Book Review: Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros

Author: Rebecca Yarros

Title: Iron Flame

Series: The Empyrean #2

Genre: Fantasy, Romance

Format: Hardcover

Pages: 623

Published: November 7, 2023

Where I got It: Borrowed from my friend

Summary: 

Everyone expected Violet Sorrengail to die during her first year at Basgiath War College—Violet included. But Threshing was only the first impossible test meant to weed out the weak-willed, the unworthy, and the unlucky.

Now the real training begins, and Violet’s already wondering how she’ll get through. It’s not just that it’s grueling and maliciously brutal, or even that it’s designed to stretch the riders’ capacity for pain beyond endurance. It’s the new vice commandant, who’s made it his personal mission to teach Violet exactly how powerless she is–unless she betrays the man she loves.

Although Violet’s body might be weaker and frailer than everyone else’s, she still has her wits—and a will of iron. And leadership is forgetting the most important lesson Basgiath has taught her: Dragon riders make their own rules.

But a determination to survive won’t be enough this year.

Because Violet knows the real secret hidden for centuries at Basgiath War College—and nothing, not even dragon fire, may be enough to save them in the end.

Review:

Had to jump into this one asap, but between my trip and just life...it took me so long to finally finish this. PLUS there is so much going on I didn't mind taking my sweet time with it. 

We continue where book 1 ended. Violet has survived her first year at Basgiath War College and there have been huge surprises laid at her feet that she will have to deal with. She is starting year 2 and this year is even more brutal as they prerpare them for battle. On top of that, the new vice commandant has it out for Violet in order to get her to slip up and spill her secrets. However, her secrets could destroy everything. 

I'm glad I took my time with this book. There is a LOT of things happening. Lots of information. Lots of transitions. Lots of characters being introduced. So yes, take your time here.

I really enjoyed this book. In some ways I enjoyed it more than book 1, but in some other ways...not so much. 

Violet and Xaden...ugh. Don't get me wrong I LOVE them as a couple and they are so perfect for each other. However..........I want to hit them ESPECIALLY Violet. The constant bickering gets old and the constant "he kept that secret from me! WAH! I CAN'T LOVE HIM!" Hush you lady. You guys were literal enemies at first so of course he didn't let you in on his deepest, darkest secrets. >_> Sighs. PLUS the secrets are not 100% all his to just expose to whomever he wants. Sighs. The fights were just rehashing the same old issues. OKAY. WE GET IT. 

Minus that there was nothing else I disliked. Loved getting to know more about the lore and the dragons and even our new characters. I miss a certain someone with all my heart, but the person got a little light even though they are dead. *looks out the window and sighs deeply* I miss that person. 

The ending. HOLY. FING.CANNOLI. I will need to start book 3 asap. 

All-in-all, I really liked this and I'm adoring this series. I'm glad I gave it a shot. I hope Violet and Xaden chillax in the next book. They seemed to by the end, but I have a feeling something might bring up this SAME fight if they don't communicate. We shall see. 

4 stars from me. 

Favorite Character(s): Tarin

Least Favorite Character(s): Jack

 

Book Review: The Summer That Shaped Us by Lori Wilde

Author: Lori Wilde

Title: The Summer That Shaped Us

Series: Hobby Island #1

Genre: Chick Lit, Romance, Mystery

Format: ebook

Pages: 352

Published: April 22, 2025

Where I got It: My shelf (Netgalley)

Summary: 

In the Gulf of Mexico, near South Padre, sits a private island with a bit of a magic about the colors are brighter, the food tastes better, and turtles and cranes find sanctuary there. The billionaire heiress who built the thriving resort on Hobby Island exclusively for crafters, Eloisa Hobby, is as much a mystery as she is a mentor. Those with troubles are invited in the aftermath of an emotional turmoil, and with help from the other crafters on the island Eloisa acts as a sounding board while she gently and unobtrusively guides the visitors toward healthy resolutions in their lives. Only a few receive the honor of a golden ticket.

Luna, ever the pragmatist, is reeling in the wake of she’s just moved with her fierce, opinionated teenage daughter Artemis to her mother’s house, after they lost their husband and father. But her mother, Jeanie, artistic and sensitive, has faced her own troubles recently, and her home may not be the stable sanctuary the three women so desperately need.

When Jeanie receives one of the coveted tickets, inviting her and her family to Hobby Island, the blessing is one they can’t turn down, though both Luna and Artie remain skeptical of their eccentric host and benefactor. Together, the three of them will have to learn to trust one another again, accept help from those who love them, and embrace life—during a summer they’ll never forget.

Review:

Look at that cover!!! How could I not grab it up?

This island of relaxation and crafting paradise was created by an eccentric billionaire. You can only come to her island via invitation. Jeanie receives one of the coveted tickets and invites her family to come with her. They need this vacation and a chance to win some money after everything they have been through. 

I guess there is a mystery in here and some romance, but it didn't overwhelm the plot. Honestly....the two didn't even feel like it was there at times. This is just a people story to be fair. People talking and growing and just plain existing. 

What I would give to go to this island!! I'm not great at crafting but I do enjoy it immensely!!

I didn't take this book too seriously. When the weather was nice I just read it outside and enjoyed the warmth. There are some moral lessons sprinkled around....like forgiveness. Lots of quotable moments happened in the book. 

It was slow-paced and interesting enough to stick with it. There is some drama sprinkled around but nothing that wasn't easily fixed. Maybe too easily though. 

All-in-all, this was a cozy book for summer. I wish there had been a touch more mystery and/or romance involved, but oh well. 

3 stars from me. 

Favorite Character(s): Jeanie and Eloisa

Least Favorite Character(s): Nanette

 

Audiobook Review: Nice Dragons Finish Last by Rachel Aaron

Author: Rachel Aaron

Narrator: Vikas Adam

Title: Nice Dragons Finish Last

Series: Heartstrikers #1

Genre: UF, Paranormal, SciFi

Format: Audiobook

Published: July 11, 2014

Where I got It: My shelf (gift)

Summary: 

As the smallest dragon in the Heartstriker clan, Julius survives by a simple code: keep quiet, don’t cause trouble, and stay out of the way of bigger dragons. But this meek behavior doesn't fly in a family of ambitious magical predators, and his mother, Bethesda the Heartstriker, has finally reached the end of her patience.

Now, sealed in human form and banished to the DFZ--a vertical metropolis built on the ruins of Old Detroit--Julius has one month to prove that he can be a ruthless dragon or kiss his true shape goodbye forever. But in a city of modern mages and vengeful spirits where dragons are considered monsters to be exterminated, he’s going to need some serious help to survive this test.

He only hopes humans are more trustworthy than dragons...

Review:

Picked this for book club because I have been itching to give this a re-read. 

Julius is nice and that isn't very dragon-like, so his mother kicks him to the curb to make something of himself before he can come back to the family. He has one month. But he is dropped into the DFZ and this is a city where dragons are illegal and labeled as monsters. He will have to find an ally or two in order to make it before the deadline. 

Awwwww it feels so good going back to the beginning of the series! Love this world and love these people. Julius is so nice. Justin is a hot-head, but I am in lovveeeeee with him. Chelsea is scary. Marci is the best thing for Julius. And Bob....well.....you can't help but love him and his pet. 

There are loads of characters we get to meet but the author does a good job dancing them around the stage. It never feels confusing or overwhelming.

Honestly, it was nice getting through this much quicker. Last time I wasn't able to because of the lockdown. It took my eons and it would be days before I had a chance to really sit down and listen. This time I was able to listen to my normal pace. 

Between that and knowing what happens next...I think I like this even more than my first listen!! This series is for sure a series you can listen to multiple times. Lots of little clues and foreshadows that I didn't catch the first time. 

The narrator? Awful. JK. I love him to bits. He is fabulous. Like I've said before some of his girl voices are a touch silly, BUT he makes sure every girl voice has their own voice so you are never confused. His accents are great and fit. 

All-in-all, this series is a must listen. Sure you can read it, but where is the fun in that? Listening is the way to go. 

Originally I gave this 4 stars, but I am going to bump this up to 5 because why not???

- Favorite Character(s): Justin and Bob

- Least Favorite Character(s): Mama Heartstriker

 Challenge(s):

- Audiobook #24

TMST: Future Summer Reads

Tell Me Something Tuesday is a weekly discussion post where bloggers discuss a wide range of topics from books and blogging to life in general. Weigh in and join the conversation by adding your thoughts in the comments. If you want to do your own post, grab the question and answer it on your blog. Feel free to leave your links in the comments if you are participating.

5/27/2025 Which books are you looking forward to reading this Summer? (Jun-Aug)

I usually don't plan too much ahead when it comes to reading because I am a mood-reader. However, I do have some planned books that I plan on reading:

Blodeuedd's Monday: A Wizard's Guide to Defensive Baking by T Kingfisher

Narrated by: Patricia Santomasso

Release date: 10-12-21

Length: 8 hrs and 30 mins

Publisher: Tantor Audio

YA /from audible

This was a cute fantasy. I tried it in audio, thanks to audible.

Mona works for her aunt, baking. She has some magic and can make gingerbread men dance, and she made this angry sourdough start that she named Bob.

Then she finds a dead body, someone is killing mages, and something is wrong in the city.

Quite the little adventure as she tries to save the day. Even the smallest baker can make a difference.

Just sweet and good you know. Also great narration

Fourteen-year-old Mona isn’t like the wizards charged with defending the city. She can’t control lightning or speak to water. Her familiar is a sourdough starter and her magic only works on bread. She has a comfortable life in her aunt’s bakery making gingerbread men dance.

But Mona’s life is turned upside down when she finds a dead body on the bakery floor. An assassin is stalking the streets of Mona’s city, preying on magic folk, and it appears that Mona is his next target. And in an embattled city suddenly bereft of wizards, the assassin may be the least of Mona’s worries…

Audiobook Review: One of Those Flings by Lauren Blakely

Author: Lauren Blakely

Narrator: Full cast

Title: One of Those Flings

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Novella, Short story, Humor

Format: Audiobook

Published: August 31, 2020

Where I got It: Audible

Summary: 

Skyler’s breakup survival plan is simple: Swear off men for a year and celebrate her man cleanse with a solo tropical vacation to Hawaii. Snorkeling, sightseeing, zip lining, and leisurely dinners by the sea are just what the doctor ordered to mend her broken heart.

That is, until she meets a hunky adventure tour guide who makes her want to break all her own rules. Handsome, funny, and exciting, Caleb is by far the hottest local attraction. Will a romantic island fling lead to more heartbreak - or a new beginning?

Review:

Weee! Short story!

Here we follow Caleb and Skyler. They both survived a bad break-up and refuse to date for a while. Skyler decides to take a nice vacation to celebrate her 1 year of single-hood. That is.....until she meets Caleb. Caleb is a tour guide and lives life by the rules. 

So this was a full cast of narrators. It is more like a movie that you can't see and it worked well. Simple and fun. 

It was really short and it was fine. I did want more of an epilogue but it is what it is. 

Cute couple. Fun local. And some humor sprinkled in. It was a nice short. 

Thank you Blodeuedd for the recommendation ;) It was fun. 

3 stars. 

- Favorite Character(s): Skyler and Caleb

- Least Favorite Character(s): no one. 

 

 Challenge(s):

- Audiobook #23

Audiobook Review: Part of Your World by Abby Jimenez

Author: Abby Jimenez

Narrator: Julia Whelan, Zachary Webber

Title: Part of Your World

Series: Part of Your World #1

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Chick Lit

Format: Audiobook

Published: April 19, 2022

Where I got It: Borrowed from library

Summary: 

After a wild bet, gourmet grilled-cheese sandwich, and cuddle with a baby goat, Alexis Montgomery has had her world turned upside down. The cause: Daniel Grant, a ridiculously hot carpenter who’s ten years younger than her and as casual as they come—the complete opposite of sophisticated city-girl Alexis. And yet their chemistry is undeniable.

While her ultra-wealthy parents want her to carry on the family legacy of world-renowned surgeons, Alexis doesn’t need glory or fame. She’s fine with being a “mere” ER doctor. And every minute she spends with Daniel and the tight-knit town where he lives, she’s discovering just what’s really important. Yet letting their relationship become anything more than a short-term fling would mean turning her back on her family and giving up the opportunity to help thousands of people.

Bringing Daniel into her world is impossible, and yet she can’t just give up the joy she’s found with him either. With so many differences between them, how can Alexis possibly choose between her world and his?

Review:

Been meaning to read this so I was excited when it showed up at the library!

Here we follow Alexis and Daniel. The two couldn't be more different. Alexis comes a family of world-renowned surgeons, but she is "just" an ER doctor. They were okay with this because she was dating the head of surgery. When she breaks up with him, her parents want her to strive for more. On the way home from a funeral, Alexis meets Daniel. Daniel is the honorary mayor of a tiny town and he runs a small hotel in his family's house. There is an instant connection but it seems impossible to bring this small town boy into her world. 

Honestly, this might be a contender for best book of the year. Saying that now. I really, really enjoyed this book. The characters, the humor, the serious tones, the small town, Kevin Bacon the pig....everything. 

Their situation seemed so hopeless because she wants her parent's love SO bad that it would be impossible to bring Daniel into the fold. He's 9 years her senior and he isn't to her parent's standards at all. The answer seems so simple and right there (the author dropped a lot of hints) but just like our lives it is hard to see. 

I also LOVED how the author dealt with Alexis' ex. He was a piece of crap and treated her badly, but there is a small redemption for him. I won't spoil it, but even some "bad guys" can maybe be saved if the "bad guy" does the necessary steps to fix themselves. I loved this so much. 

Gah. I adore this town. I loved Alexis and I have fallen in love with Daniel. He was just so dang sweet and really took care of her. They are so perfect for each other. 

I can't wait to read the next book because it stars Alexis' bestie. She needs love like this after her divorce!!!!

The narrators were fantastic and they literally breathed life into this story. Flawless. 

All-in-all, I really loved this story. I had zero issues and I would listen to it again. I hope the next book is just as good as this one. This had it all. 5 stars from me. 

- Favorite Character(s): Alexis and Daniel

- Least Favorite Character(s): Alexis' father.

 

 Challenge(s):

- Audiobook #22

- Library Love #12

- Romance Reading #16 (Older MC)

Movie Review: The Queen (2006)

Title: The Queen

Length: 1h 43m

Released: 2024

Genre: Biography, Drama
Rating: PG-13
Where I Got It: On the plane

SUMMARY:

After the death of Princess Diana, Queen Elizabeth II struggles with her reaction to a sequence of events nobody could have predicted.

Trailer

REVIEW:

I swore I had watched this movie years and year ago. Some scenes seemed familiar, but it must've been before I started this blog or I just didn't type up a review. 

ANYWAY.

Here we follow Queen Elizabeth II after the death of Princess Diana. We get to see her perspective and that of her family. We also get to see the perspective of the new Prime Minister and his team and family. This event will make or break the crown. 

You have to feel bad for Elizabeth. She is a complex woman and had a complex relationship with Diana. People loved Diana but she wasn't perfect. The same can be said about Elizabeth. She is loved and hated all at the same time. I loved how they portrayed her. Helen Mirren is a treasure and everything she touches is gold *chef kiss*

Like I said, I feel like I watched this movie before. Some scenes felt familiar especially with the deer. The more I think about it....the more I think I watched this with Hubby. Now I feel bad because I never typed up a review from what I find. 

But yes, I really enjoyed this movie and I liked the mixing of real footage with filmed footage. It felt so real. 

I wonder if that scene with the deer really happened. Or was it made up? I should look it up, but in my heart I'll be sad if it was made up.

Again, great cast (especially who played our Queen) and it makes you see how complex these people are. Sure they are royalty, but they are so human.

All-in-all, I'll give this 5 stars. It was really good. It really gives you a nice behind-the-scenes look at such a tragic event. 

Book Review: Magical New Beginnings by Brenda Trim

Author: Brenda Trim

Title: Magical New Beginnings

Series: Midlife Witchery #1

Genre: Urban Fiction, Paranormal Romance, Fantasy, Mystery 

Format: ebook

Pages: 215

Published: November 24, 2020

Where I got It: My shelf (Amazon)

Summary: 

When life goes sideways, embracing the adventure is the fastest way to set things right.

One day I was just a widow facing the prospect of an empty nest, living a life that was anything but enchanted. The next, I had discovered my magical roots, and my rightful place as the Guardian of the portal between the Faery and Earth.

There was shock. And there was fear. After all, no one plans to start over at forty-five. I intended to grow old with my husband. I thought we’d live an ordinary life. So I’ll be damned if I’m going to waste this opportunity to live in a world I always thought was imaginary.

I’m half-witch, half-faery, and facing dangers as real as the ache in my bad knee. Ibuprofen and caffeine keep me going, and I could do this for the rest of my life. Whoever thinks my family home is an easy mark better take notice: the new Guardian in town isn’t going down without a fight.

After all, she’s already learned to let go of her simple existence and believe in the extraordinary power inside of her. What could possibly stop her now?

Review:

I've had my eye on this since it first came out. Forgot about it for a bit and then seen it was free on Amazon recently so I grabbed it!

Here we follow Fiona who is starting a new life after the death of her husband and her grandmother. However, nothing is as it seems. After inheriting the house, she finds that magic is 100% real and she has some huge shoes to fill. She is responsible for guarding this portal between the Faery and Earth. She is new to having these powers so she will have to relay on her new friends to help her. 

I really enjoyed the premise behind this. I especially loved that we have an older set of characters here. The majority of them seem to be 40+ so that is really cool! Rarely do you get a UF or PNR with older characters. Loved it. Plus the whole portal thing was cool!

Fiona was a sweetie. She acted like she was 80 instead of being in her 40s though. It did get annoying....like we get it hon. You can stop. 

I didn't like Bas....the love interest.....maybe in the next book he gets better. I think Fiona could do better if I'm being honest here.

The mystery was interesting enough and it kept me reading on. However, I had issues with the ending. It just ended. You could call it a cliffhanger...sure....but it felt like the author just cut the book in half is selling the other half as book 2. It was just so dang abrupt. 

I also did find myself struggling a bit with reading this. It felt so chunky in places and the pacing was really off. It just didn't flow for me like I would want. 

All-in-all, I did enjoy the premise and the majority of the crew. It was nice and refreshing. I might read book 2 if it is free....someday. I hope book 2 is edited a little bit better and flows better. We shall see. I'll give this 2 stars. 

Favorite Character(s): Fiona

Least Favorite Character(s): Bas

 

 Challenge(s):

- Cloak & Dagger #12

- TBR #5 (Older Couple)

TMST: Fitness Routine/Exercise

Tell Me Something Tuesday is a weekly discussion post where bloggers discuss a wide range of topics from books and blogging to life in general. Weigh in and join the conversation by adding your thoughts in the comments. If you want to do your own post, grab the question and answer it on your blog. Feel free to leave your links in the comments if you are participating.

5/20/2025 Do you have a fitness routine or exercise you enjoy?

I hate working out especially if it is boring. The only time I find joy in it is if I can listen to my audiobooks while doing it. So like walking or weights or yoga. 

I've been trying to walk WAY more but even listening to my audiobook gets boring so I have to switch it up and watch YouTube or one of my shows. 

Blodeuedd's Monday Review: One of Those Flings by Lauren Blakely

Narrated by: Andi Arndt, Jason Clarke, Erin Mallon, Savannah Peachwood, Emma Wilder, Jakobi Diem, Dan Bittner

Length: 1 hr and 17 mins

Release date: 08-31-20

Publisher: Audible Originals

Contemporary romance/from audible

Ok so this one was really short, but that is why I chose it.

I have not listened to many books like this, or any. It was entirely told through dialogue, and it does work well. But it was different because no inner thoughts, more like a movie then. A cast of narrators, sound effects, a lot for a short story.

But hey it worked for me. Girl goes on vacay alone, meets hot guy, and then they will eventually live happily ever after.

It works

Skyler’s breakup survival plan is simple: Swear off men for a year and celebrate her man cleanse with a solo tropical vacation to Hawaii. Snorkeling, sightseeing, zip lining, and leisurely dinners by the sea are just what the doctor ordered to mend her broken heart.

That is, until she meets a hunky adventure tour guide who makes her want to break all her own rules. Handsome, funny, and exciting, Caleb is by far the hottest local attraction. Will a romantic island fling lead to more heartbreak - or a new beginning?

Book Review: Into the Fall by Tamara L. Miller

Author: Tamara L Miller

Title: Into the Fall

Genre: Thriller, Mystery

Format: ebook

Pages: 253

Published: February 1, 2025

Where I got It: My shelf (Amazon)

Summary: 

For better or for worse, Sarah Anderson has it a thriving career, a nice home in Ottawa, two young kids…and a marriage coming apart at the seams.

Then her husband, Matthew, vanishes without a trace during a family vacation up north. Sarah and her children are nearly lost among the slumbering lakes, treacherous cliffs, and brooding forests of the Canadian Shield. A glacier-scraped realm of ancient beauty and terror, it’s a world away from the safety of the suburbs. And a big storm is brewing.

A kind rural lawman comes to their aid and takes an interest in the case. The trail goes cold, however, launching Sarah into a yearlong odyssey to find her husband. On the way, she must reconnect with her estranged sister and duck the suspicions of a slick city police officer. But that’s nothing compared to unearthing the dark secrets buried deep in the granite of her marriage—and in herself.

Review:

I've been itching for some more mystery lately. Can't get enough!! I have another one I'm ready to dive into. Honestly, I go through spells I feel. Read none and then a bunch. This was free on Amazon so I grabbed it up. 

Here we follow Sarah and her family. She has a thriving career and a nice home in Ottawa. Two kids and a husband....but her marriage is coming apart at the seams. The family decide to head up north and do some camping and bounding. However, her husband, Matthew, vanishes without a trace. Sarah and the kids are nearly lost in the woods and there is a big storm brewing outside. A nice rural lawman comes to their aid and picks up the case. When the trail goes cold, Sarah will take over and start a yearlong odyssey to find her husband. 

This sounded absolutely epic when I grabbed it up, but I ended up wanting to DNF this multiple times. I stuck through this because I HAD to know what happened to Matthew. Curiousity kills the cat...right?

Don't get me wrong, the author has a way with words! The way they can bring the scenary to life was beautiful. However, I didn't really care about the characters. I didn't like jumping back and forth in time. I get WHY we did, but it just messed with the flow at times. 

The mystery was mysterious and like I said it kept me hooked enough to finish this. However, the reveals at the end annoyed me. It was fitting in a way, but eh. Lots of build up and it felt anti-climatic in a way. 

All-in-all, this just wasn't for me. The mystery had me hooked until the end and then I felt deflated. Hopefully you like this better than I did. Just not for me. However, I will give some kudos. The author does have a way with description that is beautiful. 

2 stars from me. 

Favorite Character(s): Sarah?

Least Favorite Character(s): Matthew FOR sure. 

 Challenge(s):

- Cloak & Dagger #11

Movie Review: Wicked (2024)

Title: Wicked P.1

Length: 2h 40m

Released: 2024

Genre: Fantasy, Musical, Romance
Rating: PG
Where I Got It: On the plane

SUMMARY:

Elphaba, a young woman ridiculed for her green skin, and Galinda, a popular girl, become friends at Shiz University in the Land of Oz. After an encounter with the Wonderful Wizard of Oz, their friendship reaches a crossroads.

Trailer

REVIEW:

Honestly I have never really given much thought about 'Wicked'. Never seen the play....or read the book. I'm a bad musical nerd ;) I did know the basic premise and a couple of the songs. However, long plane rides makes the brain bored so I decided to give this a watch.

Here we follow young Elphaba and Galinda. The two can't be more different. Elphaba was born with unnatural green skin and is blamed for her sister's disability. She is ridiculed by everyone. And then there is pretty Galinda. She is popular and beloved. They are enemies to start, but soon find an unlikely friendship. They will find themselves meeting the powerful Wizard of Oz and come to crossroads. 

What a golden cast! Even the background/side people are gems. No wonder why they advertised the crap out of this. Golden casts cost a lot of gold!

The music was fun and captivating. 

The effects and scenery? GORGEOUS! A star just for that!

The story was...alright. I enjoyed it for what it was but I guess I don't truly get it. Maybe I need to see part 2 to get the full picture and WHY people are obsessed. It's entertaining, don't get me twisted, but I'm not IN love with the story. 

I'm honestly on Elphaba's side. Screw the Wizard and that society...especially what they are doing to their animal neighbors. Monsters the lot of them. Is that the point? If so....screw Galinda too for not standing up for her friend in the opening scene.

I am curious to see how it all ends. Sure I could read the book or whatnot, but eh. I'll wait. 

It was a fun watch. Nice music and a great cast. Not 100% on the story yet. I'll see how part 2 goes. 

4 stars for now. :) 

Audiobook Review: Hexes and Honey Buns by Danielle Garrett

Author: Danielle Garrett

Narrator: Amanda Ronconi

Title: Hexes and Honey Buns

Series: Sugar Shack Witch Mysteries #3

Genre: Mystery, Paranormal

Format: Audiobook

Published: September 29, 2022

Where I got It: Audible

Summary: 

The pen is mightier than the sword—but what’s a witch to do when she has writer’s block? After landing my first official journalist job I thought the ideas would be spilling out faster than I could type. But it turns out life in the shadow of my debut piece is a little … make that a lot , harder than I expected. So, when a convicted murderer reaches out begging for help in proving her innocence, I jump at the chance to dig into another investigation. The only problem? This trail is ice cold. I don’t want to give up on a good story, or let down a witch desperate for my help, but I’m not sure where to turn and I’m running out of time. Will my last ditch effort pan out, or will I be forced to give my editor a blank page?

Review:

I'm really adoring this world and these characters so I couldn't resist starting the next one. 

Rosella is settling in and making her way. She has accepted a 2nd job as a writer in an official journalist job. After a successful piece, Rosella is struggling with her next piece. However, a possible story lands on her lap, aka email, when a convicted murderer reaches out to her begging for help. The murderer says she is innocent but the trail is ice cold. Rosella takes it on but she keeps bumping into walls. Will she solve an old murder or be forced to give her editor a blank page?

Awww Rosella. What a lil sweetie. I just want her to be happy and do well but she is struggling with trying to get a good story out, her cousin, her boyfriend, and feeling okay being back home. She is having so many conflicting emotions. I just wanna hug her!

Honestly, the mystery came at the right time for her. She needs to get her mind busy and get another great story out! This seems like a cut and dry case, but not all is what it seems. The mystery was good and TBH....the twist was great. I was worried it was going to be too easy, but the author didn't fall into an easy solution or answer. 

The ending was great! I have hope but a part of me is curious about the one cop. Mmmmmmmmmmm. I will say no more, but I do wonder. 

ANYWAY!

I'm not amused with how the cousin is allowed to be a B word to our girl while no one says ANYTHING to her and now they are making her a cake for like free? WHAT? Ugh. I get family and etc, but come on!

Great narration OF COURSE. Everything she touches turns to gold. 

Loving this series. I can't wait to start the next one! I would give this 5, but the scenes with the cousin niggled at my brain a bit. 4 stars overall. 

- Favorite Character(s): Rosella

- Least Favorite Character(s): THAT cousin. >_> Ugh. 

 Challenge(s):

- Audiobook #21

- Cloak & Dagger #10

Audiobook Review: Love, Rebooted by Kathy Summers

Author: Kathy Summers

Narrator: Emily Atack & Stuart Martin

Title: Love, Rebooted

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Humor

Format: Audiobook

Published: March 20, 2025

Where I got It: Audible

Summary: 

FRIENDS. RIVALS. LOVERS. Liv’s happy with life in her thirties. She has two cats, one BFF, and no boyfriend, which is just how she likes it. Plus, she loves working at a not-for-profit software company where she can be her authentically autistic self. This is her happy ever after.

But when her beloved firm merges with a repulsive rival, Liv finds herself competing with her sort-of-ex for the top job. Sure, Finn had been Liv’s best friend at university, with his nerdy good looks and their shared love of Tolkien, but there was that one night, their song, and … well, she doesn’t like to talk about it. In fact, she hasn’t thought about him since.

Unlike Finn who is delighted to have Liv back in his life. Could this finally be his chance to rescue their friendship after all these years? But he knows it’s only a matter of time until he wins the job and Liv gets laid off. He hates everything about it, but he’s a single dad with a daughter to support, so losing isn’t an option – not even to his soulmate.

But in the close proximity of a cut-throat corporate world, Finn finds himself falling first and soon his priority becomes breaking down Liv’s barriers. As the pair struggle to keep their professional and personal lives separate, Liv starts to think maybe Finn’s suggestion of a friendship reboot isn’t such a bad idea after all… And as for that funny feeling inside… no, that’s nothing. Nothing at all…

Review:

This sounded like a cute second chance story. Plus that cover is adorable!

Here we follow Liv and Finn. The two were university besties, but after an awkward evening....they stop talking. Years later Liv believes her life is perfect but that comes crashing down when her job merges with another company. She finds herself competing with her sort-of-ex and best friend for the same job. Finn, on the other hand, is delighted to have Liv back in his life so that he can finally save their friendship and maybe have more if she's willing. They are forced to work together through this merger and maybe find something more than just being close proximity co-workers. 

This was so refreshing!! Interesting characters and an interesting situation. They were friends but acted like BF/GF in school. After an awkward kiss and misunderstanding in a message...they fell apart. It was cute seeing their remeet-cute moment. Finn is determined to at least be friends again. Sure he wants more, but he'll take what he can. They are two peas in a pod and his life hasn't been the same without her. She wants more too, but she likes her life the way it is....plus she doesn't like messy and complicated relationships.

The two of them were so charming and entertaining. I loved watching them muddle their way through getting over the past, working through work stuff, working for something more. All the while being nerdy and geeky. The shared love of LOTR was adorable. 

There were SO many layers to this romance that I was worried it would be too much, but it all felt....natural and real. Life is muddy and complex. 

The narrators were so charming and I loved their voices. 

All-in-all, I highly enjoyed this one. I loved how muddy and complex everything was. It took forever for them to find their HEA, but it was well deserved. 

5 stars from me. 

- Favorite Character(s): Finn and Liv

- Least Favorite Character(s): Finn's boss

 Challenge(s):

- Audiobook #20

Blodeuedd's Monday Review: Bryony and Roses

Narrated by: Justine Eyre

Length: 5 hrs and 51 mins

Release date: 10-13-15 by Tantor Audio

From audible

Fantasy

I was sure I had written a review already, but I guess not.

This is a Beauty and the Beast re-telling, but really close to the actual story.

Bryony is trying to get home and seeks shelter in an seemingly abandoned mansion. But there lives a Beast, and the house seems alive and magics things for her.

She starts to garden. The beast cant say what is wrong...but something is wrong in this spooky house.

A bit darker than the original. Not dark dark, just spookier. But for me to close to the original.

Good narration. But then I really like Eyre.

Bryony and her sisters have come down in the world. Their merchant father died trying to reclaim his fortune and left them to eke out a living in a village far from their home in the city.

But when Bryony is caught in a snowstorm and takes refuge in an abandoned manor, she stumbles into a house full of dark enchantments. Is the Beast that lives there her captor, or a fellow prisoner? Is the house her enemy or her ally? And why are roses blooming out of season in the courtyard?

Armed only with gardening shears and her wits, Bryony must untangle the secrets of the house before she—or the Beast—are swallowed by them.

Book Review: The Hero of Ages by Brandon Sanderson

Author: Brandon Sanderson

Title: The Hero of Ages

Series: The Mistborn Saga #3

Genre: Fantasy, SciFi

Format: ebook

Pages: 586

Published: October 14, 2008

Where I got It: Borrowed from library

Summary: 

Who is the Hero of Ages?

To end the Final Empire and restore freedom, Vin killed the Lord Ruler. But as a result, the Deepness—the lethal form of the ubiquitous mists—is back, along with increasingly heavy ashfalls and ever more powerful earthquakes. Humanity appears to be doomed.

Having escaped death at the climax of The Well of Ascension only by becoming a Mistborn himself, Emperor Elend Venture hopes to find clues left behind by the Lord Ruler that will allow him to save the world. Vin is consumed with guilt at having been tricked into releasing the mystic force known as Ruin from the Well. Ruin wants to end the world, and its near omniscience and ability to warp reality make stopping it seem impossible. Vin can't even discuss it with Elend lest Ruin learn their plans!

Review:

Finished this on the plane ride on the way home from the UK. And it killed me because I had to quietly say, "WTF" even though I wanted to emote loudly.  

The end is here. Something was released and now ashfalls are heavier and more earthquakes. Humanity is doomed unless Vin, Elend, and the rest can stop Ruin. 

Things got hairy and scary. I'm glad I ended up getting the ebook so I could quickly read this. Loved the narrator for the other two, but this allowed me to read through at my own pace. The ending had to be rushed and I read as fast as I could. WHAT ON EARTH!?!?!?!?!

The first half was so stinkin' slow. It took me a while to find my footing, but then it took off like a rocket. I kept gasping quietly (bc yes, plane). I wanted to throw my phone at the pilot when I read the last page. Not "bad" as the way you may think I'm meaning, but WTF!!!!! I had a bunch of theories on how it would end, but holy Fing cannoli batman...I didn't expect ANY of this. I'm happy, but mad. Sad, but joyful. Lots of conflicting feelings. 

There are more in the series, but this one ends this chapter of the world and these characters. I'm sad to say goodbye. Not sure if I'll move forward with the series though.......we'll see. 

I enjoyed the journey as a whole, but I feel like there was a lot of questionable decisions made especially at the end here. 

Is it worth the read? Sure! If you want some big fantasy books under your belt that will make you feel all the emotions...sometimes at the same time. 

All-in-all, I am having conflicting feelings for this one because of the ending. 

2 stars from me. 

Favorite Character(s): Elend

Least Favorite Character(s): Ruin 

 Challenge(s):

- Library love #11

Blodeuedd's Friday Review: The Housemaid by Feida McFadden

Series: The Housemaid (#1)

Format: 336 pages, Paperback

Published: August 23, 2022 by Grand Central Publishing

Thriller/own

I really do not want to say too much about this one. You have to experience it for yourself.

Millie needs a job, but as an ex convict that is hard. She gets a job as a housemaid. The wife is a total B*tch, the kid is a brat, and the husband rather handsome now isn´t he.

She sleeps in the attic in a strange room that locks from the outside. Jane Eyre vibes here

I would have quit that horrid place. She got so much shit, and she is just trying her best because she needs money.

But...yes twists, a punch in the gut, and I just did not see things coming. Recommended.

Will I read more? Honestly, I am not that interested. The only bad thing about the book is that it gave us an insight into what happens next and they kind of lost me there. So like round 2? Not that interested in that.

But yes read this one!!! And if someone has read book 2...is it just the same formula again? I have read one and I am happy. I like when I do not see things coming

Every day I clean the Winchesters’ beautiful house top to bottom. I collect their daughter from school. And I cook a delicious meal for the whole family before heading up to eat alone in my tiny room on the top floor.

I try to ignore how Nina makes a mess just to watch me clean it up. How she tells strange lies about her own daughter. And how her husband Andrew seems more broken every day. But as I look into Andrew’s handsome brown eyes, so full of pain, it’s hard not to imagine what it would be like to live Nina’s life. The walk-in closet, the fancy car, the perfect husband.

I only try on one of Nina’s pristine white dresses once. Just to see what it’s like. But she soon finds out… and by the time I realize my attic bedroom door only locks from the outside, it’s far too late.

But I reassure myself: the Winchesters don’t know who I really am.

They don’t know what I’m capable of…