worthy of happiness because of the past and our choices.  I loved everyone in the book, I think I would have liked a little more at the end and a few small plot changes would have rounded it out to me but it was a great, heartfelt read.  4/5

Wicked Beauty by Katee Robert (audio) – Book three of the Dark Olympus series.  This is a tough one to rate.  I think storyline wise this is the best by far but honestly I don’t like how the “terms” so to speak were set.  To each their own but I just can’t get past an open relationship when there are already three people in this one.  If it would have stayed closed I might have gone up to a four.  3/5

Sacrifice by Katee Robert – I have a 3 month free kindle unlimited trial that is 2 months in and I haven’t attempted to read anything so I wanted to start looking at authors I know or wish list kindle editions.  Book one of the Bloodline Vampires series, this is a reverse harem book that was recently published as a special edition at Barnes and Noble. It was probably my favorite of the three (I’m writing this after I’ve read all of them) and it definitely made me want to read more books by her (as you’ll see below) . It’s been a bit since I’ve read a vampire book outside of the Black Dagger Brotherhood so it was a slow start on the vampire aspect but the spicy scenes started QUICK. 4/5

The Dragon’s Bride by Katee Robert – Book one in A Deal With a Demon series. This is the only the second monster romance I’ve attempted, I quit the first one (though I’m not sure why at the moment), but I really liked this one! I liked that we went to another realm and saw a different way of living. There were some anatomy challenges that were thought inducing but still a great read. I will definitely pick up the second book. 3/5

Well, that’s it. A slow month in reading and an even slower attempt at posting since we are almost in October and I’m just getting to August but what you have been reading? Have any monster romance recs?

Drunk on Love by Jasmine Guillory Blog Tour

Margot Noble needs some relief from the stress of running the family winery with her brother. Enter Luke: sexy, charming, and best of all in the too-small world of Napa, a stranger. The chemistry between them is undeniable, and Margot is delighted that she lucked into the perfect one-night stand she’ll never have to see again. That is, until the winery’s newest hire, Luke, walks in the next morning. Margot is determined to keep things purely professional, but when their every interaction reminds her of the attraction still bubbling between them, it proves to be much more challenging than she expects.
 
Luke Williams had it all, but when he quits his high-salary tech job in Silicon Valley in a blaze of burnout and moves back to Napa to help a friend, he realizes he doesn’t want to tell the world—or his mom—why he’s now working at a winery. His mom loves bragging about her successful son—how can he admit that the job she’s so proud of broke him? Luke has no idea what is next for him, but one thing is certain: he wants more from the incredibly smart and sexy woman he hooked up with—even after he learns she’s his new boss. But even if they can find a way to be together that wouldn’t be an ethical nightmare, would such a successful woman really want a tech-world dropout?
 
Set against a lush backdrop of Napa Valley wine country, nothing goes to your head as fast as a taste of love—even if it means changing all your plans.

I love Jasmine Guillory! Her characters are always so much fun to get to know and the story usually keeps me invested outside of the romance as well as inclusive of it. Of course, Drunk on Love does not disappoint in either of these. It was quite fun to read about Margot & Luke’s relationship (which started as a one night stand but then slowly becomes so much more). I love a strong female character and Margot is exactly that, she knows what she wants and isn’t afraid to go for it. The repercussions of Margot & Luke’s meet-cute drive the story and because of the employment aspect of it, bring a sense of anxiety to the whole plot. At least it did for me 🙂

I found myself completely invested in these characters and the situations they going through. I can’t get enough of Jasmine Guillory, which is why she is an auto-buy for me, and I hope she has many more stories for us!

4/5

Mini Reviews – July Wrap up

I really want to start working on clearing out my book shelves at home so I did a small purge (very small, didn’t even make a dent) and set up another bookshelf to get stacks off the ground and be able to see what I have available.  Will I start reading those this month?  Probably not, but it is a start!  

The Hazel Wood by Melissa Albert – Book one in The Hazel Wood series.  This is a reread to continue on with the series, I couldn’t remember much of my first read.  When rereading I always leave my rating the same as my initial read but I’m not sure why I rated this 5/5?  If I were to rate again I wouldn’t go over a four.  The MC had so much anger and we were left in the dark for so long that I just didn’t see the magic so to speak again.  4/5

Tales from the Hinterland by Melissa Albert – Book 2.5 in The Hazel Wood series.  This is the series of fairy tales that the other books are based on.  These were good, but most seemed like there could have been a bit more to the story.  3/5

The Shadows by J.R. Ward – Book 13 of the Black Dagger Brotherhood series.  The best part of starting this book means I’m done with the Fallen Angels series and there is no looking back!  I can guarantee if I ever reread this series again that it will be left out.  I’m torn with this series now.  Do I still love the characters?  Absolutely, but the way they talk is a bit ridiculous and I’m not sure if the newer books have grown at all (this book came out in 2005) but I hope they have.  The amount of toxic talk is starting to be upsetting.  Also I miss the books being about one set of characters.  From what I can see storyline wise we had three lone characters, one sibling set,and about four couples.  This count is off the top of my head so it could very well be more and I’m forgetting something.  We jump so much that even though one “couple” is supposed to be the main focus I feel like if they get more page time it is only about 5-10 %.  Also, the outcome on this one left a lot to be desired.  3/5

The Story of Son by J.R. Ward – Book 13.5 (novella) of the Black Dagger Brotherhood series.  After the last book and the mediocre ending I was a little gun shy on continuing thinking I needed a little break.  There are more characters we’ve seen for awhile now that haven’t had their story or a revisit yet but we get a new character in Book 13 and they are the next book?  It’s technically a spin off series but I’m still a little salty.  Am I going to read either way?  Absolutely.  This was a novella, I want to say it was cute but kidnapping and imprisonment aren’t exactly happy events.  It involves two characters we’ve never seen.  Though in Caldwell there is no crossover.  I felt bad for the MCs but I’d have liked for the male MC to have met the brotherhood, or even a vampire that knows them, just to let you know that he will find others like him.  3/5

Stranger Things:  The Other Side by Jody Houser – I decided I’m going to start reading the Stranger Things graphic novels and books set between seasons or as alternate POVs of aired shows. to get more backstory and fuel for my season five theories, LOL.  This was a quick and interesting look at what Will experienced on his side in season one while everyone was looking for him.  If you like the show I think you will like these as well.  3/5

Stranger Things:  Six by Jody Houser – Honestly?  It was a bit boring but it was really small so it read very quickly.  This is about one of the other kids in the program with Eleven, though it doesn’t quite have the same feel. 3/5

Heartstopper Volume 4 by Alice Oseman – I was excited to pick this one up, the guys are fully a couple now and the new school year is getting started.  I really liked this one.  We didn’t just have HEA in this we saw a couple try to support one another through some difficult conversations with family and experiences with mental health issues.  A great look at a working relationship between two people that love each other and how you can support each other without trying to do the work for them, you should want yourself to get better if there are some issues to resolve.  4/5

Price and Premeditation by Tirzah Price (audio) – I really enjoyed this one! This is more the vibe of what I thought The Murder of Mr Wickham would be but didn’t get.  I think focusing on one book probably helped, it was a fun take on how to incorporate the murder mystery.  There were a few classic lines that stood out and I felt were done right, Lizzy though – SIGH – she was a little too much at times.  I look forward to the next Sense and Second-Degree Murder.  3/5

This wasn’t a great reading month, work has picked up which means I’m more tired than normal when I get home.  I did watch most of the Umbrella Academy though!  What are you reading?

Mini Reviews – June Wrap Up

Mythos by Stephen Fry (audio) –  I’ve always had a fascination about Greek myths so this was something I definitely wanted to check out.  While I can guarantee that I will not remember half of the stories (there was some serious crossover between partners) it was still a great book to listen to – Stephen is a great narrator.  The older I get the more I realize how horrible they were and that the people shown as heroes are really villains. 3/5

Immortal by J.R. Ward –  This is the last installment of the Fallen Angels series (though ANOTHER series starts to mix in with BDB moving forward).  I dragged my feet on this one.  I had to renew it FIVE TIMES at the library because I just knew I wasn’t going to like where it went.  As I said for the last book in the series I read – the story line has really gone off the rails and I’m not a fan and I don’t know what else to say it was clear grooming talk.  You cannot call someone a kid or girl for three books and then try to say she is a woman now.  She is the same age and I found this disturbing. The only reason I picked this up was because it was the last book in the series and obviously even then I struggled to get going.  It took almost 200 pages just to vaguely hint at who was the next soul to save, roughly half of the book so it was a slow start at that. Overall though?  This book was better than the last, but not by much.  A decent ending and a part of the ending leads me to believe we will see a couple characters again.  3/5

The Beast by Katee Robert – Book four in the Wicked Villains series. I really don’t know what to say about these books anymore – this one is Beauty and the Beast. . . and Gaston (Gaeton in the book).  They are very entertaining and I will definitely keep reading more of her books.  3/5

The Wedding:  The Beast Bonus Short by Katee Robert – Again I’m amazed at how much Ms Robert fits into her shorts. 3/5

Sparring:  The Beast Bonus Short by Katee Robert – A short for the guys along with some information about another series. . .  3/5

Seven Minutes in Heaven:  The Beast Bonus Short by Katee Robert – A quick visit with an old friend, LOL. 3/5

When a Scot Ties the Knot by Tessa Dare – Book three in Castles Ever After.  This is the book that I saw on tiktok that motivated me to pick up this series as well as Spindle Cove since the next book is a crossover between the two series.  Hands down my favorite so far.  No real issue outside of their personal ones, no evil villain if you will.  This made me realize how much I miss Highland regency romance books.  I’ll definitely have to pick up more soon.  I think it is safe to say I’ll be reading more books by Ms Dare in the future.  4/5

Good Omens by Neil Gaiman & Terry Pratchett (audio) – I bought a copy of this one forever ago but when I saw an audio version read by David Tennant and Michel Sheen (with a full cast) I knew I had to get it.  It moved quickly, much more upbeat for what I thought considering the plot, LOL.  I wasn’t blown away but it was fun.  I can definitely see this being a great show though so I’m looking forward to starting it soon.  4/5

The Duke and I by Julia Quinn (audio) – Book one of the Bridgerton series. I’m doing a reread via audio because I’ve been talking to friends about them and a lot of details are fuzzy for me. I liked listening and picturing the actors this time.  It helps me see the characters more fully in my head.  3/5

The Duke and I:  Second Epilogue  by Julia Quinn (audio) – Reread, I really do love most of these added epilogues.  I really hope we get another generation of Bridgertons soon. 3/5

The Viscount Who Loved Me by Julia Quinn (audio) –  I have to say though I don’t care for some of the voices given to the men (just seems off) I’m really liking my revisit into the family.  There is more Colin interaction in the books and overall I think I like the stories a little more in the book world.  Anthony and Kate banter is a 10/10.  It helped that I got to see Kate and Edwina back as they should, not loving the same man.  3/5

The Viscount Who Loved Me: Second Epilogue by Julia Quinn (audio) – I really do love pall mall.  Long live the mallet of death! 4/5

Miss Butterworth and the Mad Baron by Julia Quinn – Anyone who has read the Bridgerton series knows about these books within the books.  Though a graphic novel I still found it charming, and what a lovely tribute to Tessa’s sister who worked with her on it before her death.  4/5

An Offer from a Gentleman by Julia Quinn (audio) – Book three of the Bridgerton series and one of my least favorite of the series.  I’d split them as the top four (not in order) being Anthony, Daphne, Colin, and Francesca with the bottom four Benedict, Elosie, Hyacinth, and Gregory (these in order). Show Benedict is so much better than book Benedict, there just isn’t a better explanation.  I have hopes they can change enough for me to like when his story comes about.  I’ve had many discussions with book friends about possibly his story being swapped entirely with Eloise, I think though based on Colin and Penelope getting bumped up he might get pushed back to season five and Eloise would be season four?  I’ll guess we will have to see!  3/5

An Offer from a Gentleman: Second Epilogue by Julia Quinn (audio) – Book three’s second epilogue.  Now when I tell you Benedict’s book isn’t my favorite but this epilogue?  Probably my favorite of the entire series.  I adore Posey and her (quick) love story.  I truly hope that regardless of what happens with Benedict’s story that Posey still is a part in some way.  Timelines aren’t set in stone so I don’t see why we can’t see Posey and get her HEA.  5/5

To Sir Phillip, with Love by Julia Quinn (audio) – Book five of the Bridgerton series. 3/5

To Sir Phillip, with Love:  Second Epilogue by Julia Quinn (audio) – Book five’s second epilogue.   4/5

The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan – Book one is the Percy Jackson & the Olympians series. With all the talk of the new Disney+ series I wanted to reread these to remind myself where I left off.  I only read part of the next two series so rereading everything also helps me continue and get through all of them, and boy are there a lot.  Though I didn’t remember all of the details it was fun to go back and see how much the movies originally missed.  5/5

The Lightning Thief (graphic novel) by Rick Riordan – Since these are basically the same as the original story I’m just going to do ratings for the remainder below but honestly they were just ok.  They did change the story some, mostly not for the better, and I don’t like the fact that someone who may not be able to get through a full traditional book wouldn’t get the same story overall.  3/5

The Sea of Monsters by Rick Riordan – Book two in the Percy Jackson & the Olympians series.  Man, I flew through the first two books!  Though I started book one late the night before I read almost the entirety of it and book two in one day.  These books are just fun adventures that show mythology in a way that is easier to understand for kids and adults alike.  5/5

The Sea of Monsters (graphic novel) by Rick Riordan – 3/5

The Titan’s Curse by Rick Riordan – Book three is in Percy Jackson & the Olympians series.  It’s fun rereading these, I forgot so much.  There is less interaction between Annabeth and Percy that I can remember though.  5/5

The Titan’s Curse (graphic novel) by Rick Riordan – 3/5

The Battle of the Labyrinth by Rick Riordan – Book four in the Percy Jackson & the Olympians series.  Rereading these, knowing more about mythology it’s hard to justify how “cool” the idea of demigods are because it is a lot of cheating and I’m not a fan.  The story was great, I love Backjack! 5/5

The Battle of the Labyrinth (graphic novel) by Rick Riordan – 3/5

The Last Olympian by Rick Riordan – Book five of the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series.  This finishes my reread of the first series.  I only have a couple more books in this world that I’ve read so it won’t be long till it is all new to me.  I really liked these, like I said with the others – I forgot a lot of the details but I’m excited to move on to other series and check back on these guys later. 5/5

The Last Olympian (graphic novel) by Rick Riordan – 3/5

The Scandalous, Dissolute, No-Good Mr. Wright by Tessa Dare – A quick and absolutely adorable novella about two people who meet several times over the course of a few years.  4/5

Fangirl Volume 2:  The Manga by Rainbow Rowell and Sam Maggs – book two in the manga series of Fangirl.  I really loved it, I mean it’s a story I already know, but where it left off broke my heart.  5/5

The Office BFFs: Tales of The Office from Two Best Friends Who Were There by Jenna Fischer & Angelia Kinsey – While a fun listen the majority of the book was a bit of a repeat from their podcast so if you love to listen to that you will definitely enjoy the book.  They also read it themselves and has several special guests so overall a fun book to listen to and you can’t go wrong if you love The Office 4/5

Romancing Mister Bridgerton by Julia Quinn (audio) – Book four in the Bridgerton series. Penelope is by far my favorite.  I completely empathize with her on not being the one picked, etc and the old maid title.  What bothers me about Colin book wise is that it doesn’t feel quite natural how he falls in love with her but I have high hopes the show will correct this small problem.  I know so many that don’t like this book but I adore Penelope and she would never be at the bottom of my list.  4/5

Romancing Mister Bridgerton:  The Second Epilogue by Julia Quinn (audio) – Book four’s second epilogue.  Cute, makes me think I might like Eloise’s book more this time around.  We shall see.  4/5

By the Book by Jasmine Guillory – Book two in the Meant to Be series; books that are written by different authors and are modern day retellings of Disney fairytales.  BTB is based on Beauty and the Beast, a true classic, one of the OG (for me) of Disney movies that imprinted on the brain.  This is also my first book by the author.  I was excited for this – a fairytale retelling set in publishing? Check!  Overall I did enjoy the story but the cliche references came off too kitschy to me.  I feel like maybe having alternating POVs might have helped, I’d have liked to had some of Beau’s internal monologue.  3/5 

Adult Assembly Required by Abby Waxman – This is a standalone (though I’d argue more companion) book set in the world of Nina Hill so I was excited to read it as we are still dealing with bookstores within books and getting to revisit characters.Imagine my surprise as I started to read and realized Nina isn’t the first book for this world.  I wish I’d have known that – now I need to go back and check out the backlog of books, who knows if this is it.  I’m definitely not reading them in order of events so that is frustrating.  It was very cute and I loved seeing inside everyone’s head but it shifted between characters quickly. Also, we got such a small window of the relationship that I was left wanting to see more of their story.  Maybe there will be another book with more of these characters?  One can hope.  3/5

The Bookish Holidays of Nina Hill byAbby Waxman – A quick novella (set before the above book) following Nina and her new friends and family during the holidays.  Quick and cute.  3/5

Not a bad reading month! I can tell you July isn’t off to a good start though. What you are reading?

Mini Reviews – May Wrap Up

I met my reading goal for the year. I’m happy I’m reading so much again but I’m mad at myself because it has been mainly library books and therefore my shelves are still spilling over onto the floor and other places I can store handfuls. I really need to try and read books I own this month. . . in addition to the library books.

The Path of Daggers by Robert Jordan (audio) – Book eight in the Wheel of Time series.  I don’t think my brain can handle any more names. Halfway in and we have only had two true POVs (there are a few scenes with others but still).  I’m just “over” so to speak on what I think is too much detail on certain things but not enough in other areas.  Also?  I just wanted to hear from Mat and Rand but we got neither until roughly the halfway mark if not longer?  Some of the political aspects are starting to come out -I’m seeing the strategic moves, etc but I’d really like more internal dialogue to know what the character is thinking other than cursing.  Way too many “blood and bloody ashes”. I feel like the majority of this book was just a check in to not forget about certain characters but didn’t really advance the story much but like almost every book a random battle happened in the last couple of chapters.  I don’t remember which books people said were more filler but to push through because the ending is fantastic – I have a feeling this might have been one of them. 3/5

Winter Heart by Robert Jordan (audio) – Book nine in the Wheel of Time series. I think I’m at the point that it feels like I might never get to the end of this series, LOL.  I’m in line at the library for these audios and so far I’ve had at least a week or two between but this is the first time due to holds I started it almost immediately after the last and really could have used the break. In fact I think I might take a bit of time off before requesting the next one because I’m not liking where some of this is going and I may have spoiled a bit while trying to separate names and I’m definitely not happy about what I read. At this point it just feels like everyone thinks they are the leader and know all but not a single one knows everything because they don’t talk and have zero experience even just being an adult let alone leading wars.  This entire series could be cut in half and the point could have still been made.  I almost rated this one even lower but I’m trying to be more open minded that these books were not written recently.  3/5

Below Zero by Ali Hazelwood (audio) – Novella three of the STEM series.  I’m not one to ever knowingly read out of order but my library only has the one for now.  SIGH.  Am I going to read the other two novellas?  Yes.  Was this one great?  Not at all.  3/5

Under One Roof by Ali Hazelwood (audio) – Novella one of the STEM series.  The library got this one after the third (still no #2 at this time) so I’m reading out of order and it is killing me.  I definitely liked this one more than the other, I love a good roommates turned lovers.  4/5

Book Lovers by Emily Henry – GUYS.  The banter in this book is 10/10!  I truly laughed out loud at so many scenes when the MCs interacted.  My favorite of Ms Henry’s books, it was fun that so much of the book was in a smaller town.  The only bit I wish might have been a bit different was the reason behind the issue between sisters.  I feel like it didn’t feel 100 % authentic, like part of the story was missing.  Overall a great read.  4/5

The Duke Undone by Joanna Lowell (audio) –  Book one in the Duke Undone series.  Regency isn’t the best audio choice to me but this is the edition my library had available.  Now don’t get me wrong, I’m really enjoying the regency era books I’ve been reading as of late but the more I read the more I find them completely unbelievable.  I realize they are fiction so by rights they are “made up” but the amount of gently bred women that are for lack of a better word sassy is mind blowing.  The villain in this book made me so angry that I wanted to both stop and push through the book faster because I wanted him to get his due.  Overall a good read, and a wonderfully written villain.  3/5

The Beast of Beswick by Amalie Howard – Book one in the Everleigh Sisters series.  I found an upcoming release but Ms Howard that looked very promising so I wanted to try out another book that is out to see if I’d like her writing style. In short?  I loved it!  It was a quick, fun read with great banter.  I look forward to reading the next book in the series and other titles by the author.  4/5

The Awakening by Nora Roberts – Book one in the The Dragon Heart Legacy series.  I was in the mood for an adult fae book and in my googling came across this series.  I haven’t read Nora Roberts in years but wow, she has written so many books!  How does she have the time?!  I loved that though this was fantasy it still had the feel of a normal fiction story.  Absent parents, trust issues, self confidence, etc while still having an adventure.  I think the ending was done well and I look forward to book two!  4/5

The Murder of Mr. Wickham by Claudia Gray – I read this one with Daphne and a few of the old Selective Collective group in a buddy read. Originally I was very excited for this one ( all of Austen’s characters in one book?!) but it didn’t live up to the expectations I had.  I hated that all the couples who were left with “HEAs” in their books now are all at a distance from each other.  Also, the potential for a romance was there but it had no time to even attempt to develop.  I didn’t need explicit scenes, these are Austen characters after all but give me some hope that something is progressing.  I don’t feel that way about the ending which I’m sure others might. The story just felt silly overall. How many times can Marianne say “sensible”?  I know what book she comes from. 3/5

Part of Your World by Abby Jimenez – This was a no brainer on picking up, I loved all of Abby’s other books and do you follow her on tiktok?  The videos of her pups are the best and I just want to hug them, they are so cute!  In this book there is a pup that is based off of Tess but not exact.  This has a switched May/December romance (well not THAT big but still) that was cute at times but the vibe here was very different than her first series.  Not as many laugh out loud moments but still enjoyable.  I look forward to seeing where the next in the “series” goes.  3/5

A Lady but Midnight by Tessa Dare – Book three in the Spindle Cove series.  The book follows one of the three “main” male leads that we’ve been introduced to so far, Thorne and the Spindle Cove music teacher, Kate.  I don’t know. . .maybe I built this one up in my head more but I wasn’t as great as the first two to me and I had high hopes for Thorne – I love me a broody hero.  I love seeing the other couples pop in though! 3/5

Beauty and the Blacksmith by Tessa Dare – Book 3.5 in the Spindle Cove series.  I think I enjoyed this novella more than the last novel.  I liked that there was no real dilemma, things moved quickly so it was a very quick read.  I’m a sucker for a blue collar man.  3/5

Any Duchess Will Do by Tessa Dare – Book four in the Spindle Cove series.  The heroine is someone from previous books but not someone that was ever highlighted so this almost felt like a seperate book, not part of a series.  Definitely not my favorite, I’d probably rank it last in the series so far but not in the sense that it was a bad book – just that I preferred the other characters more.  3/5

Say Yes to the Marquess by Tessa Dare – Book two in the Castles Ever After series.  Based on the blurb this was the book I was least looking forward to but I was pleasantly surprised.  There was great banter, the heroine was fun, and the og was perfect.  I’m a sucker for pups.  Probably one of the top three of the two series combined. 3/5

Lord Dashwood Missed Out by Tessa Dare – Book 4.5 in the Spindle Cove series.  I liked the story, these novellas sure do pack a lot in, but this really didn’t feel like a part of the series other than some scenes in the town while things happened elsewhere.  From what I remember neither lead is a part of the series before this book so the only SC characters are the additional scenes. It read quickly and I’m happy that I’m almost caught up in another series!  3/5

Buy Yourself the Fucking Lilies by Tara Schuster (audio) – This is one I’ve been looking forward to for awhile now.  I even bought the paperback but as most books go I stack them up.  When I saw the library ordered the audio I knew this was my chance to read it.  This was a quick audio to push through and probably one of the best that gives advice that seems easier than most.  I loved that it was written from the perspective of someone who while privileged (parents, a home, etc) still turned out a little damaged because regardless of your place in life that doesn’t stop you from having issues so it shows that someone that you might think is further along in life doesn’t have it together either so where you are at is perfectly normal and it is ok to focus on yourself.  It was great to see someone who had a loving family that insulted you constantly about your body because though I loved both of my grandmothers they were not kind.  A lot of the information is repetitive and I’ve seen it in other self-help books but still enjoyable.  3/5

Ten Steps to Nanette: A Memoir Situation (audio) – I loved the Nanette special so I was looking forward to this one but it fell flat for me.  The stories felt like we picked up in the middle of them and left before any of them ended.  I 100% understand not wanting to get into your past traumas in a book but when the point of the book is how you got to the point of the “breakthrough” I think that makes them relevant or at least the stories told should have been more complete. 3/5

Seek You by Kristen Radtke – I saw this one on tiktok and decided to pick it up.  It was informative but I wasn’t blown away.  In the age of COVID it’s a good read though.  3/5

Unmasked:  My Life Solving America’s Cold Cases by Paul Holes (audio) – Though I purchased a physical copy I borrowed the audio from the library as Paul read the book himself.  I love Paul, I’ve loved him as part of My Favorite Murder and, his TV show about cold cases, and his own podcast with Billy Jensen but this was a rough read for me.  I think Paul definitely shows you behind the curtain so to speak on his life and how his obsession in solving crimes hurt so many of his friends and family.  Do not go into this thinking it is just about how he helped crack the Golden State Killer case, you’ve been warned.  3/5

The Deal of a Lifetime by Fredrik Backman – I’m slowly going back and reading all of Mr Backman’s books, I truly have enjoyed them all so far and I don’t think I can go wrong with any of them.  This was my least favorite so far, but short – just a novella length and about a very sad topic.  This is a trigger warning story of loss. 3/5

How about you? What did you read this month?

Mini Reviews – April Wrap Up

Let’s see. . .I’m still not ready to set new goals.  If you read last month’s post I was in a wreck and I still do not have my car so there is a lot going on right now but I’m stuck at home more so my reading is increasing dramatically for the time being.    As of right now due to part shortages I won’t get it back till at least June so I’m curious how my May reading will be.   In A New York Minute by Kate Spencer – This almost made the March wrap up but I finished the last 30 pages or so on April 1st.  This read fairly quickly and was a lovely rom com.  No huge drama to get through, though there were moments of misunderstanding and fear. I’m still waiting for my own meet cute.  A must read for all romance readers.  4/5 A Crown of Swords by Robert Jordan (audio) – Book seven in the Wheel of Time series.  What is up with these massive prologues?  On top of that I don’t understand fully.  The prologue picked up directly from the end of the last book but then 7-9 chapters in we are still at events that took place before the battle with other characters.  It feels very much out of order but the action was there from page one.  I didn’t find the start slow like I have for this series in the past but it is the same issue as always – the women think the men are stupid and know nothing and the men know more than the women but don’t say anything.  These are still obviously women written by a man.  3/5 The Night Shift by Alex Finlay (audio) – This isn’t something I probably would have discovered on my own, I saw it listed on a blogger’s upcoming books to watch for (I’m sorry fellow blogger!  I don’t remember where I read it.)  While this would be a thriller – something I wish I read more of – it gave off a slight true crime vibe to me based on the cases as I listened to a podcast about something vaguely similar.  I did find out halfway through the book there is a character from this book that was in the author’s last book so I’m going to have to go back and read that one.  This one kept me engaged and it honestly surprised me more than once but I did get the BIG reveal correct. But the ending?  A bit of a let down.  3/5 Miss Lattimore’s Letter by Suzanne Allain (audio) – Overall a very cute, clean regency but I think I can safely say I need to read these moving forward.  I don’t know if it was the narrator or the language but I fold myself backing up to relisten to pieces frequently.  I liked this one enough that I will pick up her book that is being made into a movie, Mr. Malcolm’s List. 3/5 Desperate Measures by Katee Robert (audio) – Book one in the Wicked Villains series in which you have Jasmine hooking up with Jafar – Ali (Aladdin) is the OTHER bad guy (since Jafar is also one IMO).  Wow.  This was much more descriptive than the Dark Olympus series.  It’s a bit hard to wrap my head around the villains getting the leads and slightly weird to listen to, I think I’ll have to go back to reading with the next book.  I think I like this more than the DO books – I can’t describe the feeling it gave off.  Sexy Nostalgia? IDK. 4/5 Meg’s Apology: A Desperate Measures Bonus Short by Katee Robert: You wouldn’t think something so short would have anything too NSFW would you?  Katee Robert is the equivalent of hold my beer, LOL.  Quick and very fun for the characters. 3/5 Jasmine’s Winter Solstice:  A Desperate Measures Bonus Short by Katee Robert:  These bonus stories didn’t come to play!  Or I guess they did?  HAHA. I see a character from another series was mentioned here, Abel from the Sabine Valley series. Another series I can’t wait to read as it’s Seven Brides for Seven Brothers and boy did I love that old movie.  I think this version might not be as innocent though?  LOL   3/5 Learn My Lesson by Katee Robert – Book two in the Wicked Villains series, this follows Hades (not the Hades of Neon Gods but read Hades and Hades and you will understand) Meg and Hercules.  I’m definitely liking this series more than the other still.  I read this in a day and I’m definitely looking forward to more of these stories.  There isn’t a huge plot in them but I’m not looking for a murder mystery when reading these.  4/5 Going Public Part 1-2 by Katee Robert:  Seriously.  These shorts are crazy.  This is listed as Going Public in the shorts but this is Meg’s Punishment and Hercules Cross.  3/5 A Worthy Opponent by Katee Robert – Book three in the Wicked Villains series.  This one follows Tink/Hook/Peter.  Peter is the “bad” guy in this story – Tink made a deal with Hades to escape but now the deal is up and there is a new plan. I enjoyed the book but I guess I’d say my only issue is believing that these characters are falling in love so quickly when they barely talk as they are otherwise occupied quite a bit.  I mean there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that but these books would have to be double the size to give a backstory worth investing in.  Will I continue with the series?  Absolutely.  3/5 Tink’s Punishment:  A Worthy Opponent Short by Katee Robert:  Drinks with the girls turns into a free show.  3/5 A Night to Surrender by Tessa Dare – Books one in the Spindle Cove series. This is my first book by Ms Dare, I saw a book mentioned on Tiktok from her series Castles Ever After that I wanted to read but found out it was book three in that series and that it had a crossover book with this one so hello 11 story (?) commitment.  This book reads very quickly and I think the idea of a regency town for women that don’t quite fit society’s mold is a great series idea.  If book one is an indication I’m very much looking forward to the rest of the series.  I’d call this a steamy book but not a spicy book.  3/5 Once Upon a Winter’s Eve by Tessa Dare – Technically book 1.5 of the Spindle Cove series.  This is a novella (a little over 100 pages) so it reads quickly. Cute, amazing how much was fit into a novella. 3/5 Romancing the Duke by Tessa Dare – Book one in the Castles Ever After series. While I enjoyed this book it didn’t quite live up to the first in the Spindle Cove series.  I think the issue was resolved too quickly and mainly off book so it left me wanting a bit more at the end.  Another steamy, not spicy book. 3/5 A Week to Be Wicked by Tess Dare – Book two in the Spindle Cove series.  This follows the hero from book one’s cousin, Colin aka Lord Payne and of course one of the lovely Spindle Cove ladies.  I loved that the town rake goes for the “spinster” nerd of the town.  I love that we see what they each wrote about each other, but not the town scenes.  I understand going back to her family and how they reacted but the couple from the next book started having scenes and I’d have liked Colin and Min to have their own book completely.  My favorite so far. 4/5 The Wicked + The Divine Vol 6:  Imperial Phase Part II – I pushed through the last four of this series to knock it off my TBR.  I didn’t remember everything from where I left off previously but the ending was decent.  I like the author’s adding themselves in for the ending of it all. 3/5 The Wicked + The Divine Vol 7:  Mothering Invention – 3/5 The Wicked + The Divine Vol 8:  Old is the New New – 3/5 The Wicked + The Divine Vol 9:  Okay – 3/5 The Book of Cold Cases by Simone St. James – I definitely like her writing style – her books read quickly and deliver on the story.  There is mystery but also follow through – you get answers.  Give me anything with a true crime podcast/blog plot and I’m in.  In this story I’d have liked a bit more on the possible romance and maybe a flashback to the MC’s trauma to help with understanding her more.  3/5 Daughters of a Dead Empire by Carolyn Tara O’Neil – I got about 100 pages in and DNFed.  I loved the idea around this book but it just read too young to me to continue.  -/5 A Grief Observed by C. S. Lewis (audio) – I’ve read so many books on grief since my mother’s death. Now this book was written as a husband grieving his wife but I think the basis of grief is the same for all losses.  It was interesting but not quite what I thought it would be.  Anyone that has suffered a loss will find something to connect to thought. 3/5 Because of Miss Bridgerton by Julia Quinn – Man I missed the Bridgertons!  Now, this series is about the Rokesbys BUT they are good friends with the Bridgertons (Edmund, our brood’s dad is a sibling at school, age 14-15?) and several are married into the family from the blurbs I’ve read.  I flew through over half in one evening after work so I know I could have read in one sitting if it would have been the weekend.  I don’t think I love these as much as the sibling series but it was nice to see a familiar name pop up.  The story wasn’t overly complicated and generally fun – book one follows the eldest Rokesby sibling George and Edmund’s older sister Billie.  I like that Billie was a bit of a rebel and that her family was for the most part accepting of her more independent nature.  3/5 The Girl with the Make-Believe Husband by Julie Quinn – Book two of the Rokesby sibling series.  This one was definitely more “action packed” so to speak.  Edward Rokesby was a soldier in America that had gone missing and at the end of the first book you find out that he is alive.  Again this read very quickly 3/5 The Other Miss Bridgerton by Julia Quinn – Book three of the Rokesby sibling series.  Back to Bridgertons!  I wonder if they might incorporate this series somehow into the prequel show that Netflix announced?  This is a cousin – her uncle is the Viscount. I must say I do love Andrew.  He definitely gives rake vibes and I loved the banter between the characters.  In all of these books so far I feel like the endings are rushed.  It feels like we get 1-2 chapters and an epilogue for the end to resolve.  I wish it would have been a bit longer in that respect.  Still love these families though!  3/5  First Comes Scandal by Julia Quinn – Book four (and final) of the Rokesby sibling series.  What’s that? Another Bridgerton?  I think this might have been my favorite out of the bunch.  I liked that they grew up together but man their parents were a bit ridiculous at the beginning.  I loved that Nicholas is studying to be a doctor and never discourages Georgiana.  Though they had their hiccups he never talked down to her or didn’t trust her.  3/5 Heartstopper Vol 1 by Alice Oseman – With the upcoming netflix series I wanted to get started on this series ASAP.  I flew through the three volumes that my library currently has and I look forward to the remainder (4 & 5) as soon as they are in.  I can tell this is going to be a great show from the trailer and I look forward to meeting all of the characters on screen. 4/5 Heartstopper Vol 2 by Alice Oseman – 3/5 Heartstopper Vol 3 by Alice Oseman – 4/5 Giant Days Vol 14 by John Allison and Max Sarin – This volume is the end of the series.  While I enjoyed it for the most part I really wish we’d have seen just a bit more of the girls adulting but overall it was a good ending. 3/5 Queen of Nothing by Holly Black – I flew through this book!  This book is the one that makes me wish we had a spin off or at least 1-2 more books left in the series.  If you are on the fence for this series or haven’t finished it yet believe me – it is worth it.  It’s put me in a fairy book mood and now I’m looking at TBR books that are fae related for a possible read.  4/5 How the King of Elfhame Learned to Hate Stories by Holly Black – A book of short stories throughout Cardan’s life including ones that take place after QoN.  A great addition to the series!  4/5 Not a bad month! I’m less than 10 books from my YEAR goal on goodreads.  It’s so nice when you can stay out of slumps and keep flying through books, I’d love to actually make a dent on the TBR and get below, let’s say 700 books by the end of the year.  I’m hovering around 750 right now – it seems that for every one book I read I add two more.  LOL. How was your month? Happy reading!!