Stine

4 ✨

The main character in this novel is deeply unlikeable—and that's part of what makes the book so compelling. R.F. Kuang presents actions we'd usually see as clearly wrong (like plagiarism) in a morally grey light, forcing the reader to constantly question their assumptions. It's a fascinating, at times unsettling, reading experience.

While the plot can feel repetitive and slow in places, the writing is so sharp and engaging that it hardly matters. Even during quieter moments, I couldn't put the book down, which is exactly the reason I ended up finishing it in the middle of the night.

This is a bold, thought-provoking novel, and I haven't read anything quite like it before. While not without its flaws, it has stayed with me days after turning the final page. I'll definitely be reading more of R.F. Kuang's work!

4.5 ✨
Maverick Miller – loved his character development throughout the book! Once we get to know him, he gives off total golden retriever energy and is totally smitten with Emmy. Major Zanders-from-Mile High vibes!

Emerson (Emmy) Hartwell – undoubtedly, my favourite of the two! She was confident, witty, and relatable. I loved being inside her head, witnessing her moments of doubt, and reading about how everyone around her celebrated her accomplishments. #GirlPower

The chemistry between Emmy and Maverick was 10/10. A rocky start led to a great ending!

“If your ego gets any bigger, there's not going to be any room for us in the hallway.” “You could stand closer to me, if you want.”

4.25 ✨

In Face Off, we got hints of something more between them, but this book takes it to a whole new level. Their dynamic is heartwarming and fun, especially when they accidentally get married - and then comes the twist: it was the idea of a drunk Liam - the quiet, broody hockey player with a secret soft spot for love? Loved it.

Not every storyline needs to check every box

2 ✨

This was definitely a slow burn—and unfortunately, a bit too slow for me. The pacing dragged throughout, and I found it hard to stay invested in the plot.

The main male character felt overly perfect. I kept waiting for him to make a mistake or show some real human flaws, but it never happened. That lack of depth made it hard to connect with him.

Every time Madelaine called Hudson for bombshell or BB, the only thing I thought about was A hot new bombshell has entered the villa

It's disappointing because I really enjoyed the first two books in the series and had high hopes for this one. Sadly, it didn't quite live up to them.