jaihook's Reviews (389)

This was a fast-paced read with an intriguing premise, but the execution left me frustrated at times. The dual POV kept things moving, though the overlapping perspectives made some sections feel repetitive, almost like I had accidentally reread a chapter. Emily’s overwhelming sense of entitlement was downright infuriating, making her a character I did not like, though it did keep me engaged. Despite its flaws, this is a solid pick for those new to the genre or anyone looking for a quick, suspenseful read in a single sitting.

This was a compelling police procedural that dives into a chilling murder mystery involving a medieval torture device and a web of secrets. DS Karen Hart proves to be a skilled and determined investigator, supported by a strong team, making the unraveling of the case engaging and satisfying. The pacing is spot on, and while I correctly guessed the culprit midway through, the surprise ending still delivered an emotional and satisfying twist. Despite being the 10th book in the series, it works perfectly as a standalone, though it left me intrigued to explore Karen's backstory in earlier installments. Fans of crime thrillers will find this a well-written and entertaining read!

This was a good mm romance with some laugh-out-loud moments, heartfelt emotions, and a pinch of spice. I enjoyed the fake dating and one-bed tropes and the spice delivered. Denz and Bray’s journey from exes to fake boyfriends—and maybe something more—was sweet and had its share of swoon-worthy moments (that "9 and 1" line from Bray? 🫠). 

Denz’s family was a major highlight of the story. The family group chat and the aunties brought humor and energy to the book. The side characters truly shone, sometimes even more than the main couple. Kami’s big moment near the end was a satisfying payoff! 

However, the pacing dragged in the middle, and I found myself skimming chapters to get to the resolution. While Denz and Bray’s chemistry was charming, I felt the story would’ve been more engaging with a dual POV. 

This was my first book by Julian Winters, and overall, it was a solid read. If you love fake dating, second chances, and fun family dynamics, this might be worth checking out! 

Spice rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5 

Overall rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 

Thanks to NetGalley, SMP, and Dreamscape Media for the advance copies of the ebook and audiobook. I ended up preferring the ebook for the quicker pacing! 

This was a fast-paced, gripping domestic thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat. After an accident, Beth wakes up with no memory of the last five years, thinking she’s in Australia with her mom, only to discover she’s in England with a man claiming to be her husband. From the start, her instincts tell her something is wrong, and as she pieces her life back together, the tension and suspense intensify. Some of the twists are unpredictable but I enjoyed the story’s premise. While the abrupt ending left me craving more answers, the journey was thrilling and I’d still recommend it!

Of the now 4 books I’ve read in the series, this one is my least favorite. To me, this was a surface level relationship, not as much depth or conflict as the other stories. 

This was a good and light read with a charming board game theme and delightful friendships, especially between Rose, Sean, and Neema. Rose’s lists and spreadsheets added a relatable touch, and Sean and Neema’s love was a sweet highlight. However, the romance between Rose and William felt surface-level, lacking depth and proper development. William didn’t quite give “book boyfriend” vibes, though he had his moments, like dealing with Rose’s toxic boss. Some unnecessary plotlines, like workplace harassment, distracted from the story’s focus, but the banter and lighthearted tone made this an enjoyable read.