Ok, I’ve read this—not because I’m into it (apparently, discussing fiction for fiction's sake and dissecting it purely on an artistic level needs a diOk, I’ve read this—not because I’m into it (apparently, discussing fiction for fiction's sake and dissecting it purely on an artistic level needs a disclaimer these days). Some taboo books challenge my moral compass in ways that make me rethink everything; others just confirm what I’ve always known. This one? It had me until chapter 9, and then the wheels fell off. A stronger author might have spun this into something so gripping you’d defend your reading choices to yourself in the mirror, no matter how outrageous they were. Sadly, RD didn’t manage that. It felt like she couldn't decide which genre to go for. Instead of delivering a psychological thriller-esque romance this could have been (since there were obvious traces of that), RD doubled the spice (some of it wildly questionable—and not even in the taboo way) while sprinkling in suspense so thin you’d miss it if you blinked. Then there was the dynamic between father, daughter, and mother, which was used the most boring but also the most convenient way for the author. However, since this was the story the author decided to tell, I just wish they’d worked on some proper character development and, you know, a bond that wasn’t solely pelvic to make the reader question oneself. That, unfortunately, did not happen here....more
The Billionaire Scrooge Next Door by Olivia Hayle is the kind of story you stumble upon unexpectedly and end up enjoying3.5 ⭐️ but gladly rounding up.
The Billionaire Scrooge Next Door by Olivia Hayle is the kind of story you stumble upon unexpectedly and end up enjoying more than you anticipated—a quiet, heartwarming romance with just the right amount of festive charm. Adam and Holly’s story doesn’t try to be over-the-top; it’s refreshingly authentic and pleasantly unagitated.
What I loved most was the calmness of their dynamic. Adam isn’t your stereotypical billionaire grump; instead, he’s layered, understated, and surprisingly endearing. Holly is equally compelling—grounded, warm, and carrying just enough spark to melt Adam’s icy edges. Together, they feel like a real couple, not a whirlwind of drama, but a steady, believable connection.
Though the novella doesn’t have much room for deep dives, it touches on serious topics with care and subtlety, adding a meaningful depth to the cozy tone of the story. There’s a quiet strength in its simplicity, like a soft blanket on a winter night—comforting, warm, and just what you need.
At 3.5 stars, this isn’t a story that will blow you away with grand gestures or shocking twists, but it’s not trying to. It’s an easy, festive read that’s perfect for a chilly evening when you want something low-key yet charming to lift your mood. Definitely worth curling up with!...more
⭐⭐⭐ (3.5 because I can see the potential but not enough for 4 stars)
This novella kicks off with a wedding gone spectacularly wrong, which is exactly t⭐⭐⭐ (3.5 because I can see the potential but not enough for 4 stars)
This novella kicks off with a wedding gone spectacularly wrong, which is exactly the kind of chaos I live for. June, our runaway almost-bride, crashes a bar in a wedding dress so massive it probably deserves its own zip code. And Ryan? He’s just trying to have a quiet drink when the human embodiment of “hot mess express” plops down next to him. Naturally, sparks fly—and so does the steamy tension.
June is a whirlwind of bad decisions wrapped in lace and heartbreak, and Ryan is the grumpy bartender with a secret soft spot. Their chemistry? Sizzling. Their banter? Chef’s kiss, even if too short. Their one-night stand? Let’s just say it deserves a slow clap.
That said, Loose End isn’t without its hiccups. There’s angst and depth here, but it just skimmed the surface so that the very final passage felt extremely detached. I know it's supposed to make you curious about Ryan's background story, but his reaction felt a bit too forced and OTT for the fact that this was clearly framed as an ONS by both sides.
Still, Melissa Ivers writes with wit, heart, and just enough snark to keep you hooked. Tight End, here I come.
If you’re in the mood for a short, spicy, and surprising novella, Loose End delivers. And, honestly, who doesn't love a story that starts with heartbreak and ends with just a glimmer of hope (and a whole lot of heat)....more
Magnus thrives on structure and tradition—understandable when you’ve been around for centuries—but his carefully curated (un)life gets turned ups3.75⭐
Magnus thrives on structure and tradition—understandable when you’ve been around for centuries—but his carefully curated (un)life gets turned upside down when he has to share a coffin during his winter retreat with Kilroy, a laid-back, sun-kissed surfer who’s all about riding the waves, both literal and metaphorical. Their dynamic is pure gold, with Magnus’s uptight demeanor colliding hilariously with Kilroy’s carefree charm. Watching Magnus slowly lose his cool as Kilroy sneaks his way into his frozen, undead heart? Absolutely priceless.
The pull between them is undeniable, like gravity with extra sass, and I savoured every second of it. But there's more to the story than just the romance. There are some serious moments, some sad ones and even a few suspenseful moments. Truman delivered a great balance for the limited room he had to develop this story and made this work.
This book is the perfect blend of sarcasm, sweetness, and awkward encounters, with just enough romantic tension to keep you glued to the story. Sure, it has its quirks, but honestly, who cares when you’ve got a centuries-old vampire falling head over heels for a beach bum in the most hilariously chaotic way imaginable?
3.75 stars. Because opposites don’t just attract—they create magic....more
Snowed In with a Dragon is a cute, Christmas-themed short story. The characters, especially Tairon the dragon, are absolutely adorable. Books l3.25 ⭐️
Snowed In with a Dragon is a cute, Christmas-themed short story. The characters, especially Tairon the dragon, are absolutely adorable. Books like this shouldn’t be taken too seriously – they’re meant to give a spicy feel-good effect, not to win a Pulitzer Prize.
The story itself is sweet, with a focus on Fated Mates. The dragon knows she’s meant for him and waits patiently. Yes, there are some stalkerish tendencies, but he is a gluten-intolerant dragon who rides a bike for crying out loud. Don't make this more than it is!
The main reason this wasn’t a higher-rated read for me was the pacing. A well-crafted novella can make you forget its limited space for character and relationship development, but this one felt rushed. Ivy, in particular, dove head first into a new fling, therefore not giving us a chance to see a character take shape. The story placed more emphasis on Tairon, leaving Ivy seemingly like a prop than a character....more
I found this Christmas novella absolutely hilarious and heart-warming! The premise of a female Cupid on a quest for love, making this her ONE C3.25 ⭐️
I found this Christmas novella absolutely hilarious and heart-warming! The premise of a female Cupid on a quest for love, making this her ONE Christmas wish, even though she's not sure whether This Santa Claus bloke is real or not, paired with a dragon who’s actually said Santa Claus, is just too adorable! I recently read another book where Cupid fell in love with a Grim Reaper, and I am apparently just drawn to this quirky, fun concept!
This novella is the perfect dose of festive spice, with candy canes and peppermint galore! It’s wonderfully absurd, and that’s precisely what makes it so amusing. You really have to switch off your brain and just enjoy the feel-good vibes.
Now, I do have a main gripe because there's a…let's say plot twist…which is thrown into the mix rather randomly, and it's handled in a way, that I would describe as drama for the sake of it. I was okay with the nature of said drama, but I wonder why it wasn't used throughout the novella to give this more depth and a framework that could have kept the reader engaged. Instead, the issue was thrown in and then resolved within a minute. Too much potential left untapped!
But if you're 100% just in on the smutty fun, this might be a great fit!...more
DJ Krimmer’s Jolly and Jaded is a novella that skilfully uses its limited space to deliver an emotionally potent story. It’s not a full-length novel4⭐
DJ Krimmer’s Jolly and Jaded is a novella that skilfully uses its limited space to deliver an emotionally potent story. It’s not a full-length novel, but it’s beautifully sketched out, capturing the essence of a much larger tale. While you might wish for more depth, the story's raw emotion and holiday spirit shine through.
Grant and Elsie’s journey is both heartbreaking and hopeful, featuring meddling elders and a broken sunshine meets traumatised grump dynamic. It has a strong focus on grief, mental health, and how two beautiful souls deny themselves the happy ending they deserved so long ago.
The pace is quick, sometimes two steps are taken at the same time, and even though the ending might feel a bit rushed, and you'd hope for a bit more substance, you can’t help but root for their happily ever after.
This novella is a testament to Krimmer’s ability to craft a touching story within a limited frame, though you might find yourself wishing for a bit more of Elsie and Grant. A genuinely heartfelt read!...more
You Make It Feel Like Christmas by Toni Shiloh is a Hallmark Christmas movie in book form—cute, cosy, and with just a dash of wait, did they just prayYou Make It Feel Like Christmas by Toni Shiloh is a Hallmark Christmas movie in book form—cute, cosy, and with just a dash of wait, did they just pray? The moment the characters started talking to the Big Guy Upstairs, I knew we were taking a detour from my usual sleigh ride.
Now, I know this was a novella, but I do wish the romance between the FMC and MMC had a bit more time to simmer. Despite this, the additional storyline and family dynamics added an interesting layer to this. While some parts were a bit uncomfortable, they were also intriguing enough to keep me listening....more
I am trying to write this review as neutral as humanly possible because I think this is one of the books where you have to review and rate the art ★★★
I am trying to write this review as neutral as humanly possible because I think this is one of the books where you have to review and rate the art behind all of this, and not so much what you, as a reader, prefer to read about. Because this book was nowhere near my comfort zone!
Set in a grim 1907 London where zombies lurk on society’s edges, the novel explores captivity, submission, and identity with unsettling depth. Its bizarre premise—a young man named Reuben being trained to live as a human pony, by his captor Erik—walks the line between absurdity and psychological insight.
Reuben’s transformation from defiant prisoner to obedient “horse Copper” is both disturbing and fascinating. Erik’s punishingly precise methods force Reuben to survive by abandoning his sense of self, but the deeper question is how far one can adapt before becoming what they’re pretending to be. The book probes the malleability of identity under extreme pressure, exploring how even our deepest resistances can be eroded—or redirected.
Erik’s role as both tormentor and craftsman adds an unsettling intimacy to the story. His training methods blur cruelty with control, creating a dynamic that is both monstrous and oddly compelling. The pony play, initially jarring, becomes an effective lens for examining the fluidity of identity. As Reuben dons bridles and reins, the narrative questions whether his submission is purely dehumanizing or if it paradoxically offers a kind of primal liberation.
Though the book’s writing is gripping—its tension and vivid detail make it impossible to put down—the story sometimes leans too hard on its shock factor, which at around 65-70% lost its appeal and novelty. I think I either needed another layer to Erik’s character or Reuben’s, but this instead focused entirely on training Copper...more
Cheeky little surprise! I stumbled on this audiobook during a middle-of-the-night insomnia bout, and it turned into t3.5 stars, but gladly rounding up
Cheeky little surprise! I stumbled on this audiobook during a middle-of-the-night insomnia bout, and it turned into the best kind of unplanned adventure. Sleep? Who needs it when you’ve got Dr. Frankie Kenton, a sharp-witted sexologist, and Jay, a master rigger bringing the charm and heat?
Frankie, host of a wildly successful intimacy podcast, is refreshingly confident and curious. When she steps into a kink club for a hands-on shibari lesson, sparks fly in all the best ways. She’s sassy, fun, and the kind of character you want as both a friend and a guide into the tantalizing unknown.
And then there’s Jay. Brooding and sexy, his 50 Shades-adjacent backstory feels a little too familiar, but his genuine connection with Frankie makes up for it. Together, they’re playful, flirty, and oh-so-steamy.
The story? Short and sweet, with a playful pace that hooks you. Sure, the character development isn’t deep enough to tie your heartstrings into knots, but Frankie and Jay’s chemistry makes every scene count. The kink-positive themes are warm and approachable, elevating it beyond a simple steamy romp.
Evie Mitchell’s writing seals the deal—clever, cheeky, and full of personality. While the book’s brevity leaves you wanting a bit more depth, it also skips the filler and keeps the fun flowing.
So, why 3.75 stars? It’s undeniably enjoyable but could have explored the emotional landscapes a bit more. Jay’s backstory flirts a little too closely with well-tread territory. But hey, not every ride needs reinvention to be fun. If you’re looking for a quick, blush-worthy escape, Knot My Type delivers—and then some!...more
Ah, the novella curse strikes again! While Mistlefoe had its moments, it didn’t quite hit the same high notes as t3⭐ – Cute, but it needed more oomph.
Ah, the novella curse strikes again! While Mistlefoe had its moments, it didn’t quite hit the same high notes as the first one in this series. Everything happened at warp speed—the plot zipped by, the resolution wrapped up with a bow too tidy for my taste, and I was left wishing for an epilogue showing these two lovebirds fumbling through life a few weeks later.
Still, if you’re into this series, Mistlefoe is a quick, cute read worth your time—just don’t expect it to linger in your mind longer....more
3.5 ⭐️ (better than 3, but definitely not enough for 4, so I'm torn here)
Victoria Wilder’s December Midnights delivers a story as moody and magnetic a3.5 ⭐️ (better than 3, but definitely not enough for 4, so I'm torn here)
Victoria Wilder’s December Midnights delivers a story as moody and magnetic as the rugged Maine coastline it’s set against. This novella brims with charged interactions, fiery connections, and just enough magic to keep you on edge, wondering if destiny truly has a hand in love.
Gray, a former baseball star nursing old wounds, arrives in Wild Tide to manage a family investment, The Timekeeper Inn. Aurora, the innkeeper raised by a sharp-eyed matchmaker (also known as the witch), has been told this is the year she’ll meet her soulmate. So, when Gray walks through her door, their interactions are far from tender—they’re explosive, laced with sharp words and even sharper tension.
The romance between Aurora and Gray is intense and electric. Wilder crafts scenes that practically crackle, balancing their clashes with undeniable chemistry. The magical realism woven throughout the story adds a subtle, intriguing backdrop without overshadowing the characters’ dynamic. Despite the tropey insta-lust beginning, their relationship unfolds naturally, keeping the reader invested.
Where the novella falters is in its emotional resolution. Gray’s pivotal realisation about Aurora should have been the story’s crowning moment, but it falls flat. The dialogue and inner monologue lack the depth and impact needed to fully sell the transformation from lust to love, making it feel like a missed opportunity in an otherwise vivid and engaging novella.
Even with its shortcomings, December Midnights remains a compelling, spicy read that explores the unpredictable paths love can take. For readers who enjoy heated dynamics and just a hint of magic, this novella offers a satisfying escape....more
C.M. Nascosta strikes again with Sweet Berries, delivering another delightfully weird and surprisingl3.5 Stars – Sweet, Smutty, and Slightly Unhinged
C.M. Nascosta strikes again with Sweet Berries, delivering another delightfully weird and surprisingly heartfelt love story that you didn’t know you needed—because really, who’s out here clamouring for a shy, nerdy Mothman academic? (Spoiler: it’s me now. I’m clamouring.)
I went into this without even glancing at the blurb because after Morning Glory Milking Farm, I trusted Nascosta to take the unconventional and make it sweet, tender, and oh-so-adorable. And, wow, Merrick the Mothman did not disappoint. He’s a socially awkward bookworm with the kind of quiet charm that sneaks up on you, and when it comes to *ahem* extracurricular activities, let’s just say our boy knows how to take flight. Nerdy and shy but freaky when it counts? Consider me sold.
Grace, our leading lady, is refreshingly direct and, well, a horndog—but in the best way. When Merrick catches an intriguing scent that, uh, originates from below the human belt, you know you’re in for a ride that’s both hilarious and wildly outside the box. The chemistry between Grace and Merrick is a delicious mix of sweet and spicy, and despite the smutty scenes that had me cackling (and blushing), their relationship feels genuine. It’s unhinged in all the right ways, and Nascosta’s writing somehow makes even the weirdest moments feel endearing.
My one gripe? I wish this book had a bit more room to stretch its wings. While the romance is adorable, I wanted more time for both Grace and Merrick to grow and for their relationship to develop beyond the whirlwind of pheromones and passion. It’s a little too quick to feel fully satisfying, but honestly, I was having so much fun that it’s hard to complain too much.
If you’re into quirky romances that lean heavily on the smut and don’t take themselves too seriously, Sweet Berries is a fun, freaky, and surprisingly heart-warming read. It’s weird in the best way, and while it’s not perfect, it’s definitely a ride worth taking. Just maybe don’t read this one in public—you’ll blush too much to explain. ...more
This book is an emotional rollercoaster of hurt and comfort, all wrapped in a blanket of sweetness and random acts of kindness that made me tear up4⭐️
This book is an emotional rollercoaster of hurt and comfort, all wrapped in a blanket of sweetness and random acts of kindness that made me tear up more than once. The love story feels like a perfect mix of opposites attracting and healing through love, with plenty of Quin’s trademark humour and witty banter to keep things light and laugh-out-loud funny.
On one side, we have the snarky, unapologetically slutty, and gloriously commitment-phobic neighbour who oozes charisma and chaos in equal measure. On the other, we meet the sweet, socially awkward, anxiety-prone single dad, whose soft heart practically begs you to root for him. And his kid? Absolutely precious—a tiny ball of joy who steals the show with every scene.
The side characters? Absolute gems. Each character added extra depth and charm to the story. You’ll fall for them too, guaranteed.
If you’re seeking a book that feels like being wrapped in a big, warm hug—complete with snark, swoons, and a whole lot of heart—then you Can Count on Me is absolutely for you. ...more
Let Your Hearts Be Light is the kind of holiday romance that sneaks up on you with its charm and leaves you feeling warm and fuzzy. Paxton anSolid 4⭐️
Let Your Hearts Be Light is the kind of holiday romance that sneaks up on you with its charm and leaves you feeling warm and fuzzy. Paxton and Baxter are just so wonderfully imperfect, and their story strikes that perfect balance between heart-warming and honest.
At its core, this book is about connection—between two men, their kids, and the idea of what a family can look like. Paxton and Baxter don’t hit it off right away (and Paxton is admittedly a bit of a jerk at first), but once Paxton realizes how much Baxter is struggling beneath his sunny exterior, things really start to shift.
The kids were a lovely addition. They weren’t just plot devices to bring the dads together—they felt like real people with their own personalities, and the way Paxton and Baxter each tried with their new extended family was heart-melting. The found family dynamic was handled beautifully, without feeling forced or overly saccharine. All characters felt fully fleshed-out!
And I loved the adult smut in this book. Back pain, cracking knees, but also some sugar, icing, and a few scenes where those things are used in...less-than-family-friendly ways (don’t worry, it’s done tastefully and with plenty of humour). But what really makes this story stand out is how it incorporates mental health into the narrative. Baxter’s loneliness and struggles are portrayed with such care and understanding, and his journey to finding love and support feels both moving and authentic.
The only hiccup: the pacing of the first half was challenging for me, but the second half made up for it.
This isn’t just a cute Christmas romance—it’s a story about real people, with real flaws and challenges, finding joy and love in the small, meaningful moments. It’s tender, funny, and just playful enough to keep it light, even when it’s addressing deeper issues. If you’re looking for a feel-good holiday read with a lot of heart and characters you’ll root for the entire way, Let Your Hearts Be Light is definitely worth picking up....more
It’s like the book couldn’t decide whether it wanted to be a quirky comedy or an actual story, so it just leaned all the way into the weirdly funny moIt’s like the book couldn’t decide whether it wanted to be a quirky comedy or an actual story, so it just leaned all the way into the weirdly funny moments and left everything else behind. Which, fine, I like to laugh, but I also like, you know, a reason to care. ...more
Let me set the scene: two overqualified, underpaid adjunct professors (shocker, right?) forced into an utterly humiliating gig to pay rent betw⭐️⭐️⭐️
Let me set the scene: two overqualified, underpaid adjunct professors (shocker, right?) forced into an utterly humiliating gig to pay rent between semesters. Nina and William are trapped together in the middle of bum fuck nowhere during a blizzard. Trapped in the cold mobile workplace, truths get revealed and sparks fly. Their chemistry is both awkwardly adorable and slow to ignite, but once we get there...WE GET THERE. And since this is a novella, it has to be sped up.
It’s not the best holiday romance out there, but it’s like a warm mug of cocoa—comforting, cosy, and good for a snowy day when you just need something light and satisfying. Writing was solid, the existential crisis of an academic hit very close to home....more