bookish_selkie's Reviews (2.14k)

Girls with Bad Reputations is the second book in The Lillys series. Kayla is a drummer in The Lillys, yet she has always been told that she needs to be quieter to fit in. As the band becomes more well known, she must decide whether she is comfortable with the additional publicity. Luckily, tour bus driver Ty is a sweet and calm  presence in the chaos of touring. The band goes through its share of challenges, including ex-bandmates and media drama. Is Kayla ready to choose the music world over everything? 

While this series was new to me, it was very easy to become quickly invested. I loved how both Ty and Kayla never conformed to expectations and instead found ways to authentically be themselves. I enjoyed the way they used books and music to connect. I also loved Ty’s relationship with his grandpa and the important caretaking conversations they had. Kayla also has difficult conversations with her mom. Kayla has become someone other than who her mother envisioned her to be and wonders if she will still be accepted for who she is. 

In Girls with Bad Reputations, Kayla gains confidence and belief in herself as a musician. She truly comes into her own! Her relationship with Ty is sweet and realistic. I loved their scenes together! The other members of The Lillys are charismatic and engaging. I can’t wait to see where Kayla and the Lillys go next! 

Readers who enjoy the power of music, characters coming into their own, and strong ensemble casts will love Girls With Bad Reputations. 

Thank you to Xio Axelrod, Sourcebooks Casablanca, and Netgalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review. 

Blood Justice is the incredible sequel to Blood Debts! In Blood Justice, the rich magic system and complicated politics are expanded on even more. There is a strong focus on the importance of justice and characters must fight to dismantle systemic racism. One of my favorite parts was the character growth from Cristina, Clement, and Valentina. One character’s descent into a more morally gray character as she deals with injustice was masterfully executed. Cris and Clem have an excellent relationship, but are still keeping secrets from each other that are bound to come out.

In Blood Justice, the characters deal with themes of grief and the many ways that it can manifest. I loved the found family and LGBTQ+ rep. Blood Justice is a compelling sequel that promises additional magical stories to come. Readers who enjoy Liselle Sambury (Blood Like Magic), fantastic LGBTQ+ rep, and spellbinding magic will love this book. I would highly recommend this series to anyone. I can’t wait to see what happens next! 

Thank you to Terry J. Benton-Walker, Tor Teen, and Netgalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.