Sable Thorpe
I listened to the audiobook version of this book. Anna Appleby is a hot, divorced, and chronically single mum who has her kids play matchmaker to help save her newspaper column, and maybe even help her find love. The narrator perfectly captures the humour and heart of Anna's quirky dating adventures, from cringe-worthy setups to unexpected sparks with her workplace rival Will.
Anna's Google searches are funny and relatable and those priceless text messages (that window scene!) make Anna relatable. I especially loved how Sophie brought authenticity to the more mature themes of navigating divorce, career challenges, and finding love again in your 30s. I don't feel like this is a true enemies-to-lovers, more of a rivals-to-lovers story, and it was excellently done.
The narrator was an excellent choice for the role and the book. She is great at doing variations of voices, you can tell character voices apart. This is the perfect listen for fans of witty workplace romance with depth.
Thank you to Hodder & Stoughton and NetGalley for providing a review copy.
In this great audiobook, narrator Stephanie Cannon brings Dawn Merriman's paranormal thriller to life.
Rylan Flynn, a psychic who can see (and help) spirits, stumbles on the ghost of a murdered girl near her aunt's cabin. While Rylan dives into her own investigation, considerate and handsome Detective Ford Pierce (love that name!) tells her to steer clear of the case. But when a second body pops up and it looks like it's linked to Rylan's family, she's hell-bent on getting to the bottom of it.
This is very much a clean contemporary mystery, Rylan doesn't even curse once. It is safe for new adult, possibly even mature YA readers. It's set in Indiana, her dad is a minister, and her unrealised love interest is a police officer, all very wholesome. Overall, it gives me Stephanie Plum series vibes, (but clean!) which I love. Be aware, that there are slightly graphic depictions of injuries leading to death, including suicide.
Stephanie Cannon's voice really captures Rylan Flynn's go-getter attitude and the vibe of the story. The audio narration makes the book's fast-paced, suspenseful plot even better. Cannon's lively delivery keeps you engaged, I listened to it non-stop and finished it in one day!
Thank you to Second Sky and NetGalley for providing a review copy of this audiobook.
3.5/5 rounded up to 4/5 Stars
I listened to the audiobook version.
This shorter audiobook is a super sweet second-chance romance that shows love can reappear when you least expect it. This contemporary cowboy audio novella follows Kendall Dixon and Brent Ashton as they figure out their love life (again) in the little town of Marietta, Montana. When Brent returns to help out his sick mom, he finds out that his first love Kendall is now a strong, determined woman who knows what she wants – including him.
Tropes featured:
- First Love & Second Chance Romance
- Slow Burn
- Closed-door Romance
- Caretaker Hero & Strong Heroine
Jessica Preddy's narration gives a cosy country vibe. Her warm delivery brings the characters to life, with different voices for each character. The pacing includes pauses that let the emotional bits sink in, but listeners can easily adjust the speed without losing quality. Through no fault of the narrator, two of the male names are similar, which can lead to confusion if you aren't paying full attention or get interrupted, so just be aware.
This audiobook is a nice little treat for romance fans looking for a quick, satisfying listen. The author strikes a great balance between sweet romance and emotional depth, making this an awesome pick for anyone who likes their love stories wholesome yet meaningful.
This book is such a fun read, especially if you took some creative writing classes yourself! It follows two writing students who can't stand each other - Rosie's all about romance novels, while Aiden's a literary snob. After their rivalry gets out of hand in critique, they are forced to choose: write a book together or drop the class. Neither of them can drop the class, and literary hijinks ensue.
Tropes-wise, this book has Enemies-to-Lovers/Slow Burn/Rivals/Forced Proximity/Grumpy x Sunshine. Spice-wise, I would rate this a 3/5
Skysong by C.A. Wright is a wonderful twist on Hans Christian Andersen's The Nightingale. Oriane, who can change into a bird and sings to make the sunrise, feels trapped in her quiet, ignorant life. When she runs away and is found in the royal gardens, she is taken to live in the palace, where people admire her like a goddess, but she is a prisoner. As Oriane deals with the tricky politics around her, she forms a special relationship with her maid, Andala, who may also be something more than she seems.
I listened to the audiobook version of this novel. Narrator Olivia Darnley brings the story to life, with a gentle voice and cadence that fits the dreamy vibe of this tale. The beautiful story makes it easy to get lost in this charming fantasy world. With lovable characters, magical moments, and lovely language, Skysong is a fantastic first audiobook that will delight fans of fairytales.
I found this book to be an enchanting tale that combines whimsy, mystery, and a little romance. The story centres on Foss Butcher, a strong, endearing village girl whose world shifts when her heart is unknowingly (and accidentally) snagged by Sylvester, a young sorcerer with an interesting history. Determined to take charge of her fate, Foss sets off to the enchanted city. There she enters Sylvester's sentient house, meeting a charming talking cat, and uncovering the secrets hidden within the kingdom's magical heart-snatching practices.
The setting is immersive, filled with whimsical details that evoke Howl's Moving Castle. The house is a fascinating work of magic that is fun to explore along with Foss. Cornelius, the witty talking cat, adds a much-needed companion for Foss. He has a good sense of humour and a needed warmth for Foss.
Eames' writing is colourful and tender, particularly in portraying Foss's blend of bravery (or stubbornness) and self-doubt in the face of powerful magic. I must confess that Foss's constant negative self-talk began to drag on me. It was demonstrated perfectly in the first quarter of the book and didn't need to continue through the book.
While the plot hints at romance, the slow-burn relationship between Foss and Sylvester might not be worth the wait for some and may be considered underwhelming. It would have been lovely to see more development in Sylvester's character to sell the connection as being more than just the magic that Foss is a victim of.
Even so, this book's unique, character-driven story will resonate with readers who enjoy novels like “Howl's Moving Castle” and “The House in the Cerulean Sea”. With its mix of medieval village charm, sinister magic, and a hint of melancholy, this debut novel is perfect for those who appreciate whimsical fantasy with a touch of depth and enjoy a slow burn.
This book is an amazing exploration of handling grief, memories, and how we connect even after someone's gone. The story starts with an intriguing teenage ‘Go-Between' who sets up meetings between the living and the dead, which is a fascinating concept but Tsujimura's way of telling the story makes it shine. I have always loved magical realism, and this is the best in that genre that I have read in a long time.
The book starts with five linked tales, showing us different kinds of loss and longing, and each one uncovers a different meaning. The way the author captures genuine feelings really helps you connect with the characters. And instead of feeling like a gimmick, those moonlit meet-ups hit home about how we deal with grief and the ways we look for closure.
Don't let the cover fool you into thinking this is a mild, lovey dovey kind of book. This is one of those rare reads that shifts your perspective on life, death, and the impact of memories. Tsujimura has created something special - a heartfelt, thought-provoking look at loss that sticks with you well after you finish the book.
This fun, fluffy contemporary romance has everything you could ask for. It even lists the relevant trope at the beginning of each chapter which was super cute, especially if you are a big romance reader. Embrace the premise and you will enjoy this book!
Sawyer, a successful and personally cynical romance author, has sworn off love and needs to get to work on her next book, stat. But after she has a one-night stand with famous actor Mason, who falls in love at the drop of a hat, they keep finding themselves in each other's paths. Deciding to work together through a list of stereotypical romantic scenarios for opposite reasons, the two begin to fall for each other despite their best efforts. This is a bit of a quirky premise, but if you can suspend your disbelief and simply enjoy a fun book, it shouldn't bother you much.
Whether these two will end up together is a foregone conclusion from the very start. Their chemistry is obvious immediately, to the reader and everyone in the book (including the main characters). If you are looking for a will they won't they with crazy levels of brooding tension, this book isn't for you. If you're looking for a cute, funny, fluffy celebration of the ways we fall in love (and some spice - that tights scene!) this is the book for you.
I highly recommend this for fans of fluffy romantic comedies and anyone looking for an entertaining, feel-good read. If you're a sucker for romance tropes, this one has most of them.
Thank you to HQ and NetGalley for providing an eARC for my review.
This novel adds Celtic mythology to a Swan Lake retelling, following changeling Fia's quest to rescue a cursed princess (whom she is a duplicate of) from the mysterious Otherworld. Accompanied by Prince Rogan, her childhood love, she finds herself drawn to the dark fae lord Irian, who holds the key to breaking the curse. The story masterfully blends court intrigue with ancient magic in a moonlit adventure.
Perhaps the best part of the book is the lush, immersive writing that brings the magical world to life. However, like many other stories that incorporate mythologies, if that mythology is unfamiliar the terminology can be challenging to follow and slow you down a bit. If you are familiar with Celtic mythology and folklore though, it has been incorporated thoroughly and you will enjoy it. I am only mildly familiar and it was still a great read.
Spice: 3 (this book might be spicer than you would expect from the cover/description).
Tropes:
Childhood friends
Forbidden Romance
Enemies to Lovers
This dark romantic fantasy is perfect for readers who enjoy morally grey characters and folklore-inspired tales with a darker edge.
Thank you to Orbit and NetGalley for providing me with an eARC.
After watching her father killed by mysterious assassins, Silla Nordvig is trying to escape her dangerous past and the unknown secrets that come with it. She sets out on a risky journey to safety along the Road of Bones. Hoping to get a ride with a tough group of Viking warriors, she stows away on their wagon and has to prove herself when discovered. Along the way, she faces tricky alliances, dark creatures, and a love that grows even when it seems impossible.
Demi Winters creates a vivid world inspired by Viking culture and Norse myths. The setting feels like Skyrim plus Dragon Age, which I love. The scenes are beautifully described, and the fights are intense, making it difficult to put down. Getting used to the complicated society and the different characters takes some time if you are unfamiliar with Norse words, but there is a handy glossary in the back.
The characters are interesting and well-developed. Silla grows throughout her journey as she learns to balance her fight for survival with her inner strength. I love that all the Bloodaxe crew members are distinct individuals and some of them have disabilities that are handled with grace, love the inclusion! Her interactions with the Bloodaxe Crew, especially her complicated relationships with Axe Eyes and Wolf, keep the story engaging and the fight scenes are well-written and fun to read.
If you enjoy dark low fantasy or dark romantasy, “The Road of Bones” is a book that fans of gritty tales like Throne of Glass and The Last Kingdom will love. It's great for readers who appreciate themes of found family, slow-building romance, and stories set in Viking-inspired worlds.
Themes/Tropes
- Found family
- Enemies becoming lovers
- Slow-building romance
- Brooding warrior character(s)
- Dangerous quest
Some content warnings: This book includes violence and gore, attempted sexual assault, emotional abuse, addiction, grief, forced drugging, captivity, and loss of family.
In this excellent fantasy romance, Dura, a fierce orc warrior, finds herself in an impossible situation when her fated mate turns out to be Marvik, the enemy soldier she swore to kill. After making the outrageous decision to save him instead of letting him die, they're forced to go on the run together, hiding from both armies while navigating their complicated feelings for each other.
What I absolutely loved about this book:
A female orc MC who's allowed both powerful and feminine
A complex male love interest with strong principles
Great tropes: Enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity, one-bed scenario
Fast-paced plot with interesting political intrigue
Shows off both characters' fighting abilities without being gory
The spice scenes are both great and well-balanced with the plot
Spice Level:
Set in the nostalgic atmospheric 1990s rural-ish Portland, Poetic Justice tells a love story between Roz, a waitressing poet trying to get her life back on track, and Hudson, a somewhat mysterious chef with a serious backstory.
The book captures the unique feel of the time before the internet, mixing romance with themes of caring for the environment, complex family situations, and the ups and downs of working at the quirky Rose and Thorn (what a perfect name for a restaurant!). It also includes lots of fun and interesting side characters, all of whom feel real and add colour to the story.
McFall and Hays have crafted a love story with strong chemistry, clever and meaningful conversations, and true character development. Roz's path to healing and Hudson's caring nature are fully explored in a genuine (but not depressing) way. I love how the story jumps back and forth in time. The format really sets this book apart from the standard linear format in the genre and added to my '90s nostalgia when reading.
This book is perfect for anyone who enjoys heartfelt romances with a dose of '90s nostalgia, social awareness, and a bit of day-to-day restaurant life.
Thank you to Pumpjack Press and NetGalley for providing a free review copy. All opinions are my own.
I found the audiobook of “The Formidable Miss Cassidy” to be an enchanting tale that transports readers to colonial Singapore. Blending historical fiction with Malay (and other) folklore, this captivating story follows the compelling Miss Leda Cassidy as she navigates the complexities of her role as governess and companion to two local families, and her own heritage.
What begins as a ordinary tale of teaching English and manners quickly evolves into a spellbinding adventure, as Miss Cassidy confronts the very real threat of ghostly entities, which I won't spoil. Weaving together strands of Celtic mythology and Singapore's rich cultural tapestry, the author has crafted a fascinating and even educational experience for the reader. If you love world mythology as I do, you will love this book.
The narrator was an absolutely perfect pick for this book. She was able to do many distinct voices with ease, and I could tell the characters apart despite the fact that there are mostly women characters.
With its vivid atmosphere, well-drawn characters, masterful blend of supernatural and the historical, and the perfect narrator, “The Formidable Miss Cassidy” is an enchanting listening experience.
Just finished “Sandwiches of History” by Barry Enderwick and I'm hungry now! This delightful cookbook-meets-history-book is a great read. The book is packed with fascinating historical gems, plus nearly 100 recipes that range from fancy club sandwiches to unexpectedly creative combos.
What makes this book special is how Enderwick modernises old-school recipes while keeping their historical charm. Each sandwich comes with its origin story, and there are deep dives into the history of everyday condiments like mustard and mayo. The photos are gorgeous, and the whole book is fun to flip through, even if you're not planning to cook anything.
It was noted in the book that not all popular sandwiches were included, maybe most notably for me, the Reuben. This is because the author didn't feel we needed yet another recipe, or that he couldn't add anything to it. However, there were recipes for a croque monsieur, a sloppy joe, a chip buttie, and a bahn mi so that seemed like a bit of weird logic to exclude the Reuben but include a Sloppy Joe.
Overall though, whether you're a food history buff or just someone who likes a good sandwich, this book is a treat. It's the kind of read that makes you want to try something new and expand your sandwich horizons.
This book is so perfect if you are looking to have a nice, fun, sophisticated drink without the alcohol!
I do love a cocktail (I even married a bartender!) but I lately I have been looking for something to drink that's interesting without the booze. Author Debbie Podlogar, known as the ‘Mocktail Mom', details a range of delicious and refreshing mocktails that cater to every taste, from spicy and frozen treats to holiday-themed sips.
I am always happy with a cocktail recipe book when I see recipes for mules, a Dark and Stormy, and a Pina colada and this book has them all. In fact, there are all the classics you expect (margarita, mimosa, etc), and some I have never even heard of - I can't wait to try a Pisco Sour.
The stylish book is laid out in a professional and easy-to-navigate way, with helpful tips on setting up a home bar and garnishing drinks. The 50+ cocktails are beautifully photographed, and have creative but practical recipes.
Whether you're abstaining completely or just cutting back, this book has something for everyone. It's a fabulous resource that will have you shaking, stirring and muddling your way to a gorgeous mocktail in no time.
Thank you to Rock Point and NetGalley for providing a copy to review. All opinions are my own.
“Essential Crochet Next-Level Stitches” is a fantastic little companion for any crocheter looking to expand their stitching skills! This book showcases 100 beautiful advanced stitch patterns in a format that's easy to follow. Each pattern comes with a clear photo, written instructions, and stitch diagrams, so you can learn whatever way works best for you.
The book is organized neatly into three sections: textured patterns (including some beautiful faux cables!), colourwork, and classy edgings that'll give your projects a professional finish. What makes it special is how it manages to make complex-looking stitches feel achievable, whether you're a beginner who's mastered the basics or an experienced crocheter seeking fresh inspiration.
The resource section at the back is like having a mini crochet mentor, complete with tips on how to read charts, and working with colour. If you're ready to level up your crochet game and add some wow to your projects, this book is worth adding to your crafting library.
In this touching novel made of interconnected stories, a thoughtful stationery shop owner in Tokyo's Ginza district helps customers find not just the perfect paper or writing implements, but also paths to healing and connection through the simple act of putting pen to paper.
Over five separate but connected tales, we meet characters seeking something deeper than notebooks or pens: a man struggling with a eulogy, a woman trying to find the right way to depart, a high school athlete struggling to confess something, and more. Being a stationery lover myself, I love how each story demonstrates how the physical act of writing can unlock emotions and memories in ways that digital communication cannot.
Each of these stories show how life's fractures can be carefully repaired, for others, and for yourself While addressing themes of loss, loneliness, and change, the book maintains an uplifting tone throughout. I have to admit, I got teary at more than one of these tales.
The author beautifully captures the sensory pleasures of fine stationery - from the satisfying weight of a fountain pen to the weighty texture of premium paper. For anyone who has lovingly browsed in a stationery shop, these descriptions will resonate deeply. The book also weaves in fascinating details about Japanese stationery culture, which I enjoyed learning more about.
If you are not familiar with the Japanese style of storytelling, the end may seem abrupt. This is a book of processing, not of finality. It is best to think of this novel as a slice of life, not only of all the customers, but especially the shop owner.
This book is a timely reminder that in our digital world, there's still something irreplaceable about the personal touch of writing things out, and sharing our handwritten words. I really hope that I can find more works by this author in the future.
Thank you so much to Manilla Press and NetGalley for providing me with an eArc to review.
I recently finished “The Last Raven” by Helen Glynn Jones, and it was a good, interesting take on vampire fantasy/romance. The novel follows Emelia, a human born into a powerful vampire family, destined to rule over a world of immortals who would eat her in a heartbeat. This book is solidly in the YA/NA category. Some people would categorise this under romantasy, but I would categorise it as a fantasy with heavy romantic elements.
Jones does an excellent job of building tension throughout the story. The plot moves pretty fast with a couple of unexpected twists. I was impressed by the ending, which was genuinely surprising and well-executed. I found myself wanting more details about the vampire society and its history. However, the fast-paced plot largely made up for this little shortcoming.
The relationship between Emelia and Kyle, her new human empathiser guard, adds an interesting dynamic to the story. Their interactions are charged with tension, providing a nice balance to the more serious political elements of the plot. While Emelia's character can be frustrating at times due to her childishness, it's understandable given her sheltered upbringing. Her struggle to reconcile her human nature with her vampire destiny is well-portrayed and adds depth to her character.
Overall, “The Last Raven” offers a new angle on vampire lore, blending elements of political intrigue, a coming-of-age drama, and romance. It did give me some “Twilight” vibes (but without some of the more problematic aspects), making it an enjoyable read for both young adult and new adult audiences. I'm looking forward to seeing how the series develops in future!
Jenny Sandiford's “Winterfrost Market” is a charming blend of cosy fantasy and a little romance sure to warm your heart and take you on a delightful adventure through a magical winter wonderland. The story follows Elsie, a tea-loving human, as she sets off on a heartfelt quest to find her missing mother, with the support of Kit, a mysterious and sometimes charming tracker.
Spice:
Catherine Doyle's “The Dagger and the Flame” is a thrilling start to the City of Fatome series and brings fresh blood to the young adult fantasy category. Set in the enchanting city of Fantome, this novel spins together elements of magic, revenge, and forbidden love. In a world where shade-magic is controlled by rival guilds of thieves and assassins, 18-year-old Seraphine seeks vengeance for her mother's murder. Her path crosses with Ransom, the heir to the Order of Daggers, igniting a dangerous mix of attraction and conflict. As they navigate the treacherous underbelly of Fantome, both must choose between forgiveness and vengeance, love and duty.
Spice:
I loved this Halloween-themed romance novella, it was a perfect October pick-me-up!
In ‘The Heartbreak Hex', we get to know Gertrude Nightshade, a green-skinned potion witch whose life gets turned sideways when her werewolf boyfriend breaks up with her just before Halloween. In a (very) tipsy moment trying to mend her broken heart, she creates a potion that ties her (literally!) to handsome Vlad Everdark, the vampire mayor of the Halloween neighbourhood who always gets his morning beverage at her potion shop. As they deal with the craziness of being stuck together, Gertrude and Vlad explore their feelings, leading to a fun and heartwarming romance.
Where to start? The charming Holiday Village and its lore were very detailed, considering the length of this book. I loved all the nods to all the major Eurocentric holidays and characters, and I'm sure there will be more to come with some of the more often forgotten holidays.
I love Gertrude, she is a very believable heroine with a relatable experience, at least as far as the dumping by a boyfriend who doesn't appreciate her, and a loyal sister to support her. I love that she is shown as smart and determined, a woman who knows how to get what she wants.
Vlad Everdark was a charming and honourable hero, deserving of Gertrude's adoration. I loved how he is always respectful to Gertrude and her friends, and ready to fight for her (even if it's just with words). I wish we had a little bit more of exactly why he is so in love with her, other than he knew her at school and from his morning potion, but the fact that he adores her is obvious.
This story had a good little dash of spice, with plenty of tension-building moments and one nicely spicy scene, perfect for the story's length.
This novella is perfect for those who want light-hearted paranormal romances, cosy autumn stories, and anyone seeking an escape into a world of magic. If you like magical small towns, friends-to-lovers stories, and a bit of spice, this novella will put a smile on your face!
“Death at the Old Curiosity Shop” starts a new cosy mystery series set in the picturesque British Cotswolds. After being laid off shortly after being dumped by her long-time partner, Alice Carroll decides she needs a fresh start in the charming village of Little Pride. Her plan for a simple village life is complicated by an unliked and overeager builder tearing up the land around her new home, especially when one of his workmen turns up dead in the neighbour's compost heap.
While the mystery unfolds more gradually than usual, readers will appreciate the lovely village atmosphere and the details of its quirky residents. Young is excellent at capturing village life (I currently live in a village much like Little Pride1) and demonstrating Alice's strength of will and intellect as she navigates her new surroundings.
The story balances Alice's character development with a gradual uncovering of the town's secrets, intertwining small character arcs with the mystery. I found the murders happened quite late in the story, and the wrap-up was inversely short. It was still satisfying, but I very much enjoy a Miss Marple or Poirot wrap-up, which was missing from this story.
Overall, “Death at the Old Curiosity Shop” is a charming beginning to a series that will appeal to fans of light British mysteries. If you enjoy cosy mystery stories filled with character and a touch of intrigue, you'll want to follow any future adventures in Little Pride.
4/5 Stars!
“Work Trip” by Chloe Ford is a fun rom-com that I could barely put down. Fliss and James are fierce work rivals, unexpectedly stranded in the Scottish wilderness during a team-building exercise. With only one tent, limited supplies, and quick thinking to get them home, they must put aside their professional differences to navigate the challenging but beautiful landscape.
Spice:
4/5 Stars!
In “For She Is Wrath,” Emily Varga presents an engaging gender-swapped fantasy retelling of “The Count of Monte Cristo” (one of my favourite books). The story follows Dania, who is wrongfully imprisoned for a crime she didn't commit. After spending a year being tortured and plotting her escape, she finally manages to get out with help from a fellow prisoner. Together, they track down a hidden trove of djinn magic, which sets the stage for Dania's carefully planned revenge against those who betrayed her, including Mazin, the boy she once loved (and maybe still loves, despite her righteous anger).
Varga's storytelling prowess is shown through her excellent prose, her fierce heroine, and the magic system she creates. The whole book is filled with emotional depth from the very beginning. Dania is a strong protagonist - smart, determined, and tough, but not a ‘pick me'. The complex relationship between Dania and Mazin adds a layer of tension to this story of vengeance, drawing readers into their emotional dynamic.
The rich fantasy world-building draws upon Pakistani lore and culture, skillfully blending these elements into a magic system that mirrors the characters' emotional journeys. This connection adds significance to every display of power, heightening the stakes throughout the narrative.
While I found the pacing slows a little in the middle, the final act makes up for it with exciting twists and satisfying emotional resolutions. One small note: some dialogue in fast-paced scenes could be more clearly noted to help distinguish the speaker more effectively, some sections I had to reread to be sure.
This enchanting YA fantasy is perfect for readers who enjoy strong heroines, innovative magic systems, and narratives that thoughtfully explore the complexities of power and revenge. Varga's debut is an exhilarating start, establishing her as a talented author to keep an eye on in the fantasy genre.
I listened to the audiobook version, which was very captivating. I feel the narrator did very well with distinctive voices, and was a good fit for the story as well.
Thank you to Macmillan UK Audio and NetGalley for a copy of the audiobook in exchange for my honest review.