booksthrilljessica's Reviews (537)

*Thank you to Brilynn O’Neal, Regenerative Lives and Netgalley for the ARC copy. I am freely leaving my honest review.

This book grabbed my heart from the very first page. If you’re a fan of ACOTAR and enjoy rich folklore, then this one is definitely a must-read. The chemistry between Leena and Bratan was both intense and heartwarming, making their dynamic so captivating. I found myself unable to put the book down and was sad to see it end. While the romance is more closed door, Nelson places a strong emphasis on plot and character development. I only wish we had gotten to explore more of Bratan’s world and the mysteries surrounding his past.

I thoroughly enjoyed the journey this book took me on. It’s a gripping blend of Misery and No Exit, as McFadden immerses readers into the life of a pregnant and aspiring nurse who is down on her luck. When Tegan uncovers horrific memories from the night she became pregnant she finds herself ensnared in a series of dangerous situations. Some of her own making, while others are thrust upon her without warning. The suspense had me hooked, and I eagerly anticipated the signature twist Frieda is known for. Although the ending felt a bit rushed and made no great shakes, it still kept me wondering what would happen right until the very last page.

This book is packed with suspense and intrigue, capturing the addictive vibe of a well-crafted podcast. As someone who binge-listens to true crime podcasts, I absolutely loved how this novel was inspired by a popular show, delivering just as much of that page-turning energy. I could not put this book down reading it in one day. Wilson does a fantastic job creating a morally complex female protagonist—someone who feels incredibly relatable but also holds that unpredictable, even unhinged side we all secretly wish we could unleash. I thought I had the ending all figured out, but I was pleasantly shocked by the twist! This book was exactly what I needed to break my reading slump!

*Thank you to Carter Wilson, Poisoned Pen Press and Netgalley for the ARC copy. I am freely leaving my honest review.

While the premise of this book initially hooked me, it ultimately wasn’t for me. The story felt lacking in plot and was overwhelmed by explicit scenes. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy dark, heavily spicy reads, but I need more substance in the story to feel invested. Unfortunately, I struggled to connect with the characters, and the constant focus on explicit moments left me completely lost as to what the actual story was about. However, if you're looking for a quick read that's all about the spice, then this book will definitely hit the mark.

When four renowned writers step into Finch House in search of inspiration for their next books, none of them are ready for the life-altering—and possibly life-threatening—consequences that await them. This novel gave me all the eerie, otherworldly vibes of a Stephen King classic. While some parts did lean more heavily on shock value and the grotesque than I would have preferred, Thomas masterfully pulls readers down a dark rabbit hole of horror and the macabre. As the writers struggle to survive the haunted house’s relentless grip, facing ghostly apparitions and soul-crushing fears, the question lingers: what will become of them?

*Thank you to Scott Thomas and Inkshares. I am freely leaving my honest review.

This book is the perfect blend of mythology and The Hunger Games. I couldn’t stop laughing at the awkward but endearing humor between Alexis and her protective snake, Nys. When Alexis discovers that she has the blood of the Gods, she’s thrust into a high-stakes game of survival at the perilous Spartan War Academy. The book balances spunky, laugh-out-loud humor with heart-pounding, death-defying challenges, taking readers on a thrilling ride that’ll keep you hooked. However, I did struggle with the aspect that despite Alexis’ tough past surviving homelessness and enduring the awful foster care system, she sometimes lacks basic common sense or world awareness. It felt a little odd, especially given her intelligence, that she was often portrayed in such a clueless way. Still, it didn’t take away from the overall fun and excitement! I also really enjoyed the narration, especially the parts featuring Nys.

*Thank you to Jasmine Mas, Harlequin Audio and Netgalley for the ALC copy. I am freely leaving my honest review.

OBSESSED! This book left me breathless and craving more. The chemistry between Verena and Dacre is electric—infuriating yet tingling in all the right ways. I can't get enough of these two characters, caught in a dangerous game of survival against the very people they should be able to trust: their tyrant fathers. I loved how deeply each character had to dig, facing their past wounds and betrayals, to find each other again. The question remains—can they forgive the one who has captured their heart, body, and soul, or will they ultimately be the destruction of each other? With yet another cliffhanger, I’m on the edge of my seat, eagerly awaiting book 3!

This book was captivating from beginning to end. The gradual development of Ailith and Caitriona’s relationship was both heartwarming and endearing. This story follows two characters who, despite their differences, share more in common than they realize and find comfort in each other. Yet, they must not only rely on each other but also discover their own inner strength if they hope to escape a curse and Caitriona’s dangerous father, the King. Though he’s unaware of Caitriona’s secret, she is determined to uncover the truth in order to save her kingdom from her own father’s tyranny. With rich world-building and characters you can’t help but love, I’m already eager to dive into the next book!

*Thank you to Erica Rose Eberhart for the ARC copy. I am freely leaving my honest review.