Adult

When In Rome // Book Review

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About The Book
Burned-out pop princess Rae Rose seeks solace in small-town Rome, Kentucky, where she meets pie shop owner Noah. Initially skeptical, Noah reluctantly offers her shelter. As they bond, Noah discovers the real Amelia behind the celebrity facade. Together, they explore small-town life and open up to new possibilities. But their time together is limited, as Amelia must soon return to her glamorous world, leaving Noah to reconcile his feelings.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/4b9x0yb

My Rating

I really wanted to enjoy this book, but it was just okay. Honestly, that’s the best way I can sum up my feelings about it. The characters were alright, the plot was alright, the romance was alright, and the writing was alright. So, I didn’t hate the book, but it didn’t quite meet my expectations.

The main romance trope of the book is “Hollywood starlet falls for everyday person” set in a small town. But it also has “grumpy sunshine” elements as well. I actually liked how the romance between Amelia and Noah unfolded. It felt really natural, and seeing them struggle to resist their feelings was entertaining. Noah wasn’t exactly my favorite leading man, but I found Amelia’s character development quite engaging.

I really liked how Sarah Adams avoided the miscommunication trope in this book. Usually, I’m not a big fan of that unless it’s handled really well, which can be tough. So, it was refreshing to see the author take a different approach. It feels like the book sort of dances around the forced proximity and opposites attract themes. Plus, this was my first time diving into a forced proximity romance, but now I’m hooked and definitely want to explore more of them.

“When the hell did it become such a crime to be selfish now and again?”

I really loved all the nods to Audrey Hepburn in the book, especially with her movies being Amelia’s comfort films. It really tied the story together nicely. Also, I appreciated how the author showcased that most of those classic love stories ended in tragedy. When we’re younger, it’s easy to romanticize love stories, but as we get older, we start to see the sadness in them as well.

This small-town romance isn’t just about love—it delves into some heavier themes. You’ll find elements of manipulation, grief, Alzheimer’s, and cheating woven into the storyline, adding depth to the narrative. But don’t worry, it still delivers those cozy small-town romance vibes you’re craving.

Overall, the book wasn’t bad, but it wasn’t anything extraordinary either. Like I’ve mentioned before, it was just alright. But you know what? That’s totally fine because not every book has to blow you away. I’ll definitely check out more from this author because I did like the way she told the story.

Do you have a favorite forced proximity romance book? I’d love to hear about it in the comments! Don’t forget to share and like this post with others, and if you want to make my day, give my blog a follow too!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Daisy Jones And The Six // Book Review

- Bunny 1 Comment

About The Book
Discover the reason behind one of the greatest rock bands’ of the 70s, ‘Daisy Jones & The Six, breakup at the peak of their fame. Daisy, a young woman in 1960s L.A., dreams of rock ‘n’ roll stardom amidst a backdrop of sex, drugs, and the Sunset Strip. Meanwhile, Billy, the leader of The Six, faces the pressures of impending fatherhood and fame. Their paths collide, leading to a legendary collaboration chronicled in this gripping oral history by Taylor Jenkins Reid.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/3y1y1tF

My Rating

This is a riveting tale that defies genre expectations, and even managed to captivate me – someone that typically steers away from historical or literary fiction. The documentary-style format adds a unique layer to the storytelling, and they did a wonderful job at giving a realistic look into the glamorous, yet tumultuous, world of a 70’s rock band. The audiobook, with its immersive narration, further enhances the experience, and brings the characters – and their journeys – vividly to life.

What truly sets the novel apart is its richly developed characters, each offering a distinct perspective on the trials and tribulations of stardom. Daisy Jones, in particular, emerges as a character of remarkable depth, her struggles and evolution serving as a poignant exploration of identity and self-discovery. Even characters like Bill, who I would describe as the egotistical lead singer of The Six, undergoes a positive character development, gradually winning me over, despite his flaws.

At its core, the book is a story about love, self-acceptance, and the complexities of relationships. Through the lens of a legendary band’s rise and fall, the novel explores themes of authenticity, ambition, and the often elusive nature of true connection. It’s a compelling narrative, that resonates long after the final page is turned.

“It’s like some of us are chasing after our nightmares the way other people chase dreams.”

The author’s skillful storytelling ensures that even though I was initially skeptical of the subject matter, I found myself engrossed in the narrative. With its seamless blend of drama, romance, and rock ‘n’ roll excess, the book is an irresistibly addictive read that will appeal to music lovers and literary enthusiasts alike.

Overall, despite any initial reservations, I was truly happy that I decided to give the book a chance. The satisfying conclusion serves as a testament to the author’s ability to craft a captivating story that transcends genre boundaries. I can understand why Taylor Jenkins Reid is such a popular and well loved author.

The book does touch on some potentially triggering topics, so please visit Book Trigger Warnings to get a complete list. Don’t forget to hit the follow button, so that you never miss a post!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

First Lie Wins // Book Review

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About The Book
For Evie Porter, identity is everything. Assigned by her enigmatic employer, Mr. Smith, she delves into a town and its inhabitants, namely her target, Ryan Sumner. But as Evie’s feelings for Ryan deepen, so do the risks of her covert mission. With her past threatening to unravel, Evie must navigate a precarious balance between her fabricated persona and her true self. In a high-stakes game of deception, Evie must stay ahead of her history while carving out a path to a new future.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/4aUIvtj

My Rating

This book dives deep into truth, morality, and self-discovery, but in a way that really grabs you. We follow our main character as she tries to untangle a mess of lies and deceit. The characters within are not just black and white; they’re morally grey, which adds a whole new layer to the story, and makes you question everything.

It’s a perfect mix of gripping plot twists and characters you can’t help but care about. While some parts might seem predictable, the suspense keeps you flipping the pages. It’s not exactly a thriller, but it sure keeps you on the edge of your seat.

Ashley Elston’s storytelling is so vivid that you can easily picture this book on the big screen. Just a heads up, though – it takes a bit to really get going. But once you push through that first chunk, you’re in for a wild ride.

“Mama always said to be successful in life you need to do three things: learn everything you can, try your hardest, and be the best at what you do.”

The book was very entertaining, and I had fun trying to figure out how things were going to end. Speaking of the ending, I didn’t expect things to turn out the way they did, but I thoroughly enjoyed the way the story played out. Being inside these characters’ heads was great, and the plot was very well executed.

Overall, the book didn’t make Elston a new favorite thriller author of mine, but it definitely showed that she has incredible talent. While everyone might not vibe with the pacing, or level of action, I think the book is worth the read. Who knows, you might just find yourself pleasantly surprised.

In the comments, let me know if this book is on your TBR. If you like bookish content, then follow the blog. It is completely free, and you will get notified whenever there’s a new post.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Books Inspired By // Taylor Swift

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Hi Friends,
I know that some of my readers must be Taylor Swift fans. I have been listening to her music since the release of the ‘Our Song’ music video. So, in honor of her new album, “The Tortured Poets Department,” I thought that I would share five books that were apparently inspired by her.

Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/3WaZfIa

Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/4d4VWbx

Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/3Ucjvq8

Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/3JvT362

Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/3JATxaR

In the comments, let me know which song from her new album is your favorite. Unfortunately, only one of these books can be found on Everand, but you’d like to check out other books they have you can use my link (click here) to get a free trial of their subscription service. Don’t forget to share and like this post. And, as always, you can support the blog by giving it a follow.

Until the next chapter,
Bunny

How To Plot A Payback // Book Review

- Bunny 1 Comment

About The Book
Finn Masters, a screenwriter, lands his dream job working on the sitcom Neighbors, but there’s a catch: he’ll be working alongside Lavender Rhodes, the show’s beloved star who inadvertently ruined his acting career and relationship. Determined to exact payback, Finn plots to sabotage Lavender’s character, but when all his plans backfire spectacularly, he starts to reconsider his feelings towards the women he’s blamed for all his misfortunes.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/4d8QLHI

My Rating

The book is a fast-paced romcom that delivers on its promises. Set against the backdrop of Hollywood, it combines grumpy sunshine dynamics with the beloved enemies-to-lovers trope. Ferguson crafts a fun and engaging story that revolves around a writer and actress, bringing a touch of glamour to the narrative.

This is a dual narrative story, so we get the perspectives of both Finn and Lavender. It was interesting to view Lavender from Finn’s eyes knowing that he has held her accountable for most of his hardships in life. Especially since, in Lavender’s chapters we get to see her real personality shine through. The book is the perfect example of how people aren’t always who you think they are.

The strength of the book truly lies with Finn and Lavender, who drive the story forward with their chemistry and personal growth. Despite the lack of many side characters, the protagonists shine brightly, making the reader invested in their journey. Ferguson’s writing is fantastic, seamlessly weaving together humor, romance, and character development.

“You deserve someone who just wants to see you happy.”

Throughout the book, the connection between the main characters is palpable, and their evolving relationship keeps the reader hooked until the end. The miscommunication trope, often overused and usually irritating, is executed masterfully. The trope is used with such maturity that if more books handled it this way it wouldn’t be one of the most infuriating plot devices.

Overall, I believe that fans of Ali Hazelwood’s works will find much to enjoy in not only the storyline, but also the author’s writing style and storytelling. This is simply a delightful read from start to finish. However, this is a closed-door romance and if memory serves me, the book doesn’t go beyond kissing. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and eagerly anticipate reading more from the author.

In the comments, please let me know if you have read the book. Also, I would like to thank Netgalley for letting me receive an ARC of the book in exchange for an honest review. Don’t forget to like and share this post with other readers. If you are a fan of book reviews, hit the follow button, so that you will never miss a post.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

One Dark Window // Book Review

- Bunny Leave a comment

About The Book
This lush, dark fantasy debut delivers atmospheric world-building, witchy tarot-like magic, and a steamy romantic subthread. It’s a loose reimagination of the English folk ballad “The Highwayman” and reads like a timeless fable. Perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas, Naomi Novik, Hannah Whitten, and those that want a little spice in their gothic monster fantasy. For fans of Uprooted and For the Wolf comes a dark, lushly gothic fantasy about a maiden who must unleash the monster within to save her kingdom—but the monster in her head isn’t the only threat lurking.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/3TWbvt8

My Rating

Honestly, I was gonna start off this review by giving my brief rundown of the synopsis, but this book has so many elements to it that I can’t actually describe it. There’s a magic tarot card of sorts, a fever that gives you magic, and somewhat of a corrupt kingdom. There’s even this deadly fog which can only be stopped if you collect all the cards, some of which cannot be found. So you can see that it’s a lot to condense into a few sentences.

That brief rundown of plot probably left you confused but as wanting to know more. Right? Well it did for me, because I found the book to be intriguing and like nothing I’ve ever read before. The elements of magic, tarot-like cards, and an amoral King worked well together. The added addition of the fever and fog was fantastic.

The female main characters was honestly a little boring. Her only interesting characteristic was that she had the fever as a child and ended up getting the nightmare from the nightmare card in her head. In addition to her, there were many side characters that I did enjoy, as well as the added comical relief character.

There was a pretty heavy romance sub plot, that I guess was supposed to be enemies to lovers. However, there wasn’t enough angst between the characters for them to seem like genuine enemies. I did enjoy the spicy scenes, but the romance wasn’t my favorite part of the story. Probably because I found myself being somewhat attracted to the nightmare. I have a thing for mysterious bad boys.

“I am the shepherd of shadow. The phantom of the fright. The demon in the daydream.”

The world building was heavy in this book, which is usual for fantasy books although I guess technically this is a romantasy. However, the atmosphere was amazing and the description of the world really brought it to life. Now it’s not a world I’d choose to live in, but it is an amazing fantasy universe.

The writing is what I struggled with more, because it wasn’t as engaging as I would have liked. Although, I was immersed in the story the author wasn’t able to keep my attention. There was just something missing from the book making the chapters feel as though they were dragging on forever.

Overall, I did start to enjoy the book around the 50% mark, so please don’t give up on it if you are considering DNFing it. The ending is amazing, and will leave you shocked. Although, I can see it being one of those books that could easily be forgotten within a few years. So, if you do read it I recommend quickly jumping into the sequel.

In the comments, let me know your thoughts on the book. I could definitely see this becoming a movie one day. Before you go please make my day by giving the blog a quick follow.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

The Sun Down Motel // Book Review

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About The Book
The secrets lurking in a rundown roadside motel ensnare a young woman, just as they did her aunt thirty-five years before, in this new atmospheric suspense novel from the national bestselling and award-winning author of The Broken Girls. Every small town like Fell, New York, has a place like the Sun Down Motel. Some customers are from out of town, passing through on their way to someplace better. Some are locals, trying to hide their secrets.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/4aB8HZy

My Rating

I had a feeling that I was going to love this author’s works, and I wasn’t wrong. This plot was so engaging and fast paced, and the writing was phenomenal. Now it does lean more towards mystery/thriller, but that didn’t hinder my enjoyment.

The story is told in two timelines. In 1982, we follow Viv who is the night clerk at the eerie Sundown Motel. 35 years later, her niece, Carly, works her same shift at the same motel. However, Carly is there for a purpose – to uncover what happened to her aunt Vivi, who seemingly disappeared all those years ago.

I’m not normally one to enjoy dual timeline stories, but this book was written so well that I was engaged equally in both the girls stories. Now I did prefer Viv’s plot a little bit more, since I felt that it was a little more exciting. However, the whole story worked so well, and there really wasn’t a dull moment.

“How it didn’t matter how afraid or how careful you were—it could always be you.”

The setting for the book was great, and really played into the thriller vibes. I mean a creepy hotel in a small town that’s been known for women being murdered? I’d probably be on the next bus out of there. And, the fact that there was a haunting aspect to the story was awesome and unexpected.

However, my only con, and the reason it isn’t a five star read was that I didn’t feel as though Carly understood Viv. After spending all of this time trying to figure out what happened to her by the end of the book she didn’t seem to understand Viv’s choices. It was a bit frustrating to me, but not something that truly hindered my enjoyment of the book.

Overall, I will continue to pick up more from this author. This book was a fantastic read, that I think a lot of readers will enjoy. But please, check trigger warnings before reading it, as some of the content matter can be upsetting to certain readers. You can find a list of trigger warnings at Book Trigger Warnings.

In the comments, let me know if you have read anything by this author. Don’t forget that you can like and share this post with others. Before you go, hit the follow button so that you never miss a post.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

March 2024 // Reading Wrap Up

- Bunny 2 Comments

Hi Friends,
March has officially ended, so now it is time for my March reading wrap up. I’m surprised that I was able to read 12 books in the month of March, considering that I was in a huge reading slump for a big part of the month. But, I was able to catch up on my reading goal, which makes me so happy.


Ruthless Vows (Letters of Enchantment, 2) by Rebecca Ross
This was probably my favorite read of the month, and the conclusion of an amazing duology. I can say much about it without spoilers, but it was a satisfying ending.
Related Post: Ruthless Vows // Book Review

In the Weeds (Lovelight 2) by B.K. Borison
This is the second book in a romance series of interconnected standalones. They take place in the small town of Lovelight, but mainly on this Christmas tree farm in the town. This one was a second chance romance between a farmer from that farm, and an influencer.

The Naturals (The Naturals, 1) by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
I think BookTok is the major contributor to the sudden success of this series. This is the first book in a series that follows a bunch of teenagers with unique skills, being recruited by the FBI to solve cold cases. And from this first book, I can see why everyone loves this series.

The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
This is a somewhat of a psychological thriller about a therapist working at a psychiatric clinic to get close to a woman that was convicted of killing her husband, but hasn’t spoken in years. Lots of twists and turns, but the ending was quite predictable.


Brutal Obsession by S. Massery
This is a dark hockey romance, the first in an interconnected, standalone series. This book was very intense, and a dark Romance for sure. Not exactly sure how I feel about it but I do really enjoy these books.

Killer Instinct (The Naturals, 2) by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
This is the second book in the ‘Naturals’ series, and again, it follows the exact same formula of the first book. We are following the same group of teenagers working for the FBI trying to stop another serial killer. Super fast-paced, and a good read.

Where Darkness Blooms by Andrea Hannah
This is a young adult contemporary thriller, where we follow four girls, whose mothers mysteriously disappeared one day. The story was definitely a roller coaster, and it was interesting to get the perspectives of all four girls throughout the book.

She Drives Me Crazy by Kelly Quindlen
This is a young adult queer romance that is part enemies to lovers, part opposites attract. Honestly, I don’t have much to say about this book, because it doesn’t really stick out in my mind.


How to Plot a Payback by Melissa Ferguson
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of the audiobook through NetGalley. I am so happy that I got the chance to read this book because it took me completely by surprise. It was such a fantastic read.

The Nowhere Girls (Detective Nikki Cassidy) by Dana Perry
This is another book that I received the audiobook ARC via NetGalley. If you’re a fan of Law and Order: SVU, then I think you’d really enjoy this book. Apparently it’s part of a series that follows different FBI agents. In this book, we follow Detective Nikki Cassidy, who returns home to get answers from the man who murdered her 12 year old sister. But when he confesses that he didn’t murder her sister, Nikki starts to wonder if her sister’s killer is still out there.

What Lies in the Woods by Kate Alice Marshall
Yes, this is actually on my April TBR, but I went ahead and read it early. This is an adult mystery/thriller, where our main character, Naomi, is trying to put together the pieces of what really happened when she was attacked at 11 years old. Super quick read, in my opinion, but I unfortunately didn’t love it as much as I thought I would.

Happily Never After by Lynn Painter
I’ve heard so many people talk about wanting to read this book, but nobody actually reviewing it. She wrote my all-time favorite young adult, contemporary romance ‘Better Than The Movies’. This, however, is an adult romance; and sadly, I didn’t love it. But it’s Lynn Painter, so I still recommend the book.

Those are all 12 books that I read in the month of March. In the comments, let me know how many books you were able to read. The audiobook for some of these books are available on Everand, and you can get a free trial when you sign up using my link. Don’t forget to hit the follow button, so that you get notified whenever there’s a new post, because I will have reviews up for almost all the books that I have read in the month of March.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

April 2024 // To Be Read

- Bunny Leave a comment

Hi Friends,
Today I’ll be doing my April TBR post. This month, I’ll be using prompts to pick my TBR again. Since I’ve learned that my mood reader personality usually gets the best of me, I decided to only pick 5 prompts.

Buy Book: https://amzn.to/3xmi9kQ
“Kate Alice Marshall’s What Lies in the Woods is a thrilling novel about friendship, secrets, betrayal, and lies – and having the courage to face the past.”

I have been wanting to read this book for the longest time. This is an adult thriller that I’ve heard a lot of a good things about. I haven’t read anything else by this author yet, but this is a 5 star prediction book for me.

Buy Book: https://amzn.to/3IYq2Q2
“Starling House is a gorgeous, modern gothic fantasy from the New York Times bestselling author of The Ten Thousand Doors of January.”

I have been dying to read this fantasy book. Honestly, I don’t know much about the plot, except that Starling House is a place. I do believe that this is a standalone book, which is pretty unusual for a fantasy.

Buy Book: https://amzn.to/3vscUjb
“One boy. One girl. A bond that is forged in an instant and cherished for a decade. A bond that neither time nor distance can break. A bond that will last forever.”

I have seen this book all over BookTok. This is a young adult contemporary, and apparently it’s heartbreaking. I hear that within the first few pages you are sobbing. I am unsure if I’m mentally ready, but I would like to know what all the hype is about.

Buy Book: https://amzn.to/3TVW4mg
“A true crime blogger gets more than she bargained for while interviewing the woman acquitted of two cold case slayings in this chilling new novel from the New York Times bestselling author of The Sun Down Motel.”

I got this book at Half Price Books, and have been dying to read it for months. This is another 5 star prediction book. The plot follows a true crime blogger. Need I say more?

Buy Book: https://amzn.to/3PDQouk
“A reality show on a remote Caribbean island. Ten teen influencers. One dead body.“

This is an adult thriller about influencers. I haven’t heard anyone talking about this book, but I think it’s going to be an entertaining read.

A few of these books are available in audiobook format on Everand, so I’ll be making good use of my subscription. In the comments, let me know what’s on your April TBR. Don’t forget to follow the blog before you go, so that you never miss a post.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

The Serpent And The Wings Of Night // Book Review

- Bunny 1 Comment

About The Book
The adopted human daughter of the Nightborn vampire king, Oraya carved her place in a world designed to kill her. Her only chance to become something more than prey is entering the Kejari: a legendary tournament held by the goddess of death herself. But winning won’t be easy amongst the most vicious warriors from all three vampire houses. To survive, Oraya is forced to make an alliance with a mysterious rival.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/4a5GyKh

My Rating

To be completely honest, I had no idea that this book was about vampires and a Hunger Games type competition. And, yes I understand that the comparison to ‘The Hunger Games’ is getting old, but when I think of a book that has a fight to the death tournament element, it is the first book that comes to mind. Especially since it is one of the books that did the competition plot well. However, this book does a fantastic job with it, too!

The story follows Oraya, a human girl raised by a vampire king. She must enter deadly contest where the winner is granted a wish. However, her alliance, and her connection to another competitor, Raihn, could just be her undoing. The two characters form this bond, and their chemistry was undeniable. Throughout the story you watched them grow from frenemies, to partners, to friends.

Oraya was such a strong female character, and you could tell that she felt out of place in her life. I loved how she didn’t feel like she fit in with the vampires, but also didn’t connect with humans either. She was a character that put up walls, and was looking for some sort of family unit. As for Raihn, I loved him. He was charming, funny, and for a vampire, so full of life. He has been added to my list of book crushes for sure.

The plot for the book was very strong and well developed. I loved the mixture of vampires, a competition, magic, and even romance. Although I do think that the book was little long, I have come to except that in first books in fantasy series. The author wants to take the time to build the world and characters. However, I think that the book would have still be able to get the story across in 400 pages verse 500 pages. But, that is just a personal opinion.

“A dead lover can never break your heart.”

The book borders the line between romantasy and traditional fantasy. Personally, I would say that this is more of a high fantasy yet I could see why other would consider it a romantic fantasy. Speaking on the romance side of things, there isn’t a ton of spicy in this book, since I’d consider it to be a slow burn romance. Still, we do get one steamy scene closer to the end.

The atmosphere was amazing, and the author did a great job bringing this world to life. The writing style was very captivating, and you were immersed into the story. Throughout the book, I was not only intrigued by what was going to happen next, but enjoying ever minute of the story. I felt that it was different enough from other books that follow similar plots that it kept me engaged and guessing.

Overall, this is a great read, and I think more seasoned fantasy readers might really appreciate it. If you aren’t someone that tends to read a lot of fantasy, you might find it a little slow at some parts. Still, the ending is phenomenal, and I am not sure where the author is going to take the story next. I will admit that I did suspect one of the twists early on, but the final twist came as a complete shock to me.

In the comments, let me know if you have read this book. I do believe that it was originally a self published novel, and it is available on KU. Before you go, please like and share this post with others. Don’t forget that you can always hit the follow button so that you receive post notifications.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny