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francineh98's Reviews (278)
emotional
funny
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
“Lenny, when I look at your face, I feel like l’m finally home after a really long day at work.”
Absolutely adored Lenny and Miles’ story! It was wonderful to witness their journey through grief, friendship, and love. Cara Bastone did an exceptional job of balancing the heavier themes with moments of humor, it truly encapsulates the nuanced complexity of life’s reality.
I recommend this to readers who want to delve into a story about the intricacies of personal growth, resilience, and human connection!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Cancer, Death, Grief
Moderate: Sexual content
dark
emotional
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I’m torn on how I feel about this one. While I was excited to dive into a story with dragons, magic, and the FMC’s journey to claim her throne, a few things kept it from being a 5-star read for me.
Aemyra, the FMC, had great potential as a fire-wielding badass, but her rash decisions often felt out of character, and it was frustrating to see her constantly falling into traps. Also, the romance could’ve been stronger. There was some spice, but I was hoping for a more emotional connection, which I think was affected by the pacing. The pace was fine for world-building, but the enemies-to-lovers slow burn between Aemyra and Fiorean felt rushed, making it hard to fully feel the tension.
That being said, I still enjoyed the banter and some of the moments between the fmc and mmc, particularly after one of the more heavier scenes toward the end (please check CWs). I also loved the Celtic-inspired setting—learning about the goddesses and the world was a highlight for me. And of course, I can’t forget about the dragons!
Overall, despite the critiques, I was hooked by the political intrigue and can’t wait to see what happens with Aemyra, Fiorean, and the people of Tìr Teine.
What to Expect:
✅ bi rep 🏳️🌈
✅ enemies to lovers
✅ enemies to lovers
✅ elemental magic
✅ dragons 🐉
✅ a bit of 🔪 play
A huge thank you to the author, Random House Publishing Group, and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest and independent review.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child death, Death, Domestic abuse, Misogyny, Sexual content, Sexual violence, Violence, Fire/Fire injury
emotional
funny
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I really enjoyed this book! Katie’s body image struggles and self-love journey were relatable and added depth to her relationship with Hutch. However, my favorite moments by far were the funny and heartfelt interactions between Katie and Hutch’s aunt, Rue, along with the time spent with Hutch’s dog, George Bailey.
That said, I felt like the pacing towards the end seemed off. I also wasn’t a fan of Cole’s character; the drama he created between him and his brother felt forced, and I believe there were better ways to move the plot forward.
I did listen to the audiobook, which kept me engaged all the way through. Patti Murin did a fantastic job bringing the characters to life.
Overall, I recommend The Love Haters to anyone looking for a quick rom-com to read this summer!
What to Expect:
🌺 forced proximity
🌺 0/5 spice
🌺 found family
🌺 lovable doggo 🐶
A huge thank you to the author, Macmillan Audio, and NetGalley for the ALC in exchange for an honest and independent review.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Body shaming, Eating disorder
Moderate: Bullying, Car accident, Death of parent
Minor: Infidelity
adventurous
emotional
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
A Curse So Dark and Lonely by Brigid Kemmerer has truly exceeded my expectations!
I loved that the author portrayed the main character, Harper, as having cerebral palsy (CP). It was a refreshing and empowering choice. You don’t often see a protagonist with a disability in a fantasy novel, and I think it made Harper's character stand out even more.
The romance is definitely a big part of the story, but what really sets it apart is how Harper’s strength shines through and how she connects with the people around her.
Pick this book up if you like:
✅ beauty & the beast retellings
✅ Dual POV
✅ strong FMC
✅ strong FMC
✅ cerebral palsy rep
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Gore, Blood, Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Emotional abuse, Physical abuse, Violence, War
Minor: Cancer, Medical content, Suicide attempt, Death of parent
adventurous
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
After finishing Blood & Steel, I was eager to dive into Vows & Ruins, and while I did enjoy it, there were a few elements that didn't quite hit the mark for me.
The world-building continues to be a highlight of the series. We get a deeper look at the realm and the magical events unfolding, with new insights into the kingdoms surrounding Thezmarr. However, while the expanded world is fascinating, I did feel that some parts were just filler. The plot didn’t truly pick up pace until the final 20%.
I appreciated how the relationship between Althea and Wilder developed, but some of the romantic or “spicy” scenes felt unnecessary. I would have preferred more moments that explored their connection on a deeper emotional level. That said, my favorite interactions were between Thea, Kipp, and Cal—their dynamic is truly a joy. Kipp, in particular, is my favorite character; his humor and obsession with The Laughing Fox tavern add a much-needed lightness to the story.
That ending, omg! Although it was predictable, the author executed it with such skill that it still left my heart aching.
Overall, despite a few drawbacks, I really enjoyed Vows & Ruins and am definitely picking up the next book in the series!
Pick this book up if you like:
✅ Spice
✅ Forbidden love
✅ Found family
✅ Dual POV
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Gore, Sexual content, Violence, Blood, War
Minor: Torture
adventurous
emotional
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Matefinder by Leia Stone follows Aurora, a newly turned werewolf, as she navigates pack life, confronts her past, and avoid those seeking to exploit her unique power.
The plot is engaging and kept me hooked, but I found some aspects lacking. There were moments when the pacing felt off, with too many events happening at once, especially toward the end. The characters also lacked depth, and while the pack’s ranking system and the way mates find each other was fascinating, I couldn’t help but wish we had more insight into the supporting characters. Since this is the start of a series, I’m hopeful that these gaps will be filled in later books.
While the writing style didn’t fully resonate with me, I can see how fans of fast-paced paranormal romance with a strong, independent FMC and a protective MMC would enjoy this story. If that’s your thing, I’d definitely recommend giving Matefinder a try. However, I personally won’t be continuing the series at this time.
Pick this book up if you like:
✅ Instalove
✅ Fated mates
✅ Indian culture
✅ No spice
✅ Indian culture
✅ No spice
✅ Werewolves, witches & vampires
Might not be for you if you hate:
❌ 1st person POV
❌ Rushed ending
Content Warnings
Graphic: Domestic abuse, Infertility, Violence, Blood, Murder
Moderate: Child abuse, Child death, Physical abuse
Minor: Alcoholism, Cancer, Torture, Pregnancy
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I’m so frustrated it took me this long to discover McFadden’s work!
In The Boyfriend, we follow Sydney, who has been struggling with online dating but finally meets someone who seems perfect. However, as murders begin to unfold around the city, she starts questioning everything.
Initially, it took me a little while to get into the story, but after a few chapters, I was completely hooked. The unsolved murders, dual timeline, and suspense were executed brilliantly. I kept thinking I had figured out the twist, only for another one to surprise me. My only issue was the main character's shocking disregard for her own safety, though it does shed light on the dangers of online dating.
Victoria Connolly and Adam Blanford did an incredible job with their narration, and they’re a big reason why I kept listening. I’ll definitely be on the lookout for more of their work!
I highly recommend this book, especially the audiobook, to anyone looking for a story that keeps you guessing until the very end.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Gore, Blood, Stalking, Murder, Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Alcoholism, Physical abuse, Sexual harassment
Minor: Animal death, Torture
