Lamplight Chapters | Book Reviews

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Recent Book Reviews

Book Review: Alchemised by SenLinYu

Book Review: Alchemised by SenLinYu

Book Review: Alchemised by SenLinYu

ARC Book Review: A Hunger in Every Heart by Kate King

ARC Book Review: A Hunger in Every Heart by Kate King

ARC Book Review: A Hunger in Every Heart by Kate King

Book Review: Hyperbole and a Half by Allie Brosh

Book Review: Hyperbole and a Half by Allie Brosh

Book Review: Hyperbole and a Half by Allie Brosh

ARC Book Review: The Magic We Made by Meg Cabot

ARC Book Review: The Magic We Made by Meg Cabot

ARC Book Review: The Magic We Made by Meg Cabot

Book Review: Caraval by Stephanie Garber

Book Review: Caraval by Stephanie Garber

Book Review: Caraval by Stephanie Garber

Recent Blog Posts

Friends & Fables: April Picks

Friends & Fables: April Picks

Friends & Fables: April Picks

Feb 2026 Wrap Up

Feb 2026 Wrap Up

Feb 2026 Wrap Up

Friends & Fables: Feb/Mar Picks

Friends & Fables: Feb/Mar Picks

Friends & Fables: Feb/Mar Picks

Jan 2026 Wrap Up

Jan 2026 Wrap Up

Jan 2026 Wrap Up

Yearly Recap: 2025

Yearly Recap: 2025

Yearly Recap: 2025

Portrait illustration of Megan, Lamplight Chapters book blogger.

Megs | Lawful Neutral | Ravenclaw

Reviews may contain 18+ content and themes.

As soon as this popped up to apply for I jumped on it! I loved Rook & Rebel and was excited to read Evie’s story. She is such a fun character and her story was great. I really enjoyed the dynamic between her and Aiden. The events of the book subtly drove the romance in such a nice way. I started to see the twist a the end and even though I got the ‘who’ I was not even close on the ‘why’. Such a wild ride!

This one releases on July 14th! You can preorder it now!

Ace & Ember
Kate Crew
Dark Rom-Com
The Mavericks, # 2

Ratings: 4⭐ 5🌶️

Thank you to Kate Crew, Netgalley, and Harper Voyager for the eARC opportunity.

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: lamplightchapters.com

Keywords/Tags:
#arcreader #motorcycleromance #ace&ember

As soon as this popped up to apply for I jumped on it! I loved Rook & Rebel and was excited to read Evie’s story. She is such a fun character and her story was great. I really enjoyed the dynamic between her and Aiden. The events of the book subtly drove the romance in such a nice way. I started to see the twist a the end and even though I got the ‘who’ I was not even close on the ‘why’. Such a wild ride!

This one releases on July 14th! You can preorder it now!

Ace & Ember
Kate Crew
Dark Rom-Com
The Mavericks, # 2

Ratings: 4⭐ 5🌶️

Thank you to Kate Crew, Netgalley, and Harper Voyager for the eARC opportunity.

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: lamplightchapters.com

Keywords/Tags:
#arcreader #motorcycleromance #ace&ember

Don't miss out on your chance to get an ARC copy of book one in Alyssa-Ray Bouman's new series Cozy Pines Cafe, Thorns and Ashes.

Check out @alyssaraywrites page for more details!

#cpcseries #smalltownromance

Don't miss out on your chance to get an ARC copy of book one in Alyssa-Ray Bouman's new series Cozy Pines Cafe, Thorns and Ashes.

Check out @alyssaraywrites page for more details!

#cpcseries #smalltownromance

Will She Run
Alyssa-Ray Bouman
@alyssaraywrites

A story about HIDDEN PAIN, HEAVY SECRETS,

and the FIGHT to BREAK THROUGH the darkness.

Will She Break is a journey through GRIEF, LOVE, and the BRAVEST BATTLE of all, learning that healing doesn’t mean standing alone, and sometimes the strongest thing you can do is let someone in.

Emma Grayson has spent years trying to prove to everyone, including herself, that she’s enough. After surviving an abusive past, she’s learned to keep her heart guarded. But when an unexpected connection with a friend begins to break through her carefully built walls, Emma is forced to confront a terrifying question. Will she fight to keep those walls in place, or will she break them down for love?

Blake Bolton keeps his pain hidden behind his lopsided smile and funny guy attitude. He doesn’t even let his closest friends see the truth. With the fear of what his future may hold and his anger starting to boil over, the last thing he expects is to fall for his friend, the sweet one with kind eyes and her own buried scars. Falling for her feels like the one part of Blake’s life that makes sense, but will he risk loving another person he’s terrified to lose?

🏡 Small Town Romance
💕 Friends to Lovers
🧠 Mental Health Rep
🎗️Cancer/Caretaker Rep
❤️‍🔥 Slow Burn
🤫 Secrets Revealed
🌀 Family Dynamics

#bookrecs #wothseries #smalltownromance

Will She Run
Alyssa-Ray Bouman
@alyssaraywrites

A story about HIDDEN PAIN, HEAVY SECRETS,

and the FIGHT to BREAK THROUGH the darkness.

Will She Break is a journey through GRIEF, LOVE, and the BRAVEST BATTLE of all, learning that healing doesn’t mean standing alone, and sometimes the strongest thing you can do is let someone in.

Emma Grayson has spent years trying to prove to everyone, including herself, that she’s enough. After surviving an abusive past, she’s learned to keep her heart guarded. But when an unexpected connection with a friend begins to break through her carefully built walls, Emma is forced to confront a terrifying question. Will she fight to keep those walls in place, or will she break them down for love?

Blake Bolton keeps his pain hidden behind his lopsided smile and funny guy attitude. He doesn’t even let his closest friends see the truth. With the fear of what his future may hold and his anger starting to boil over, the last thing he expects is to fall for his friend, the sweet one with kind eyes and her own buried scars. Falling for her feels like the one part of Blake’s life that makes sense, but will he risk loving another person he’s terrified to lose?

🏡 Small Town Romance
💕 Friends to Lovers
🧠 Mental Health Rep
🎗️Cancer/Caretaker Rep
❤️‍🔥 Slow Burn
🤫 Secrets Revealed
🌀 Family Dynamics

#bookrecs #wothseries #smalltownromance

I’ve Got You Under My Skin
Mary Higgins Clark & Alafair Burke
Mystery / Thriller
Under Suspicion, # 1

“The two most useless words in the English language - Don't worry.”

Ratings: 4⭐

My thoughts:
There were so many moving parts to this story. It was definitely a different style from MHC. The pacing was very quick but nicely done with how many characters there are to keep up with. I found the back and forth perspectives of the characters to add depth to the story. It also made the ‘whodunit’ aspect of the story very interesting. And what a whammy of an ending. I was not expecting that level of excitement in the end. Great read!

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: lamplightchapters.com

Keywords/Tags:
#maryhigginsclark #undersuspicion #whodunit

I’ve Got You Under My Skin
Mary Higgins Clark & Alafair Burke
Mystery / Thriller
Under Suspicion, # 1

“The two most useless words in the English language - Don't worry.”

Ratings: 4⭐

My thoughts:
There were so many moving parts to this story. It was definitely a different style from MHC. The pacing was very quick but nicely done with how many characters there are to keep up with. I found the back and forth perspectives of the characters to add depth to the story. It also made the ‘whodunit’ aspect of the story very interesting. And what a whammy of an ending. I was not expecting that level of excitement in the end. Great read!

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: lamplightchapters.com

Keywords/Tags:
#maryhigginsclark #undersuspicion #whodunit

I can already imagine the tension and banter between these two.

I cannot wait for this one! Thorns and Ashes has open ARC signups for a little longer.

Check out @alyssaraywrites page for more info.

#bookstagram #cpcseries #smalltownromance

I can already imagine the tension and banter between these two.

I cannot wait for this one! Thorns and Ashes has open ARC signups for a little longer.

Check out @alyssaraywrites page for more info.

#bookstagram #cpcseries #smalltownromance

A Court of Frost and Starlight
Sarah J. Maas
Fantasy Romance
A Court of Thorns and Roses, # 3.5

“I think my heart knew you were mine long before I ever realized it.”

Ratings: 4.5⭐ 3🌶️

My thoughts:
Holy moly. There were so many things that I liked about this one. I love that this whole series follows the characters that it does. There is not a dull character in the main group and the side characters are intertwined so nicely. The only thing that bothers me is Elaine. There is just something about her story that I feel we aren’t getting... That’s what kept this from 5 stars for me. I’m ready to move on to the next part but not ready to wait for the next book to be released.

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: lamplightchapters.com

Keywords/Tags:
#sarahjmaas #acotar #bookrecs

A Court of Frost and Starlight
Sarah J. Maas
Fantasy Romance
A Court of Thorns and Roses, # 3.5

“I think my heart knew you were mine long before I ever realized it.”

Ratings: 4.5⭐ 3🌶️

My thoughts:
Holy moly. There were so many things that I liked about this one. I love that this whole series follows the characters that it does. There is not a dull character in the main group and the side characters are intertwined so nicely. The only thing that bothers me is Elaine. There is just something about her story that I feel we aren’t getting... That’s what kept this from 5 stars for me. I’m ready to move on to the next part but not ready to wait for the next book to be released.

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: lamplightchapters.com

Keywords/Tags:
#sarahjmaas #acotar #bookrecs

I was hesitant to apply for this one because I have imposter syndrome sometimes where I think I won’t qualify for anything that is a “big name” or “big title”. I have only been doing the official bookstagram thing for a little over a year.

With that said, I was approved for the eARC of book 3 in the Enchanted Legacies series. I own book 1 but I tend to ignore my physical bookshelf and so when I saw this one I knew I needed to read it and finish the rest. I am so glad I applied because this book was great! I love a good retelling and it’s easily one of my favorite subtropes to read. I am also a sucker for fake dating and nicknames... and this book delivers on all of that!

This one releases on April 8th! You should definitely check it out.

A Hunger in Every Heart
Kate King @katekingauthor
Fantasy Romance
Enchanted Legacies, # 3

Ratings: 4⭐ 5🌶️

Thank you to Kate King for the eARC opportunity.

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: lamplightchapters.com

Keywords/Tags:
#arcreader #enchantedlegacies #kateking

I was hesitant to apply for this one because I have imposter syndrome sometimes where I think I won’t qualify for anything that is a “big name” or “big title”. I have only been doing the official bookstagram thing for a little over a year.

With that said, I was approved for the eARC of book 3 in the Enchanted Legacies series. I own book 1 but I tend to ignore my physical bookshelf and so when I saw this one I knew I needed to read it and finish the rest. I am so glad I applied because this book was great! I love a good retelling and it’s easily one of my favorite subtropes to read. I am also a sucker for fake dating and nicknames... and this book delivers on all of that!

This one releases on April 8th! You should definitely check it out.

A Hunger in Every Heart
Kate King @katekingauthor
Fantasy Romance
Enchanted Legacies, # 3

Ratings: 4⭐ 5🌶️

Thank you to Kate King for the eARC opportunity.

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: lamplightchapters.com

Keywords/Tags:
#arcreader #enchantedlegacies #kateking

Going strong on the Reading in Bloom challenge for 2026. Let's see if I can complete another mini challenge. I've got another 7 hopefuls list going. I'm currently reading Shadown and currently listening to Alchemised. Though Alchemised is an intimidating listen at over 36 hours long.

Here we go, March. Bring it on!

#tbr #monthlyreads #readingchallenge

Going strong on the Reading in Bloom challenge for 2026. Let's see if I can complete another mini challenge. I've got another 7 hopefuls list going. I'm currently reading Shadown and currently listening to Alchemised. Though Alchemised is an intimidating listen at over 36 hours long.

Here we go, March. Bring it on!

#tbr #monthlyreads #readingchallenge

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
J.K. Rowling
Fantasy
Harry Potter, # 2
Full Cast Audio Editions

"Are you crazy? All those times I could've died, and I didn't manage it? They'll be furious...”

Ratings: 4⭐

My thoughts:
I have been thoroughly enjoying this full cast audio series. I couldn't remember how different this book really was compared to the movies. As I listened I kept finding myself like "oh yeah!" and proceeded to tell my husband in excitement. The voices are all so good. Moaning Myrtle's narrator was probably my favorite of some of the side characters.

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: lamplightchapters.com

Keywords/Tags
#fullcastaudio #harrypotter #bookrecs

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
J.K. Rowling
Fantasy
Harry Potter, # 2
Full Cast Audio Editions

"Are you crazy? All those times I could've died, and I didn't manage it? They'll be furious...”

Ratings: 4⭐

My thoughts:
I have been thoroughly enjoying this full cast audio series. I couldn't remember how different this book really was compared to the movies. As I listened I kept finding myself like "oh yeah!" and proceeded to tell my husband in excitement. The voices are all so good. Moaning Myrtle's narrator was probably my favorite of some of the side characters.

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: lamplightchapters.com

Keywords/Tags
#fullcastaudio #harrypotter #bookrecs

Preorders now available for Alyssa-Ray Bouman's new book!! Check out the first book in the Cozy Pines Cafe trilogy by getting your preorder in now!

ARCs are still open.

Check out her links on her page @alyssaraywrites for more info!

Preorders now available for Alyssa-Ray Bouman's new book!! Check out the first book in the Cozy Pines Cafe trilogy by getting your preorder in now!

ARCs are still open.

Check out her links on her page @alyssaraywrites for more info!

I saw a few other bookstagrammers doing this version of the rating styles and thought it was cute so I decided to put my own together. I like these breakdowns much better than the ones I've put up in the past. Plus, a little bit of book humor is great!

#bookrating #myratingsystem #spicybooks

I saw a few other bookstagrammers doing this version of the rating styles and thought it was cute so I decided to put my own together. I like these breakdowns much better than the ones I've put up in the past. Plus, a little bit of book humor is great!

#bookrating #myratingsystem #spicybooks

I saw a few other bookstagrammers doing this version of the rating styles and thought it was cute so I decided to put my own together. I like these breakdowns much better than the ones I've put up in the past. Plus, a little bit of book humor is great!

#bookrating #myratingsystem

I saw a few other bookstagrammers doing this version of the rating styles and thought it was cute so I decided to put my own together. I like these breakdowns much better than the ones I've put up in the past. Plus, a little bit of book humor is great!

#bookrating #myratingsystem

What is your favorite book that you read in February?

I knocked out another really good reading month for me. I read 6 books total. I had an ARC that I really tried to like/read but just couldn't make it through and ended up skimming and reading about 100 pages before calling it quits. I then listened to another full cast audio of the Harry Potter series, finished another book in the ACOTAR series, began the Under Suspicion series by Mary Higgins Clark, began the Bridgerton series, and I began the Caraval series.

Format list:
📱 The Faraway Inn - Sarah Beth Durst
🎧 Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets - J.K. Rowling
🎧 A Court of Frost and Starlight - Sarah J. Maas
🎧 + 📱 I’ve Got You Under My Skin - Mary Higgins Clark
🎧 + 📱 The Duke and I - Julia Quinn
📖 Caraval - Stephanie Garber

My favorite book this month was definitely Caraval. I absolutely love the world that this author created and the characters really drew me in. Such a good read; a really good young adult fantasy romance.

Keywords/Tags:
#monthlywrapup #bookrecommendations #bookrecs

What is your favorite book that you read in February?

I knocked out another really good reading month for me. I read 6 books total. I had an ARC that I really tried to like/read but just couldn't make it through and ended up skimming and reading about 100 pages before calling it quits. I then listened to another full cast audio of the Harry Potter series, finished another book in the ACOTAR series, began the Under Suspicion series by Mary Higgins Clark, began the Bridgerton series, and I began the Caraval series.

Format list:
📱 The Faraway Inn - Sarah Beth Durst
🎧 Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets - J.K. Rowling
🎧 A Court of Frost and Starlight - Sarah J. Maas
🎧 + 📱 I’ve Got You Under My Skin - Mary Higgins Clark
🎧 + 📱 The Duke and I - Julia Quinn
📖 Caraval - Stephanie Garber

My favorite book this month was definitely Caraval. I absolutely love the world that this author created and the characters really drew me in. Such a good read; a really good young adult fantasy romance.

Keywords/Tags:
#monthlywrapup #bookrecommendations #bookrecs

Thorns and Ashes by Alyssa-Ray Bouman | Releases April 20th

ARC READERS WANTED
SIGN UP LINK ON ALYSSA-RAY'S PAGE!
@alyssaraywrites

At Cozy Pines Cafe, Love isn’t Rushed, it’s Slow-Brewed.
A story about Healing After Loss and Finding Love in the Last Place you Ever Expected it.

Tris Thorne isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. She’s spent her whole life living in luxury, looking down at the people in her small town. But when it all comes crashing down around her, she’s left with nothing, and that sense of entitlement crumbles like a pastry. She finds herself working at The Cozy Pines Cafe, relearning what it means to be a good friend, and questioning who she wants to be as a person. If only the new Captain of the Turtle Bay Fire Department didn’t challenge her, piss her off, and light a fire under her skin, unlike anything she’s ever felt before.

Captain Levi King of the Turtle Bay Fire Department is seeking solace in the Adirondacks after a tragic accident robs him of the future he thought he had planned out. Now he’s haunted by his grief and scars that are carved deeper than just his skin. Devastatingly handsome, his razor-sharp wit and grumpy, sarcastic edge keeps everyone at a careful distance. Everyone except for the icy barista, Tris, who manages to light him up with every interaction. It doesn’t help that little Miss Ellie, his firehouse dog, is absolutely obsessed with her and her biscuits.

A true enemies-to-lovers’ romance that you won’t want to put down.
Will Levi King and Tris Thorne set aside their pride long enough to see that they’re exactly what the other one needs? Or will they continue to push away their connection… and each other.

🔥Enemies to Lovers
🌹Slow Burn
🔥Fire Fighter MMC
🌹Small Town Romance
🔥Grump vs. Black Cat
🌹Healing After Loss
🔥PTSD Representation

#bookstagram #cpcseries #smalltownromance

Thorns and Ashes by Alyssa-Ray Bouman | Releases April 20th

ARC READERS WANTED
SIGN UP LINK ON ALYSSA-RAY'S PAGE!
@alyssaraywrites

At Cozy Pines Cafe, Love isn’t Rushed, it’s Slow-Brewed.
A story about Healing After Loss and Finding Love in the Last Place you Ever Expected it.

Tris Thorne isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. She’s spent her whole life living in luxury, looking down at the people in her small town. But when it all comes crashing down around her, she’s left with nothing, and that sense of entitlement crumbles like a pastry. She finds herself working at The Cozy Pines Cafe, relearning what it means to be a good friend, and questioning who she wants to be as a person. If only the new Captain of the Turtle Bay Fire Department didn’t challenge her, piss her off, and light a fire under her skin, unlike anything she’s ever felt before.

Captain Levi King of the Turtle Bay Fire Department is seeking solace in the Adirondacks after a tragic accident robs him of the future he thought he had planned out. Now he’s haunted by his grief and scars that are carved deeper than just his skin. Devastatingly handsome, his razor-sharp wit and grumpy, sarcastic edge keeps everyone at a careful distance. Everyone except for the icy barista, Tris, who manages to light him up with every interaction. It doesn’t help that little Miss Ellie, his firehouse dog, is absolutely obsessed with her and her biscuits.

A true enemies-to-lovers’ romance that you won’t want to put down.
Will Levi King and Tris Thorne set aside their pride long enough to see that they’re exactly what the other one needs? Or will they continue to push away their connection… and each other.

🔥Enemies to Lovers
🌹Slow Burn
🔥Fire Fighter MMC
🌹Small Town Romance
🔥Grump vs. Black Cat
🌹Healing After Loss
🔥PTSD Representation

#bookstagram #cpcseries #smalltownromance

Two Twisted Crowns
Rachel Gillig
Fantasy Romance
The Shepherd King, # 2

“Kings and monsters can be made, and butterflies can be crushed.”

Ratings: 5⭐ 2🌶️

“Beg me.”

My thoughts:
I was not at all ready for this series to end. I think this is probably my favorite series I’ve read in a long time. It will definitely stay in my top of all time. I started listening to the audio and finally got impatient and picked up my physical copy to finish it because I needed it faster. It felt like I never stopped reading after the first book. The story was so fluid and the characters progress was *chef’s kiss*. I haven’t felt so invested in a set of character endings like I did with this book in a long while. Elm definitely grew on me as the story progressed and I absolutely loved how we got more focus on him and Ravyn this time.

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: lamplightchapters.com

Keywords/Tags: gothic fantasy, romantasy, magic system, world building, providence cards
#fivestarreads #romantasy #bookrecs

Two Twisted Crowns
Rachel Gillig
Fantasy Romance
The Shepherd King, # 2

“Kings and monsters can be made, and butterflies can be crushed.”

Ratings: 5⭐ 2🌶️

“Beg me.”

My thoughts:
I was not at all ready for this series to end. I think this is probably my favorite series I’ve read in a long time. It will definitely stay in my top of all time. I started listening to the audio and finally got impatient and picked up my physical copy to finish it because I needed it faster. It felt like I never stopped reading after the first book. The story was so fluid and the characters progress was *chef’s kiss*. I haven’t felt so invested in a set of character endings like I did with this book in a long while. Elm definitely grew on me as the story progressed and I absolutely loved how we got more focus on him and Ravyn this time.

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: lamplightchapters.com

Keywords/Tags: gothic fantasy, romantasy, magic system, world building, providence cards
#fivestarreads #romantasy #bookrecs

Thorns and Ashes by Alyssa-Ray Bouman | Releases April 20th

ARC READERS WANTED
SIGN UP LINK ON ALYSSA-RAY'S PAGE!
@alyssaraywrites

At Cozy Pines Cafe, Love isn’t Rushed, it’s Slow-Brewed.
A story about Healing After Loss and Finding Love in the Last Place you Ever Expected it.

Tris Thorne isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. She’s spent her whole life living in luxury, looking down at the people in her small town. But when it all comes crashing down around her, she’s left with nothing, and that sense of entitlement crumbles like a pastry. She finds herself working at The Cozy Pines Cafe, relearning what it means to be a good friend, and questioning who she wants to be as a person. If only the new Captain of the Turtle Bay Fire Department didn’t challenge her, piss her off, and light a fire under her skin, unlike anything she’s ever felt before.

Captain Levi King of the Turtle Bay Fire Department is seeking solace in the Adirondacks after a tragic accident robs him of the future he thought he had planned out. Now he’s haunted by his grief and scars that are carved deeper than just his skin. Devastatingly handsome, his razor-sharp wit and grumpy, sarcastic edge keeps everyone at a careful distance. Everyone except for the icy barista, Tris, who manages to light him up with every interaction. It doesn’t help that little Miss Ellie, his firehouse dog, is absolutely obsessed with her and her biscuits.

A true enemies-to-lovers’ romance that you won’t want to put down.
Will Levi King and Tris Thorne set aside their pride long enough to see that they’re exactly what the other one needs? Or will they continue to push away their connection… and each other.

🔥Enemies to Lovers
🌹Slow Burn
🔥Fire Fighter MMC
🌹Small Town Romance
🔥Grump vs. Black Cat
🌹Healing After Loss
🔥PTSD Representation

#bookstagram #cpcseries #smalltownromance

Thorns and Ashes by Alyssa-Ray Bouman | Releases April 20th

ARC READERS WANTED
SIGN UP LINK ON ALYSSA-RAY'S PAGE!
@alyssaraywrites

At Cozy Pines Cafe, Love isn’t Rushed, it’s Slow-Brewed.
A story about Healing After Loss and Finding Love in the Last Place you Ever Expected it.

Tris Thorne isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. She’s spent her whole life living in luxury, looking down at the people in her small town. But when it all comes crashing down around her, she’s left with nothing, and that sense of entitlement crumbles like a pastry. She finds herself working at The Cozy Pines Cafe, relearning what it means to be a good friend, and questioning who she wants to be as a person. If only the new Captain of the Turtle Bay Fire Department didn’t challenge her, piss her off, and light a fire under her skin, unlike anything she’s ever felt before.

Captain Levi King of the Turtle Bay Fire Department is seeking solace in the Adirondacks after a tragic accident robs him of the future he thought he had planned out. Now he’s haunted by his grief and scars that are carved deeper than just his skin. Devastatingly handsome, his razor-sharp wit and grumpy, sarcastic edge keeps everyone at a careful distance. Everyone except for the icy barista, Tris, who manages to light him up with every interaction. It doesn’t help that little Miss Ellie, his firehouse dog, is absolutely obsessed with her and her biscuits.

A true enemies-to-lovers’ romance that you won’t want to put down.
Will Levi King and Tris Thorne set aside their pride long enough to see that they’re exactly what the other one needs? Or will they continue to push away their connection… and each other.

🔥Enemies to Lovers
🌹Slow Burn
🔥Fire Fighter MMC
🌹Small Town Romance
🔥Grump vs. Black Cat
🌹Healing After Loss
🔥PTSD Representation

#bookstagram #cpcseries #smalltownromance

The Library at Mount Char
Scott Hawkins
Fantasy / Horror

“So, way I see it, you can either go skip-skip-skippin’ down this merry trail she’s blazed for you, or you can lay back in the tall grass for a while, see if maybe you can figure out what the fuck is going on.”

Ratings: 3.5⭐

My thoughts:
I really wish I could give a simple explanation for you... but all I can say is this is the most unique, wild ride that I have been on in a long time. It was weird, dark, confusing, intriguing, and maniacal all at the same time. You would think I were on drugs if I tried to explain it to you. But it was definitely a fun read. I enjoyed it but I’m not sure if I could make more sense of it if I read it again. I teetered between a 3 or 4 star so settled on 3.5 stars.

This book was a BFF book club read for me > January 2026

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: lamplightchapters.com

Themes:
♡ life and death
♡ fate and destiny

Keywords/Tags: what the f, what did I just read, interesting reads
#fantasy #horror #bookrecs

The Library at Mount Char
Scott Hawkins
Fantasy / Horror

“So, way I see it, you can either go skip-skip-skippin’ down this merry trail she’s blazed for you, or you can lay back in the tall grass for a while, see if maybe you can figure out what the fuck is going on.”

Ratings: 3.5⭐

My thoughts:
I really wish I could give a simple explanation for you... but all I can say is this is the most unique, wild ride that I have been on in a long time. It was weird, dark, confusing, intriguing, and maniacal all at the same time. You would think I were on drugs if I tried to explain it to you. But it was definitely a fun read. I enjoyed it but I’m not sure if I could make more sense of it if I read it again. I teetered between a 3 or 4 star so settled on 3.5 stars.

This book was a BFF book club read for me > January 2026

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: lamplightchapters.com

Themes:
♡ life and death
♡ fate and destiny

Keywords/Tags: what the f, what did I just read, interesting reads
#fantasy #horror #bookrecs

First-Time Caller
B.K. Borison
Romance
Heartstrings, # 1

“I don’t want to try. All I do is try. All day long, I’m trying and I’m so tired. Why can’t this be the one thing I don’t have to try at? Why can’t it be a thing that just…happens??"

Ratings: 5⭐ 4🌶️

My thoughts:
I absolutely loved this one. It is a slow burn but when it burns, man it burns. The dynamic between the main characters is great. I finally got to read a romance where the characters are actually adults acting like adults. The life struggles are relatable. The pacing is great. The humor sprinkled all throughout the book is well placed and I found myself smiling the whole way through.

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: lamplightchapters.com

Themes:
♡ romance radio show
♡ mechanic FMC
♡ single mom romance

Keywords/Tags:
#bookrecs #fivestarreads #5stars

First-Time Caller
B.K. Borison
Romance
Heartstrings, # 1

“I don’t want to try. All I do is try. All day long, I’m trying and I’m so tired. Why can’t this be the one thing I don’t have to try at? Why can’t it be a thing that just…happens??"

Ratings: 5⭐ 4🌶️

My thoughts:
I absolutely loved this one. It is a slow burn but when it burns, man it burns. The dynamic between the main characters is great. I finally got to read a romance where the characters are actually adults acting like adults. The life struggles are relatable. The pacing is great. The humor sprinkled all throughout the book is well placed and I found myself smiling the whole way through.

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: lamplightchapters.com

Themes:
♡ romance radio show
♡ mechanic FMC
♡ single mom romance

Keywords/Tags:
#bookrecs #fivestarreads #5stars

Thorns and Ashes by Alyssa-Ray Bouman | Releases April 20th

ARC READERS WANTED
SIGN UP LINK ON ALYSSA-RAY'S PAGE!
@alyssaraywrites

At Cozy Pines Cafe, Love isn’t Rushed, it’s Slow-Brewed.
A story about Healing After Loss and Finding Love in the Last Place you Ever Expected it.

Tris Thorne isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. She’s spent her whole life living in luxury, looking down at the people in her small town. But when it all comes crashing down around her, she’s left with nothing, and that sense of entitlement crumbles like a pastry. She finds herself working at The Cozy Pines Cafe, relearning what it means to be a good friend, and questioning who she wants to be as a person. If only the new Captain of the Turtle Bay Fire Department didn’t challenge her, piss her off, and light a fire under her skin, unlike anything she’s ever felt before.

Captain Levi King of the Turtle Bay Fire Department is seeking solace in the Adirondacks after a tragic accident robs him of the future he thought he had planned out. Now he’s haunted by his grief and scars that are carved deeper than just his skin. Devastatingly handsome, his razor-sharp wit and grumpy, sarcastic edge keeps everyone at a careful distance. Everyone except for the icy barista, Tris, who manages to light him up with every interaction. It doesn’t help that little Miss Ellie, his firehouse dog, is absolutely obsessed with her and her biscuits.

A true enemies-to-lovers’ romance that you won’t want to put down.
Will Levi King and Tris Thorne set aside their pride long enough to see that they’re exactly what the other one needs? Or will they continue to push away their connection… and each other.

🔥Enemies to Lovers
🌹Slow Burn
🔥Fire Fighter MMC
🌹Small Town Romance
🔥Grump vs. Black Cat
🌹Healing After Loss
🔥PTSD Representation

#bookstagram #cpcseries #smalltownromance

Thorns and Ashes by Alyssa-Ray Bouman | Releases April 20th

ARC READERS WANTED
SIGN UP LINK ON ALYSSA-RAY'S PAGE!
@alyssaraywrites

At Cozy Pines Cafe, Love isn’t Rushed, it’s Slow-Brewed.
A story about Healing After Loss and Finding Love in the Last Place you Ever Expected it.

Tris Thorne isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. She’s spent her whole life living in luxury, looking down at the people in her small town. But when it all comes crashing down around her, she’s left with nothing, and that sense of entitlement crumbles like a pastry. She finds herself working at The Cozy Pines Cafe, relearning what it means to be a good friend, and questioning who she wants to be as a person. If only the new Captain of the Turtle Bay Fire Department didn’t challenge her, piss her off, and light a fire under her skin, unlike anything she’s ever felt before.

Captain Levi King of the Turtle Bay Fire Department is seeking solace in the Adirondacks after a tragic accident robs him of the future he thought he had planned out. Now he’s haunted by his grief and scars that are carved deeper than just his skin. Devastatingly handsome, his razor-sharp wit and grumpy, sarcastic edge keeps everyone at a careful distance. Everyone except for the icy barista, Tris, who manages to light him up with every interaction. It doesn’t help that little Miss Ellie, his firehouse dog, is absolutely obsessed with her and her biscuits.

A true enemies-to-lovers’ romance that you won’t want to put down.
Will Levi King and Tris Thorne set aside their pride long enough to see that they’re exactly what the other one needs? Or will they continue to push away their connection… and each other.

🔥Enemies to Lovers
🌹Slow Burn
🔥Fire Fighter MMC
🌹Small Town Romance
🔥Grump vs. Black Cat
🌹Healing After Loss
🔥PTSD Representation

#bookstagram #cpcseries #smalltownromance

Will She Choose
Alyssa-Ray Bouman
@alyssaraywrites

Callie finds herself standing at a crossroads with an impossible choice to make. With hearts on the line, will she have the courage to listen to her own, and take a chance on her happily ever after, or will she let love slip away?

Callie DuPonce has never liked surprises. Living in the Adirondacks with her friends and family, she has everything she needs. So when she found out she was pregnant this summer, it was enough of a surprise to last a lifetime.

But these things tend to come in threes. Her ex-boyfriend Parker—the one she never told about the baby? Yeah, he's back, and he's determined to make it work.

As if that weren't enough, Callie finds herself falling for her lifelong friend, Tom—the sweetheart sergeant who has loved her all along.

She was ready to take on motherhood with just the support of her family and friends. But now, she's torn between her first love—the man who broke her heart when he left—and the friend she's afraid to give her heart to, the one who has been there all along.

🏡 Small Town Romance
❤️‍🔥 Slow Burn
❤️‍🩹 Second Chance Romance
🫂 Friends To Lovers
🔺 Love Triangle
🤰🏼She’s Pregnant
🫀 Head vs. Heart

#bookrecs #wothseries #smalltownromance

Will She Choose
Alyssa-Ray Bouman
@alyssaraywrites

Callie finds herself standing at a crossroads with an impossible choice to make. With hearts on the line, will she have the courage to listen to her own, and take a chance on her happily ever after, or will she let love slip away?

Callie DuPonce has never liked surprises. Living in the Adirondacks with her friends and family, she has everything she needs. So when she found out she was pregnant this summer, it was enough of a surprise to last a lifetime.

But these things tend to come in threes. Her ex-boyfriend Parker—the one she never told about the baby? Yeah, he's back, and he's determined to make it work.

As if that weren't enough, Callie finds herself falling for her lifelong friend, Tom—the sweetheart sergeant who has loved her all along.

She was ready to take on motherhood with just the support of her family and friends. But now, she's torn between her first love—the man who broke her heart when he left—and the friend she's afraid to give her heart to, the one who has been there all along.

🏡 Small Town Romance
❤️‍🔥 Slow Burn
❤️‍🩹 Second Chance Romance
🫂 Friends To Lovers
🔺 Love Triangle
🤰🏼She’s Pregnant
🫀 Head vs. Heart

#bookrecs #wothseries #smalltownromance

Lore Olympus: Volume 1
Rachel Smythe
Graphic Novels
Lore Olympus, # 1

Ratings: 3⭐ 2🌶️

My thoughts:
I have heard so many positive things about this series, but book one fell a little short for me. The artwork is definitely unique and sort of a darker feel/aesthetic. But the plotline didn’t quite hook me. I’m going to give book two a chance like I do with all graphic novels before I truly make an opinion. It was okay, and there were a few things I liked with the character interactions. But I guess, we shall see.

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: lamplightchapters.com

Themes:
♡ greek mythology retelling
♡ Hades x Persephone

Keywords/Tags: web toon
#loreolympus #hadesxpersephone #bookreview

Lore Olympus: Volume 1
Rachel Smythe
Graphic Novels
Lore Olympus, # 1

Ratings: 3⭐ 2🌶️

My thoughts:
I have heard so many positive things about this series, but book one fell a little short for me. The artwork is definitely unique and sort of a darker feel/aesthetic. But the plotline didn’t quite hook me. I’m going to give book two a chance like I do with all graphic novels before I truly make an opinion. It was okay, and there were a few things I liked with the character interactions. But I guess, we shall see.

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: lamplightchapters.com

Themes:
♡ greek mythology retelling
♡ Hades x Persephone

Keywords/Tags: web toon
#loreolympus #hadesxpersephone #bookreview

Daggerspell
Katharine Kerr
Fantasy
The Deverry Cycle: Act One, # 1

“A man can’t make his Wyrd better, but it’s in his hands to make it worse.”

Ratings: 5⭐2🌶️

My thoughts:
This is definitely some complex character work. It took a minute to start grasping what was going on but once I did, I was hooked. I’m excited to see what happens in this series because this will be my first LONG series (16 books so far) within the fantasy genre. The story has so much action, world building, romance, adventure, etc. that it kept me entertained from start to finish. It was like a movie unfolding before me.

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: lamplightchapters.com

Keywords/Tags: epic fantasy, high fantasy, adventure, timeless love, battle, magic
#katharinekerr #deverrycycle #bookrecs

Daggerspell
Katharine Kerr
Fantasy
The Deverry Cycle: Act One, # 1

“A man can’t make his Wyrd better, but it’s in his hands to make it worse.”

Ratings: 5⭐2🌶️

My thoughts:
This is definitely some complex character work. It took a minute to start grasping what was going on but once I did, I was hooked. I’m excited to see what happens in this series because this will be my first LONG series (16 books so far) within the fantasy genre. The story has so much action, world building, romance, adventure, etc. that it kept me entertained from start to finish. It was like a movie unfolding before me.

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: lamplightchapters.com

Keywords/Tags: epic fantasy, high fantasy, adventure, timeless love, battle, magic
#katharinekerr #deverrycycle #bookrecs

More merch pre-orders are open at authoralyssaraybouman.square.site!

Shirts and sweatshirts are available!

My sweater came in today and it is so soft and comfy. I like baggier sweaters and ordered an XL and its so great for lounging around. Check out the new Cozy Pines Cafe merch!

#alyssaraybouman #cpc #cozypinescafe

More merch pre-orders are open at authoralyssaraybouman.square.site!

Shirts and sweatshirts are available!

My sweater came in today and it is so soft and comfy. I like baggier sweaters and ordered an XL and its so great for lounging around. Check out the new Cozy Pines Cafe merch!

#alyssaraybouman #cpc #cozypinescafe

Merch pre-orders are open at authoralyssaraybouman.square.site!

@alyssaraywrites

Check out the new Cozy Pines Cafe merch!

#alyssaraybouman #cpc #cozypinescafe

Merch pre-orders are open at authoralyssaraybouman.square.site!

@alyssaraywrites

Check out the new Cozy Pines Cafe merch!

#alyssaraybouman #cpc #cozypinescafe

Will She Run
Alyssa-Ray Bouman
@alyssaraywrites

A story of love, survival, and the fight to reclaim what’s been lost—Will She Run is an emotional journey through one woman’s battle to confront the past that haunts her and the future she’s desperate to protect.

Adeline “Della” Bennet is running from her past, but the quiet refuge of the Adirondacks offers only a temporary peace. Haunted by the death of her father and the suffocating guilt of leaving her mother in the clutches of an abusive man, Della struggles to find a sense of normalcy. She’s rebuilt her life under a new name, far from the chaos that’s defined her life these last few years, but no matter how far she goes, the secrets she’s buried refuse to stay hidden.

When Della finds herself falling for Caiden, the strong, protective man who refuses to let her go, she realizes that keeping her heart safe might be more difficult than outrunning her past. But her walls are high, and trust doesn’t come easily—not when danger still looms. With an old enemy closing in and the weight of her lies threatening to shatter everything, Della is forced to confront the painful truths she’s kept hidden.

As dark forces tighten their grip, Della must decide if she can trust anyone enough to let them in—or if her only choice is to run again, leaving behind the friends, the life, the one place, and the one person who might finally offer her freedom. In a world where danger is ever-present and safety an illusion, will she find the strength to fight for her future, or will she once again choose to run?

🐻 Brooding Grumpy Protector with a Soft Side
❤️‍🔥 Slow Burn Romance
🏠 Found Family
😅 My Best Friend’s Brother
🤐 Secrets and Lies
⚠️ Past Trauma Haunting the Present

#bookrecs #wothseries #smalltownromance

Will She Run
Alyssa-Ray Bouman
@alyssaraywrites

A story of love, survival, and the fight to reclaim what’s been lost—Will She Run is an emotional journey through one woman’s battle to confront the past that haunts her and the future she’s desperate to protect.

Adeline “Della” Bennet is running from her past, but the quiet refuge of the Adirondacks offers only a temporary peace. Haunted by the death of her father and the suffocating guilt of leaving her mother in the clutches of an abusive man, Della struggles to find a sense of normalcy. She’s rebuilt her life under a new name, far from the chaos that’s defined her life these last few years, but no matter how far she goes, the secrets she’s buried refuse to stay hidden.

When Della finds herself falling for Caiden, the strong, protective man who refuses to let her go, she realizes that keeping her heart safe might be more difficult than outrunning her past. But her walls are high, and trust doesn’t come easily—not when danger still looms. With an old enemy closing in and the weight of her lies threatening to shatter everything, Della is forced to confront the painful truths she’s kept hidden.

As dark forces tighten their grip, Della must decide if she can trust anyone enough to let them in—or if her only choice is to run again, leaving behind the friends, the life, the one place, and the one person who might finally offer her freedom. In a world where danger is ever-present and safety an illusion, will she find the strength to fight for her future, or will she once again choose to run?

🐻 Brooding Grumpy Protector with a Soft Side
❤️‍🔥 Slow Burn Romance
🏠 Found Family
😅 My Best Friend’s Brother
🤐 Secrets and Lies
⚠️ Past Trauma Haunting the Present

#bookrecs #wothseries #smalltownromance

I've been using Pagebound more this year and I'm really liking the "Plan" feature in its Library. Here's my February plan. My 2nd book club pick is TBD but the rest of the ones I have mapped out for my challenges and my ARCs.

Do you use Pagebound? What's your favorite feature?

#tbr #monthlyreads #readingchallenge

I've been using Pagebound more this year and I'm really liking the "Plan" feature in its Library. Here's my February plan. My 2nd book club pick is TBD but the rest of the ones I have mapped out for my challenges and my ARCs.

Do you use Pagebound? What's your favorite feature?

#tbr #monthlyreads #readingchallenge

# 1 NYT bestseller Abigail Owen delivers The Bone Singer:

Riverdale meets The Craft in a town where secrets don’t stay buried and the dead won’t stay quiet.

Release Date: September 1, 2026

# 1 NYT bestseller Abigail Owen delivers The Bone Singer:

Riverdale meets The Craft in a town where secrets don’t stay buried and the dead won’t stay quiet.

Release Date: September 1, 2026

The Baby Dragon Bookshop
A.T. Qureshi
Fantasy Romance
The Baby Dragon, # 3

“You can take care of people, but you have to let them make their own decisions, even if you don’t agree.”

Ratings: 4.5⭐ 2🌶️

My thoughts:
This was such a cute and easy read for me. I did not read the first two as I didn't realize this was part of a series when I picked it up. That being said, I like that I didn't need the others and this was a good standalone book. The nods to other characters did make me want to check out the other books in the series. The pacing was great and the story was super relaxed and cute. The main characters had great banter. I love a good mutual pining between rivals storyline.

Thank you to Netgalley, Harper Collins, and A.T. Qureshi for the eARC opportunity.

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: lamplightchapters.com
Themes:
♡ Cozy fantasy
♡ Rivals
♡ Mutual pining
♡ Close door romance

Keywords/Tags: cozy romance, romantasy, dragons, chimeras
#arcreader #bookrecs #cozyfantasy

The Baby Dragon Bookshop
A.T. Qureshi
Fantasy Romance
The Baby Dragon, # 3

“You can take care of people, but you have to let them make their own decisions, even if you don’t agree.”

Ratings: 4.5⭐ 2🌶️

My thoughts:
This was such a cute and easy read for me. I did not read the first two as I didn't realize this was part of a series when I picked it up. That being said, I like that I didn't need the others and this was a good standalone book. The nods to other characters did make me want to check out the other books in the series. The pacing was great and the story was super relaxed and cute. The main characters had great banter. I love a good mutual pining between rivals storyline.

Thank you to Netgalley, Harper Collins, and A.T. Qureshi for the eARC opportunity.

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: lamplightchapters.com
Themes:
♡ Cozy fantasy
♡ Rivals
♡ Mutual pining
♡ Close door romance

Keywords/Tags: cozy romance, romantasy, dragons, chimeras
#arcreader #bookrecs #cozyfantasy

Thorns and Ashes by Alyssa-Ray Bouman | Releases April 20th

ARC READERS WANTED
SIGN UP LINK ON ALYSSA-RAY'S PAGE!
@alyssaraywrites

At Cozy Pines Cafe, Love isn’t Rushed, it’s Slow-Brewed.
A story about Healing After Loss and Finding Love in the Last Place you Ever Expected it.

Tris Thorne isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. She’s spent her whole life living in luxury, looking down at the people in her small town. But when it all comes crashing down around her, she’s left with nothing, and that sense of entitlement crumbles like a pastry. She finds herself working at The Cozy Pines Cafe, relearning what it means to be a good friend, and questioning who she wants to be as a person. If only the new Captain of the Turtle Bay Fire Department didn’t challenge her, piss her off, and light a fire under her skin, unlike anything she’s ever felt before.

Captain Levi King of the Turtle Bay Fire Department is seeking solace in the Adirondacks after a tragic accident robs him of the future he thought he had planned out. Now he’s haunted by his grief and scars that are carved deeper than just his skin. Devastatingly handsome, his razor-sharp wit and grumpy, sarcastic edge keeps everyone at a careful distance. Everyone except for the icy barista, Tris, who manages to light him up with every interaction. It doesn’t help that little Miss Ellie, his firehouse dog, is absolutely obsessed with her and her biscuits.

A true enemies-to-lovers’ romance that you won’t want to put down.
Will Levi King and Tris Thorne set aside their pride long enough to see that they’re exactly what the other one needs? Or will they continue to push away their connection… and each other.

🔥Enemies to Lovers
🌹Slow Burn
🔥Fire Fighter MMC
🌹Small Town Romance
🔥Grump vs. Black Cat
🌹Healing After Loss
🔥PTSD Representation

#bookstagram #cpcseries #smalltownromance

Thorns and Ashes by Alyssa-Ray Bouman | Releases April 20th

ARC READERS WANTED
SIGN UP LINK ON ALYSSA-RAY'S PAGE!
@alyssaraywrites

At Cozy Pines Cafe, Love isn’t Rushed, it’s Slow-Brewed.
A story about Healing After Loss and Finding Love in the Last Place you Ever Expected it.

Tris Thorne isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. She’s spent her whole life living in luxury, looking down at the people in her small town. But when it all comes crashing down around her, she’s left with nothing, and that sense of entitlement crumbles like a pastry. She finds herself working at The Cozy Pines Cafe, relearning what it means to be a good friend, and questioning who she wants to be as a person. If only the new Captain of the Turtle Bay Fire Department didn’t challenge her, piss her off, and light a fire under her skin, unlike anything she’s ever felt before.

Captain Levi King of the Turtle Bay Fire Department is seeking solace in the Adirondacks after a tragic accident robs him of the future he thought he had planned out. Now he’s haunted by his grief and scars that are carved deeper than just his skin. Devastatingly handsome, his razor-sharp wit and grumpy, sarcastic edge keeps everyone at a careful distance. Everyone except for the icy barista, Tris, who manages to light him up with every interaction. It doesn’t help that little Miss Ellie, his firehouse dog, is absolutely obsessed with her and her biscuits.

A true enemies-to-lovers’ romance that you won’t want to put down.
Will Levi King and Tris Thorne set aside their pride long enough to see that they’re exactly what the other one needs? Or will they continue to push away their connection… and each other.

🔥Enemies to Lovers
🌹Slow Burn
🔥Fire Fighter MMC
🌹Small Town Romance
🔥Grump vs. Black Cat
🌹Healing After Loss
🔥PTSD Representation

#bookstagram #cpcseries #smalltownromance

What is your favorite book that you read in January?

I had a really good reading month. I read mostly romance with a strong 2nd being fantasy.

🎧 Good Spirits - B.K. Borison (@authorbkborison)
🎧 The Traitor Queen - Danielle L. Jensen (@danielleljensen)
📱 The Baby Dragon Bookshop - A.T. Qureshi (@aamna_qureshi)
📖 Daggerspell - Katharine Kerr
📖 Lore Olympus - Rachel Smythe
🎧 First-Time Caller - B.K. Borison (@authorbkborison)
📖 The Library at Mount Char - Scott Hawkins
🎧+📖 Two Twisted Crowns - Rachel Gillig (@rmgillig)

It was a tough call between Daggerspell and Two Twisted Crowns. But in the end, I had to go with Two Twisted Crowns. They both hit in different feels for me. However, emotionally, Two Twisted Crowns pulled me in so many directions and envoked many feelings for me. I really am sad that I cannot re-read this for the first time again. It was such a good series.

This year I'm also participating in the Reading in Bloom challenge by @katscreations614 and @thereading_scientist. I am going to try to at least complete the mini challenges with a stretch goal to do the 52 book challenge.

☆ Lives rent free in your head - The Traitor Queen
☆ Pink cover - Lore Olympus
☆ A popular book published at least 10 yrs ago - The Library at Mount Char
☆ First in a series - Daggerspell

Keywords/Tags: holiday romance, Christmas romance, paranormal romance, romantasy, fantasy romance, duology, arc, advanced reader copy, cozy romance, cozy fantasy, graphic novels, horror
#monthlywrapup #bookrecommendations #bookrecs

What is your favorite book that you read in January?

I had a really good reading month. I read mostly romance with a strong 2nd being fantasy.

🎧 Good Spirits - B.K. Borison (@authorbkborison)
🎧 The Traitor Queen - Danielle L. Jensen (@danielleljensen)
📱 The Baby Dragon Bookshop - A.T. Qureshi (@aamna_qureshi)
📖 Daggerspell - Katharine Kerr
📖 Lore Olympus - Rachel Smythe
🎧 First-Time Caller - B.K. Borison (@authorbkborison)
📖 The Library at Mount Char - Scott Hawkins
🎧+📖 Two Twisted Crowns - Rachel Gillig (@rmgillig)

It was a tough call between Daggerspell and Two Twisted Crowns. But in the end, I had to go with Two Twisted Crowns. They both hit in different feels for me. However, emotionally, Two Twisted Crowns pulled me in so many directions and envoked many feelings for me. I really am sad that I cannot re-read this for the first time again. It was such a good series.

This year I'm also participating in the Reading in Bloom challenge by @katscreations614 and @thereading_scientist. I am going to try to at least complete the mini challenges with a stretch goal to do the 52 book challenge.

☆ Lives rent free in your head - The Traitor Queen
☆ Pink cover - Lore Olympus
☆ A popular book published at least 10 yrs ago - The Library at Mount Char
☆ First in a series - Daggerspell

Keywords/Tags: holiday romance, Christmas romance, paranormal romance, romantasy, fantasy romance, duology, arc, advanced reader copy, cozy romance, cozy fantasy, graphic novels, horror
#monthlywrapup #bookrecommendations #bookrecs

The Traitor Queen
Danielle L. Jensen
Fantasy Romance
The Bridge Kingdom, # 2

“Awake or asleep, all I see is your face. All I hear is your voice. All I feel is you in my arms. All I want is you.”

Ratings: 4⭐ 3🌶️

My thoughts:
I could not put this one down. Book 1 pulled at my heart and this one definitely made me feel all the feels. I love Lara and Aren’s relationship from the beginning. It was so nice to see their journey and how it ended. There were so many ups and downs along the way with this story. The pacing was great and the story never felt stagnant. I also love how this book set up the remainder of the series. It definitely drew me in.

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: lamplightchapters.com

Themes:
♡ Second chances
♡ War and action

Keywords/Tags: romantasy, slow burn, redemption, tension, angst
#bookrecs #romantasy #thebridgekingdom

The Traitor Queen
Danielle L. Jensen
Fantasy Romance
The Bridge Kingdom, # 2

“Awake or asleep, all I see is your face. All I hear is your voice. All I feel is you in my arms. All I want is you.”

Ratings: 4⭐ 3🌶️

My thoughts:
I could not put this one down. Book 1 pulled at my heart and this one definitely made me feel all the feels. I love Lara and Aren’s relationship from the beginning. It was so nice to see their journey and how it ended. There were so many ups and downs along the way with this story. The pacing was great and the story never felt stagnant. I also love how this book set up the remainder of the series. It definitely drew me in.

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: lamplightchapters.com

Themes:
♡ Second chances
♡ War and action

Keywords/Tags: romantasy, slow burn, redemption, tension, angst
#bookrecs #romantasy #thebridgekingdom

Thorns and Ashes by Alyssa-Ray Bouman | Releases April 20th

ARC READERS WANTED
SIGN UP LINK ON ALYSSA-RAY'S PAGE!
@alyssaraywrites

At Cozy Pines Cafe, Love isn’t Rushed, it’s Slow-Brewed.
A story about Healing After Loss and Finding Love in the Last Place you Ever Expected it.

Tris Thorne isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. She’s spent her whole life living in luxury, looking down at the people in her small town. But when it all comes crashing down around her, she’s left with nothing, and that sense of entitlement crumbles like a pastry. She finds herself working at The Cozy Pines Cafe, relearning what it means to be a good friend, and questioning who she wants to be as a person. If only the new Captain of the Turtle Bay Fire Department didn’t challenge her, piss her off, and light a fire under her skin, unlike anything she’s ever felt before.

Captain Levi King of the Turtle Bay Fire Department is seeking solace in the Adirondacks after a tragic accident robs him of the future he thought he had planned out. Now he’s haunted by his grief and scars that are carved deeper than just his skin. Devastatingly handsome, his razor-sharp wit and grumpy, sarcastic edge keeps everyone at a careful distance. Everyone except for the icy barista, Tris, who manages to light him up with every interaction. It doesn’t help that little Miss Ellie, his firehouse dog, is absolutely obsessed with her and her biscuits.

A true enemies-to-lovers’ romance that you won’t want to put down.
Will Levi King and Tris Thorne set aside their pride long enough to see that they’re exactly what the other one needs? Or will they continue to push away their connection… and each other.

🔥Enemies to Lovers
🌹Slow Burn
🔥Fire Fighter MMC
🌹Small Town Romance
🔥Grump vs. Black Cat
🌹Healing After Loss
🔥PTSD Representation

#bookstagram #cpcseries #smalltownromance

Thorns and Ashes by Alyssa-Ray Bouman | Releases April 20th

ARC READERS WANTED
SIGN UP LINK ON ALYSSA-RAY'S PAGE!
@alyssaraywrites

At Cozy Pines Cafe, Love isn’t Rushed, it’s Slow-Brewed.
A story about Healing After Loss and Finding Love in the Last Place you Ever Expected it.

Tris Thorne isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. She’s spent her whole life living in luxury, looking down at the people in her small town. But when it all comes crashing down around her, she’s left with nothing, and that sense of entitlement crumbles like a pastry. She finds herself working at The Cozy Pines Cafe, relearning what it means to be a good friend, and questioning who she wants to be as a person. If only the new Captain of the Turtle Bay Fire Department didn’t challenge her, piss her off, and light a fire under her skin, unlike anything she’s ever felt before.

Captain Levi King of the Turtle Bay Fire Department is seeking solace in the Adirondacks after a tragic accident robs him of the future he thought he had planned out. Now he’s haunted by his grief and scars that are carved deeper than just his skin. Devastatingly handsome, his razor-sharp wit and grumpy, sarcastic edge keeps everyone at a careful distance. Everyone except for the icy barista, Tris, who manages to light him up with every interaction. It doesn’t help that little Miss Ellie, his firehouse dog, is absolutely obsessed with her and her biscuits.

A true enemies-to-lovers’ romance that you won’t want to put down.
Will Levi King and Tris Thorne set aside their pride long enough to see that they’re exactly what the other one needs? Or will they continue to push away their connection… and each other.

🔥Enemies to Lovers
🌹Slow Burn
🔥Fire Fighter MMC
🌹Small Town Romance
🔥Grump vs. Black Cat
🌹Healing After Loss
🔥PTSD Representation

#bookstagram #cpcseries #smalltownromance

Good Spirits
B.K. Borison @authorbkborison
Holiday Romance
Ghosted, # 1

“My biggest secret is I sometimes leave my clothes in the dryer for over a week.”

Ratings: 5⭐ 4🌶️

My thoughts:
My, oh, my. This book made me so happy. I am so glad I started the year off with this BookTok recommendation. It is such a fun and easy read. The pacing was great, the story was so good, and the characters were all nicely weaved together. The banter in this book is laugh out loud, kicking and giggling-type humor. I was hooked from start to finish. I accidentally stayed up until 4:30 am listening to this one.

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: meganmichelereads.blog

Themes:
♡ paranormal romance
♡ Christmas holiday
♡ family drama
♡ Ghost of Christmas Past

Keywords/Tags: spicy romance, cute romance, wholesome relationship, five star reads, five star book
#bookrecs #fivestarreads #5stars

Good Spirits
B.K. Borison @authorbkborison
Holiday Romance
Ghosted, # 1

“My biggest secret is I sometimes leave my clothes in the dryer for over a week.”

Ratings: 5⭐ 4🌶️

My thoughts:
My, oh, my. This book made me so happy. I am so glad I started the year off with this BookTok recommendation. It is such a fun and easy read. The pacing was great, the story was so good, and the characters were all nicely weaved together. The banter in this book is laugh out loud, kicking and giggling-type humor. I was hooked from start to finish. I accidentally stayed up until 4:30 am listening to this one.

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: meganmichelereads.blog

Themes:
♡ paranormal romance
♡ Christmas holiday
♡ family drama
♡ Ghost of Christmas Past

Keywords/Tags: spicy romance, cute romance, wholesome relationship, five star reads, five star book
#bookrecs #fivestarreads #5stars

Ready Player One
Ernest Cline
Science Fiction / Fantasy
Ready Player One, # 1

“One person can keep a secret, but not two.”

Ratings: 5⭐

My thoughts:
The pacing and flow of the story were great. It was so packed with actions, references, and information but it never felt overwhelming. The 80s references were plentiful in this novel. It was an easy to follow story that kept my attention from the beginning to the end.

I hesitated to read this since I've seen the movie and it was okay but I honestly enjoyed the book much more than the movie. Of course, like a lot of adaptations there was quite a bit that ended up different between the two.

This book was a BFF book club read for me > December 2025

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: meganmichelereads.blog

Keywords/Tags: sci-fi, young adult, dystopian
#readyplayerone #bookclub #bookrecs

Ready Player One
Ernest Cline
Science Fiction / Fantasy
Ready Player One, # 1

“One person can keep a secret, but not two.”

Ratings: 5⭐

My thoughts:
The pacing and flow of the story were great. It was so packed with actions, references, and information but it never felt overwhelming. The 80s references were plentiful in this novel. It was an easy to follow story that kept my attention from the beginning to the end.

I hesitated to read this since I've seen the movie and it was okay but I honestly enjoyed the book much more than the movie. Of course, like a lot of adaptations there was quite a bit that ended up different between the two.

This book was a BFF book club read for me > December 2025

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: meganmichelereads.blog

Keywords/Tags: sci-fi, young adult, dystopian
#readyplayerone #bookclub #bookrecs

At Cozy Pines Cafe, Love isn’t Rushed, it’s Slow-Brewed.
A story about Healing After Loss and Finding Love in the Last Place you Ever Expected it.

Tris Thorne isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. She’s spent her whole life living in luxury, looking down at the people in her small town. But when it all comes crashing down around her, she’s left with nothing, and that sense of entitlement crumbles like a pastry. She finds herself working at The Cozy Pines Cafe, relearning what it means to be a good friend, and questioning who she wants to be as a person. If only the new Captain of the Turtle Bay Fire Department didn’t challenge her, piss her off, and light a fire under her skin, unlike anything she’s ever felt before.

Captain Levi King of the Turtle Bay Fire Department is seeking solace in the Adirondacks after a tragic accident robs him of the future he thought he had planned out. Now he’s haunted by his grief and scars that are carved deeper than just his skin. Devastatingly handsome, his razor-sharp wit and grumpy, sarcastic edge keeps everyone at a careful distance. Everyone except for the icy barista, Tris, who manages to light him up with every interaction. It doesn’t help that little Miss Ellie, his firehouse dog, is absolutely obsessed with her and her biscuits.

A true enemies-to-lovers’ romance that you won’t want to put down.
Will Levi King and Tris Thorne set aside their pride long enough to see that they’re exactly what the other one needs? Or will they continue to push away their connection… and each other.

🔥ENEMIES TO LOVERS
🌹SLOW BURN
🔥FIRE FIGHTER MMC
🌹SMALL TOWN ROMANCE
🔥GRUMP VS. BLACK CAT
🌹HEALING AFTER LOSS
🔥PTSD REPRESENTATION

#bookstagram #cpcseries #smalltownromance

At Cozy Pines Cafe, Love isn’t Rushed, it’s Slow-Brewed.
A story about Healing After Loss and Finding Love in the Last Place you Ever Expected it.

Tris Thorne isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. She’s spent her whole life living in luxury, looking down at the people in her small town. But when it all comes crashing down around her, she’s left with nothing, and that sense of entitlement crumbles like a pastry. She finds herself working at The Cozy Pines Cafe, relearning what it means to be a good friend, and questioning who she wants to be as a person. If only the new Captain of the Turtle Bay Fire Department didn’t challenge her, piss her off, and light a fire under her skin, unlike anything she’s ever felt before.

Captain Levi King of the Turtle Bay Fire Department is seeking solace in the Adirondacks after a tragic accident robs him of the future he thought he had planned out. Now he’s haunted by his grief and scars that are carved deeper than just his skin. Devastatingly handsome, his razor-sharp wit and grumpy, sarcastic edge keeps everyone at a careful distance. Everyone except for the icy barista, Tris, who manages to light him up with every interaction. It doesn’t help that little Miss Ellie, his firehouse dog, is absolutely obsessed with her and her biscuits.

A true enemies-to-lovers’ romance that you won’t want to put down.
Will Levi King and Tris Thorne set aside their pride long enough to see that they’re exactly what the other one needs? Or will they continue to push away their connection… and each other.

🔥ENEMIES TO LOVERS
🌹SLOW BURN
🔥FIRE FIGHTER MMC
🌹SMALL TOWN ROMANCE
🔥GRUMP VS. BLACK CAT
🌹HEALING AFTER LOSS
🔥PTSD REPRESENTATION

#bookstagram #cpcseries #smalltownromance

I’m Glad My Mom Died
Jennette McCurdy
Memoir / Nonfiction

Fave Quotes:
“I could buy some plants.” I shrug. The amount of times I’ve thought buying plants might make a difference in my life is staggering.”
&
“Yes, I know, Jeff. I wrote the list.”

Disclaimer: As this was a memoir and a story of someone's life, I will not be rating this nor will I leave a traditional style review. I will leave comments of how it made me feel and what I thought stood out. I do not want to put a rating and assign entertainment value to someone's personal life, struggles, and thoughts.

My thoughts:
I feel like this was a raw and emotional recount of her life and struggles. She explains how she encounters the push and pull of wanting to be better but also making herself believe in the easy way out. I really feel for her in the things that she experienced when she was young. The people in her life seemed to fail her time and time again apart from a small few. It felt very powerful that she was able to explain how she is recovering still and the mindsets she had to overcome to finally stand her ground. Great read.

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: meganmichelereads.blog

Keywords/Tags: memoir, autobiography,
#bookrecs #bookreview #jennettemccurdy

I’m Glad My Mom Died
Jennette McCurdy
Memoir / Nonfiction

Fave Quotes:
“I could buy some plants.” I shrug. The amount of times I’ve thought buying plants might make a difference in my life is staggering.”
&
“Yes, I know, Jeff. I wrote the list.”

Disclaimer: As this was a memoir and a story of someone's life, I will not be rating this nor will I leave a traditional style review. I will leave comments of how it made me feel and what I thought stood out. I do not want to put a rating and assign entertainment value to someone's personal life, struggles, and thoughts.

My thoughts:
I feel like this was a raw and emotional recount of her life and struggles. She explains how she encounters the push and pull of wanting to be better but also making herself believe in the easy way out. I really feel for her in the things that she experienced when she was young. The people in her life seemed to fail her time and time again apart from a small few. It felt very powerful that she was able to explain how she is recovering still and the mindsets she had to overcome to finally stand her ground. Great read.

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: meganmichelereads.blog

Keywords/Tags: memoir, autobiography,
#bookrecs #bookreview #jennettemccurdy

I have been waiting forever for this beauty to be revealed. I love this set and it’s probably one of my favorite cover sets of any book series.

The Tempest Blade
Danielle L. Jensen
The Bridge Kingdom, # 6

Synopsis:
The finale to The Bridge Kingdom series.

A fugitive on the run, Ahnna has one goal: return to Ithicana with warning of the greatest threat her homeland has ever faced. But as she escapes into the wilderness, it is with the man who broke her heart hunting at her heels—and James wants more than justice. He wants revenge.

Desperate to prove his loyalty to his family, James ventures into dangerous territory to capture his father’s killer. But the longer he follows Ahnna’s trail, the more his certainty of her guilt is tested—and the more the passion they once shared reignites.

As schemes twist tighter and war brews, Ahnna and James discover that the enemy isn’t each other—it is the masterminds manipulating them both in pursuit of power. Yet their greatest obstacle remains, because their loyalties are to opposing sides in the battle to come. As the storms of the Tempest Seas lower their defenses, James and Ahnna must choose where their hearts lie: on the battlefield, or in each other’s arms.

Keywords: fantasy romance, romantasy, world building, vengeance,
#danielleljensen #thebridgekingdom #prettybooks

I have been waiting forever for this beauty to be revealed. I love this set and it’s probably one of my favorite cover sets of any book series.

The Tempest Blade
Danielle L. Jensen
The Bridge Kingdom, # 6

Synopsis:
The finale to The Bridge Kingdom series.

A fugitive on the run, Ahnna has one goal: return to Ithicana with warning of the greatest threat her homeland has ever faced. But as she escapes into the wilderness, it is with the man who broke her heart hunting at her heels—and James wants more than justice. He wants revenge.

Desperate to prove his loyalty to his family, James ventures into dangerous territory to capture his father’s killer. But the longer he follows Ahnna’s trail, the more his certainty of her guilt is tested—and the more the passion they once shared reignites.

As schemes twist tighter and war brews, Ahnna and James discover that the enemy isn’t each other—it is the masterminds manipulating them both in pursuit of power. Yet their greatest obstacle remains, because their loyalties are to opposing sides in the battle to come. As the storms of the Tempest Seas lower their defenses, James and Ahnna must choose where their hearts lie: on the battlefield, or in each other’s arms.

Keywords: fantasy romance, romantasy, world building, vengeance,
#danielleljensen #thebridgekingdom #prettybooks

I started a reading journal this year and plan to organize my TBR list a bit. I have my book clubs books, the Reading in Bloom mini challenge books, and my other TBR will be filled with my 12 Books by 12 Friends challenge as well as any ARCs I get approved for. This month there are 8 books that I would like to get through. I am already through 3 of them and feel like I've made a great start.

Do you like to plan reads or are you a mood reader?

#TBR #vibes #readingchallenge

I started a reading journal this year and plan to organize my TBR list a bit. I have my book clubs books, the Reading in Bloom mini challenge books, and my other TBR will be filled with my 12 Books by 12 Friends challenge as well as any ARCs I get approved for. This month there are 8 books that I would like to get through. I am already through 3 of them and feel like I've made a great start.

Do you like to plan reads or are you a mood reader?

#TBR #vibes #readingchallenge

🌹Thorns and Ashes Trope Reveal!🌹

🔥The first small town romance book in the Cozy Pines Cafe Series! The Thorns and Ashes TROPES REVEAL is here! 🥰

ENEMIES TO LOVERS
SLOW BURN
FIRE FIGHTER MMC
SMALL TOWN ROMANCE
GRUMP VS. BLACK CAT
HEALING AFTER LOSS
PTSD REPRESENTATION

🌹Stay Tuned for the Blurb Reveals coming this month!

🔥QOTD: What’s your favorite trope?

@alyssaraywrites

#bookstagram #cpcseries #smalltownromance

🌹Thorns and Ashes Trope Reveal!🌹

🔥The first small town romance book in the Cozy Pines Cafe Series! The Thorns and Ashes TROPES REVEAL is here! 🥰

ENEMIES TO LOVERS
SLOW BURN
FIRE FIGHTER MMC
SMALL TOWN ROMANCE
GRUMP VS. BLACK CAT
HEALING AFTER LOSS
PTSD REPRESENTATION

🌹Stay Tuned for the Blurb Reveals coming this month!

🔥QOTD: What’s your favorite trope?

@alyssaraywrites

#bookstagram #cpcseries #smalltownromance

Go check out @alyssaraywrites page for the sign up form! Sign ups close Fri 1/16!

Be the first to know the details and help me share them!

Street Team Members have some perks and the chance to win prizes. Participation is required. 💖

All details can be found in the sign up!

Go check out @alyssaraywrites page for the sign up form! Sign ups close Fri 1/16!

Be the first to know the details and help me share them!

Street Team Members have some perks and the chance to win prizes. Participation is required. 💖

All details can be found in the sign up!

The Christmas Murder Game
Alexandra Benedict
Mystery / Thriller / Christmas

“Fear and excitement are twins; they live on opposite sides of the same door. It's up to you which room you live in.”

Ratings: 3⭐

My thoughts:
This story started out with a very interesting story. Unfortunately, it became very predictable in my opinion about ⅔ of the way through. I also found that the wording choices and writing style that the author chose really threw me off and caused a disconnect for me with the story.

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: meganmichelereads.blog

Keywords/Tags: holiday book, Christmas murder, 12 days of Christmas
#bookrecs #murdermystery #holidaybook

The Christmas Murder Game
Alexandra Benedict
Mystery / Thriller / Christmas

“Fear and excitement are twins; they live on opposite sides of the same door. It's up to you which room you live in.”

Ratings: 3⭐

My thoughts:
This story started out with a very interesting story. Unfortunately, it became very predictable in my opinion about ⅔ of the way through. I also found that the wording choices and writing style that the author chose really threw me off and caused a disconnect for me with the story.

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: meganmichelereads.blog

Keywords/Tags: holiday book, Christmas murder, 12 days of Christmas
#bookrecs #murdermystery #holidaybook

The Oct/Nov Aetheria box by Coveted Cover (@covetedcover) was worth the wait! It's such a pretty book. I can't wait to read this one and will def stay subscribed for later books.

What book boxes do you have, and do you think they are worth it??

#bookbox #specialedition #subscriptionbox

The Oct/Nov Aetheria box by Coveted Cover (@covetedcover) was worth the wait! It's such a pretty book. I can't wait to read this one and will def stay subscribed for later books.

What book boxes do you have, and do you think they are worth it??

#bookbox #specialedition #subscriptionbox

🌹Thorns and Ashes Cover Reveal!🌹
@alyssaraywrites

🔥The first small town romance book in the Cozy Pines Cafe Series! The Thorns and Ashes paper back and ebook cover are finally here!

🌹Stay Tuned for Tropes and Blurb Reveals coming this month!

🔥QOTD: Should this author have a special Pre-Order for the Ebook Cover on Paperback? Hmmm. Let us know in the comments!

#bookstagram #cpcseries #smalltownromance

🌹Thorns and Ashes Cover Reveal!🌹
@alyssaraywrites

🔥The first small town romance book in the Cozy Pines Cafe Series! The Thorns and Ashes paper back and ebook cover are finally here!

🌹Stay Tuned for Tropes and Blurb Reveals coming this month!

🔥QOTD: Should this author have a special Pre-Order for the Ebook Cover on Paperback? Hmmm. Let us know in the comments!

#bookstagram #cpcseries #smalltownromance

I decided to give the book matrix a try this year, and I really love how much more accurate it is. If you haven't seen this, go check out @readwithkf because she gives a great explanation on how to fill it out.

My yop 3 books og the year were:
1st - Ready Player One by Ernest Cline
2nd - Enchantra by @kaylsmoon
3rd - One Dark Window by @rmgillig

What were your top books this month?

#bookrecs #2025recap #favoritebook

I decided to give the book matrix a try this year, and I really love how much more accurate it is. If you haven't seen this, go check out @readwithkf because she gives a great explanation on how to fill it out.

My yop 3 books og the year were:
1st - Ready Player One by Ernest Cline
2nd - Enchantra by @kaylsmoon
3rd - One Dark Window by @rmgillig

What were your top books this month?

#bookrecs #2025recap #favoritebook

My favorite book from each month in 2025.

What are your monthly favorites? Do we share any faves? Can I convince you to read them with four quotes?

Lets connect and chat!

#2025wrapup #bookrecs

My favorite book from each month in 2025.

What are your monthly favorites? Do we share any faves? Can I convince you to read them with four quotes?

Lets connect and chat!

#2025wrapup #bookrecs

The Games Gods Play
Abigail Owen
Fantasy / Romance
The Crucible, # 1

“I’ve failed so many times, not succeeding is now statistically impossible.”

Ratings: 4⭐ 3🌶️

My thoughts:
I love Greek mythology. When I saw this, I knew I would like it. And it honestly didn't disappoint. I loved The Hunger Games series but also I really felt like this had a good edge to it like that series did. I really enjoyed getting to see all the pairings between the Gods and the human champions. I do have some confusion on Lyra and Hades relationship and how it was introduced and explained. The modern, urban setting gives it a unique feel. Having the games be set this way gave a dark edge to it and gave it an interesting twist. The pacing felt good throughout the entire story. And man, that ending...

This book was a book club read for me > Tome’s Unofficial House of Reason > December 2025

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: meganmichelereads.blog

Themes:
♡ Greek mythology retelling
♡ Slow burn romance
♡ Deadly trials and challenges

Keywords/Tags: gods & goddesses, mortals vs gods, series, greek gods, Hades, spicy romance
#bookclub #bookrecs #romantasy

The Games Gods Play
Abigail Owen
Fantasy / Romance
The Crucible, # 1

“I’ve failed so many times, not succeeding is now statistically impossible.”

Ratings: 4⭐ 3🌶️

My thoughts:
I love Greek mythology. When I saw this, I knew I would like it. And it honestly didn't disappoint. I loved The Hunger Games series but also I really felt like this had a good edge to it like that series did. I really enjoyed getting to see all the pairings between the Gods and the human champions. I do have some confusion on Lyra and Hades relationship and how it was introduced and explained. The modern, urban setting gives it a unique feel. Having the games be set this way gave a dark edge to it and gave it an interesting twist. The pacing felt good throughout the entire story. And man, that ending...

This book was a book club read for me > Tome’s Unofficial House of Reason > December 2025

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: meganmichelereads.blog

Themes:
♡ Greek mythology retelling
♡ Slow burn romance
♡ Deadly trials and challenges

Keywords/Tags: gods & goddesses, mortals vs gods, series, greek gods, Hades, spicy romance
#bookclub #bookrecs #romantasy

What is your favorite book that you read in December?

I got back in the reading swing with the end of this year. I finished 7 books: 4 paperback and 3 audiobook. No ARCs this month as I quit signing up for so many so that I didn’t overwhelm myself this month.

Format list:
📖 A Vow of Shadow and Blood - Charlene Antrobus @charleneantrobus_
🎧 A Court of Wings and Ruin - Sarah J. Maas @sarahjmaas
🎧 The Games Gods Play - Abigail Owen @abigailowenauthor
📖 The Christmas Murder Game - Alexandra Benedict
🎧 I’m Glad My Mom Died - Jennette McCurdy
📖 Ready Player One - Ernest Cline
📖 Kakuriyo: Bed & Breakfast for Spirits - Volume 2

My favorite book this month was Ready Player One. I have seen the movie, but it’s been a while, so I was excited to dive back in and re-experience the magic!!

Keywords/Tags: romantasy, fantasy romance, vampire romance, greek gods, retelling, mystery, thriller, memoir, autobiography, manga, graphic novel, science fiction, scifi, sci-fi
#monthlywrapup #bookrecommendations #bookrecs

What is your favorite book that you read in December?

I got back in the reading swing with the end of this year. I finished 7 books: 4 paperback and 3 audiobook. No ARCs this month as I quit signing up for so many so that I didn’t overwhelm myself this month.

Format list:
📖 A Vow of Shadow and Blood - Charlene Antrobus @charleneantrobus_
🎧 A Court of Wings and Ruin - Sarah J. Maas @sarahjmaas
🎧 The Games Gods Play - Abigail Owen @abigailowenauthor
📖 The Christmas Murder Game - Alexandra Benedict
🎧 I’m Glad My Mom Died - Jennette McCurdy
📖 Ready Player One - Ernest Cline
📖 Kakuriyo: Bed & Breakfast for Spirits - Volume 2

My favorite book this month was Ready Player One. I have seen the movie, but it’s been a while, so I was excited to dive back in and re-experience the magic!!

Keywords/Tags: romantasy, fantasy romance, vampire romance, greek gods, retelling, mystery, thriller, memoir, autobiography, manga, graphic novel, science fiction, scifi, sci-fi
#monthlywrapup #bookrecommendations #bookrecs

A Court of Wings and Ruin
Sarah J. Maas @sarahjmaas
Fantasy Romance
A Court of Thorns and Roses, # 3

Fave Quote: “It is the family you make, not the one you are born into, that matters.”

Ratings: 4.5⭐ 3🌶️
My thoughts:
The amount of storytelling in SJM’s books is amazing. I keep finding myself in awe at the amount of content and character creation / progression that I experience with each read. I also love that she is able to use the story to pull at so many emotions as you read through her stories. It has been a really long time since a book has made me switch so quickly between emotions. And after book 2 being the first book to make me cry since 2005, I expected no less than another emotional roller coaster.

I went through so many emotional phases with this book. I was recovering from ACOMAF's roller coaster when I started, progressed to irritation, then happiness, to frustration, to elation, to devastation, to rage, to pure heartache, and then to peace. All of this in one book. I have heard the rumors of the SJM heart attacks and now I am understanding why.

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: meganmichelereads.blog

Tropes/Warnings:
♡ Romantasy
♡ Fated mates
♡ High stakes war

Keywords/Tags:
#acotar #bookrecommendations #bookrecs

A Court of Wings and Ruin
Sarah J. Maas @sarahjmaas
Fantasy Romance
A Court of Thorns and Roses, # 3

Fave Quote: “It is the family you make, not the one you are born into, that matters.”

Ratings: 4.5⭐ 3🌶️
My thoughts:
The amount of storytelling in SJM’s books is amazing. I keep finding myself in awe at the amount of content and character creation / progression that I experience with each read. I also love that she is able to use the story to pull at so many emotions as you read through her stories. It has been a really long time since a book has made me switch so quickly between emotions. And after book 2 being the first book to make me cry since 2005, I expected no less than another emotional roller coaster.

I went through so many emotional phases with this book. I was recovering from ACOMAF's roller coaster when I started, progressed to irritation, then happiness, to frustration, to elation, to devastation, to rage, to pure heartache, and then to peace. All of this in one book. I have heard the rumors of the SJM heart attacks and now I am understanding why.

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: meganmichelereads.blog

Tropes/Warnings:
♡ Romantasy
♡ Fated mates
♡ High stakes war

Keywords/Tags:
#acotar #bookrecommendations #bookrecs

A Vow of Shadow and Blood
Charlene Antrobus @charleneantrobus_
Fantasy Romance
Blood Vow, # 1

Fave Quote: “There’s always a choice, so don’t give me that crap. We choose exactly the kind of life we want, and we live it.“

Ratings: 4.5⭐ 3🌶️

My thoughts:
Are. You. Kidding. Me. Charlene!!

I powered through this book. I could not put it down. My heart was in my throat about ¼ of the way into the book, again about ⅔ of the way into it, and again at the end. The suspense and anticipation had me in a chokehold. At 3am, I had to make myself put this down.

I did not see the twist coming with this one and I need book #2, like yesterday. Our MCs interactions had me screaming like a true slow burn should. The pacing felt appropriate for the events that occurred. And, while there was so much going on in this book, it did not feel like it was too crammed in. I can’t wait to continue this story!

Thank you to Charlene Antrobus for the eARC opportunity.

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: meganmichelereads.blog

Tropes/Warnings:
♡ Romantasy
♡ Vampire romance
♡ War of Humans vs Vampires
♡ Slow burn
♡ Fated mates

Keywords/Tags:
#bookrecs #bookrecommendations #vampireromance

A Vow of Shadow and Blood
Charlene Antrobus @charleneantrobus_
Fantasy Romance
Blood Vow, # 1

Fave Quote: “There’s always a choice, so don’t give me that crap. We choose exactly the kind of life we want, and we live it.“

Ratings: 4.5⭐ 3🌶️

My thoughts:
Are. You. Kidding. Me. Charlene!!

I powered through this book. I could not put it down. My heart was in my throat about ¼ of the way into the book, again about ⅔ of the way into it, and again at the end. The suspense and anticipation had me in a chokehold. At 3am, I had to make myself put this down.

I did not see the twist coming with this one and I need book #2, like yesterday. Our MCs interactions had me screaming like a true slow burn should. The pacing felt appropriate for the events that occurred. And, while there was so much going on in this book, it did not feel like it was too crammed in. I can’t wait to continue this story!

Thank you to Charlene Antrobus for the eARC opportunity.

Note: I keep my traditional/full reviews on my blog: meganmichelereads.blog

Tropes/Warnings:
♡ Romantasy
♡ Vampire romance
♡ War of Humans vs Vampires
♡ Slow burn
♡ Fated mates

Keywords/Tags:
#bookrecs #bookrecommendations #vampireromance

Okay. So, after almost a year of doing this, I think I have finally got my ratings adjusted for my own opinions that also seem to be on par with the majority of what I see around Bookstagram.

#bookratings

Okay. So, after almost a year of doing this, I think I have finally got my ratings adjusted for my own opinions that also seem to be on par with the majority of what I see around Bookstagram.

#bookratings

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