Category: Review (Page 10 of 276)

BOOK REVIEW: Heavenbreaker by Sara Wolf

BOOK REVIEW: Heavenbreaker by Sara WolfHeavenbreaker by Sara Wolf
Purchase on: AmazoniBooks
Add to: Goodreads

Synopsis:

Bravery isn't what you do. It's what you endure.

The duke of the powerful House Hauteclare is the first to die. With my dagger in his back.

He didn’t see it coming. Didn’t anticipate the bastard daughter who was supposed to die with her mother―on his order. He should have left us with the rest of the Station’s starving, commoner rubbish.

Now there’s nothing left. Just icy-white rage and a need to make House Hauteclare pay. Every damn one of them.

Even if it means riding Heavenbreaker―one of the few enormous machines left over from the War―and jousting against the fiercest nobles in the system.

Each win means another one of my enemies dies. And here, in the cold terror of space, the machine and I move as one, intent on destroying each adversary―even if it’s someone I care about. Even if it’s someone I’m falling for.

Only I’m not alone. Not anymore.

Review:

Heavenbreaker was a SciFi that took us on the journey of a lifetime!  With the story taking place in space, scenes filled with action, and a dash of romance, this book was a quick read!  The world was brutally harsh, and there were so many twists and turns that’ll keep you on your toes!  If you love the idea of jousting in space, and heroines that are filled with vengeance, then this is definitely your book!  

Where does a twisted girl like me fit in the universe? Everyone else is full, whole. No one wants the darkness – they want the stars.

The story started with Synali Emilio Woster killing her father, who was from House Hauteclare.  He had her mother murdered, and she was determined to make him pay with his life.  In trying to escape, it eventually landed her with Dravik who was a man that was bent on ruining House Hauteclare.  In exchange for riding his machine, Heavenbreaker, he would murder someone who was linked to her mother’s death for each of her wins in a duel.  As the death’s piled up, and truths became known, this book was so much more than I ever expected!

“A spider is a patient animal – until its web is broken.”

Synali was such a challenging character.  She was so focused on her end game of wanting those to suffer that had a hand in her mother’s death.  And she never seemed to think of herself, which hurt.  So while she could be immature at times and be ruled by her emotions, I was also excited to watch her grow.  Because I thought Synali had so much potential since she was tenacious, fierce, and there was no end to what she would do to accomplish her goals!

The fine line between love and hate is made of blood. And to blood it will return.

For the other characters, I have so many emotions!  Heavenbreaker was such a fascinating mystery.  From that first moment she showed something, I was desperately trying to piece together the clues.  And all I’m saying is that I thought I had a solid guess.  But oh how wrong I was!  Thankfully my guess towards Spider was correct.  Luna I adored and wanted to scoop her from the pages.  Rax was everything!  And then there was Mirelle, who was from House Hauteclare and a rider.  She was one of my favorites.  I loved that she called Synali murderer and how she tried to see the good in the world.  But she ended up seeing way more than she wanted to also.

The dance floor slowly fills in, the musicians gaining volume as my murmur loses it. “I wish you’d give up on me.”
“Oh, I will…once I’ve fought you. But until then, I’m selfishly holding on to you with everything I’ve got.”

So with similar vibes to The 100, mixed with a sprinkle of The Hunger Games, and a dash of the movie Alien, this book was such a fascinating read!  I have to say that when we got told certain things, I shuddered.  But within this story there was also jousting battles, where the riders would be inside the machines and go up against one another.  And there was also an extremely slow burn romance that had a possible love triangle attached to it.  Now I’ll be patiently waiting for the next one to be released!

“He promised. After it’s over. So it’s pointless.”
“What are you talking about?”
“Lithroi. The rabbit man. He’s going to kill me like I asked.” I laugh. “I want to rest. But sometimes I look at Luna, and the sunrise, and you…and then I don’t.”

*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

BOOK REVIEW: Savor It by Tarah DeWitt

BOOK REVIEW: Savor It by Tarah DeWittSavor It by Tarah DeWitt
Purchase on: AmazoniBooks
Add to: Goodreads

Synopsis:

Summer won't last forever.

Sage Byrd has lived in the coastal town of Spunes, Oregon (not to be confused with Forks, Washington) her entire life. She's learned to love her small world, with the misfit animals on her hobby farm, and her friendships with the town’s inhabitants. But when her 5-year relationship ends and her ex, town-golden-boy Ian, suddenly gets engaged, Sage needs a win―something that will convince everyone to stop pitying her all the time, and to put Ian in his place. The Festival of Spunes, the town’s annual summer competition, would be the perfect opportunity. She just needs a partner.

Fisher Lange was a hotshot chef in New York City until the loss of his sister left him numb, grieving, and responsible for his teenage niece Indy. When Fisher loses his Michelin star along with his love of cooking, his boss sends him and Indy to Spunes on a much-needed summer sabbatical to consult on a restaurant opening. But when clashes with the townspeople threaten his last chance to redeem himself and a kiss with his new neighbor Sage leads to dating rumors, a strategic alliance might just be the best way to turn things around.

A deal is struck. Sage will improve Fisher’s image in the eyes of the town and remove the roadblocks he is facing with the restaurant, and Fisher will be Sage’s partner for the competition. But as their pact quickly turns into steamy rendezvous, emotional wounds begin to heal, and the pair tries to savor every moment, they start to realize that summer is racing by much faster than they would like...

Filled with spicy summer fun, small-town charm, and Big Feelings, this highly anticipated romcom is Tarah DeWitt’s best yet.

Review:

Savor It was a grumpy sunshine, small town romance that had so much heart!  With a cast of characters and animals that you can’t help but love, and a storyline that will have you rooting for their happily ever after, this book was a lot of fun!  If you adore adult romance, or loved how you felt reading In the Weeds by BK Borison, then definitely add this one to your list!

“Grief changes you,” I reply with as much brevity as I can.

Fisher seemed to have the weight of the world on his shoulders.  With his sister passing, he was now taking care of his teenage niece, Indy.  And for both of them to catch their breaths, they traveled from New York to a tiny little quaint town on the Oregon coast.  They both needed a reset.  Fisher from losing his job.  And Indy and her change of life.  They were both grappling with where their lives were supposed to go from here.

“Careful, Fisher. You’re starting to be a bit nosy. You might just fit in here more quickly than you think.” I finish the remark with a dry laugh.
He doesn’t respond to that, his mouth twitching in a brief smile before he shakes his head.

Their next door neighbor, Sage, was an absolute delight!  I loved that she talked to her animals,and found solace in her garden.  The way that Fisher and Sage met was adorable!  Plus Sage had a thing for pirates…..and Fisher had that vibe haha.  Even if he was grumpy, he had so many moments of showing that he was kind and thoughtful.  And then there was Sage who was a ray of sunshine, even if she was trying to find her new normal after her 5 year relationship went up in smoke.  I loved her calm, soothing manner with how she approached life.  And that was what both Fisher and Indy desperately needed right now.

She’s considering it. And then she quirks a dark brow in a challenge. “Explain how kissing you is a win for me.”
God, I forgot how good flirting with a woman could feel. “I could probably explain better with a demonstration.”
Her mouth and eyes go wide in a smile. “Trouble,” she repeats.

With goose antics, animals galore, and a garden that inspired those to quiet their thoughts, this story slowly unwound.  It’s definitely at a slower pace then other novels I’m used to, but it worked perfectly for this story.  As Sage and Fisher were drawn to one another, and Indy was finding her place in the world, I loved that we got to watch each of them form a bond and friendship with each other.  And they all learned to grow and heal in their own ways.  It was emotional, and I even shed a few tears.

I just want . . . I just want to know what it feels like to win , and I don’t think I want too much.

With small town charm, heartwarming characters, some steamy moments, and an ending that will leave you smiling, I adored this book!  The library scene was probably one of my favorite moments, and the race too.  And the ending haha.  If you love books that slowly unfold like honey trickling off of a spoon, then this is your book!  I’ll definitely be picking up other books by this author in the future!

PS Will her brothers each get their own books?  I have my fingers crossed!

PPS I loved her best friend Wren.  I’m hoping for her HEA!

*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

BOOK REVIEW: Tomorrow is for the Brave by Kelly Bowen

BOOK REVIEW: Tomorrow is for the Brave by Kelly BowenTomorrow is for the Brave by Kelly Bowen
Purchase on: AmazoniBooks
Add to: Goodreads

Synopsis:

Based on true events, Tomorrow Is for the Brave is a gripping World War II page‑turner about a courageous woman who risks it all for what is right—perfect for fans of Natasha Lester and Kristen Harmel.

1939, France: Lavish parties, fast cars, and a closet full of the latest fashion—to the average eye, socialite Violet St. Croix seemingly has it all. But what she truly wants is a life full of meaning and purpose. So when France falls to Germany, Violet defies her parents’ wishes and joins the war effort. With her impeccable skill for driving under pressure, she is soon sent to North Africa to shepherd French Foreign Legion officers carrying valuable intelligence through dangerous territory.

But as the Allies encounter one mishap after another, Violet becomes convinced there is a spy in their ranks. And when her commanding officer is murdered, Violet realizes she might be the only one who can uncover the traitor and save the lives of countless soldiers on the front lines. Convincing others to believe her is difficult enough. Finding someone she can trust just might be impossible.

Review:

Tomorrow is for the Brave was a WWII story that will capture your heart.  With danger at so many turns, a little bit of romance in the pages, and friendship that will warm your heart, I adored this book!  This is my first by Kelly Bowen, and I definitely will be reading more books by this author!

You won’t last a day. Tino’s last words rang just as sharply in her head.

While it took me till chapter 5 to click with this story, once I did, I didn’t want to put this book down till that final page!  I didn’t like Violet’s fiancé, Tino.  Or her family either.  Tino was controlling, grumpy, boring, and he invoked a lot of anger towards him.  With the brink of war on their doorsteps, Violet wanted to help and volunteer with the Red Cross.  Yet Tino and her father forbade it.  But sometimes you have to go with your gut, and I love that Violet did just that!

George linked her arm through Violet’s. “There is a reason we chose to do this together . To come here together. None of this is easy. But having a friend makes the truly hard things bearable. Having you here has made these months away from home bearable.”
Violet heard the slight catch in George’s voice.

Violet was tenacious, brave, and someone that many will remember for their lifetime and beyond!  I loved the historical note at the end of this story, that spoke of how Violet St. Croix was inspired by real life Susan Travers and what her experience was!  From the moment that Violet signed up with the Red Cross, her entire future changed.  I loved how she created independence for herself.  I love that how led to her driving an ambulance.  Violet was a woman who took charge of a situation, and I was just there gripping the pages having to know what happened next.  While fear and horror leaped from the pages.

The first bomb fell somewhere behind them, a dull, crumping noise that ignited the darkness and shook the ambulance. George gripped the side of the ambulance door, and Violet gritted her teeth but didn’t slow.

On top of Violet, I loved her best friend, George.  She was true, kindhearted, and the friendship she forged with Violet was beautiful.  And besides George, I couldn’t help but love Henri.  The animosity between Violet and Henry was done so fabulously!   Their banter was smile inducing and fun!  So, the moments where Henri listing 5 things about Violet, the book, dancing, and so much more…oh I was a goner.  I loved Henri!  Yet Henri and Violet were in such dangerous situations.  There were no guarantees, and I was so nervous that they could just survive to that next day.

“Henri.” Violet finally stood. “We’ll survive this. We’ve come too far.”
“No matter what happens, I’ll be with you out there. You might not see me, but I’ve got your back. That I promise.”
“I know.” She reached up and touched the side of his face. “And I’ve got yours.”

This book made me scream out loud.  I was terrified for Violet in a certain scene!  Yet hold tightly onto all your hope, because there is an epilogue that is set in the future.  And I closed this book with a smile on my face.  Also, there was a mystery.  We got a few chapters sprinkled here and there with a spy’s POV.  It ended up being my secondary guess, and that’s all I’m saying!   So good luck trying to figure it out!  And I can’t recommend this book enough for those that love historical fiction with a sprinkling of romance!

*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

BOOK REVIEW: Finale (Caraval #3) by Stephanie Garber

BOOK REVIEW: Finale (Caraval #3) by Stephanie GarberFinale (Caraval #3)
by Stephanie Garber
Purchase on: AmazoniBooks
Add to: Goodreads

Synopsis:

Welcome, welcome to Finale, the third and final book in Stephanie Garber’s #1 New York Times bestselling Caraval series!

A love worth fighting for. A dream worth dying for. An ending worth waiting for.

It’s been two months since the Fates were freed from a deck of cards, two months since Legend claimed the throne for his own, and two months since Tella discovered the boy she fell in love with doesn’t really exist.

With lives, empires, and hearts hanging in the balance, Tella must decide if she’s going to trust Legend or a former enemy. After uncovering a secret that upends her life, Scarlett will need to do the impossible. And Legend has a choice to make that will forever change and define him.

Caraval is over, but perhaps the greatest game of all has begun. There are no spectators this time: only those who will win, and those who will lose everything.

Welcome, welcome to Finale. All games must come to an end.

Review:

Finale was a fabulous conclusion to the Caraval Trilogy!  We alternated between Tella and Scarlet in this story, and I kept my fingers crossed that they would both get their happily ever afters!  As someone who read OUABH first, I lost a lot of the peril that could be found in the pages.  I knew the ending, and how quite a few pivotal moments would unfold.  While it affected my reading of this story, there was still so much to love.  The characters made this final book, and I loved watching them fight for their happiness every step of the way!

Her steps faltered, but she didn’t stop.  If anything, she ran harder.  The Fates had won another round.

Finale was so different from the previous two stories.  There wasn’t a Caraval, so the magic, intrigue, and mystery from the games were missing.  Yet those elements could still be found elsewhere, in the characters and the world around them.  And as someone who adored Scarlett and Julien’s book a little more than Tella and Dante, I was shocked that Tella and Dante stole the stage.  While I still loved my moments with Scarlett and Julien, Tella and Dante felt otherworldly to me.  When they were around one another, it was like the sun shined brightly.  The tension between them was palpable.  I just wanted to push them together!

He smelled like dirt and tears and perfection.  And she decided then that she was never, ever letting go of him.

But then there was also Jacks, and he was the prince of pulling on one one’s heart.  I never knew if I could truly trust him, yet I wanted to!  And the moments that Tella was in the middle of Jacks and Dante, oh it all made me so giddy!  I loved the jealousy and strong emotions that were invoked.  While I only had my heart set on one boy, I loved that he gave her an impossible choice.  Yet Tella had such a strong head on her shoulders and ultimately knew what she wanted.  I loved that she wasn’t willing to bend for her HEA!

Tella had never been attracted to Julian, but for a moment she’d hated how jealous she’d been of what her sister had with him.  Enough would never be enough for Tella.

Finale was filled with revelations, twists and happily evers for both sisters.  While the ending wasn’t exactly perfect in my eyes, I felt like we got to see more of Scarlett’s than Tella’s ending.  Regardless, I still adored how the story ended.  This is a series I’ll definitely want to reread down the road, and I can’t recommend it enough for ya fantasy fans!

PS On page 255, there was something foretold…..does this mean we will get another series in this world?  I have my fingers crossed!

BOOK REVIEW: Legendary (Caraval #2) by Stephanie Garber

BOOK REVIEW: Legendary (Caraval #2) by Stephanie GarberLegendary (Caraval #2)
by Stephanie Garber
Purchase on: AmazoniBooks
Add to: Goodreads

Synopsis:

Donatella and Scarlett Dragna escaped their cruel father and made it out of Caraval alive, but the games aren’t over yet. What Scarlett doesn’t know is that, in order to gain their freedom, Tella made a deal with a mysterious stranger and now it’s time to pay.

Except what Tella owes is something that no one has ever been able to deliver: the true name of Caraval Master Legend. Tella’s only chance at uncovering Legend’s true identity is to enter the dangerous game of Caraval once more, and win. But what will she have to sacrifice to do that?

Review:

Legendary started right after Caraval ended, and Tella had made a dangerous bargain.  She was to obtain Legend’s real name, and for that she had to win the next Caraval.  Back are the mysterious moments, the what ifs, and not knowing what was going to happen next.  Legendary took us through another game that twisted and turned as the story unfolded.  The journey was magical, and I loved seeing it through Tella’s eyes.  If you adore YA fantasy, definitely give this series a try!

He cradled her sobbing head to his chest. “Can you open your eyes for me?”
“Maybe I want to sleep here,” Tella mumbled. “I’d wager it’s safer than in your arms.”
“What’s so dangerous about my arms?” He murmured.
“For me, everything.” Tella slowly lifted one lid open.

Tella was a sneaky little soul.  I was intrigued that she kept one of the Fate cards that she had stolen.  It showed her pictures of the future, or possible futures.  Her decisions could change what it showed her.  So as Tella worked her way to winning Caraval, it was impossible not to feel everything that she did.  She was brave, focused, and loved her sister fiercely.  And even though Tella didn’t believe in true love, watching her interact with Dante and Jacks were my top favorite moments in this book!

Dante’s voice rumbled with a laugh.  “If I were Legend I’d definitely never tell you.”
“Because you don’t trust me?”
“No,” he answered slowly, gently tugging her even closer.  “I’d hold onto my secret because I’d want to keep playing the game with you, and if I told you the truth it would spoil all the fun.”

Dante, oh my heart.  When Dante created a situation pushing her closer to Jacks, I was intrigued that he would play such a dangerous game.  I had already fallen for Dante in the previous book.  He was a man surrounded by darkness and the unknown.  Yet Dante also came through time and again.  I couldn’t help but love him. 

His laughter was surprisingly disarming.  “Then tell yourself everyone wishes they were me, dancing with you.”  With a grin he must have stolen from the devil, Jacks looped an arm around Tella’s hips and swept her on the dance floor.

Jacks created jealousy and tension that was so delicious and palpable.  He was a man who was so much more than what he seemed.  And I don’t want to say more because of spoilers, but just know that both of those men were so easy to love and obsess over.   Yet as someone who read OUABH, I definitely recommend reading this series before Once Upon a Broken Heart.  Or else you’ll spoil so many pivotal moments in this story.

He was supposed to break her heart.
She wasn’t supposed to break his.

Legendary was shrouded in mystery, and the story wove itself together so beautifully.  With characters that were so easy to like, a story-line that kept you turning the pages, and magic sprinkled throughout the book, Legendary was such a fabulous YA fantasy!  

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