Book Review: Magic Touch by AS Fenichel

Author: A.S. Fenichel

Title: Magic Touch

Series: Witches of Windsor #1

Genre:  Paranormal Romance, Historical Fiction

Format: ebook

Pages: 301

Published: July 1, 2024

Where I got It: Kindle Unlimited

Summary: 

ESME

I never dreamed my small curatives shop in Windsor, England would attract the attention of war hero Sir William Meriwether. My feminine heart is aflutter when he enters. But I'm a witch and a healer, and he's a man in pain, so I heal him. Desperate to do him a good service, I stretch my powers to the limit—or perhaps beyond. Somehow, in curing his ailing leg, I unleash powers inside William. At a loss to stop what's begun, I'm forced to seek assistance from the coven I've sworn never to join. I dread the encounter, but for William's sake, I put my family's hatred aside. Getting to spend more time with William is an added enticement.

WILLIAM

I'm mesmerized by Esme O'Dwyer from the moment I lay eyes on her. Despite our different stations in society, I want something more personal than any restorative tea she might offer. As a gentleman, I contain those baser needs, and accept her assistance to ease the pain in my leg. When the alluring witch's touch bestows me with magic of my own, I want no part of it. But the coven's leaders insist magic never make mistakes, and for this to have happened, I must be needed. I've never been one to shy away from duty, and being secluded for training with Esme is magical in more ways than one.

ESME

Trouble is coming to Windsor. The signs are all there. The race is on to train William as a witch before his power is needed, but our growing attraction is as undeniable as the battle that lies ahead.

Review:

Randomly came upon this little guy, so I decided to give it a chance! It sounded pretty good, and I do love witches. ;) Plus, look at that kitty!!!!!!!!!!

Here we have Esme and William. Esme is the local healer and witch. William comes in, and he needs to be healed. However, there is something between them that resonates. When she heals him, she helps unlock powers he never knew he had. There is an attraction, but there is an evil coming to Windsor, and she has to help train him for the upcoming battle. 

This was a nice read. I enjoyed our journey and our little lovebirds. They were very sweet, and the drama was to a minimum. Some internal stuff and the looming battle, of course. 

I liked both our characters, and there was a nice collection of side characters. I am curious about Minerva. I think her book is next. 

Some elements of the plot seemed....weak. Not sure if that is the right word. I don't feel like I understand the world or these powers. Maybe things will be better explained in the next book? Everything felt flowy and loosey goosey...a bit too flowy and loosey goosey for my liking.

Even with that, I still enjoyed the journey and our romance. With the ending....I am curious to see what is next, but I'm not rushing to read it. Maybe if it is free or on Kindle Unlimited. Maybe there is an audio I would enjoy a touch more. 

I'll give this 3 stars.  

Reading Challenges:

- Reading Romance Challenge #18 (Cat on the cover)

Book Review: Tea and Alchemy by Sharon Lynn Fisher

Author: Sharon Lynn Fisher

Title: Tea and Alchemy

Genre: Paranormal Romance, Historical

Format: ebook

Pages: 293

Published: January 1, 2026

Where I got It: My shelf (BookBub)

Summary: 

Cornwall, 1854. The people of Roche have always whispered about the recluse in the black granite tower that looms above the moorland. But one young woman is driven to discover the truth behind the old tales.

Her life overshadowed by family tragedy, Mina Penrose escapes her lonely days by working at The Magpie, a cozy tearoom on the village’s edge. Lately she’s been seeing shapes in the sodden leaves that hint at the future. After one such omen, Mina stumbles upon a murdered man on the heath. Villagers immediately suspect Harker Tregarrick, a living, breathing mystery who never ventures beyond the bounds of his centuries-old estate.

Until the day after the murder, when the handsome and compelling recluse visits The Magpie…leading to a meeting that will change both their fates. Captivated by a man around whom danger and rumors of death swirl, Mina has never felt more alive. Can she uncover Harker’s heartbreaking history—and the truth about the murder—before tragedy strikes again?

Review:

Randomly saw this on BookBub, so why not! Love, I had zero idea that this would be a vampire tale!

Here we have Mina, who loves working at The Magpie. It allows her to escape her lonely existence after tragedy. However, she's been seeing shapes in the tea that scare her. After one omen, she stumbles upon a body. Everyone starts expecting Harker even though he never ventures beyond the bounds of his estate. The day after the murder, Harker shows up at the Magpie and will change their lives forever. 

I was shocked that we had vampires here LOL. The summary never really went over this. Did I miss something in the summary? I'm not mad, but I was shocked. 

This started off slow, and I never really and truly settled into the story. What is wrong with me? This has everything. Historical, vamps, tea, a mystery! I just couldn't connect.

The story was interesting enough that I kept reading. There were little sparks that kept me intrigued enough to keep pushing, but I just felt meh at the end. Didn't hate it or love it. Just meh.

Mina was okay, and Harker was eh. 

Again....am I the problem? Two books in a row I just couldn't connect with. I need a refresh, I think. 

In the end, that was just alright. I felt meh by the end, but I didn't hate it. It kept my interest enough to finish the book. I'll stamp this with 2. 

Book Review: Whisper of Sin by Nalini Singh

Author: Nalini Singh

Title: Whisper of Sin

Series: Psy-Changeling #0.75

Genre: PNR, Fantasy, Novella, Short Story

Format: ebook

Pages: 80

Published:  August 3, 2010

Where I got It: Borrowed from library

Summary: 

San Francisco is under threat from a violent gang…a gang that has no idea who they’re challenging. The DarkRiver pack of leopard changelings has already claimed the city as their territory, and they will fight with wild fury to protect its residents. Emmett, a lethally trained leopard soldier, isn’t about to let outsiders muscle in on his home ground—especially when they target a human named Ria.

Emmett has one word for the smart stranger with her curvy body and tough mine.

Possessive, dominant, unyielding in his demands and desires, Emmett is unlike anyone Ria has ever before met. But while the sexy leopard changeling makes her body ignite, his kisses molten and his touch addicting, she’s no pushover and she has a few demands of her own. This leopard has met his match…

Review:

I've really been feeling these quick PNRs of this series! Not sure why, but it's been all I want to read. 

Here we have Emmett and Ria. There is a violent gang causing trouble and thinking they can take on the DarkRiver. Things go from bad to worse when they target Ria. Emmett will never let anything happen to his human. His? Uh-oh. 

Emmett was fun, and I liked Ria a lot. I think I really adore human/changeling a bit more. We got a nice break from the Psy issues. 

Dumb gang. SMH. 

This was quick and just what the doctor ordered. 

This was short but perfect. Mystery, action, passion, and even some humor! It hit all the marks and quickly. 

I'll give this 5 stars. 

Reading Challenges:

- Library Love #14

2-in-1 Book Review: Echo of Silence & Dorian by Nalini Singh

Author: Nalini Singh

Title: Echo of Silence

Series: Psy-Changeling #2.5

Genre: Short Story, Paranormal Romance

Format: ebook

Pages: 101

Published: August 23, 2016

Where I got It: Borrowed from library

Summary: 

In a deep-sea station, Tazia Nerif has found her life's work as an engineer, keeping things running smoothly. But she wants nothing more than to break down the barrier of silence between her and her telekinetic Psy station commander . . .

Review:

I love going back and catching some of these shorts and novellas from this series. It's fun! The only way to read this was by borrowing the anthology. It works. 

Here we follow Tazia and Stefan. Tazia is an engineer and likes to keep things running smoothly. Stefan is Psy and has a strong barrier of silence to protect him and everyone around him. Being telekinetic can be powerful, but dangerous. After a disaster strikes, the two work together to save as many people as they can. 

This was lovely. I loved watching these two find common ground. And then friendship. And then more. Not a lot of crazy drama. Some external and some internal, but it was manageable and worked for a short story. 

Loved the depth. Loved the couple. *chef kiss*

5 stars. 

Author: Nalini Singh

Title: Dorian

Series: Psy-Changeling #5.1

Genre: Short Story, Paranormal, UF

Format: ebook

Pages: 39

Published: August 23, 2016

Where I got It: Borrowed from library

Summary: 

A changeling who can never shift lives a life of quiet frustration—until he learns how to let his leopard come out and play . . .

Review:

Yet another one from the anthology that I wanted to read!

Here we see Dorian in the early parts of his life. He was a changeling who could never shift until he finally learns how to let his leopard come out and play. 

Awwwww I loved seeing a young Dorian. I wish this was a touch longer. Maybe a scene or two more!! Dorian is a lovely character. Now I want to read his book again. It has been so long. 

But yes. Another short one that gives you a taste of the world and the author. It's such a good series overall. 

4 stars from me. 

Reading Challenges:

- Library Love #12 & 13

Audiobook Review: Generation Hex by Molly Harper

Author: Molly Harper

Narrator: Amanda Ronconi & Teddy Hamilton
Title: Generation Hex

Series: Moonshadow Cove #3

Genre: Paranormal Romance, Fantasy
Format: Audiobook
Published:  May 14, 2026
Where I Got It: My shelf (Audible)

Summary: 

If Perry Seaworth had a spell to banish one person, James Huntingdon would disappear in a puff of smoke. As the quintessential eldest daughter, Perry has always shouldered the responsibility of of keeping her sisters safe while defending Starfall Island from ghostly menaces.

Enter James, a secret agent with the Red Jasper Society, tasked with policing witches and their magic. Armed with the power to strip the Seaworths of their abilities, he’s a walking threat to everything Perry holds dear. And his most infuriating quality? Being frustratingly handsome and intriguingly enigmatic.

But as sinister forces emerge from every shadow, Perry might have to put her annoyance aside and accept James’s help. A centuries-old family feud that’s been brewing for generations has finally reached the boiling point. And complicating matters further, the baby sea monster they’ve been raising has grown impossible to contain. Can James and Perry fight off the formidable enemies closing in on them? And will their rivalry ignite into something more powerful—and passionate—than either of them ever dared to imagine?

Review:

I def pre-ordered this little number. I love this world and this series. Adorbs. 

We continue with Perry and her sisters. This time, Perry and James take center stage. Perry has shouldered the responsibility of head of her family and protecting Starfall Island. James is an agent from the Red Jasper Society. He is tasked to watch over and "police" the witches on Starfall Island. Make sure everything is up to code, etc. Things reach a pinnacle with their enemies. It will take everything Perry, James, and their allies have to protect everything they love. And maybe, just maybe, Perry and James will look past their disagreements and see the love they have for each other. 

Awwwwwwwwwwwww this can't be it. There has to be more in this world, and with our witches! This was a spin-off, and I want another spin-off. Maybe another island and/or another coven? The ending sure did give us hope that there will be more. EEEEE!

Loved Perry, and I loved James. They are perfect for each other, even though it takes them FOREVER and a day to figure it out. Everyone could see that for a long time. 

The ending was so good. 

Screw the baddies!!!!! 

The narration was amazing, as per normal with this epic duo. 

Gah! I want more. Should I go back and re-read both this series and the original? Maaaybbbeeeeee.

5 stars from me. I def recommend both series. Read the first one first, though. Lots of details intertwine and impact this one.

Reading Challenges

- Audiobook #19

DNF: The Medium by CJ Archer

Author: CJ Archer

Title: The Medium

Series: Emily Chambers Spirit Medium Trilogy #1

Genre: Fantasy, YA, Paranormal Romance, Historical Fiction

Format: ebook

Pages: 261

Published: June 30, 2012

Where I got It: My shelf (Amazon)

Summary: 

Seventeen year-old spirit medium Emily Chambers has a problem. Actually, she has several. As if seeing dead people isn't a big enough social disadvantage, she also has to contend with an escaped demon and a handsome ghost with a secret past. And then there's the question of her parentage. Being born an entire year after her father's death (yes, a year) and without the pale skin of other respectable English ladies, Emily is as much a mystery as the dead boy assigned to her.

Jacob Beaufort's spirit has been unable to crossover since his death. It might have something to do with the fact he was murdered. Or it might not. All he knows is, he has been assigned by the Otherworld's administrators to a girl named Emily. A girl who can see and touch him. A girl who released a shape-shifting demon into the mortal realm. Together they must send the demon back before it wreaks havoc on London. It should be a simple assignment, but they soon learn there's nothing simple when a live girl and a dead boy fall in love.

Review:

This won the vote for DNF 2nd Chance. I was excited to give it another chance. It just sounds SO good. 

Whelp....

This just isn't for me, I guess. I got a couple of pages further than when I tossed the towel last time. 

Jacob was nice enough, and he was kinda cool. Emily? Eh. 

I just didn't care enough to push through and see how it all ends. I tried, though, but just not the book for me. 

DNF still. Bummer.

Book Review: Shield of Winter by Nalini Singh

Author: Nalini Singh

Title: Shield of Winter

Series: Psy-Changeling #13

Genre: PNR, Urban Fiction

Format: ebook

Pages: 448

Published: June 3, 2014

Where I got It: Borrowed from library

Summary: 

Assassin. Soldier. Arrow. That is who Vasic is, who he will always be. His soul drenched in blood, his conscience heavy with the weight of all he’s done, he exists in the shadows, far from the hope his people can almost touch—if only they do not first drown in the murderous insanity of a lethal contagion. To stop the wave of death, Vasic must complete the simplest and most difficult mission of his life.

For if the Psy race is to survive, the empaths must wake.

Having rebuilt her life after medical “treatment” that violated her mind and sought to stifle her abilities, Ivy should have run from the black-clad Arrow with eyes of winter frost. But Ivy Jane has never done what she should. Now, she'll fight for her people, and for this Arrow who stands as her living shield, yet believes he is beyond redemption. But as the world turns to screaming crimson, even Ivy’s fierce will may not be enough to save Vasic from the cold darkness . . .

Review:

I've been terrible. I finished this a couple of days ago, but I've been sooooo dang busy. We'll divide and conquer this review. 

Please note that this would not work well as a standalone. You need to read all the others prior. 

The Good:

- So many couples from the past books have popped up! This is a big conclusion to some stuff! It was lovely seeing them. 

- Intense action. I was on the edge of my seat. Will this gamble pay off? 

- Vasic and Ivy make a great pair. I was nervous because it would take someone really special to deserve Vasic. He's been such a great side character. 

- That ending? I had some tears. 

The Bad and the Ugly:

- The pacing was off sometimes. At times, we were moving at a snail's pace, and I wanted to skim through, but then we were off to the races. It was jarring at times. 

Conclusion:

Overall, I really did enjoy this conclusion to this arc of the story. There is more to follow, but all the past books of this series have been building up to this moment. The pacing was a little off in spots, but overall....this was good. I'll give it 4 stars. 

Reading Challenges

- Library Love #8

- Reading Romance Challenge #9 (TBR 2+ years)

Book Review: Secrets at Midnight by Nalini Singh

Author: Nalini Singh

Title: Secrets at Midnight

Series: Psy-Changeling #12.5

Genre: Paranormal Romance, Novella

Format: ebook

Pages: 100

Published: November 25, 2014

Where I got It: Borrowed from library

Summary: 

Bastien Smith is frustrated. A changeling male should be able to track his mate anywhere—through fire and hail, snow and rain. But he keeps finding and losing her scent in the city streets, ever since he first became aware of it two weeks earlier, when the elusive fragrance awakened the leopard within him...

Then Bastien is suddenly confronted with his prey. Kirby is an all-too-human woman who wants Bastien just as much as he wants her. But he can’t deny what his body and senses are telling him: there is a raging chaos inside of Kirby that he doesn’t understand, secrets that whisper awake at midnight and cause her terrible pain. If they’re to have any chance of forever, then he must solve the mystery that is Kirby...

Review:

I needed a nice short and sweet novella. Plus, I have been itching for a PNR. This fit the bill perfectly. 

Here we follow Bastien and Kirby. One day, Bastien came across a perplexing yet intriguing scent. It smells of mystery, and something about it makes him think it could be that of his mate. He can't quite keep track of it. After two weeks of searching, he finally finds her. Kirby has been alone all her life. She was an orphan, so her goal in life is to give love to the kids as a teacher. Since she has moved to this new town, something is wrong. She has been getting terrible pain, and there is chaos raging inside her. Maybe Bastien can help her figure out the mystery of her past. 

I adored this. I wish this had been a full-length novel because I really adored both of these characters. Bastien is a sweet bean, and Kirby is a gem. I loved watching them find each other and become more. I loved them working together to uncover the secret of her past. 

The last few chapters had me in tears. Awwwwwww! Happy tears, but tears nonetheless. So sweet. 

I'm curious if we'll see more of Kirby and Bas in the next few books. I want to see them be happy and in love. Maybe more will come out of their discovery. I won't spoil anything!

But yes, I needed this nice story. I've had a few meh books recently. 

5 stars. 

 Challenge(s):

- Library Love #32

 

Book Review: Dime Store Magic by Kelley Armstrong

Author: Kelley Armstrong

Title: Dime Store Magic

Series: Otherworld #3

Genre: Paranormal Romance, UF, Fantasy

Format: ebook

Pages: 448

Published: February 10, 2004

Where I got It: Library

Summary: 

Paige Winterbourne was always either too young or too rebellious to succeed her mother as leader of one of the world's most powerful elite organizations- the American Coven of Witches. Now that she is twenty-three and her mother is dead, the Elders can no longer deny her. But even Paige's wildest antics can't hold a candle to those of her new charge- an orphan who is all too willing to use her budding powers for evil... and evil is all too willing to claim her. For this girl is being pursued by a dark faction of the supernatural underworld. They are a vicious group who will do anything to woo the young, malleable, and extremely powerful neophyte, including commit murder- and frame Paige for the crime. It's an initiation into adulthood, womanhood, and the brutal side of magic that Paige will have to do everything within her power to make sure they both survive.

Review:

I put this series on hold yeeeaaaaaarrrrsss ago. I can't remember the precise reason, but I do remember being cautious because the series switched from our clan of werewolves to this witch lady. I get nervous when series do that. 

But yes, we are back in the Otherworld. We follow Paige who no one thinks is good enough to replace her mother one day as the leader of the American Coven of Witches. That one day has arrived and the Elders can no longer deny her. However, things will take a nose-dive when her new charge is presented. This orphan is all too willing to use her budding powers for evil and she is being pursued by a dark faction. Will Paige be able to save her charge and bring her back to the light? Or will darkness consume her. 

Overall, I did enjoy this for what it was. It was nice coming back to this world but I didn't recognize any from the first two books. I mean...it has been years and maybe there was an old face I didn't recall. But I missed our wolves. Witches are fun, but I do prefer wolves and vamps. 

Paige was kinda meh to me. Boring and predictable. I've seen her kind a million times. By the end I was amused with her, but still....meh. 

Savannah was annoying. I get it. She had a tough life and the darkness seems like an easy way. I wanted to smack her. 

Cortez was meh. Boring as well. I couldn't even remember his name. I had to look at another review to remind myself. 

The drama and fights were fun....I will say that. 

In the end, this was just okay. Not my favorite group of heroes. I miss the old crew. 3 stars. 

 Challenge(s):

- Library Love #31

Audiobook Review: Blind Date with a Werewolf by Patricia Briggs

Author: Patricia Briggs

Narrator: Holter Graham
Title: Blind Date with a Werewolf

Series: Alpha & Omega
Genre: UF, Paranormal Romance, Fantasy
Format: Audiobook
Published: October 21, 2025
Where I Got It: My shelf (Audible)

Summary: 

Dear Asil:

We are worried about you. A werewolf alone is a sad thing, especially at Christmastime. So we have a challenge for you: five dates in three weeks. We have taken the work out of it and connected you with five people from online dating sites. You should also know that we have informed the whole pack and instigated a betting pool. Have fun!

Sincerely,

Your Concerned Friends

Review:

Weeee been wanting more from this series and/or world for a bit now. One negative about being caught up. ;) 

Here we have a collection of short stories following Asil taking on the Christmastime date challenge. A "concerned friend" has lined up 5 dates for Asil to go on. He has not been right in the head or heart in years...many, many, years. In a weird way he's excited to get out and prove his friends wrong that he can act normal. 

This is technically "standalones" but I totally encourage reading the other books of the world first before this. 

I simply and utterly adored this collection. Asil is a gem and I'm so glad we got to follow him find himself and maybe love. ADORABLE. We got to see a side of Asil never shown in the other books. He's been rotting away as a side character that we all love (find me one person who doesn't like him...I have a presentation to show them hehe). He's such a deadly werewolf, but man is he kind. He love protecting those who cannot protect themselves. 

But yes. 5 dates. 5 people who may be friend, foe, or more. Each date was soooo different but they each had a lesson for our Asil. 

That ending???? EEEEEK. ADORABLE!!! I hope we see more. 

The author did a lovely job. His voices for everyone was fitting. I believe he did the others in this series. He's good. 

Did I say this was adorable? I may have. 

But yes, I loved it. 

5 stars. 

 Challenge(s):

- Audiobook #56

Books and Reviews: The Pumpkin Spice Spell by Erin Branscom

Author: Erin Branscom

Title: The Pumpkin Spice Spell

Series: Wisteria Cove #1

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Paranormal

Format: Ebook

Pages: 326

Published: September 10, 2025

Where I got It: Kindle Unlimited

Summary: 

In Wisteria Cove, love is messy, magic is real, and pumpkin spice fixes almost everything… almost.

Willa Maren has a bookstore café, two meddling sisters, a witchy mother who swears by candle spells… and a big Tate Holloway is back in town.

Her first love. Her heartbreak. The boy next door, who left, is now back, looking entirely too hot in flannel.

The whole town is matchmaking, her sisters are firmly on Team Tate, and even their mother, Lilith Maren seems to stir up a love spell or two.

But this time, Willa’s determined to protect her heart, even if it takes every ounce of magic she’s got.

For readers who believe in second chances… and a little small-town magic.

Review:

Grabbed this because of the cover and it was labeled as a Halloween romance which I wanted and needed in my life. 

Here we follow Willa and Tate. Tate was Willa's first love and her first heartbreak. When he left, she decided love may not be for her. She only needs her bookstore cafe and her family even if they like to meddle. Years later....Tate is back. And it will take all her willpower and magic power to protect her heart. 

Was there magic? Sure. It was so limited it didn't feel like a paranormal/witchy book at all. We needed more. 

Also, we needed more Halloween-ness. It was there but again...lacking. 

I also didn't buy the chemistry between Willa and Tate. Sure it was there...but we needed more. 

This was entertaining overall, don't get it twisted....but it needed more of everything. It was light on everything. 

All-in-all, I'll give this 3 stars. Not bad. Loved the town and the characters, but it simply needed more on a lot of things.

 

 Challenge(s):

- Library Love #30

- Romance Reading #24 (Non-Xmas setting)

Audiobook Review: Hex Around and Find Out by Molly Harper

Author: Molly Harper
Narrator: Amanda Ronconi & Teddy Hamilton
Title: Hex Around and Find Out
Series: Moonshadow Cove #2
Genre: Paranormal Romance, UF, Fantasy, Mystery
Format: Audiobook 
Published: October 2, 2025
Where I Got It: Audible

Summary: 

As the middle sister in a trio of sea witches, Cora Seaworth has spent most of her life hidden away at her family’s magical cottage on Moonshadow Cove. She’s claimed her own corner of the library, cozied up with her favorite novels and a ghost cat named Nicodemus. She’s the deep thinker among her more tempestuous sisters, so she isn’t prepared to be swept up in a real-life romantic adventure in the form of sexy local baker Iggy Galinsky.

Iggy is tired of his reputation as the Island’s unreliable charmer and a man of many talents but no true calling outside his family’s bakery. Sure, it’s mostly true, but it still hurts his feelings. His carefree life gets serious fast when he meets the beautiful, mysterious Cora Seaworth. Before long, they’re working together with Cora’s sisters, various ghosts and the unfathomable creature lurking at the bottom of the cove to defeat an ancient enemy. If they don’t prevail, it’s not just their love that’s at stake, but Starfall Point’s entire magical community.

Review:

Eeek! We are back!!!! This time with the next sibling of the Seaworth family. 

Cora has spent the majority of her life at Moonshadow Cove with her sisters. She spends most days locked in the library amongst the books. Iggy has many talents, but he has no true calling. His reputation on the Island is unreliable and a charmer. Sure, it is true, but he does have a dream but he lacks the confidence to go for it. His carefree life is about to end when he meets Cora and learns her secret. He gets dragged into the magical world and will try and help save Cora and her family from an ancient enemies knocking on their door. Will they save the Cove? Will Iggy grow up enough to be the man Cora needs? Can Cora even trust in love?

Make sure you at least read book 1 of this series. I would say the other series (this is a spin off) is important too, but the author gives us enough background of the other series so just at least read book 1 of this series. 

Awwwww I love this author and I love these narrators. Eeeee. They are the perfect trio. 

Cora is a woman of my own heart. She is my favorite of the sisters methinks. 

The chemistry between Iggy and Cora are immediate, but Cora pushes him away to protect him BUT also to protect herself. He has a bad reputation on the island as a charmer and being unreliable. He disappears without a word for days. She can't bring him into the fold because she can't fully trust him. 

The lust was quick, but it did a little bit for the love to come into play and I was here for it. It was a nice pace. 

I did like getting to know James better. It's sounding like James and the older sister will be the couple in the next book. We shall see. 

Oooo I'm curious if we'll see some sort of resolution with Iggy's twin sister. That girl is an angel and deserves happiness. *fingers crossed*

The narration was lovely as per normal. I can't imagine this series done by anyone else. 

Issues? Mmmmmmmmmmmm the solutions seemed too easy. Hopefully we get some sort of battle or something in the next one. It felt too comfy if that makes sense. I also wasn't a huge fan of Iggy. If I was Cora I would've been hesitant too. BUUUUT I did warm up to him by the end. 

All-in-all, I really liked this one. I can't wait for the next book!

4 stars. 

Favorite Character(s): Cora

Least Favorite Character(s): Our baddies and Iggy at the beginning

 Challenge(s):

- Audiobook #49

Book Review: Heart of Obsidian by Nalini Singh

Author: Nalini Singh

Title: Heart of Obsidian

Series: Psy-Changeling #12

Genre: PNR, UF, SciFi

Format: ebook

Pages: 368

Published: June 4, 2013

Where I got It: Borrowed from library

Summary: 

A dangerous, volatile rebel, hands stained blood red.

A woman whose very existence has been erased.

A love story so dark, it may shatter the world itself.

A deadly price that must be paid.

The day of reckoning is here.

Review:

I am making some headway in this series! Yayy!

We follow Kaleb and Sahara. Sahara has been locked up and tortured for years. On the other side, Kaleb has been looking all over the world for her. Can she even be saved? Can he bring back Sahara and untangle her mind? 

This was pretty darn dark at times. Poor Sahara. She went through SO much. Also, poor Kaleb. He has a lot going on. 

Can they save each other? Eeee I had no idea what was going to happen the entire time. I was anxious for them both and honestly...for the whole world of the Psy. Things are changing and breaking. 

I'm so glad I took a mini break from the series. I was struggling, but they rekindled my love of the series. Yayy! Sometimes a break and a good story can fix all the doubt. 

But yes, a LOT happening in this one and lots and lots of spoilers. Trying to stay as vague as possible. 

The ending has me itching for the next book. 

5 stars. 

Favorite Character(s): Kaleb

Least Favorite Character(s): The Council

 Challenge(s):

- Library Love #28

- TBR #10 (Here Be Monsters)

Audiobook Review: Hot for Slayer by Ali Hazelwood

Author: Ali Hazelwood

Narrator: Nina Yndis, Maxim Reston

Title: Hot for Slayer

Genre: Paranormal Romance, Short Story

Format: Audiobook 

Published: September 23, 2025

Where I Got It: Audible

Summary: 

When a vampire slayer loses all his memories, the only person who can help him is the vampire he’s tried to kill for centuries in this unforgettable short story by #1 New York Times bestselling author Ali Hazelwood.

When Aethelthryth—“Ethel” to her modern-day Manhattan neighbors—finds her sworn nemesis Lazlo Enyedi with no memory of who or what they are, an ancient hunt becomes an unexpected chance at forbidden passion. He’s crashing on her couch, solving her sudoku puzzles, and looking at her like she’s his eternal flame (minus the whole bursting-into-ashes part). As his memories slowly return, Ethel realizes she might be in danger of losing more than just her head…

Review:

I seen this and immediately added it to my library. That cover. That summary. WEEEEE perfect for Spooky Season. 

Okay...so we have Ethel who is a vampire. She has been hunted by Lazlo forever. His job is to slay her. However, he loses his memory and Ethel takes pity and takes care of him. Ethel has a very good chance of losing her heart or more possibly her head if he kills her. 

This was super entertaining!!! I was hooked from page 1. A vamp and a slayer? PAH-LEASE that is what my brain was wired for from a young age (*finger guns at childhood memories of 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer*). This time we have a lady Vamp and a male Slayer. The chemistry was off the charts right from the gecko. 

Ethel is a sweet bean who just wants a quiet life. She only drinks the blood of bad corporate folk. Good for her. 

Lazlo has had a lot of chances to take her out, but...something always "saves" her. Mmm sus. 

I loved that Ethel took in Lazlo after he had an accident and lost all his memories. She could've just left him or killed him, BUT she has a big moral compass and she took him in. Adorbs. 

I loved watching them talk and then more. Cuties. 

The reveal was adorable. 

The narrators did a great job. Their American accents were.....alright. Not their cup of tea I don't think, but it was passable and didn't ruin the story for me. 

I'll give this 5 stars. Just soooo adorable. 

Favorite Character(s): Ethel

Least Favorite Character(s): The bad vamp

 Challenge(s):

- Audiobook #47

Audiobook Review: The Queen of Rot and Pain by Liv Zander

Author: Liv Zander

Narrator: Auri Alden, Gregory Salinas

Title: Queen of Rot and Pain

Series: The Pale Court Duet #2

Genre: Fantasy, Dark Romance, Paranormal

Format: Audiobook 

Published: June 23, 2022

Where I Got It: Borrowed from library

Summary: 

Worse than a god in rage... is a god in love.

I punish lies and deceit,

An eternal damnation of agony and pain.

Yet, when it is my wife whose deception plagues me,

I know what I must do.

Shackle her soul to the lying, cold corpse that she is,

Ensuring that she never escapes me.

My wrath,

My torture,

My pain,

And my pleasure.

I am the King of Flesh and Bone,

Every part of her I possess and own.

She is mine,

Death shall never do us part.

Review:

This is for sure a guilty pleasure book series. I read book 1 and....I had to read book 2. It ended so abruptly and with so many questions. I want them to find their HEA and maybe set the world back into order, but there is so much that needs to be fixed between them. 

But yes, we continue directly after the last book ended. Mini spoiler....he thinks she betrayed him. She didn't. But how can she get him to believe her? How will she be able to move on with the grief and betrayal of what the humans did to not only her but her love with her god?

TRIGGERS galore in this one. This is for sure a DARK romance. Super dark and gory. 

This book made me sad. I had no idea how they were going to fix the fragile love they seemed to have found at the end of the last book. I can see his POV and I can see hers. I wouldn't want to trust her again. But GAH. As the reader you KNOW what happened and what was in her heart. GAH. 

And the whole baby thing? My heart.

I am mad at her for forgiving him so quickly after he finally realizes she wasn't lying. He treated her like TRASH. That was too much for me I think. 

I loved watching them work together to get revenge. That was oddly romantic. Dark. But romantic. 

The ending left me feeling like there should be more. Maybe his brothers finding love. I don't know but it felt incomplete. 

The narrators did a good job. 

But yes, the ending felt incomplete and I was mad at our Queen for forgiving too easily. 

3 stars from me. 

Favorite Character(s): our Queen

Least Favorite Character(s): the dumb humans

 Challenge(s):

- Audiobook #41

- Library Love #26

Book Review: The Dangerous Book for Demon Slayers by Angie Fox

Author: Angie Fox

Title: The Dangerous Book for Demon Slayers

Series: Demon Slayer #2

Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal Romance, UF

Format: ebook

Pages: 294

Published: April 28, 2009

Where I got It: My shelf (Amazon)

Summary: 

Demon slaying powers should come with an instruction book ... Seriously. Why does a new hair dryer have a twelve-page how-to manual, but when it comes to ancient demon-fighting hocus-pocus, my biker witch granny gives me just half a dozen switch stars and a rah-rah speech? Oh, and a talking terrier, but that's another story. It's not like my job as a preschool teacher prepared me for this kind of thing.

So I've decided to write my own manual, The Dangerous Book for Demon Slayers, because no one tells me anything. Dimitri my "protector" may be one stud of a shape-shifting griffin, but he always thinks he can handle everything by himself. Only he's no match for the soul-stealing succubi taking over Las Vegas. If I can't figure out how to save him—and Sin City—there'll be hell to pay.

Review:

Yayyy for the TBR challenge making me dig through the archives of books I've meant to read but just forgot. This is a slight stretch to the prompt for this month, but it works ;)

We are back with Lizzy. She wanted a nice quiet life as a preschool teacher, but she has demon slaying powers that she needs to learn how to use. This should've come with an instruction book...maybe she'll just write it herself. While still training and learning, another task pops up. Soul-stealing succubi are taking over Las Vegas. With her friends, she will have to save Sin City and her uncle AND her protector, Dimitri. 

I really should've done a quick read of book 1. It has been SO long since I read it. I don't really remember a lot. The book did fine as a standalone I guess, but (if I remember right) there is a lot from book 1 that is important to know. 

Awwwwww that puppers of hers! I forgot how adorable he was. 

Her granny made me chuckle. 

Lizzy was sweet. 

Love our gang of biker witches. So fresh! So cool!

I wanted more of Dimitri because I barely remember him. 

But yes, this was okay. I'm glad I finally got to read this. However, I really should've done at least a quick scan read of book 1 to refresh my memory of these characters and what happened. 

I think I would've appreciated this more if I remembered more. I was confused a lot. 

3 stars from me. 

Favorite Character(s): Pirate!!!! Lizzy is lovely

Least Favorite Character(s): The uncle

 Challenge(s):

- TBR #9 (Friend squad)