I do not know what I was expecting, but Mona Awad has done it again. She has shown us readers an even more weird book than before. And I think I likedI do not know what I was expecting, but Mona Awad has done it again. She has shown us readers an even more weird book than before. And I think I liked it a lot? Thank you @marysuericcibooks for my advanced gifted copy! Look at this cover!!
In WE LOVE YOU BUNNY, Samantha Mackey—now a celebrated author—is kidnapped by her former MFA frenemies after portraying them unflatteringly in her debut novel. Bound and gagged, Sam becomes the audience as each Bunny recounts their twisted origin story and darkly magical creative powers.
WE LOVE YOU, BUNNY is being said to be a standalone, but it is not. I repeat, you must read Bunny to even get past the first 20% of the book. I was still confused mainly until halfway, but you will be completely lost otherwise. This book had romance, a gay character, and the Bunnies we loved from its predecessor. Both a prequel and sequel to Bunny, this fever-dream slasher is a wicked tale of love, monstrosity, and the horrors of artistic creation. This book is a solid 4 but only because I kept going, because there were definite times I kept scratching my head trying to piece things together. I would say that I liked this book as much as Bunny, so if you enjoyed that one, try WE LOVE YOU, BUNNY. Mona Awad continues to bring unique stories to readers, and we get a full on modern-day, Mean Girls-Heathers-Frankenstein with WE LOVE YOU, BUNNY.
RANKINGS: 1. Rouge 2. Bunny (IF I had to pick between the two, but both 4s) 3. We Love You, Bunny 4. All's Well...more
Tasha Coryell's 2025 novel, MATCHMAKING FOR PSYCHOPATHS, is a genre-bending mix of comedy, romance, horror, and psychological thriller—and I absolutelTasha Coryell's 2025 novel, MATCHMAKING FOR PSYCHOPATHS, is a genre-bending mix of comedy, romance, horror, and psychological thriller—and I absolutely loved it!
Alexandra grew up craving food, safety, and love—needs she’s spent her life trying to fill with a beautiful home, a doctor boyfriend, and a job helping classified psychopaths find love. Alexandra spends her days dreaming of being married to Noah, watching trashy reality tv and envisioning her life play out as a reality show, and loving working at her job in hopes of eventually leading her own division. But when her boyfriend and best friend reveal they’re now a couple (I would have LOST it!)—on her birthday, no less—Alex’s carefully built world shatters. Then her ex turns up dead, and as bodies start piling up, she begins to suspect her new friend might be more dangerous than she seems.
This book is a one sitting read! ALERT, anti-slow burn alert! I know Coryell's debut novel, Love Letters to a Serial Killer had very mixed reviews, but if you don't find MATCHMAKING FOR PSYCHOPATHS entertaining, I don't know what to tell you. This book is perfect for fans of the Real Housewives, spoofs on romance movies or horror movies, and wants to read something unique. This book is a great for readers of Mona Awad or Eliza Jane Brazier as this deviates from the typical thriller genre you've probably read in recent years. As mentioned, I read this in one sitting because it's just so easy to follow along. I knew what was going to play out, but what sets this book apart from others is how fun and immersive you will feel with Alexandra's journey. Have fun with this book and don't take it too seriously. This book will be in my top 10 reads for 2025. Bravo, Tasha Coryell!...more
I knew nothing about Sarah Harman's debut novel, ALL THE OTHER MOTHERS HATE ME, besides that the cover gave camp and the synopsis seemed like it wouldI knew nothing about Sarah Harman's debut novel, ALL THE OTHER MOTHERS HATE ME, besides that the cover gave camp and the synopsis seemed like it would be a fun journey. I am happy to say that this book DELIVERED and then some! This book is witty and campy, with a touch of humor all infused into this original light mystery/thriller novel.
Florence is a former girl band star, who is now broke and an unconventional single mom. Florence is raising her bright, possibly neurodivergent son, Dylan, and trying to not live way too above her means to do so. She navigates life with equal parts chaos and charm. When Dylan becomes linked to the disappearance of Alfie Risby, Florence, alongside her pragmatic and voice-of-reason friend Jenny, embarks on her own investigation. Despite her impulsive nature and questionable decision-making, Florence’s fierce love for her son keeps you rooting for her every step of the way.
With fast pacing, sharp dialogue, and a fresh take on the detective genre, this novel is impossible to put down. The story blends mystery and comedy seamlessly, which immediately had me thinking of Finlay Donovan is Killing It meets Bad Moms. Florence’s antics—balancing motherhood, mystery-solving, and a dream of reclaiming her former stardom—make for an unforgettable ride. Florence was the perfect gay icon and TBH I'd love to be her best friend! This book is hands-down a five-star read and will be in my top reads of 2025. I navigated the book by reading the physical and also listening to the audiobook via @prhaudio and I can honestly recommend both journeys since I loved both avenues! I really have hope that this won't be the last we will see of Florence Grimes.
I love Rachel Harrison's books so much and when I heard about her latest novel, SO THIRSTY, I knew that I wanted to prioritize it as soon as possible.I love Rachel Harrison's books so much and when I heard about her latest novel, SO THIRSTY, I knew that I wanted to prioritize it as soon as possible. Rachel Harrison creates the perfect cocktail of horror, contemporary fiction, feminist-empowering stories I've read in recent years, and and SO THIRSTY is no exception!
The story is centered around Sloane Parker and her friend Naomi. Sloane is about to celebrate her birthday and when her husband Joel surprises her with a weekend getaway with her friend Naomi, Sloane feels a bit concerned that he didn't want to spend it with her. Regardless, Sloane is excited to catch up with her chaos addicted friend and the two spend a weekend away at a nice bed and breakfast while enjoying wine tastings and relaxation. When Naomi plans a night out with Sloane, the two meet a group of people at the bar and are invited to their house for a party, but it quickly takes an unexpected turn. Sloane and Naomi must come to terms with what their new normal will be whether they like it or not.
SO THIRSTY is unique because it's a story about people turning into vampires and coming to accept it. There's so many metaphorical messages within this center of conflict that ring true for different types of things going on within peoples' lives. I found the journey of these new vampires utterly intriguing and also very satirical that I couldn't put it down and finished within two sittings. The is the ultimate testament to a good novel! I did not looooove the ending, as I felt like it ended a bit too early, but overall this book is an amazing installment in Rachel Harrison's rolodex of supernatural modern-day horror reads. If you've read and enjoyed any of this author's previous works, you will hands-down love this one. Rachel Harrison has become an auto-read author for me, so make sure you put this one on your TBR! ...more
I really enjoyed Rufi Thorpe's previous novel, The Knockout Queen, and was excited to get another story from this author. Rufi Thorpe is a one of a kiI really enjoyed Rufi Thorpe's previous novel, The Knockout Queen, and was excited to get another story from this author. Rufi Thorpe is a one of a kind author and her newest book MARGO'S GOT MONEY TROUBLES is just that - unique and one of a kind! The story is centered around Margo Millet and her trying to get by financialy after getting pregnant by her married English professor. She decides to keep the baby and realizes how difficult it is to raise a child at such a young age. She decides to start an OnlyFans account and see if she can make money for her and her child, but when she starts realizing that it's been a total success, she realizes that it comes at a price. This book is darkly hilarious and such a good showcase of how society judges others for doing things to survive in this world financially. I had an absolute blast and it will really help change subconscious bias many readers may have with sex work....more
I don’t actually know how I’ll review this one, because this book is actually over-the-top ridiculous, bonkers, and fun; but ultimately wasn’t for me.I don’t actually know how I’ll review this one, because this book is actually over-the-top ridiculous, bonkers, and fun; but ultimately wasn’t for me. SWAMP STORY involves a group of people living in Florida trying to create their own reality tv show in the Everglades while approaching the wildlife living within the national park. When one of the wannabe reality stars, Michael Slater (Slater) and his partner Jesse team up, Jesse quickly realizes the man she fell for isn’t who she thought he was. Slater is financially draining her and taking money away from her trust that she was saving for their child Willa. Slater teams up with his friend Kark and the group uses Jesse’s money to buy a cabin in the Everglades to start filming. When the group stumbles across treasure, they are excited but then realize that there could be a bounty set upon them. In the mean time, we also have an “Everglades Melon Monster”, Dora the Explorer, a man dressed in an Elsa costume, and the varying degrees of white trash and wealthy setting the stage for the main character of the book, FLORIDA.
This book was fun but really all over the place at the same time. I think readers who enjoy satire and comedy will love this most. I am giving this book a down-the-middle rating because I had fun with it and it served its purpose, but I don’t know if it was a story I actually felt immersed into. Honestly don’t even listen to me because I still don’t actually know what I read and am trying to wrap my head around it all. If you need a fun and satirical read, this is your book! ...more
Steven Rowley is one author who can break me out of my thriller comfort zone and devour a book I probably wouldn't pick up by anyone else. He is just Steven Rowley is one author who can break me out of my thriller comfort zone and devour a book I probably wouldn't pick up by anyone else. He is just such an amazing writer and storyteller, and his newest book THE CELEBRANTS is just another example of how talented Mr. Rowley is. THE CELEBRANTS is a character-driven journey through a decades-long friendship between a solid group of friends, but the two most notable characters, Jordan and his husband Jordy, were my favorites. The synopsis doesn't talk about the characters' journeys, so I will be quiet about how I effin cried by the end of it, and if you read the book, you know what I mean. This book has comedy and drama, is light-hearted and eye-opening, and crushingly sad. How does a book have all those emotions wrapped up in a gorgeous cover? The world may never know.
One thing about this book that I may end up doing moving forward with my own friend group is having "living funerals" as I think that could really benefit us. It's such a unique idea to show your love for the people you care about, albeit a bit morbid, but whatever! For real though, when you get to the end of the book and are done reading it, let's talk about those final chapters. That last "living funeral" legit broke my heart. Ugh, that's it, I can't say more. Steven Rowley, thanks for breaking my thriller binge and writing a book that I will never forget. STARS: 4, PUB: 5/16...more
We all know I'm a stickler when it comes to romance novels and I can really be very critical, but I absolutely loved Sidney Karger's 2023 romantic comWe all know I'm a stickler when it comes to romance novels and I can really be very critical, but I absolutely loved Sidney Karger's 2023 romantic comedy novel BEST MEN. One thing about romantic comedy novels that bugs me is that I feel like it can be hard to differentiate between them (but I read thrillers like legit everyday so I am a hypocrite saying this), but Karger's debut really is a complete stand out. It will be a go-to recommendation for me when it comes to MM romantic comedies.
Max Moody, our protagonist, lives in New York City and works in HR. When he's not working, he spends his time eating at Waverly diner with his best friend Paige and trying to restart the spark with his ex-boyfriend Greg. Paige and Max grew up in Chicago together and have been inseparable since childhood. When Paige tells Max that she's engaged to her handsome and wealthy boyfriend Austin, Max's dreams of marital bliss comes crashing down into his mind. He always wanted that, but with Greg wanting NSA fun (no-strings attached) after many years of being monogamous, Max's wish becomes a pipe dream. However, things become a bit more complicated after Max is introduced to Austin's younger brother, Chasten, who looks so familiar. As the group plans the wedding, Max realizes that dealing with Chasten will be harder than he thought.
This book is so funny! I actually want to call it a comedy-romance because Karger's wit shines through the pages. No surprise to find out that the author is a writer/director/producer and has worked for Saturday Night Live and Comedy Central. The book is laugh out loud funny, with both a romantic edge that I haven't seen in a romance novel yet. BEST MEN also does an impeccable job highlighting New York City as its own character. The author got every single hotspot, location, and atmospheric element to this city I call home perfectly. If you are a hopeless romantic, want a hilarious MM romantic comedy, love NYC or always wanted to feel the energy of it, BEST MEN is the book for you! ...more
Hands down my favorite of Rachel Harrison's works. SUCH SHARP TEETH (via audio) is a perfect horromedy (horror/comedy) for those who need something fuHands down my favorite of Rachel Harrison's works. SUCH SHARP TEETH (via audio) is a perfect horromedy (horror/comedy) for those who need something fun while being stressed with life and work. I couldn't get enough of how ridiculously fun this audiobook was and I highly recommend you picking it up when needing a break from real life....more
I still can’t believe this was a debut novel! Claudia Lux needs to be writing books for the rest of her life because if she can write such a fun novelI still can’t believe this was a debut novel! Claudia Lux needs to be writing books for the rest of her life because if she can write such a fun novel that allowed me to escape from the stress in my life with such ease. The story focuses on Peyote, a person living in Hell, who has worked his way up to the ranks by getting humans to sign their souls to the Devil. He just needs one more soul from the Harrison family to sign their life away for the redemption he’s been waiting for. However, nothing is always what it seems—if this is Peyote’s plan, he needs to act quickly because the Harrison family does not appear to have any reasoning for signing such a dangerous contract—yet. For those who watch the show Human Resources (the spinoff of Big Mouth) on Netflix, SIGN HERE is a darkly humorous and twisted ride that feels like it’s in the same universe. Like I mentioned earlier, this book was a fun escape—but it won’t be for everybody, so just know it’s more along the lines of satire and drama than thriller. I can’t wait to see what Claudia Lux has up next for readers. SIGN HERE is an awesome Halloween read! ...more
Henry Fry's debut novel, First Time for Everything will be a smash hit for those who have always wanted a gay spin on Bridget Jones' Diary. TakingHenry Fry's debut novel, First Time for Everything will be a smash hit for those who have always wanted a gay spin on Bridget Jones' Diary. Taking place in London, Danny Scudd is a young gay man trying to figure out what he wants in life. His relationship with Toby "Tobbs" is very unfulfilling, his family is distant, and his professional career is at a very corporate standstill. After finding out the hard way that his boyfriend hasn't been faithful nor on the same page as Danny about their relationship, Danny ventures into a new chapter of being single. However, when he is forced to move out of his current living sitution, Danny is placed with nowhere to go. After being taken in by Danny's nonbinary, flamboyant best friend Jacob, Danny starts realizing that there's a whole other world to explore.
First Time for Everything is a refreshingly honest book about the struggles of accepting who you are in a world that makes queer people have to break out of their heteronormative shells. There were many parts of the book that I related to, but also many other sections that I didn't, which made for an interesting perspective on how I see myself within the queer community. At times, this book is very funny, but I think it's mainly due to the raw, honest depictions that Danny is conveying to the reader. This coming-of-age story is best suited for those in similar situations as Danny, so I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is struggling with their own sense of self. It's a fun debut by an author that I will definitely be watching out for in the future. ...more
If you're a fan of Ryan O'Connell's Netflix series Special, you will absolutely love his upcoming novel, Just By Looking at Him! I read this book If you're a fan of Ryan O'Connell's Netflix series Special, you will absolutely love his upcoming novel, Just By Looking at Him! I read this book in two sittings, and my dark circles are here to prove it! Seriously, I just couldn't go to sleep until I finished this one!
The story is centered around a 30ish old gay man named Elliott, living in Los Angeles, with his boyfriend Gus. Elliott is a writer for a popular television series and is doing really well financially, while his boyfriend is still having a bit of a struggle figuring out his destiny when it comes to his career path. Elliott's relationship with Gus is traditional in the eyes of more recent views on homosexuality and relationships—monogamous, aiming for marriage, etc. Sidenote: I guess I'm traditional too! Elliott's relationship is fueled by alcohol and he struggles with confidence because of his cerebral palsy. One day, Elliott begins opening the door and falling into a bender of cheating with sex workers, in hopes that his boyfriend will never find out. However, living a charade is much harder in the gay community. The world is a lot smaller than people think.
As noted above, I loved this book! Ryan O'Connell's book isn't for everyone, but it IS for me. This book is for all gay men everywhere and their allies. This book is honest, hilarious, and raw. I really loved Elliott's sarcasm and wit, along with his vulnerability and honesty. I loved literally every character in this book and I don't think that's happened in a long time. I always knew that Ryan O'Connell was funny and an amazing actor, but he can also write! This book obviously hits close to home for Ryan O'Connell because he also has cerebral palsy, so I now want to read his memoir, I'm Special. I loved every second of reading this book, and I hope you do too!...more
Elle Cosimano is back again with her amazing Finlay Donovan series. This time, in Finlay Donovan Knocks 'Em Dead, we start right where we left offElle Cosimano is back again with her amazing Finlay Donovan series. This time, in Finlay Donovan Knocks 'Em Dead, we start right where we left off. Finlay is struggling to finish her novel, with pressure from her agent becoming intense. At the same time, Finlay and her live-in nanny and cohort, Vero, find out that someone wants Finlay's ex-husband dead. As Finlay ventures deeper into a life of crime, she can't help but wonder why Steven has a hit out against him. What did he do? What world has Finlay invited into her life?
Finlay Donovan Knocks 'Em Dead has the laugh out loud humor as its predecessor did. In fact, this book was more of a comedy than book 1 and I took the style of the storytelling in a different tone. We're reunited with the same cast of characters we fell in love with, but the story is definitely more intimate with Finlay and her decision making than ever before. Book 2 in a series always bridges the gap from books 1 and 3, so I tend to always be a bit more critical of their progression, but ultimately I really enjoyed this one. You can definitely see how this series will make for a perfect television series and I can't wait to see what's in store for Finlay Donovan Book 3....more
I normally don't read cute stories (remember, I DNF'd Red White & Royal Blue), but I really enjoyed Paul Rudnick's upcoming romantic comedy, PlayinI normally don't read cute stories (remember, I DNF'd Red White & Royal Blue), but I really enjoyed Paul Rudnick's upcoming romantic comedy, Playing the Palace. Utterly corny, yet also so fun, this story takes you on a journey through the eyes of Carter Ogden. Carter lives in New York City with his two roommates and meets Prince Edgar during a work event. The Prince is next in line for King of England and Carter is starstruck. Edgar is openly gay and a celebrity in both the LGBTQ+ community and mainstream media. To no surprise, Edgar and Carter forge a relationship. Their relationship has many strides and hurdles; navigating through each of their families and through the tabloids. Overall this story was maybe a bit too cute for my liking, but I definitely picked it up at the right time. I binged the entire book in two sittings, which is unheard of for me when it comes to romance. Definitely a fun ride and lighthearted, pick up Playing the Palace when you're looking for a book to make you smile....more
Can a book be a coming of age story if the main character is already grown up? Steven Rowley's upcoming dramedy novel, The Guncle is infectiously Can a book be a coming of age story if the main character is already grown up? Steven Rowley's upcoming dramedy novel, The Guncle is infectiously adorable. The story is centered around Patrick, a famous actor from a long running television show. He is able to live his private life in Palm Springs, living off the show's residuals and success. Living freely and doing whatever he wants, Patrick suddenly gets thrown into temporary guardianship when his brother's wife (and his best friend) dies of cancer. Patrick's life immediately changes when he brings his niece Maisie and his nephew Grant home with him for the summer.
Patrick's self indulgent, Peter Pan like mentality must immediately pivot for the sake of the kids, and what we get is a roller coaster of hilarity. At times cringeworthy cute, this book will warm even the coldest of hearts. I can literally picture a friend or two of mine having the same internal dilemma that Patrick faces in this book, and I thoroughly enjoyed the laughs. This book is not all comedy, we are navigated a new frontier for someone who is ill-equipped to handle children. This book does dive into serious subjects, and isn't afraid to talk about grief, sexuality, romance, marriage, and family. I had a fun time with this one and really can picture it being a television series or movie....more
Well well well...this was an unexpected surprise—I did not expect to like this book as much as I did. Finlay Donovan Is Killing It will be Elle CoWell well well...this was an unexpected surprise—I did not expect to like this book as much as I did. Finlay Donovan Is Killing It will be Elle Cosimano's first adult themed novel, and I'm so glad she's decided to venture out of YA for us all to experience this great story. When I heard that this book was about a mother being dragged into a world of crime, with a novel within a novel type of plot, I was thinking that this may not be the book for me. However, Finlay Donovan Is Killing It is one of the best books I've read this year. If you like the Netflix show Dead to Me you will love this story.
Without going into detail, Finlay Donovan is accidentally mistaken for a hired criminal—leading her into a world of crime and murder. Literally, just go with that sentence because the less you know, the better. Elle Cosimano's narrative in leading us on the same path as Finlay is quite intriguing. We find out information as Finlay does and I think that's what makes the story so strongly profound. We don't have an unreliable narrator messing with our heads—Finlay is just as confused and messed up as all of us! I really can't go into detail about this book, but I will say that the characters are all strongly portrayed, the story is vastly original in an oversaturated genre, and I fully expect to see more from Elle Cosimano and Finlay Donovan!...more