WHAT WAS THAT ENDING MISS MA'AM??? Blackwood really said "I'm going to make both my characters and my readers suffer mhm".
That was so unnecessary!!! WWHAT WAS THAT ENDING MISS MA'AM??? Blackwood really said "I'm going to make both my characters and my readers suffer mhm".
That was so unnecessary!!! We could've had a nice mini cliffhanger ending with (view spoiler)[Orion joining them and then them getting ready to recruit the dryads and whoever else to their cause, getting ready for the final battle while still being together (hide spoiler)] but instead we got this. AAAA.
Speaking of, Selena why are you so (view spoiler)[STUPID??? Girl, you know you can't undo what you did to those other people, but you thought you could with Draven?? Shouldn't have done it in the first place (hide spoiler)]. And I don't believe for a second that they couldn't have (view spoiler)[held on until Isrea arrived, because things always work out, this would've worked out too (hide spoiler)].
On a lighter note, in the first book we had the trials, so I didn't think we'd get something similar in the rest of the series, but lo and behold...here we have fairy games instead.
I wouldn't say it felt repetitive though, but I am mad they had to go through that final game because of everything that happened.
There was some relationship development for the side couples, and we got to learn more about emotion magic, while Selena got better at using hers. The writing improved also, and I enjoyed this one as much as the other two. But did it kinda feel like a filler book? Yeah. Still excited for the fourth one, but unfortunately I can't read it back to back with the rest of these because it's not out yet......more
“I kneel for nothing and no one.” His golden eyes burn like flames, searing right through my soul. “But for you… For you, I would kneel.”
I'm genuinely“I kneel for nothing and no one.” His golden eyes burn like flames, searing right through my soul. “But for you… For you, I would kneel.”
I'm genuinely surprised. I didn't think some of the stuff I noticed in book one would be fixed, but it was, and now a lot of things that happened there are making sense.
Like the fact that (view spoiler)[Draven couldn't tell her about the trials being fake, because of Lavendra, and him essentially being spelled not to, for example (hide spoiler)]. And here I thought he was just a jerk.
There was a twist I didn't see coming, but it happened near the end of the book, as most of the other twists did, they should've been more spread out. But when I tell you I was shocked by some of those revelations...I feel so bad for doubting the story now.
I was wondering why (view spoiler)[Hector and Selena only met briefly, because I was fully expecting this to turn into a love triangle, and then it seemed like he just fell off the map. (hide spoiler)]
Which reminds me, Draven (view spoiler)[was confirmed to be the Red Hand, right, but is he also Hector? Or is Hector just a leader of the human resistance? Maybe I didn't pay close enough attention. Because Draven doesn't have glamour magic (that we know of), and Hector looks completely different, but Draven did react when Selena called him Hector soooo (hide spoiler)].
I guess the one thing that's really good about this series is how it actually leaves me with things to think about. Maybe it's not a difficult puzzle to solve, but Blackwood knows how to hook her readers.
With that said, everything is still incredibly convenient. Even when Selena goes through hardships, it's only for a few seconds, and then things always work out in her favour. I don't particularly mind this, because the series is fun to read regardless, but I keep noticing it.
There was minimal character development, and I really do mean minimal, because Selena is still flip-flopping between feeling guilty about using her powers on people, and being confident in her abilities and doing whatever it takes to escape.
In a way, I relate, because I am a conflicting person by nature, but I think it would be nice for her to lean more one way than the other. Hopefully that one scene with (view spoiler)[Isera (hide spoiler)] will help put her on the right track.
Because of the way it ended, I'm looking forward to book three, and I'm hoping we'll get something that FEELS more higher stakes. ...more
Is this a pretty standard romantasy? Yes. Did I enjoy it anyway? Also yes. But I can totally see why someone might not.
I started this right after readIs this a pretty standard romantasy? Yes. Did I enjoy it anyway? Also yes. But I can totally see why someone might not.
I started this right after reading book four in the House of Devils series, and I immediately felt the difference in worldbuilding, plot, character development and writing. But I'm not here to compare them, because they're nothing alike, and this is book one so it still has time to grow by the time it gets to its own fourth installment.
It does have some flaws, the plot could be stronger, the trials a bit better, the world building more expansive, and the characters more interesting to set them apart from the typical romantasy formula, but it wasn't a bad read at all.
The pacing is really good, you get sucked in immediately, and you'll be halfway through before you know it. There is a ball scene (just saying), and there is something there that pushes you to keep reading. Whether it's the suspicion that the (view spoiler)[trials (hide spoiler)] aren't what they seem, or just the desire to see where it all goes.
There's almost no backstory which works both in this book's favour and against it. As in, there's no info dump at any point, you can just jump in and turn off your brain for a couple of hours, so it's very relaxing. But, at the same time, it feels like there's not enough depth to the story/characters.
Everything moves so fast that it's hard to get to know them, and it doesn't help that everyone keeps staying away from poor Selena because of her powers. It's also hard to see why exactly Draven likes her? Other than physically.
SPEAKING OF, I'm actually so annoyed that he dropped zero hints about (view spoiler)[the trials being a lie (hide spoiler)], because he just kept telling her (view spoiler)[he won't let her win, but not why. Like, that one time he said she didn't deserve it, that was the biggest "hint" we got that something was wrong, but if he really cared THAT MUCH he should've at least said "it's not all it seems" and had her figure out the rest (hide spoiler)].
They had some cute moments though, I won't deny, but I don't see them becoming one of my favourite book couples. Especially with Draven being a copy paste of a bunch of different romantasy heroes. Selena did seem more unique, and I like that she's not strong in a magical sense, or an expert fighter, but she has her own way of doing things.
I had an inkling the ending would be something akin to what happened, but I was still a little shocked, so extra points for that.
Hopefully the writing in the next one will be a teensy bit better, it could get repetitive in some sections. But I don't think it's that jarring when you get into it.
Not a full four stars, but I'm rating based on my enjoyment level, not what the book objectively deserves okay? Okay. ...more
I was today years old when I learned you can, in fact, go wrong with a fae romance. Oops. I mean, I know someone will read this and love it, but as haI was today years old when I learned you can, in fact, go wrong with a fae romance. Oops. I mean, I know someone will read this and love it, but as hard as I tried, I just couldn't.
It felt very generic, even cringy in parts, maybe because I chose the audiobook, maybe not, but still.
The worldbuilding was virtually nonexistent, I was 40% in when I realised I didn't even know what the world was supposed to look like (nor did I care, to be fair), because there was so little info about it.
The main focus of the story was absolutely the romance, but I didn't even like that. It went from 0-100 in the first few chapters, there was no build up, no tension, no yearning, just constant horniness from both of the MCs.
Which is fine, if you're here for the smut, but if you like a little bit of plot with it, then you'll be left wanting.
And honestly, the constant misogyny in the beginning bugged me to no end. There wasn't a single male character who was alright, they were all awful.
With that said, she had a lot more chemistry with Vane than with Atakan. I believe that this book would've been a bit more fun if he was the main love interest.
The second half of the book did get better, but marginally. It almost earned a 3 star rating but not quite. It slowed down on the constant steam and tried to introduce some plot, but it wasn't enough to save it as a whole.
I also wasn't fully vibing with the writing style, but I would be open to trying another book by this author.
That second to last chapter had me ready to screech and throw my phone at the wall. I'm not saying I want Mr Big Bad to succeed...but...but...he's hotThat second to last chapter had me ready to screech and throw my phone at the wall. I'm not saying I want Mr Big Bad to succeed...but...but...he's hot, you can't blame me.
I know that *if* we ever get to see them together, the payoff will be so worth it, so I'm (not so) patiently waiting, paying extra attention to all of Luc's chapters for any clues, and now I think one of my theories is more likely to be true than not. So we'll see, fingers crossed I guessed correctly.
I'm honestly dying to see if she actually does what he suggested in the next book, imagine the pain the rest of them would be in if she did, and how they'd rip the (already ending) world apart to find her. Ahh. GIVE IT TO ME PLEASE, I CRAVE CHAOS.
Ba dum tss.
No, we cannot get through a single review of this series without a Chaos joke in there somewhere, get used to it.
So, Chaos was more character development than plot, not a lot happened, but relationships sure evolved.
If you know me, then you know I'm a fan of dream magic, in this case dreamwalking. I loved seeing Merri visit the guys in their dreams, those were some of my favourite chapters (along with the Luc ones, ahem ahem).
We got a bunch of steam to go with, and I might be just a little obsessed with that one scene with Sin (you know which one) and that pillow scene near the end. But just a little (a lot).
I love the Dreamwalking for another reason too, and it involves a certain Horseman who can't touch Merri in the real world because we all know what could happen if he did.
And then when she pulled back from them, I was like NOOOO MERRI NOOO, DON'T LISTEN TO [REDACTED], GO GET YOUR FILL.
We also got some answers, more Operation Puffin goodness, Andi being a hilarious friend, Christian being pretty interesting (I'd like to know more about him, I could see a spinoff happening with the whole Hecate thing), and another Crombie cameo, what's not to love?
So far, I think this series is a bit slower with the action than the others, but that's not a bad thing, we just get to see more of the characters bonding, the Apocalypse can wait, mhm.
*Thank you to the authors for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*...more
I loved this like the rest of the series BUT, Riven deserved better. You'll know what I mean when you read it. He and Keera had so little interaction,I loved this like the rest of the series BUT, Riven deserved better. You'll know what I mean when you read it. He and Keera had so little interaction, and he was a bit sidelined during all the important parts. Keera meanwhile evolved even more which I like, I just wish it wasn't at Riven's expense.
I'm also not the biggest fan of "the year". I listened to that and I literally went "you've gotta be kidding me", and sure it worked out ALRIGHT at the end, and maybe I wouldn't have minded as much if the rest of the book wasn't how it was in regards to that situation, but...it was unnecessary (to me, argue with a wall).
Otherwise, I loved the action scenes, the found family we got to know throughout the series, the emotions I felt while reading, the love and care the author put into her world and characters, the writing, and the overall ending. I'd definitely reread/relisten to this, and would gladly recommend it to other people....more
AAAAAAH THE LAST MATE GAMES SERIES IS FINALLY UPON US FRIENDS, AND THE STAKES ARE HIGHER THAN EVER!!
First thing's first, Operation PUFFIN. Yes. BIIIGAAAAAAH THE LAST MATE GAMES SERIES IS FINALLY UPON US FRIENDS, AND THE STAKES ARE HIGHER THAN EVER!!
First thing's first, Operation PUFFIN. Yes. BIIIG YES. Possibly the funniest chapters in the book, and we got to see the other players as a cherry on top. The first two recording sessions, I didn't think we'd see more than a few total, but the third one really blew me away, my heart is full, I missed them all so much.
Second, SHANE EAST. The narrator who became my fav the moment I first listened to Meg Anne's solo books has a main role in this epic series??? To say I'm happy would be an understatement. He's the perfect addition to the Mate Games cast, so it's no wonder I've been favouring a certain character.
Third, Crombie. You already know I love him and he'll get a shoutout any time I see him. I love his dynamic with Lilith AND Sinclair. He'll never fail to make me laugh.
Ok now, the actual stars of the show, Merri and the infamous Horsemen of the Apocalypse!! I feel like I've been waiting to meet the four Horsemen forever and now that I have...I'm in love with all of them. Oopsie.
Am I jealous of Merri? Yes. Would I take her place in a heartbeat? Also yes.
The Horsemen are tasked not only with protecting Merri, but also with preventing someone else from sinking their claws into her. But you know, after those beach dreams, I wouldn't blame Merri if she fell for his charms.
Merri is such a great character to follow, because she's a succubus with a ravenous appetite, raised by auntie Lillith, who cams in order to feed. So what's gonna happen when she's stuck in a penthouse with her new "bodyguards" you ask? Chaos. Hah, I had to.
The tension was perfect, and the scenes where the Horsemen "helped" our dear girl to feed were simply delicious.
I said I love all four of them, but Grim is my fav, surprise surprise. I am also partial to Luc. Yes, look at me, falling for the bad guy (again). Even if Merri doesn't somehow end up with all five of them (or six, Cole, anyone?), I'm along for the ride.
Speaking of Cole, I do have ~ theories ~. I don't think he'd have as much interaction with Merri if he wasn't important, or someone we'll be introduced to later. Or maybe it's someone we already know? Either way, he's suuuper sweet, I'd love to see more of him. Also, I feel bad for him because at least twice, from what I remember, his private session with Merri was cut short. Let my man live!!
But other than that, I don't know which of the Horsemen is going to succeed in their "mission" and stop the Apocalypse, I can't predict it. Maybe it'll be all four, wouldn't that be something? They are supernaturals, after all.
Bonus points for Andi, who seems like a true gal pal, and that Cerberus cameo, I DIED, I WAS LITERALLY ON THE FLOOR, I wasn't expecting that. It's actually even funnier when you remember whose voice Sin was imitating that one time. Full circle moment.
The ending was obviously a cliffhanger, I am panicking as we speak. What a way to leave us hanging, you gotta love Kim and Meg.
Lastly (because I saw a few people read this book only), please go back to the first Mate Games book, and read the whole universe from the beginning. It's so much better to start there and have all the context rather than just jumping into this one.
*Thank you to the authors for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*...more
“If you trusted me to hold you while you slept , it would be the greatest honor of my life.”
First thing's first, Carys finally chooses between Duncan“If you trusted me to hold you while you slept , it would be the greatest honor of my life.”
First thing's first, Carys finally chooses between Duncan and Lachlan, and she chooses CORRECTLY. Never doubted you, Carys, I knew you'd make the right choice. My life = made.
But waiting for her to get to that point was agonising (in a good way), the tension between the two of them has been building since book one, and it only increased it book two. The steam factor did too, in case anyone was wondering.
So, The Shadow Path picks up almost where First Light left off, except it's been several months since we last saw our beloved characters. Now they have to return to the Shadowlands for something seemingly routine, which turns out to be anything but.
Just as I was obsessed with the first book, I'm enthralled by this one. There's something so addictive about Elizabeth Hunter's writing that keeps you wanting to read more and more until you've finished the whole book.
And then you're left screaming because of the cliffhanger, naturally. And to think I was convinced we'd get a somewhat peaceful ending...
I'm really exited about book three, some pieces were taken off the board, but some were added as well. I'm anticipating the final battle will be the greatest one yet.
I loved how Carys handled the one we got here, that was so smart of her (and the extra help, lest we forget). I know she doesn't want to be a queen, but, like a certain someone said, maybe that's why she should be.
She and the others grow as characters in each chapter, and the world grows with them. I will never get tired of all the details, or the mythology. If you thought the Shadowlands couldn't get any more intriguing, think again.
We also have a little side romance between Carys's best friend and a wonderful dragon we all know and love, as well as Dru and someone I won't spoil. But I also caught some ~vibes~ from a character we're just getting to know, so I'm not totally sure how that will go, but I'm along for the ride.
So many questions were answered, and I feel like I have a clearer picture of how Carys came to be now, but there's still so much left to uncover.
I started crying when she was talking to Leuca (one of the best characters, by the way) about her mother and horses, because I associate my own mother with horses too. I love how much they're featured throughout this book, the author couldn't have picked a better animal and Goddess to represent.
Speaking of Goddesses, one of my absolute faves to read about made an appearance, or perhaps she was always there...DUN DUN DUN. I have to admit that I didn't guess it, despite the signs, until Carys put two and two together, I kinda love the chaos she's causing though.
The Shadow Path was a proper sequel, not a filler book, but even if it was the latter, I know I would've enjoyed it anyway. It sets things up nicely for book three, while still wrapping up a few important bits. All in all, it was perfect, and, considering Elizabeth Hunter's track record, Broken Veil will be too.
*Thank you to the author and Valentine PR for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*...more
“You don’t understand. A world without you in it is my hell. I would rather fall with you than live a million years without you.”
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THI“You don’t understand. A world without you in it is my hell. I would rather fall with you than live a million years without you.”
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THIS BOOK AND TO MEEEEE!!! We both came into the world on November 5th, so I couldn't pass up a chance to wish us both the happiest of birthdays. It's also very fitting that one of my ultimate fav series is ending on my birthday.
(We will ignore the fact that this was posted on the 6th, it was mostly ready on the 5th which is what counts ahem)
In the *FINAL* book in this epic series, Layla and her guys have to stop the world from ending once and for all, while everything is working against them. Will they make it out alive? Are more betrayals on the way? Will Ink finally say the three magic words? And what about the little life growing inside our favourite witch? All questions that will be answered when you read this lovely book.
I can't believe it's overrrrrrr. I'm literally sitting here, having followed this series since the start, and I don't know what to do with my life now that I have no more Coven of Desire books to look forward to.
Mint delivered on that ending though, we got to see everyone happy and thriving, the world changed for the better, AFTER putting us through a lot of stress, not being sure how things would go until the very last moment.
The most stressful part was Layla being held captive with her men unable to reach her. I kept rooting for a certain someone to save her, and wouldn't you know it...they did!!
I was mad at Daniel for a good chunk of the book, you know why. I forgive him now though, we're all good. That scene with him and Izzy at the end was so precious.
Speaking of precious...INK SAID I LOVE YOU, I REPEAT, HE SAID I LOVE YOU AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!! It only took him 10 books and a few novellas, but HE. SAID. IT. I'm so happy. I could flyyyy.
But anyway, I was truly convinced the world was gonna end for a good second there, and the way they all worked together to fix it was just *chef's kiss*. We got to see the results of their efforts months and years down the line, which is almost like we got a few different epilogues in one.
Ellen Mint is so creative, I love the world she created so so much, I want to live inside it. PLEASE LET ME IN, I WILL BRING BURGERS OF CHEESE!!!
And the way she can bring humour to even the direst of situations, makes this series extra unique.
I laughed and cried with these characters over the years, and my only hope is that CoD gets super popular so everyone else can find as much joy in this amazing series as I did.
Pleaseeeee go and start CoD by reading Ink, I promise you'll have a banger of a time (and fall in love with the most fabulous incubus known to any realm, don't say I didn't warn you!!).
Oh, I liked that little nod to the novella that started it all too, by the way. And everyone's costumes, especially little Izzy's, she's so real for that.
Now if you'll excuse me, I'll go drown my sorrows in a salad of various greens one would feed to a giraffe. Sniff sniff. I'm going to miss Layla, Ink, Cal, Daniel, Garavel, Raul and now Izzy so much. In a just world, there would be an infinite number of Coven of Desire books, but the good part is, I can reread them anytime I want.
*Thank you to the author and StoryOrigin for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*...more
I liked the first book a little better, it had more magic and the characters were a bit more likable, but I still had fun listening to this. I think mI liked the first book a little better, it had more magic and the characters were a bit more likable, but I still had fun listening to this. I think my biggest problem was with the pacing, it was a tad too slow and the story wasn't as engaging as it could've been. I'll still be reading book three though.
EXCUSE ME, HOW AM I SUPPOSED TO BREATHE NOW?? So much stress in the second half, I fear I'll wake up fully gray tomorrow.
Death is the second to last EXCUSE ME, HOW AM I SUPPOSED TO BREATHE NOW?? So much stress in the second half, I fear I'll wake up fully gray tomorrow.
Death is the second to last book in this series, and it really packs a punch. Right from the start, Layla and her guys are battling creatures and trying to stop the apocalypse from happening, all while arguing with each other (so, business as usual, hah).
Layla is also dealing with losing her mother, but for real this time, and I FELT that sorrow as if it were my own. I want to give her a hug and tell her everything is going to be okay. BUT...IS IT??? IT BETTER BE, OR ELSE!!!!!!
There's this big thing that happened that made me want to throw my phone at the wall. After the last book, where things were finally looking up for this character...I'm sooooo sad. I just want to lay in my bed and cry.
Relating to that, WHY DON'T YOU TRUST ONE ANOTHER? HUH? HUH??? If I could yell at the guys right now I absolutely would. Because, you've been together for how many books now? And you still think one of you would sell the others (especially Layla) out???? No "brown sauce of deliciousness" for any of you. There.
(I had to add that line in somewhere, Ink always makes me laugh)
To lighten the mood a little, I also loved that taco scene, it was so random, but fitting in a tense moment, I couldn't help but laugh at it as well. Aaaand I want tacos now.
Anyway, I can't (well, I can, but I don't want to) believe I'm going to have to wait until the very last book to hear those three words from Ink. We nearly got it, and okay, it wasn't the best moment, but AGHHHH!!! Why must you torment me so???
I have no idea how everything is going to end, literally nobody is safe. Yes, I am slightly panicking, can you tell? I need everyone to make it out alive and I do mean EVERYONE. HINT. HINT. AHEM.
I need even the side characters to make it, I want them all to be one big, happy, dysfunctional family by the end of the series, okay?
Since it's ending on my birthday, I'm choosing to believe it'll all work out. Waving my magic want as we speak. Bibbidi bobbidi boo and all that jazz. Everyone lives, series over, me happy, goodbye.
*Thank you to the author and StoryOrigin for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*...more
“Dread the day you meet a north wolf for they love war.”
WOW, JUST WOW!!!! I'm in complete awe at this book, which happens to be my first read by Eliza“Dread the day you meet a north wolf for they love war.”
WOW, JUST WOW!!!! I'm in complete awe at this book, which happens to be my first read by Elizabeth Hunter, and I see now that I've seriously been missing out. First Light was perfection, chef's kiss, instantly going on my ultimate favourite books shelf.
This story is exactly what I'd want to happen to me (minus my partner going poof and me having to travel across the world to find them thing), I want to wander into a portal and enter a world where unicorns, fae, dragons, kelpies and brownies roam, where magic is around every corner, and the forest is alive and has a mind of its own.
It has such a unique feeling, I can't compare it to any other book I've read before. The lore of this world is so rich and well-developed, I was instantly pulled in, needing to know more.
I had so many theories about Carys and who/what she was, my mind was like "she's x, no wait she's y, no no she's z" and eventually I'd guess it like a moment before it happened, it really kept me on my toes!
I have some thoughts about her family as well, I can't wait to be completely wrong and mind-blown in the sequel, hah.
I like that she didn't immediately learn everything there is to know about the Shadowlands, and start training, gaining powers etc, she's doing it all slowly while trying to solve a mystery.
She's also figuring out her feelings towards Lachlan (who left her to go back to his own realm, ahem ahem) and his human twin Duncan (the best option, if you ask me).
Now I knew I'd be team Duncan the second he held her hand the first time, and with the way he always put her first and protected her afterwards, THAT'S YOUR MAN RIGHT THERE CARYS!!!
I'm obsessed with the characters, okay, obsessed. I love Carys, I love Duncan, I love Cadell, I love Dafydd, I love Naida, I love Dru, I love Azar, I love Darius...you get the point. I like Lachlan, as long as he isn't endgame, we're good!!
First Light made me smile, laugh, cry, I even audibly gasped at one scene which I don't recall ever happening with other books. I was literally there living every single moment, you can't convince me otherwise.
The writing is beautiful, the descriptions vivid, the pacing is perfect, there's not a single thing I'd change. Except the second book being out today so I could immediately jump in.
The ending left me with so many more questions, I was ready to scream, in a good way though. I literally CANNOT wait till April, GIVE ME BOOK TWO NOW!!!!
*Thank you to the author and Valentine PR for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*...more
I mean...this was certainly a book!! The first and last hundred or so pages were the best, the rest? Ehhhhh.
I feel like the story really went downhilI mean...this was certainly a book!! The first and last hundred or so pages were the best, the rest? Ehhhhh.
I feel like the story really went downhill when Fisher was introduced, I was highlighting his lines in green (aka a colour I use for things that are creepy or just rub me the wrong way), and there were so many that were supposed to be sexy and make me feel something, but I felt absolutely nothing.
Actually, I'm lying, I cringed at one specific scene, you probably already know which one:
“When you were grinding yourself all over my lap, you marked me up very efficiently,” he purred.
I read that and felt like closing the book forever. And the paragraph that came before it, her "perfumes", I'm not posting it because of spoilers but like...no.
The whole romance annoyed me, mainly because of Fisher. I wasn't a fan of how Saeris acted in his presence, because I really liked her as a character on her own. And the stream was something I had to skim over, I think this is also due to the writing, which I wouldn't say is for me.
Fisher did get better at the end of the book, but not enough for me to like or care about him.
I will say that I liked the concept of mate bonds here, which is no surprise, considering the soulmate trope is my favourite, I just wish I liked Fisher more so I could fully appreciate it.
Generally, Quicksilver had some interesting parts, like the lore & alchemy, the world isn't badly crafted, the side characters aren't one-dimensional (Carrion might be my fav), there were even a few funny scenes here and there, and the ending was pretty good.
I can see why people love this, but it just didn't do it for me....more
1. Rae Else writes a book. 2. I read said book. 3. Jess ends up with the best person ever. 4. Success!!!
NOW, I AM NHow to make me a very happy reader:
1. Rae Else writes a book. 2. I read said book. 3. Jess ends up with the best person ever. 4. Success!!!
NOW, I AM NOT HAPPY THAT THE SERIES IS OVER, BUT. BUT BUT BUT. I do love this book and how it all ended even though a portion of it was painful for me and I will need 35688547 business days to recover.
Jess and Rune are now gods, and it's up to them, and some of their friends, to save the world one last time.
I didn't want this to end, I tried to read slowly and did manage to stretch it out a bit, but all good things must come to an end. Unless if we get a spinoff? I hope so. Because there's so much more of this world to explore.
Like I said at the start, Jess ended up with the person I've been rooting for since book one which made my year and my whole life. I can die peacefully now.
THEY'RE SO PERFECT TOGETHER, I REQUIRE A CUTE DOMESTIC NOVELLA RIGHT NOW!!! No monsters, no evil, just good vibes. I cried when they finally got together dear reader, they're one of my favourite couples EVER. I WILL NEVER SHUT UP ABOUT THEM.
The other person in the love triangle also found someone to love so I don't feel bad about being happy.
Then we get to the emotional damage part relating to my favourite villain...WHY DID IT HAVE TO END LIKE THAT FOR HIM WHYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY??????????? I WANT TO CURL UP INTO A BALL AND SOB UNCONTROLLABLY. I AM HEARTBROKEN, RUINED, GOODBYE.
Theo will also live forever in my heart, he was the real victim in all of this and never did anything wrong in his entire life. A little meow meow, if you will. JUSTICE FOR THEO!!!
It's now that time of year (and review) where I yell at you to start reading this series, especially since it's complete now so you can binge it in one go.
PLEASE READ THE DARK BETWEEEN, IF YOU DON'T, YOU'RE MISSING OUT ON AMAZING WORLD BUILDING, CHARACTERS, ROMANCE, DIALOGUES, MYTHOLOGY, WHY WOULD YOU DO THAT TO YOURSELF HUH? DON'T MISS OUT, START THIS N-O-W.
*Thank you to the lovely author for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review*
Merged review:
How to make me a very happy reader:
1. Rae Else writes a book. 2. I read said book. 3. Jess ends up with the best person ever. 4. Success!!!
NOW, I AM NOT HAPPY THAT THE SERIES IS OVER, BUT. BUT BUT BUT. I do love this book and how it all ended even though a portion of it was painful for me and I will need 35688547 business days to recover.
Jess and Rune are now gods, and it's up to them, and some of their friends, to save the world one last time.
I didn't want this to end, I tried to read slowly and did manage to stretch it out a bit, but all good things must come to an end. Unless if we get a spinoff? I hope so. Because there's so much more of this world to explore.
Like I said at the start, Jess ended up with the person I've been rooting for since book one which made my year and my whole life. I can die peacefully now.
THEY'RE SO PERFECT TOGETHER, I REQUIRE A CUTE DOMESTIC NOVELLA RIGHT NOW!!! No monsters, no evil, just good vibes. I cried when they finally got together dear reader, they're one of my favourite couples EVER. I WILL NEVER SHUT UP ABOUT THEM.
The other person in the love triangle also found someone to love so I don't feel bad about being happy.
Then we get to the emotional damage part relating to my favourite villain...WHY DID IT HAVE TO END LIKE THAT FOR HIM WHYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY??????????? I WANT TO CURL UP INTO A BALL AND SOB UNCONTROLLABLY. I AM HEARTBROKEN, RUINED, GOODBYE.
Theo will also live forever in my heart, he was the real victim in all of this and never did anything wrong in his entire life. A little meow meow, if you will. JUSTICE FOR THEO!!!
It's now that time of year (and review) where I yell at you to start reading this series, especially since it's complete now so you can binge it in one go.
PLEASE READ THE DARK BETWEEEN, IF YOU DON'T, YOU'RE MISSING OUT ON AMAZING WORLD BUILDING, CHARACTERS, ROMANCE, DIALOGUES, MYTHOLOGY, WHY WOULD YOU DO THAT TO YOURSELF HUH? DON'T MISS OUT, START THIS N-O-W.
*Thank you to the lovely author for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review*...more
I AM READY GIVE IT TO ME RN!!! Also can someone explain why Sweet Vengeance was listed as book one but it's now book three and not coming till 2026???I AM READY GIVE IT TO ME RN!!! Also can someone explain why Sweet Vengeance was listed as book one but it's now book three and not coming till 2026???
Okay, apparently it's a trilogy now woo hoo!!! I finished it yesterday and boy was it messy...like messier than usual. See, I forgot this wasn't Remy's book, he showed up at around 12% (yes I was counting), and spent the entire book as a side character.
I mainly read this for him, and also because I'd read any paranormal series/book Tracy Wolff wrote, but I was expecting to see more of him. He wasn't a friend of the main characters exactly, maybe near the end, but even then we saw Clementine's actual friends a lot more than Remy.
You're allowed to laugh at me when I say this next part, I was MAD LIVID ANNOYED with Jude, because again, I thought this would be a love triangle or love square type of thing with Remy as one of the love interests...womp womp.
Clementine and Jude were exchanging forever-long I love yous and my brain was still like "damn ok that's gonna be hard to beat, but I know Remy can do it". And what makes it even funnier, I did see him and Izzy having moments, but they were in the background so my brain didn't register them till the second half of the book at least.
This partially could've been avoided had I read the blurb for book three again, but you know what? Jude was still annoying!!! He's kinda like Jaxson, but if you can imagine someone even broodier and more dramatic.
The romance was cheesy with an extra side of cheese on top. In the Crave series, it was charming, here...not so much. Maybe it's because I didn't care for Jude, but the romance really got on my nerves.
The plot was all over the place, I had no idea where it was going half the time and the vibes from the first series weren't fully there, but I had fun listening to it and I'll be seated for the next two for sure.
If you're a new reader, I wouldn't suggest starting here. There are events that are key to Clementine's character that happened in past books, even if she herself didn't appear there. Same for Remy (but he appeared from book 3-ish onwards). You get a bit of an explanation, but I think it's worth reading the Crave series to get the full picture.
So much of the world is explained there, but not here, I can see why someone might get confused.
I'm also not completely sure how to rate this, it's between a 3 and a 4, but I think I'll round up to 4 on the enjoyment scale. ...more
I love RH books, I do. And the thing I love most about them is the depth of the main character's relationship with each of her men. That was nonexisteI love RH books, I do. And the thing I love most about them is the depth of the main character's relationship with each of her men. That was nonexistent here. Everything is just so fast paced for no reason at all. The book is almost 600 pages long, there was definitely space to flesh out the relationships.
This is one of those insta love cases, where she sees a guy, immediately falls for him and he for her, and rinse and repeat 4 times. To be fair, there was double insta love at the start, where she meets Finn and Jensen, and the other two guys were individual, but still.
There was barely any plot, which I don't mind when I like the characters, but I didn't end up liking anyone here. It's weak at best, it's there just to fill up some time between romantic scenes.
And then there's Maeve's training, or lack thereof. There's one distinct scene I remember, it was over too quickly, and the point in the book it first appears is a bit strange. You'd think she'd want to train the very second she sees she has powers, especially since she seems so concerned about hurting her mates, but no.
I don't think this author is for me, since this is now the third book that I either don't like or don't have strong feelings for. But I am going to read The Mate Games anyway, it should be more to my taste since it's a collab with another author I love.
Finally, the short story at the end deserves a mention. It was so much better than the main book and I think getting through 500+ pages just to get to it was worth it. I wasn't even going to read it, but I'm glad I did. If there was a story with those two characters, like their own spinoff, then I think I'd give K. Loraine another chance.
4 stars for the short story, 2 stars for the main story, so I'll be nice and give it 3.
Merged review:
I love RH books, I do. And the thing I love most about them is the depth of the main character's relationship with each of her men. That was nonexistent here. Everything is just so fast paced for no reason at all. The book is almost 600 pages long, there was definitely space to flesh out the relationships.
This is one of those insta love cases, where she sees a guy, immediately falls for him and he for her, and rinse and repeat 4 times. To be fair, there was double insta love at the start, where she meets Finn and Jensen, and the other two guys were individual, but still.
There was barely any plot, which I don't mind when I like the characters, but I didn't end up liking anyone here. It's weak at best, it's there just to fill up some time between romantic scenes.
And then there's Maeve's training, or lack thereof. There's one distinct scene I remember, it was over too quickly, and the point in the book it first appears is a bit strange. You'd think she'd want to train the very second she sees she has powers, especially since she seems so concerned about hurting her mates, but no.
I don't think this author is for me, since this is now the third book that I either don't like or don't have strong feelings for. But I am going to read The Mate Games anyway, it should be more to my taste since it's a collab with another author I love.
Finally, the short story at the end deserves a mention. It was so much better than the main book and I think getting through 500+ pages just to get to it was worth it. I wasn't even going to read it, but I'm glad I did. If there was a story with those two characters, like their own spinoff, then I think I'd give K. Loraine another chance.
4 stars for the short story, 2 stars for the main story, so I'll be nice and give it 3....more
HOLD UP, THE FINAL MATE GAMES SERIES ISN'T COMING TILL 2025??? DO YOU KNOW HOW LONG THAT IS??? WAHHHHHHH. I'm already going through withdrawal. HopefuHOLD UP, THE FINAL MATE GAMES SERIES ISN'T COMING TILL 2025??? DO YOU KNOW HOW LONG THAT IS??? WAHHHHHHH. I'm already going through withdrawal. Hopefully there's something else in store for us while we wait (I have no hints, I'm just throwing that out there hoping it sticks).
OKAY SO, the ending was the most perfect ending x100, the epilogues were just so sweet and funny, I loved seeing cameos from other characters yet again (my favourite couple in the whole universe included, if you know you know). And THAT BONUS SCENE!!! STOP MY HEART CAN'T TAKE THE CUTENESS!!!!!!!
I've been holding off on reading the bonus scenes, because I figured it would be fun to read all of them at the end of the series and I JUST...WHO'S CRYING? ME? YES. That little puppy really is the goodest boy. Can't believe we got a crossover there too, mind blown in the best way.
All of those epilogues/bonuses had me smiling from ear to ear, the bloopers too. Now I fear I'll require bloopers after all the audiobooks I listen to, I've been so spoiled.
Plot wise, this is the closest we've gotten to an actual apocalypse, and I gotta tell miss ma'am Death what a good job she did!! So many twists I didn't see coming. I'm (almost) sad she lost? Like, she put so much effort into this, only for her plans to be foiled. Poor Death, let me give you a hug. She's my favourite villain in the series so far, even though the guys are technically villains too, but you know what I mean.
Speaking of resident hot villains, dear ol' Captain Hook had me laughing out loud yet again. His good mood is really contagious, I swear it made my headache better. If I said that he's my favourite Mate Games character ever, would the others be mad at me? HOPEFULLY NOT, THERE'S ENOUGH LOVE TO GO AROUND!! I just think Kim & Meg struck gold with Caspian, and I would not be opposed to more pirate characters in the future.
OH! Gotta mention this so I don't forget, that *IMPROVED* J. M. Barrie quote at the start really got me. I was giggling from the get go.
Now for the other three gents, are we ready? Yes? I know I always do a final ranking type of thing but...I don't know how to rank them this time. I love Tor, Kai and Cain/Hades equally. So I'll just say that I love how much they developed over the series, how close they got to each other and how all of Dahlia's men now function like a well oiled machine. They're still jealous from time to time, but they can properly share.
Also, I find it very fitting that Kai got to do the thing first. You'll know which thing when you get to it, hah.
Dahlia, meanwhile, finally came into her own, mastered her powers (for the most part), and became truly free with expressing her desires, that's my girl!! I love her so much, she's living the dream.
I don't remember if I ever mentioned Kiki in my reviews? Maybe, possibly? Either way, she was simply fabulous in this one. She's a true friend and would go to hell and back for Dahlia, quite literally. She had a bigger role here than in the past books which was honestly deserved.
We got a little sneak peak into the next series, I was wondering where that storyline was going and I'm glad we finally have an answer. I just wish we didn't have to wait so long to see it.
Lastly, stellar performance by all the narrators as always, these books and their narration make life worth living.
P. S. If you still haven't started this brilliant series, I'm judging you.
*Thank you to the authors for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*...more
"I might not mind oblivion, if you were the one to deliver it."
I think the right word to describe this book would be enchanting, which is exactly what"I might not mind oblivion, if you were the one to deliver it."
I think the right word to describe this book would be enchanting, which is exactly what a retelling should be. I was sucked into the story instantly, and DEVOURED most of it in one day. If I wasn't sick & with a fever I would've finished the whole thing in one go, trust me. It really is that addicting.
Even the "filler-y" chapters where Fia and Rogan weren't doing much until the next full moon were interesting to me. One of the main reasons why is Corra, who was my favourite character. They were so adorable and funny, I'm hoping we'll get to see more of them in the sequel.
As a fan of love triangles I was fed well, both love interests were likable, though clues were given as to why one of them wasn't right for her throughout the book and I wholeheartedly agree.
I even had a bit of an internal struggle where I wanted Fia to be with him for a bit, even though I preferred the other love interest, but at the same time was like "no no don't do that don't hurt the other one!!!".
Strangely enough, there was no typical jealousy. As in, the two love interests didn't interact, and they did occasionally make comments about one another, but when they were with Fia it was just about them in the moment (or, in the case of Rogan, about Eala who makes this into a love square).
Overall it was handled well, which surprised me.
Now, as much as I loved Irian, I wish we got a bit more time with him, getting to know him and seeing him and Fia fall for each other. Yes, he had the best lines in the book after Corra and I highlighted a bunch of them, but I wasn't completely sold on the love front.
This ties into something slightly illogical in the plot, basically they can only cross over during a full moon, but I didn't get why they didn't just stay for a few months. Rogan okay human, but Fia could've stayed during her "seduction" mission quite comfortably. That would've made the relationship more believable.
Because basically they saw each other a dozen times, not even full days, just nights...and they are in devastatingly crushing love with each other by the end of it. But, for minimum half of those times, Fia was still in love with Rogan and didn't fully open her heart up to Irian and it just didn't seem fair, you know.
I can maybe believe that he is in love with her, but not the other way around (yet).
As for the rest of the story/plot, I wouldn't call this unpredictable (except for the ending), you can tell where it's going to go most of the time, but it's still a very fun and enjoyable read. It also had something that made it feel fresh. Like, yes, definitely a romantasy, but not completely typical?
Which brings me to the comps, I can't really say if it's like The Cruel Prince since I haven't read it, but I can maybe see a little bit of For the Wolf in it, though if you ask me this is much better than that book. If anything this is most similar to These Hollow Vows, but even then it has its own uniqueness that no other comps come to mind.
You can tell the author did her research for the worldbuilding and did it well. There's a glossary at the back (maybe it'll be moved to the front for the published copy?), but I felt like the terms used were explained properly in the text so I didn't need to reference it.
WHICH REMINDS ME! Okay, so you know how in every book the love interest has a nickname for the main character? Mhm, here it's...colleen.
There's nothing wrong with colleen, and it's actually kind of cute that he came up with that based on what she said at their first meeting, but I am so sorry, every time Irian said it, I would picture Colleen Hoover in my brain and the moment wouldn't be as romantic as it was supposed to be.
Anyway, the ending was great, I couldn't have hoped for a better one. It wrapped the most important things up, and if you wanted to stop reading at this book you totally could. I'm absolutely reading the sequel though, and really excited for it.
*Thank you to the publishers and Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*...more
They had just met, after all. But they had also just fucked an army of evil spirits back to who knows where to herald in the new year, washing them awThey had just met, after all. But they had also just fucked an army of evil spirits back to who knows where to herald in the new year, washing them away with a very literal river of sparkling cum.
Oh this was just as delightful as the first one, now I need Holly to bang all 12 holiday creatures and free them from their likely unjust prisons. Do it for the team Holly!!!
But can we appreciate how good the story is outside of that? Like there's a lot of plot packed into this, and so much creativity. I honestly can't wait for the next one.
Speaking of, someone please @ me when it's out because (I might be dumb) I can't find the newsletter sign up link so I'll be notified myself....more
It was insanity but… his cum was delicious, pure vanilla bean and holiday spice, and his cock… it was just as sugary sweet.
Ho ho ho! Just spreading soIt was insanity but… his cum was delicious, pure vanilla bean and holiday spice, and his cock… it was just as sugary sweet.
Ho ho ho! Just spreading some holiday cheer by reading this book and putting it on your homepages, you're welcome.
This was unironically good??? An elf turns real once a year, but only if you say the magic words!! Holly does, and gets the ride of her life on a magical, spinny, candy cane ding-dong. What more can I say other than I had a blast, and you should definitely read this too....more