endless_tbr_list's Reviews (537)

I absolutely love Hannah Bonam-Young's dedication to exploring meaningful topics in her books. Yes, they're romances, and yes, they discuss identity, self-worth, and the natural evolution of partnerships because *those are all important parts of being in a relationship.* After seeing them be such wonderful friends in Out on a Limb, I was so excited to see that Sarah and Caleb would be getting their own book in Out of the Woods, and it did not disappoint! 

Although filled with it's fair share of laughter and spice, this novel also had plenty of serious moments that not only highlighted personal growth in the characters, but showed the true strength of Sarah and Caleb relationship. Watching them stumble their way through forest hikes, struggle with change and vulnerability, and yet still be there for one another without any hesitation - they're a couple you simply can't help but to root for. For those that might be feeling a bit stagnant in life, or are anxious about change in a relationship, or are just looking for a heartwarming romance, I cannot recommend this book enough. Bonam-Young truly works magic with words.

Thank you to Random House Publishing, Dell, and NetGalley for the digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Sai, is the quiet and dutiful son of a teahouse owner who is blessed with the ability to see the red strings that tie Fated Ones together. Though his own string is grey and frayed, Sai has been able to use his gift to help others which in turn has provided him enough coins to purchase a forbidden cure for his mother's illness. But when both his secret and the smuggled medicine come to the attention of the kingdom's emperor, Sai finds himself forced into service for his ruler and tasked with catching a beast of myth - a dragon. 

Fated love can be such a heartwrenching and beautiful approach to a romance tale, and Kwan does a lovely job with this one. Although I would have liked the book to be a bit longer to allow for more of a build, I do think the story still felt complete in the end. Sai is an interesting character and the perfect point of view for this story, and I loved the bits of myth that were woven throughout. Overall, The Last Dragon of the East is a fast-paced tale of love and loss with some wonderful world-building. 

Thank you to Saga Press and NetGalley for the digital ARC in exchange for an honest review. 

As a definite 'weenie' when it comes to horror on film, I cannot express how much I love that this book exists! Filled with plot summaries, discussions of historical significance, and party talking points, this novel is a pretty substantive crash course on 25 of the most important horror movies in history. There's spoilers abound, but that's what makes it perfect - readers get a rundown on the horrific stories, learning about every plot twist and jump scare, without needing to actually watch a second of the film. Emily C. Hughes' wonderfully amusing writing, paired with Cassidy Brown's delightful narration, helps to take away most, if not all, fear one might experience listening to these summaries. For fellow horror *readers* like myself, each chapter ends with a list of suggested books that cover similar or related topics to the previously discussed movie, which is such a thoughtful touch. Horror can certainly be a divisive genre, so I really appreciate Hughes' efforts to share their love for the gruesome and terrifying via literature as well as film. 

To wrap up and avoid any possible spoilers I'll just finish by saying, if you're not in the mood to attempt another (likely doomed) horror movie night, but still want to know what happens in the Exorcist or the Blair Witch Project, then this just might be the book for you! It's fun, it's funny, and it's informative - what more could you ask for!

Thank you to Tantor Audio and NetGalley for the audio ARC in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are my own. 

Meadowbrook has been many things throughout the years, a hotel, a psychiatric facility, even a casino, but no matter what it's called or how it's styled, the truth cannot remain hidden for long.

The disorienting sense of jumping time with each chapter - or even within a chapter - added a wonderfully unsettling feeling to the story, and worked perfectly to build suspense while also giving hints about Meadowbrook's purpose throughout the years. Filled with both charred ruins and opulent lobbies, darkened staircases and ornate fountains, this labyrinthine building is the embodiment of a liminal space. Eerie, surreal, and a character all in itself.

When it came to the end of the book I honestly wished it would have continued, if only to delve further into the side characters. There were a handful of loose threads I'd have loved to pull on to learn a bit more about the time-hopping and it's rules. Yet perhaps that's part of the joy of a horror novel like this, you don't get all of the answers, which means there's always a bit of mystery that survives and keeps you thinking.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you to Cassandra L. Thompson, Quill & Crow Publishing House, and Book Sirens.