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It’s been a long time since I have read a purely romance book. However after seeing this book literally everywhere and everyone singing it’s praises, I thought it about time to jump on TLH bandwagon. Ali Hazelwood’s debut novel, The Love Hypothesis, is entertaining and delivers perfection from start to finish. It deserves the praise that everyone has been giving it. Hazelwood’s writing is fun, gripping and fast paced. The fake-dating storyline is also intertwined with serious subjects and authentic situations which creates more depth to the narrative. Hazelwood’s depiction of women in STEM and Academia is superbly done and how women can encounter additional obstacles in a field dominated by men. Olive is smart, determined and loyal yet also awkward and vulnerable. Adam is seen as rude and lacking compassion, but readers slowly see his true colours. The romance between Olive and Adam is so cute. Their chemistry is so insane and the banter between the characters is kind of my favorite part about this book. Overall The Love Hypothesis is a refreshingly cute and yet steamy romance with amazing characters. This has joined my favorite reads.

This is such a cute and playful childrens book. The pages are beautifully designed to appeal to very young readers and keep their curious mind engaged. My young son is absolutely enthralled by the lift up flaps and brightly coloured illustrations of various vehicles. Made of stable thick cardboard, this book is perfect for little readers and encourages curiosity and discovery. This book is a joy to read together over and over again.

Dark and Shallow Lies is a great YA debut of Ginny Myers Sain. This paranormal thriller full of twist and turns is the perfect book to read during Halloween season. Although there are some parts that are slightly slower paced, Ginny Myers Sain captures the atmosphere perfectly. Her writing style gives readers the southern feel, is full of descriptive language, humor and brings the Louisiana bayou to life. The intricate and gripping plot with subtle hints create a thrilling masterpiece where past and present events are tied together to make the mysteries more dark and thrilling. The cast of characters have been really well done and come alive on the page. They have a mysterious and secretive kind of feel while remaining realistic and the character development overall was incredible. If you enjoy spine chilling mysteries with plenty of plot twists keeping readers guessing every step of the way then I recommend this book for you.

Skin of the Sea is an imaginative retelling of The Little Mermaid that ultimately blends history, West African mythology and fantasy into an exciting, well crafted and fast paced novel. The rich setting is immersive and beautiful. The cultural customs and West African mythical creatures adds such depth to this story! Many such creatures were new to me and I enjoyed that readers were exposed to such a variety. Bowen’s excellent writing style and pacing is absolutely flawless and it’s hard to believe this is her debut novel. Bowen touches upon a dark and terrifying piece of African history that is full of slavery and death. Simi is a fantastic heroine. She is fearless, strong and compassionate. She always tries to do what’s right even in the face of hardship and uncertainty. Kola complements her character well and is loyal and determined. I am also intrigued by the gods (Orisa) they interact with. Yemoja, Sanjo, Oya and Esu are such individual characters and I hope we will read more of their stories. Overall the relationships between the characters are well built and engaging. Skin of the Sea is unlike any other. The diversity and mythical aspects of this book create a powerful story I urge everyone to read.

Kingdom of the Wicked is a compelling story about love, lose, family and magic. Maniscalco has created an immersive world full of danger and mystery which leaves readers wanting more. Through her writing she has created a beautiful story and I was engrossed in her dark world of demons and witches. The inclusion of Italian/Sicilian food in such a descriptive way adds a richness to the story that will leave mouths watering. Emilia is a character to both love and ever so slightly dislike. While she is smart, determined and sassy, she is also frustrating and reckless. Her growth through the book is great and she becomes slowly confident and bold like her twin, Vittoria. Wrath is a great character and Maniscalco has done a wonderful job with the Wicked and their personified sins. I can’t wait to see more of him and the others in the next book. The chemistry between Emilia and Wrath is dynamic and I couldn’t get enough of their banter and bickering. Their slow burn enemies-to-lovers romance was incredible and full of tension. I couldn’t put this book down and will be picking up Kingdom of the Cursed as soon as possible.

A Curse So Dark and Lonely is a fantastic retelling of Beauty and the Beast. This book has an easy reading writing style and the pacing is great. I read this for a buddy read and I whenever I got to our markers, I found I couldn’t put the book down and so I read continuously past our arranged chapters. The alternating first person POV of Harper and Rhen works well and readers are exposed to both characters thoughts and feelings. I love the disability representation in this book. I think there needs to be more books that show characters with disabilities or chronic health problems/mental conditions. I adore how Harper isn’t defined by her condition, she doesn’t let it hold her back and is a fearless character. I took a while to warm up to Rhen. He is definitely flawed and I like how the author is straightforward about his personality before the curse. Grey is a great character (maybe my favorite). He is honorable, protective and often reserved. I liked how throughout the book you see small parts of his character slip and shine through the guard act! I am looking forward to see where he goes in the next book. I highly recommend this book and I can’t wait to see what happens with the rest of the series.

Demons are coming for Cora Gardner. A witch like her sisters, and all the women of her line before her, her existence is threatened not only by mortals who fear what they don’t understand, but by those who live in the shadows and thrive on the darkness. But when a warrior is summoned to be her guard she’d almost prefer to meet her fate. Liam Wolfe is not just any warrior, he’s a Seven, created by the covens to protect the most powerful among them. He and his team are the hard edge that keep the violence at bay, so the witches of the world can hold the earth in her balance. But demons aren’t the only ones drawn to Cora. Despite an animosity from her he cannot comprehend, Liam finds his oath as a Seven tested in the face of temptation. And as evil approaches, secrets are revealed – a truth which threatens everything he’s ever known. Spark of Shadows is the prequel to The Seven series. It is a short novel that introduces the reader to witches, demons and the Seven - guardians of the witches. It follows the forbidden love story of Cora and Liam in a heart breaking yet wonderful plot line. It is a well paced story full of deception, love and magic. Although I wish we were exposed more to the world setting and more explanation in regards to the war between witches and demons, I think it’s a great introduction to the characters that I believe we will continue to see in the main series. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

France, 1714: in a moment of desperation, a young woman makes a Faustian bargain to live forever―and is cursed to be forgotten by everyone she meets. Thus begins the extraordinary life of Addie LaRue, and a dazzling adventure that will play out across centuries and continents, across history and art, as a young woman learns how far she will go to leave her mark on the world. But everything changes when, after nearly 300 years, Addie stumbles across a young man in a hidden bookstore and he remembers her name. Addie’s journey is full of heartbreak, devastation and loss. Yet she seems to find the beauty in life. Addie is deep down a sad and lonely person, but who wouldn’t be in those circumstances. Addie is also strong and resilient and makes for an extremely interesting character. Addie also interacts with numerous interesting characters, with the mention of many prominent artists and historical figures. Addie’s relationship with Luc was dynamic and well put together. Half the time readers were hating Luc, the other half we were loving him. Addie’s relationship with Henry intrigued us all - why could he remember? When we came to realize he had also made a deal, we were all secretly hoping for a happily ever after. V.E. Schwab has an almost magical way with her words that brings this story alive. The plot is extremely enjoyable and unique. It is not a fast paced book but it allows the reader to engage in the story. The story moves in two directions : one moving forward from childhood and the other from the present. The timeline flip flops between the chapters and if it wasn’t for the chapters giving both location and date, things would get very confusing. Overall I thought it was a great and unique plot line but in general I was a little underwhelmed. Was it because my expectations where set too high from the hype surrounding this book? Was it because I was in a slight reading slump? Or was it just not my cup of tea? Who knows! I enjoyed it but I wouldn’t say it was life-altering.

Kingdom of Flesh and Fire picks up right where From Blood and Ash finishes. Poppy is surrounded by Atlantians and Wolven who want her dead because of what she represents, and Hawke the man she had been slowly falling for has been exposed as Prince Casteel Da’Neer aka the Dark One! With her powers adapting and growing, danger lurks everywhere even when Poppy learns she is half Atlantian. Casteel proposes marriage to secure her safety even from their own Allies. After all his lies and deceit right from the beginning, Poppy is not trusting but together they form a plan to rescue Casteel’s brother, who is in the hands of the Ascended, and hope that poppy can find her own brother, Ian. In spite of everything he has done, Poppy’s feelings for Casteel are ever present and she feels increasingly drawn to him! A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire is even better than it’s predecessor, From Blood and Ash. It still has the banter and mystery from the first book, but the romance is taking a more main seat in this book! I love how we are exposed to more of the FBAA world in the book and it’s helps us get a better understanding of Atlantia, the Wolven and how exactly the Ascended have been spinning lies. Although the plot is a bit slower in this book, the character development is captivating and focuses a lot on Poppy’s relationships. A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire is highly addictive story that many readers will devour! With the cliffhanger of an ending, I can’t wait to see what book 3 has in store for us!

Poppy’s life as The Maiden has never been her own. Although she is a strong independent heroine, poppy has spent her life veiled and protected from everyone and everything around her! Enter Hawke Flynn, a handsome, charming and seductive guard who enters Poppy’s life and causes a little chaos. The chemistry between them both is undeniable and steamy. To be honest I wasn’t so engaged at the beginning. I’m unsure if it was the distraction of motherhood or if it was just not piquing my interest. I continued on since I had heard so many excellent reviews and it was all over my bookstagram. WOW am I glad I stayed and didn’t jump ship! This book (after the initial stages) was a wonderful story full of banter, secrets, betrayal and mystery.

Fables journey continues in this concluding book in the duology! In a story that is full of twists and turns, we are often left on the edge of our seat waiting to see what happens on the next page. Namesake begins at the end of Fable, having been ripped away from her new found family on the Marigold. Now Fable is on another adventure she is not so willing to partake in and it seems that no matter how far she runs, Fable cannot escape her past or her family. Namesake is a riveting conclusion to Fable’s story and is full of courage, sacrifice and betrayal. This book is recommended for fans of YA fantasy!

Set in a maritime world, Fable is a gripping tale of survival, treasure and a little bit of love! It is an action packed tale centering around 17 year old Fable and her determination to reunite with her father, who abandoned her as a child. She is intelligent, strong willed and only lives by the the five rules that her father made her memorize at a young age! Overall this book has a wonderful crew of characters and an engaging story! The fantasy and romance elements are fine threads that are woven carefully between the pages without overshadowing the storyline.

As a 15 year old girl, this book sparked my passionate love affair for books and especially fantasy. I reread this book yearly it’s that brilliant!! This historical fantasy novel by Marillier is based on the old original folktale of The Six Swans. Based in Ireland, Sorcha is the seventh child and only daughter of Lord Colum of Sevenwaters. When darkness descends upon her and her brothers, she must undertake a incredibly difficult task to return them to their former selves. Sorcha’s fate seems shadowed by pain, loss, terror and entwined with two brothers - who are the enemy. This book is a beautifully written masterpiece with themes of devotion, sacrifice and magic. Originally book one of the Sevenwaters Triology, which has now expanded into a six book series. I highly recommend this book! @julietmarillier is a literary genius

Persephone is the goddess of Spring but has chosen to live hidden in the mortal world. She has been sheltered her whole life by her protective goddess mother and hasn’t learned how to use her powers, as she believes they don’t exist. Persephone’s mother warns her to avoid all the gods/goddess at all costs. One night Persephone and her best friend, Lexa, go out to celebrate in one of Hades nightclubs. There she meets a mysterious and handsome man. Unwittingly she enters into a game with Hades and it results in a contract with the God of the Dead. Will she be able to fulfill her bargain and create life in the Underworld or will she lose her newly gained freedom? This book is a modern day twist on mythological tale of Hades and Persephone. It is a sexy fast paced story where you can just feel the sexual tension building between Hades and Persephone. Add in the witty banter between all the characters and you have a recipe for success. I must say I love Hecate! Persephone is easy to like as a main character. She is determined, stubborn and kind. Her kindness with the souls in the Underworld is a redeeming feature. The one not so positive thing is Persephone can be a little frustrating at times. She wants so desperately to belong somewhere and be loved but if she communicated better with people in her life things might be easier, plus she is so blind to Hades love for her. But I guess that’s what helps make the story work. Overall there is decent world building and I love that this story is set in the modern day. It is a refreshing spin on Greek mythology that’s entertaining, fun and addictive. I must say I was hooked right from the start.

A Touch of Ruin picks up a couple of months after the conclusion of A Touch of Darkness. Persephone and Hades are officially public and the storm surrounding their relationship is just beginning. This book plot wise has some big twists and I enjoy that it’s not just focused on the blooming romance between Persephone and Hades. Persephone is jealous, insecure and at times self destructive. She makes mistakes but she learns from them. Like in a Touch of Darkness, occasionally you just want to shake her. She sometimes seems so immature yet her individual growth over this book adds to her unique character. I’m looking forward to her continuing growth in book 3. Persephone and Hades refusal to communicate creates all kinds of problems in this book. Although Hades is trying to open up after being closed off for so long, he is insecure about his past and frightened that Persephone will leave because of it. I love we are opened up to more gods. I find them quite interesting and l hope that book 3 will include them more. Apollo’s backstory is great and I love how his character is redeemed by the end. Overall, the characters are well written and create a roller coaster of different feelings. This book was extremely enjoyable and I am on the countdown until book 3 arrives.

In an epic continuation of the FBAA series, A Crown of Gilded Bones picks up right from the end of A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire. Poppy must decide if she seizes the gilded crown. By birthright, it is hers to claim. In this thrilling narrative, we see how everything pieces together in poppy’s life. Intense action-packed high stakes scenes with plenty of twists and turns lifts this book to a whole new level. We are exposed to more of the vast world in this book. Atlantia is beautifully portrayed and I love how we are exposed to more of its history and the customs of its people as well as revealing a fascinating world full of Mortals, Immortals, Deities, Gods, and Wolven. Poppys grows into her own character, slowly relinquishing the bonds of being the maiden. She grows in confidence and abilities while staying true to herself. Poppy is full of compassion - she wants to help and heal everyone, irrespective of others thoughts of her. She is selfless while also being a badass. Casteel is supportive and loving. Amazingly so, and together they help each other become the best versions of themselves. The cliffhanger ending is amazing, as is the whole of this book. Full of betrayal, lies and secrets, but also friendship, love and loyalty, readers will be kept on their toes. I can’t wait for the next book in this series as each book gets better and better!