Queen of Roses by Briar Boleyn My rating: 5 of 5 stars Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of Queen of Roses in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The Gist Queen of Roses by Briar Boleyn is a captivating fantasy novel that weaves together elements of romance, intrigue, and magic to create a compelling story that will enchant readers from beginning to end. The Details Set in a lush and vibrant world, Queen of Roses follows the journey of its resilient protagonist, Rose, as she navigates the treacherous politics of court life while uncovering the secrets of her…
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Secrets Never Die
Secrets Never Die by Vincent Ralph My rating: 2 of 5 stars Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of Secrets Never Die in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The Gist Secrets Never Die by Vincent Ralph is a lackluster thriller that fails to deliver on its promise of suspense and intrigue. The Details One of the main issues with the novel is its predictable plot. From the outset, the twists and turns of the story feel telegraphed, robbing the narrative of any real tension or surprise. Instead of keeping readers guessing, Secrets Never Die follows a formulaic path,…
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The Goblins of Bellwater
The Goblins of Bellwater by Molly Ringle My rating: 3 of 5 stars Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of The Goblins of Bellwater in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The Gist While The Goblins of Bellwater by Molly Ringle has its merits, it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, earning it a 3-star review. The Details One aspect that may contribute to a middling rating is the predictable nature of the plot. The storyline, while engaging, follows some well-trodden paths in the fantasy romance genre. Readers who are familiar with common tropes in these types of…
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Three Kisses, One Midnight
Three Kisses, One Midnight by Roshani Chokshi, Sandhya Menon, and Evelyn Skye My rating: 3 of 5 stars Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of Three Kisses, One Midnight in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The Gist Three Kisses, One Midnight by Chockshi, Menon, and Skye is a whimsical journey into a world of enchantment and romance. While the novel offers moments of magic and charm, it falls short of achieving a perfect spellbinding experience, earning a modest three-star rating. The Details The plot revolves around the protagonist, whose destiny is intertwined with three magical kisses beneath the…
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The Sunken City
The Sunken City by Emma V.R. Noyes My rating: 4 of 5 stars Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of The Sunken City in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The Gist The Sunken City by Emma V.R. Noyes is a spellbinding journey into the depths of imagination, where an ancient city and its secrets come to life beneath the waves. Noyes crafts a fantastical tale that seamlessly blends magic, mystery, and adventure, creating an enthralling reading experience. The Details The narrative unfolds as the main character with a thirst for discovery, embarks on a quest to unravel the…
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These Feathered Flames
These Feathered Flames by Alexandra Overy My rating: 4 of 5 stars Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of These Feathered Flames in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The Gist These Feathered Flames invites readers into a lush and magical world where elemental powers and complex relationships take center stage. This young adult fantasy weaves together themes of duty, sisterhood, and the enduring power of self-discovery. The Details The novel introduces readers to twin sisters, Asya and Izaveta, who possess opposing elemental abilities—fire and ice. Overy deftly explores the dynamics of their relationship, creating characters with depth and…
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Brief Chronicle of Another Stupid Heartbreak
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of Brief Chronicle of Another Stupid Heartbreak in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The Gist Adi Alsaid’s Brief Chronicle of Another Stupid Heartbreak is a competent entry into the realm of young adult contemporary fiction. The novel explores the familiar terrain of teenage love and heartbreak with a mix of humor and genuine emotion. The Details The protagonist is a relatable character with authentic struggles and growth throughout the story. Alsaid skillfully captures the rollercoaster of emotions that come with navigating relationships in adolescence. The writing is straightforward and engaging, making it…
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The Cold is in Her Bones
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of The Cold Is in Her Bones in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The Gist The Cold Is in Her Bones by Peternelle van Arsdale is a solid addition to the young adult fantasy genre. The novel, while engaging, falls into the familiar territory of fairy tale retellings and coming-of-age stories. With a foundation rooted in classic themes of curses, folklore, and self-discovery, the narrative builds a world that is both enchanting and ominous. The Details The characters are well-crafted, and the author successfully explores themes of isolation and the consequences of…
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Jinxed
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of Jinxed in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The Gist Jinxed by Thommy Hutson is a spine-chilling thriller that expertly weaves together elements of suspense, supernatural horror, and psychological tension. Hutson masterfully crafts a narrative that is engaging, with each chapter unveiling new layers of mystery and dread. The Details The strength of the novel lies in Hutson’s ability to create a palpable atmosphere of unease. The town becomes a character in itself, its secrets and malevolent history casting a pervasive sense of foreboding. The author skillfully explores the psychological toll on…
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The Dark Beneath the Ice
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of The Dark Beneath the Ice in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The Gist The Dark Beneath the Ice is a gripping and atmospheric journey into the unknown, skillfully blending elements of the supernatural with the challenges of adolescence. Amelinda Bérubé weaves a narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, balancing the eerie with the emotional intricacies of the protagonist’s journey. The Details Bérubé’s writing is atmospheric and evocative, immersing readers in the chilling world that the protagonist inhabits. The exploration of mental health themes is woven seamlessly into…
