Tag: Young Adult

A Cuban Girl’s Guide to Tea and Tomorrow by. Laura Taylor Namey | Book Review

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

Title: A Cuban Girl’s Guide to Tea and Tomorrow

Author: Laura Taylor Namey

Format: ebook (borrowed)

Pages: 320

Publication Date: 11/9/20

Publisher: Anetheum Books for Young Readers

Categories: Romance, Coming of Age, Young Adult, Contemporary, Grief, Mental Health, Food

For Lila Reyes, a summer in England was never part of the plan. The plan was 1) take over her abuela’s role as head baker at their panadería, 2) move in with her best friend after graduation, and 3) live happily ever after with her boyfriend. But then the Trifecta happened, and everything—including Lila herself—fell apart.

Worried about Lila’s mental health, her parents make a new plan for her: spend three months with family friends in Winchester, England, to relax and reset. But with the lack of sun, a grumpy inn cook, and a small town lacking Miami flavor (both in food and otherwise), what would be a dream trip for some feels more like a nightmare to Lila…until she meets Orion Maxwell.

A teashop clerk with troubles of his own, Orion is determined to help Lila out of her funk, and appoints himself as her personal tour guide. From Winchester’s drama-filled music scene to the sweeping English countryside, it isn’t long before Lila is not only charmed by Orion, but England itself. Soon a new future is beginning to form in Lila’s mind—one that would mean leaving everything she ever planned behind.

Content Warning: self harm, grief, death of loved one, illness of loved one

I got this book from Book Outlet and decided to make it the book I would read when waiting for my kids in the car pick up line. Well…that didn’t work out so this book was in my car for a few weeks! lol I finally took it out, sat down and read it and I didn’t expect this one to make me emotional, but it did.

+ Lila has a mental breakdown because she got dumped by her boyfriend, her best friend stopped being friends with her and her grandmother died. I loved her character growth throughout the book. She’s stubborn, strong willed and pushy but eventually learns to slow down and listen to the people in her life.

+ Lila and Orion’s love story is a slow burn and so, so sweet. I really liked how it went from a friendship to something more. I love how they fed each other through food and emotions. She fed him Cuban food, he brewed her tea and it was perfect! It made me hungry for Cuban food and afternoon tea all at one time!

+ I loved the side characters like Jules, Flora, Remy and Lila’s Aunt Cate. Family is a big theme in this book as well as friendship but Lila comes from such a big, tight-knit Cuban family that it was so important to her every aspect of her life.

+ Lila is grieving her grandmother, her best friend and her ex-boyfriend and I found myself emotional at times because it is a story about changes and dealing with a new normal. It’s true some friendships don’t last, definitely true some loves end and because it’s life we lose people to death, which is natural. But it can be so much – too much – at one time and Lila really did have to untangle and work through many difficult emotions. She had to learn to be kind to herself and see what she was doing.

~ Though realistic, I was hoping there would be some happy ending for her and her best friend, Stef who we hear a lot about but never get to really meet. It’s sad that their friendship just ends…amicably but still.

Tropes: travel to another country and fall in love, slow burn, summer romance

Spice Level: barely any – few sweet kisses

Why you should read it:

  • super sweet, slow burn romance – Orion is the sweetest
  • Lila’s character growth
  • I like the theme of family, Lila and her roots, Orion and his own family problems and heartaches
  • love all the food references: Cuban food and English teas

Why you might not want to read it:

  • some sad topics like grief

My Thoughts:

I found myself getting very emotional in some parts of this book especially when Lila has to make choices about where she belongs. I love her and Orion together, they really did feel like a cozy sweater kind of love, and exactly what Lila needed. I fell in love with their sweet friendship and love. The themes about grief, roots, and family…blood and found, really resonated with me. I look forward to reading more from this author and even to see how the movie turns out!

Book Links:

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Soul of the Deep by. Natasha Bowen | ARC Review

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Title: Soul of the Deep (Skin of the Sea, #2)

Author: Natasha Bowen

Format: eBook (NetGalley)

Pages: 304

Publication Date: 9/27/22

Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers

Categories: Young Adult, Fantasy, Series

Disclaimer: **I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.**

Thank you to Random House Books for Young Readers for giving me a chance to read this eARC in exchange for an honest review!

One life.
One choice.
One sacrifice.

To save those closest to her, Simi traded away everything: her freedom, her family, and the boy she loves. Now she is sworn to serve a new god, watching over the Land of the Dead at the bottom of the ocean.

But when signs of demons begin to appear, it’s clear there are deeper consequences of Simi’s trade. These demons spell the world’s ruin . . . and because of Simi, they now have a way into the human realm.

With the fate of the world at stake, Simi must break her promise and team up with a scheming trickster of a god. And if they succeed, perhaps Simi can also unbreak her heart along the way, and find herself again.

Content Warning: violence, slavery, death

When I saw Skin of the Sea had a sequel I needed to read it. I will say this duology has the most beautiful book covers – take a look at this one! Here is what did and didn’t work for me:

+ I loved Simidele in book one and I love her here again in book two. I love her bravery, her grace, and she’s always giving of herself to do the right thing. She loves taking care of people. Here in book two she tries to help an imprisoned orisha, the trickster, Esu and in turn he would help her. The sequel has a few beautiful, emotional scenes and once again, I really appreciate how we are shown how the dead are respected and sent off in this story. It really touches me especially knowing that many of the dead in the sea are due to the slave ships. This author has a way with words that can break through to my emotions.

+ The story is rich in West African mythology – there are a lot of orishas (gods/goddesses) involved in the life of people.

+ It’s filled with so much action. There is a quest, there is the problem with the other tribes and just a lot going on and makes it a quick read. Simi is a fighter in this sequel.

+ I love how Simi and Kola has a slow burn romance but one that is left open ended. It’s not rushed at all and it shows Simi has to do a few things before being with Kola. But I think it’s safe to say that they love one another – I mean Simi did sacrifice a lot for him. So I’m glad she’s going to take some time for herself!

~ The one thing I do wish this book had, is a glossary. There are so many words I didn’t know and had to guess at their meaning. Also a list of the orishas would be fantastic too! There are so many characters in this book, it can be hard to follow.

~ The beginning was slow but once the action kicks in the story moves faster.

Tropes:

Why you should read it:

  • story filled with West African mythology and lots of action/fighting scenes
  • you enjoyed the first book
  • the emotional aspects of the story when it comes to death, sacrifice, and love

Why you might not want to read it:

  • you didn’t enjoy the first book

My Thoughts:

I didn’t re-read the first book so I jumped into this one right away trying to get acclimated with all the names of the orishas, and the big cast of characters. Once I started remembering a few things, the story moved quicker for me – plus there is a lot of action in this book so that also made the story move along. What I love about this book and the series in general is Simidele who was human and turned into a mermaid, but she never forgets her humanity and caring for others. I love that about her and I’m glad there was a good ending for her. This is a solid conclusion to the series and I look forward to reading more from this author.

Book Links:

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Here are other books by this author that I have read or reviewed on this blog:

Skin of the Sea by. Natasha Bowen | ARC Review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Defend the Dawn by. Brigid Kemmerer | ARC Review

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Title: Defend the Dawn (Defy the Night, #2)

Author: Brigid Kemmerer

Format: eBook (NetGalley)

Pages: 448

Publication Date: 9/13/22

Publisher: Bloomsbury USA Children’s Books

Categories: Young Adult, Fantasy, Romance, Politics

Disclaimer: **I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.**

Thank you to Bloomsbury USA Children’s Books for giving me a chance to read this eARC in exchange for an honest review!

To save their kingdom, they must embark on a dangerous journey…

The kingdom of Kandala narrowly avoided catastrophe, but the embers of revolution still simmer. While King Harristan seeks a new way to lead, Tessa and Prince Corrick attempt to foster unity between rebels and royals.

But the consuls who control the Moonflower will not back down, and Corrick realizes he must find a new source for the lifesaving Elixir.

When an emissary from the neighboring kingdom of Ostriary arrives with an intriguing offer, Tessa and Corrick set out on an uncertain journey as they attempt to mend their own fractured relationship.

This could be their only chance to keep the peace and bring relief to the people of Kandala, but danger strikes during the journey to Ostriary, and no one is who they seemed to be. . .

Content Warning: violence

I have to say this series is addictive! I loved book one and getting to know Corrick and Tessa – there was so much political intrigue in that one. It continues here in book two:

+ I didn’t mean to finish this book in one night, but I did. The writing is tight and flows well, it moves quickly even though parts of the book feel more like a filler. It doesn’t matter because I think there was enough new elements to make this feel like the story was moving – I was hooked!

+ The story picks up right after events in book one but I love that we have new characters, and one very intriguing Captain Blackmore/Rian. I was like, move aside Corrick…Rian is confident, he is a leader, and patient, which I love. I need more of Rian. I also love the twists in this story.

+ With the new characters come a new set of problems and political intrigue/suspicions for Harristan and Corrick. Can they trust this Rian who claims to have enough Moonflower to trade with them for Kandala steel. I love the way Rian questioned how Kandala’s people were being treated, making Corrick and Tessa do some inner reflection on a few things. The story also moves to sea, on Rian’s ship heading to Ostriary which for me was so much fun. Harristan has his own problems back in Kandala though.

+~ Tessa and Corrick are so frustrating. They are hot and cold! I understand his desire to put Kandala first and I understand how she feels like there is no future for them if it’s always first. Most of this book was Tessa questioning Corrick and trying to find out if he is the person she fell in love with before. But Corrick was also coming off as a jerk at times, especially when dealing with Rian. I did like all the suspicion though, it kept me on my toes! The tension throughout the story is fantastic.

~ Tessa – I liked the suspicions because it kept me engaged but I could not stand Tessa’s back and forth about Corrick. They have some issues to resolve. And it’s a slow burn, they only get as far as kissing. There was almost a love triangle brewing and honestly I was into Rian more than Corrick. I was even hoping something with Tessa and Rian would happen. BUT…then I realized Corrick and Tessa deserved each other haha. Let them have their hot/cold relationship ugh…those two. Give Rian a stronger woman please! Tessa is a good person, but I think Rian needs someone with more of a backbone. She just came off naive at times and

~ + It has a cliffhanger ending…of course! 😆 Looking forward to book three.

Why you should read it:

  • this series is addictive! Tessa and Corrick has to deal with a lot of problems in their relationship but I like how they aren’t perfect
  • Rian, the new character
  • having most of this story be on a ship was fun, plus there are some great twists!

Why you might not want to read it:

  • the back and forth between Tessa and Corrick can be a little frustrating but that’s their relationship

My Thoughts:

Brigid Kemmerer is a must read author for me, even though I didn’t care for how Rhen changed in the Cursebreaker series but I will say this author really does a great job with writing about complicated relationships. I think that’s why I’m so drawn to her books, the characters aren’t perfect but readers can relate in some way. I was scared Corrick was going to be another Rhen situation but Corrick at least was always morally gray. We get to see all the imperfect sides of him and try to decide, like Tessa – if we like what we know and see. Defend the Dawn has lots of tension, which I love in a story, because there are trust issues everywhere! Harristan and Corrick can’t trust Rian, Tessa doesn’t know who to trust (which was the most frustrating), Karri and Lochland don’t trust Corrick but the twists are wonderful. I love the addition of Rian and want to see if finally Corrick and his brother can get some help with their own kingdom. The story was fast moving and I want the next book in the series! It’s a great series so far and I hope it ends on a high note!

Book Links:

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Forging Silver into Stars by. Brigid Kemmerer – ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

Defy the Night by. Brigid Kemmerer – ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

A Vow So Bold and Deadly by. Brigid Kemmerer – ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

The Cruelest Mercy by. Natalie Mae | Book Review

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Title: The Cruelest Mercy (The Kinder Poison, #2)

Author: Natalie Mae

Format: hardcover (own)

Pages: 384

Publication Date: 6/14/21

Publisher: Razorbill

Categories: Fantasy, Series, Romance, Young Adult

The magical kingdom of Orkena is on the brink of war, and the only person who can save it is Zahru, the girl they once doomed for death.

After surviving the Crossing, Zahru has sworn off adventures. While crown prince Jet navigates the looming threat of war, she’s content to simply figure out what the future holds for them. But they’re dealt a devastating blow when prince Kasta returns with a shocking claim: he’s the true winner of the Crossing and the rightful heir, and he bears the gods’ mark as proof. Even more surprising–he’s not the only one.

Somehow, Zahru possesses the very same mark, giving her equal right to the throne. The last thing she wants is to rule beside her would-be executioner, but she can’t let Orkena fall into his merciless hands. So Zahru, Jet, and their allies must race against the clock to find a way to stop Kasta, because once he’s crowned, there’s no telling what horrors he’ll unleash to win the war.

Zahru will do whatever it takes to keep Kasta from taking the throne…but to stop a villain, is she willing to become one herself?

Content Warning: violence

Let me first say that I thought this was a duology so I wasn’t sure why this book wasn’t moving “faster” and then I came to the ending and thought WHAT IS HAPPENING?! lol…I was mistaken – there is definitely a book three. And there better be after THAT ending! This is what I thought:

+ I love, love, love the book covers in this series. It’s simple, classy and the bold colors are just everything.

+ I haven’t re-read The Kinder Poison so I vaguely had an idea of what the story was about but when I started reading it, I didn’t feel lost at all. I jumped right in and I remember why I liked the characters so much. Zahru is by Jet’s side now but of course before he can rule, surprise, surprise Kasta shows up – he is clearly not dead, but that doesn’t mean he becomes the ruler either. Zahru has an opportunity to thwart any evil plans Kasta has – because…he is evil right?

+ This story made me suspicious of Kasta, but also made me wonder if Zahru was jumping to conclusions about him. Clearly she should be on her guard with him, but can he change? That’s what was driving me crazy about the story. I don’t know if he was playing her or not. And what about her feelings about him? That was madness…but it was kinda awesome how they were distrustful and yet attracted to one another. So toxic…but kinda fun…also what about Zahru? Is she about to stoop to his level? Does having power corrupt? We shall see…I don’t know if I’m supposed to hate or love Kasta! I feel Zahru’s pain lol..he’s that complex villain you find yourself obsessed with.

+ The epilogue…what?! 😅 That was unexpected and give me book three NOW.

~ This one is a little slower than book one because Zahru has to unravel Kasta’s motives, she has to figure out how to stay a step of him and she can’t trust him. You know who I was also suspicious of? Jet. So book three will be very interesting!

Tropes: slow burn, enemies to lovers, love triangle, peasant becomes a ruler, morally gray characters

Spice Level: 🌶

Why you should read it:

  • for the Zahru and Kasta moments, especially the last one 😳
  • fascinating to see how Zahru deals and changes with power – will she be having a villain era?
  • you liked the first book

Why you might not want to read it:

  • a little slower than the first one but I think it’s worth it to push through, it sets up book three for what I hope is an amazing ending to this series

My Thoughts:

My mistake was thinking this was a duology and wondering why Kasta was coming in too late into this book. The story is just way more interesting with him in it because it throws Zahru off kilter. He makes her feel complicated emotions and I want to see what is going to happen with these two. It really could go either way, will Zahru embrace all of Kasta’s flaws? Will Kasta really learn to have mercy and not let the trauma of his past dictate his actions? Will these two meet half way and fall passionately in love with one another?! Or will they kill one another? 😅 I can’t wait to find out!

Book Links:

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Here are other books by this author that I have reviewed on this blog and books I have read but never reviewed:

Three Kisses, One Midnight by. Roshani Chokshi, Evelyn Skye, Sandhya Menon | ARC Review

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

Title: Three Kisses, One Midnight

Author: Roshani Chokshi, Evelyn Skye, Sandhya Menon

Format: eBook (NetGalley)

Pages: 288

Publication Date: 8/30/22

Publisher: Wednesday Books

Categories: Young Adult, Romance, Halloween, Paranormal, Teen Readers

Disclaimer: **I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.**

Thank you to Wednesday Books for giving me a chance to read this eARC in exchange for an honest review!

The town of Moon Ridge was founded 400 years ago and everyone born and raised there knows the legend of the young woman who perished at the stroke of twelve that very same night, losing the life she was set to embark on with her dearest love. Every century since, one day a year, the Lady of Moon Ridge descends from the stars to walk among the townsfolk, conjuring an aura upon those willing to follow their hearts’ desires.

“To summon joy and love in another’s soul
For a connection that makes two people whole
For laughter and a smile that one can never miss
Sealed before midnight with a truehearted kiss.”

This year at Moon Ridge High, a group of friends known as The Coven will weave art, science, and magic during a masquerade ball unlike any other. Onny, True, and Ash believe everything is in alignment to bring them the affection, acceptance, and healing that can only come from romance—with a little help from Onny’s grandmother’s love potion.

But nothing is as simple as it first seems. And as midnight approaches, The Coven learn that it will take more than a spell to recognize those who offer their love and to embrace all the magic that follows. 

Content Warning:

This is a three story anthology filled with romance, Halloween and autumn vibes and I thought it was lots of fun. Here’s what I like and didn’t like:

+ The stories are short and the whole anthology itself is under 300 pages. The stories flowed nicely together even though it’s told by three different authors. It’s perfect for teens.

+ Onny and Ash’s stories were my favorite because Onny’s is a rivals to lovers romance. Onny is into the mystical – she loves astrology, Halloween and believes in love potions and fate. Her rivals to romance story was perfect for her personality. Ash is the quiet, shy artist who is in love with the girl next door, Cassidy. He finally gets to talk to her and finds out she was mutually pining for him too.

+ The friendship between Onny, Ash, and True is tight and I love the three of them together.

~ True’s story was the weakest because it was so insta-love. I did like how she was a science-minded girl and not into Onny’s hocus pocus but her mind is opened a bit on Halloween night. Orion is someone she meets on Halloween night and he’s into ghosts. Theirs is an opposites attract relationship which would have worked out better for me if it wasn’t an insta-love thing. If she had a past with him like Onny did with Byron and Ash has with Cassidy then it would be more believable.

Tropes: mutual pining, rivals to lovers, opposites attract

Why you should read it:

  • you want to get into fall vibes, Halloween vibes
  • super cute Halloween romance stories in a book that is under 300 pages long
  • diverse author line up, and diverse characters

Why you might not want to read it:

  • not into anthologies or novella type stories

My Thoughts:

Three besties find love on Halloween night: one was in front of her face the whole time, the other is pining for his his love next door, and the last one meets a potential love on Halloween night. This is a cute collection of stories for teens but I did enjoy even as an adult. And it’s a good one to read for Fall and around Halloween.

Book Links:

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Monsters Born and Made by. Tanvi Berwah | ARC Review

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

Title: Monsters Born and Made

Author: Tanvi Berwah

Format: eBook (NetGalley)

Pages: 352

Publication Date: 9/6/22

Publisher: Sourcebooks Fire

Categories: Young Adult, Dystopian, Fantasy, Race, Family, Politics, Romance

Disclaimer: **I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.**

Thank you to Sourcebooks Fire for giving me a chance to read this eARC in exchange for an honest review!

Sixteen-year-old Koral and her older brother Emrik risk their lives each day to capture the monstrous maristags that live in the black seas around their island. They have to, or else their family will starve.

In an oceanic world swarming with vicious beasts, the Landers―the ruling elite, have indentured Koral’s family to provide the maristags for the Glory Race, a deadly chariot tournament reserved for the upper class. The winning contender receives gold and glory. The others―if they’re lucky―survive.

When the last maristag of the year escapes and Koral has no new maristag to sell, her family’s financial situation takes a turn for the worse and they can’t afford medicine for her chronically ill little sister. Koral’s only choice is to do what no one in the world has ever dared: cheat her way into the Glory Race.

But every step of the way is unpredictable as Koral races against contenders―including her ex-boyfriend―who have trained for this their whole lives and who have no intention of letting a low-caste girl steal their glory. When a rebellion rises and rogues attack Koral to try and force her to drop out, she must choose―her life or her sister’s―before the whole island burns.

Content Warning: violence, illness, abuse

Well, I didn’t expect this to be like the Scorpio Races and Hunger Games combined! This is what worked and didn’t work for me:

+ I thought the world-building was interesting, there are very cool aspects to it. The story takes place on an island and the rich people, Landers, live below ground. Renters are the hardworking people in Sollonia and there is a divide. There are sea monsters in this story also. They have aquabats, capricorns, maristags (which are like monster horses that they race), and so much more.

+ I liked how hard Koral is. She is a survivor and won’t give up. There is a lot of anger in her, her brother Emrik, most of the Renters in Sollonia, in the rebels, so much anger in this book that I could relate because of the world we live in today. Koral is relatable. All she wants is a good life, to care for her family, she wants a chance, she fights daily for this chance and she wants glory but always comes out on the losing end. I definitely sympathized with her anger and frustrations.

+ The ending is kind of bonkers – but the final race is high adrenaline. I was cheering on Koral, but it’s a brutal race. But it doesn’t end after the race…

+~ There is a friends to rivals to maybe lovers thing going on with Koral and one of the wealthiest boys in Sollonia, Dorian. They have history that we know a little about. Presently they are rivals but there is an undercurrent of something like hate and desire. Would have liked more interaction between them. There is barely any romance between them just lots of hard feelings.

~ Though the world-building is fascinating it was confusing as well. I don’t think I have a clear picture of what a maristag looks like in my head. I’m just going off of the book cover and maybe like a horse body? There were just some things about the world-building I couldn’t quite pin down and flesh out in my mind despite the author’s descriptions.

~ The ending is so abrupt – is there a sequel? Because how could it end like that?!

~ I wasn’t sure what parts of the books represented South Asia because the races felt like a Roman inspired race? It had chariots and a dome called a Drome. I’m going to say it was the caste system between the Landers, Renters and Rebels but I wish it was clearer to me.

Why you should read it:

  • fascinating world-building, an island surrounded by a sea of monsters
  • Koral is a survivor and a fighter, this girl won’t back down
  • the final race is pure action

Why you might not want to read it:

  • some parts of the world-building while fascinating was also confusing at times – I couldn’t get a good feel of how things looked like a maristag for instance…
  • very abrupt ending – is there a sequel?

My Thoughts:

This one has so much potential and I did love the aspect of the Glory Races and people racing these violent creatures called maristags. The races were a pure rush to read! I did wish I could visualize more of the world-building because it’s so fascinating but I needed more details. I thought Koral was the perfect character for a story such as this because she’s a fighter and the feelings of the Renters and rebels were all encapsulated in her character The ending was so climatic and then ended abruptly so I hope there is a sequel. For the most part I had fun reading this book and hope to read more from this author.

Book Links:

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

It’s Not Summer Without You by. Jenny Han | Book Review | Re-Read

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Title: It’s Not Summer Without You (#2)

Author: Jenny Han

Format: ebook (borrowed)

Pages: 275

Publication Date: 4/26/10

Publisher: Simon Schuster Books for Young Readers

Categories: Romance, Teen, Young Adult, Coming of Age, Contemporary

Belly finds out what comes after falling in love in this follow-up to The Summer I Turned Pretty from the New York Times bestselling author of To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before (soon to be a major motion picture!), Jenny Han.

Can summer be truly summer without Cousins Beach?

It used to be that Belly counted the days until summer, until she was back at Cousins Beach with Conrad and Jeremiah. But not this year. Not after Susannah got sick again and Conrad stopped caring. Everything that was right and good has fallen apart, leaving Belly wishing summer would never come.

But when Jeremiah calls saying Conrad has disappeared, Belly knows what she must do to make things right again. And it can only happen back at the beach house, the three of them together, the way things used to be. If this summer really and truly is the last summer, it should end the way it started—at Cousins Beach.

Content Warning: death of parent, underage drinking

I read this series long ago but decided to do a re-read because it’s now on screen! It’s been interesting re-reading this series as an older person for sure. Here’s what I thought:

+ {spoiler} The boy’s mom was ill in book one and passes but they have no scenes of the actual moment it happens. This sequel is told in memories, whether it’s about Belly and Conrad memories, or one that included Susannah. We see everyone handling their grief in very different ways but for sure they are broken and trying to hang on to one another.

+ No matter the romance drama between Belly, Conrad and Jeremiah – I do love that they have the bond because of how close their families are and the memories they made at the beach house.

+ Belly’s mom is awesome and is handling so much – but Belly being a teenager, doesn’t know how much she is handling. But she really is awesome and loves these kids, hers and Susannah’s.

~ Even though I know this book is about a love triangle, I just cannot believe how Belly goes back and forth between the brothers. I’m just sad they all have to go through this drama while grieving Susannah. It’s messy and it’s the worst kind of love triangle because it’s between brothers.

~ This is all teen drama so Belly comes off as a brat at times.

Tropes: love triangle

Spice Level: 🌶 (there is kissing)

Why you should read it:

  • You love the first book and want to know what happens next.
  • you like stories about first loves, first crushes, a love triangle

Why you might not want to read it:

  • you’re not into teenage romance love triangles
  • Belly can get annoying

My Thoughts:

The books in this series are really quick reads! It’s mainly about Belly and the two brothers she loves in different ways but it’s definitely not a book for someone who hates love triangles. I don’t mind love triangles but I hate when it’s between two brothers. It’s messy and even more so because it’s young love with so many feelings involved, feelings that hurt easy, intertwined with grief. In my opinion, Belly should lay off dating these guys until she’s older and has a clear head haha…but that’s just me! It’s just full on romance, back and forth drama.

Book Links:

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

The Summer I Turned Pretty by. Jenny Han | Book Review | Re-read ⭐️⭐️⭐️

How do you regret one of the best nights of your entire life? You don’t. You remember every word, every look. Even when it hurts, you still remember.

Jenny Han, It’s Not Summer Without You

The Dragon’s Promise by. Elizabeth Lim | ARC Review

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

Title: The Dragon’s Promise (Six Crimson Cranes, #2)

Author: Elizabeth Lim

Format: eBook (NetGalley)

Pages: 400

Publication Date: 8/30/22

Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers

Categories: Young Adult, Series, Fantasy, Dragons, Demons, Romance, Fairytale

Disclaimer: **I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.**

Thank you to Knopf Books for Young Readers for giving me a chance to read this eARC in exchange for an honest review!

Princess Shiori made a deathbed promise to return the dragon’s pearl to its rightful owner, but keeping that promise is more dangerous than she ever imagined.

She must journey to the kingdom of dragons, navigate political intrigue among humans and dragons alike, fend off thieves who covet the pearl for themselves and will go to any lengths to get it, all while cultivating the appearance of a perfect princess to dissuade those who would see her burned at the stake for the magic that runs in her blood.

The pearl itself is no ordinary cargo; it thrums with malevolent power, jumping to Shiori’s aid one minute, and betraying her the next—threatening to shatter her family and sever the thread of fate that binds her to her true love, Takkan. It will take every ounce of strength Shiori can muster to defend the life and the love she’s fought so hard to win. 

Content Warning: violence

This is the sequel to Six Crimson Cranes and although I did enjoy this conclusion, there were a few things that didn’t work for me, but still lots of other things I did love – let’s take a look:

+ We get to spend time in the dragon’s realm and learn more about Seryu! I really did enjoy Shiori’s time with the dragons. It felt like a very fantastical and unique place, but quite scary for Shiori because there was a lot of deception going on and she didn’t know who to trust! There is a lot of action in the book because Shiori is moving from one place to another. That girl never has a repreve!

+ My beloved Kiki is back, she is the best paper bird ever. I love her! Other characters like Shiori’s brothers are back as well and once again they do their best to help Shiori in her quest.

+ Shiori and Takkan’s love story is a beautiful thing to see grow and develop. They are always thinking of the other, and wanting the best for one another. Yes they do have challenges because Shiori is always getting into a mess, but Takkan is the perfect balance for her – he is steady, he is constant and he loves Shiori no matter what. They were my favorite part of the book I think.

+ I love how we learn about Raikama’s past and it always pinched at my heart how Shiori missed her and how there were regrets about their relationship. I can at least say there was peace for Raikama in this book. But many parts of this book, especially at the end, were quite emotional.

~ The pacing is off in this book and I didn’t feel like the first part of the book, when Shiori was in Ai’long, connected to the rest of the book. We meet new characters in Ai’long and some loose ends that didn’t have closure for me there. Then there is a lull when Shiori is back in Kiata with her family because she’s pretending she there and back to normal but she’s planning on following through with finding the Wraith, to give the pearl to him. There might have been too much going on at once. Because she also had to deal with the demon, Bandur!

~ Speaking of Bandur, he’s always in the back of Shiori’s mind, obviously but I think when it came time to really put him away, if felt sort of anti-climactic because of the Wraith and his anger and issues…there are a lot of angry demons and dragons in this book. I get that Bandur is the biggest villain, but once again, I felt like the story got disconnected in some places or it felt like 3 stories in one book.

Tropes: special one, opposites attract (Shiori the princess/Takkan who doesn’t fit in at court), puppy love

Why you should read it:

  • creative world building, we get to travel with Shiori to Ai’long ,the Realm of Dragons
  • lovable characters like Seryu, Kiki, Takkan and Shiori’s brothers
  • emotional story when it comes to Shiori and her brothers and memories about Raikama
  • the sweet love story between Shiori and Takkan

Why you might not want to read it:

  • feels like too much going on, as if 2-3 stories are shoved into one, feels disjointed

My Thoughts:

I think this is a solid ending to an imaginative and fun duology but it did fall flat of my expectations mostly because of how disjointed the story felt at times. But I love Shiori and Takkan’s love story and I adore all the characters that I came to care for in this story like Kiki and Seryu. I wonder if the dragons will get their own book? There is a lot of story to tell there and I feel like Elang didn’t get any closure. Overall I found the themes of family and love in the story to be heartwarming. I’m glad I got to finish this duology and I hope to read more from this author in the future.

Book Links:

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

The Stars Between Us by. Cristin Terrill | ARC Review

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Title: The Stars Between Us

Author: Cristin Terrill

Format: eBook (NetGalley)

Pages: 400

Publication Date: 8/2/22

Publisher: Wednesday Books

Categories: Sci-Fi, Young Adult, Romance, Mystery, Rags to Riches

Disclaimer: **I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.**

Thank you to Wednesday Books for giving me a chance to read this eARC in exchange for an honest review!

There’s always been a mystery to Vika Hale’s life. Ever since she was a child, she’s had an unknown benefactor providing for her and her family, making sure that Vika and her sister received the best education they could. Now, Vika longs for a bigger life than one as a poor barmaid on a struggling planet, but those dreams feel out of reach. Until one day Vika learns that her benefactor was a billionaire magnate who recently died under suspicious circumstances, and Vika has shockingly been included in his will. Invited to live on a glittering neighboring planet, Vika steps into a world she can hardly believe is real. 

The only blight on Vika’s lavish new life is the constant presence of Sky Foster, a mysterious young man from Vika’s past who works for her benefactors. She doesn’t like or trust Sky, but when she narrowly escapes an explosion and realizes someone is targeting the will’s heirs, Vika knows Sky is the only one who can help her discover the identity of the bomber before she becomes their next victim. As Vika and Sky delve into the truth of the attacks, they uncover a web of secrets, murder, and an underground rebellion who may hold the answers they’ve been looking for. But Sky isn’t who he seems to be, and Vika may not escape this new life unscathed.

In The Stars Between Us, Cristin Terrill sweeps readers away to a Dickensian-inspired world where secrets are currency and love is the most dangerous risk of all. 

Content Warning:

This was an interesting read. It’s a young adult sci-fi story with an assassination plot mystery, rags to riches trope and romance sprinkled in there too. Here is what did and didn’t work for me:

+ I liked the creativity – the whole sci-fi world building was interesting to me. Vika lives on poor planet Philomenus and life is hard, she wants more and coincidentally she gets more and gets an upgraded life by moving to Ploutus which is the rich planet basically.

+ I was intrigued enough to read this in one sitting. I figured out a few things about the plot in the beginning but it still made me want to read through to the end to see if I was right. I was mostly right! There are assassination attempts, changing wills, suspect characters and Sky’s secret.

+ I thought the characters were pretty fleshed out – even if some of them were unlikable. At least they were true to themselves.

~ Vika is unlikable. ambitious – she wants out of the poor life and she has a way out and takes it, barely looking back at her family back home on Philomenus. She’s a snob, selfish, shallow and beautiful of course – but she does have a little growth by the end of the book.

~ Sky Foster is Vika’s opposite – I just really wished he had some kind of backbone around her. Vika could eat him up, spit him out, stomp on him and he’d be fine with it. He’s a dutiful boy, sweet to his friends, a good guy really…I just wish he didn’t let Vika push him around at times.

~ The insta-love on Sky’s part. Like, come on man, what do you see in Vika?! lol…him falling in love with her was weak. There was hardly any build-up between them, she hated him for the most part. But by the end of this book they are in love.

~ Would have been nice to have more sci-fi in the story, it’s a pretty lite sci-fi story. I felt like the most sci-fi thing about the story was the setting, economy and the transportation.

Why you should read it:

  • you aren’t used to reading sci-fi – this one is a lite sci-fi story with romance and intrigue

Why you might not want to read it:

  • Vika is unlikable – and usually I can deal with unlikable characters but I did not see why Sky fell for her so fast

My Thoughts:

Overall I think the story did a good job with the rags to riches trope. Vika went from rags to riches in the blink of an eye and does that change her? She was pretty unlikable when she was poor – but I found her hunger for more commendable. When she finally gets more she finds it easy to forget her parents and sister back on Philomenus. She’s cold and yet Sky, the sweetest, nicest guy can see past all her selfishness and fall in love with her. You know he’s fallen hard! There is some growth in her character but I still felt like she was the thing that didn’t make me enjoy this story as much as I wanted to. I did like the mystery of the assassination attempts though, and the world building is creative.

📚 ~ Yolanda

What I Watched: Hello, Goodbye, and Everything in Between

Another movie I watched while working on stuff was Hello, Goodbye, and Everything in Between! The book is written by Jennifer E. Smith and I’ve read two books from this author but not this particular one.

Here is the synopsis from Goodreads:

On the night before they leave for college, Clare and Aidan have only one thing left to do: figure out whether they should stay together or break up. Over the course of twelve hours, they retrace the steps of their relationship, trying to find something in their past that might help them decide what their future should be. The night leads them to family and friends, familiar landmarks and unexpected places, hard truths and surprising revelations. But as the clock winds down and morning approaches, so does their inevitable goodbye. The question is, will it be goodbye for now or goodbye forever?

Charming, bittersweet, and full of wisdom and heart, this irresistible novel from Jennifer E. Smith, author of The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight, explores the difficult choices that arise when life and love lead in different directions. 

Here’s the trailer for the movie which you can find on Amazon Prime Video:

I thought the movie was cute and fun and Jordan Fisher is an amazing actor. He’s been in P.S. I Still Love you on Netflix and he was on the live tv version of Rent! I am so impressed with his acting and singing skills – he just leaps off the screen, he has that blinding smile and his energy is just infectious.

The story basically takes place in the span of 24 hours. Aidan and Clare have their last date before ending things (like they planned in the beginning) and it’s going well until Aidan tries to convince Clare they should try it out and be together long distance. I loved all the scenes with Aidan and Clare on their dates – they really were the cutest couple. It was a good movie, short, sweet and a little problem that gets resolved in the end.

Have you read the book or watched the movie?

~ Yolanda