_onemorechapter_'s reviews
537 reviews

💭 It's a book that’s like sipping hot chocolate on a cold day, but with a splash of whiskey to keep things interesting. This book isn’t just a fantasy tale with gods and wars; it’s a slow-burn romance that’s so agonizingly good you’ll want to throw it across the room one minute and hug it the next.
It was a book that hooked me so hard that I stayed up until 4 AM reading “just one more chapter.” Spoiler: it was never just one more chapter. This book is a delicious cocktail of fantasy, slow-burn romance, and a world that feels like it’s teetering on the edge of both magic and chaos.

Imagine a world where gods aren’t just myths but very real—and very pissed. That’s where Divine Rivals kicks off. Our protagonists, Iris and Roman, are journalists in a city on the brink of war with these ancient deities. The setting is grim, the stakes are high, and every page is soaked in a sense of impending doom (in the best way possible, of course). Ross’s world-building is top-notch; she doesn’t dump a bunch of lore on you but instead lets it unfold naturally. You feel the tension of the divine conflict in every scene, making the backdrop just as compelling as the main storyline.

Iris E Winnow - a badass with a pen. She’s got a lot to prove in a field dominated by men, and she’s not letting anyone—or anything—stand in her way. She’s tough as nails, fierce and determined, driven by her ambition to succeed in journalism despite the odds stacked against her. She’s got this fiery spirit that makes you root for her right away. She’s fiercely independent and sharp-witted, and her inner monologue is a goldmine of sass and vulnerability. She’s also dealing with personal loss, which adds a layer of vulnerability to her character that I found really relatable.

Roman C Kitt - classic charming rival, the kind of guy who smirks too much and always has a clever comeback. Initially comes off as your typical arrogant rival—confident to the point of cockiness and who struts in like he owns the place—because in his mind, he probably does. You want to hate him, but then you see those cracks in his facade, and damn it, you’re rooting for him, too. 
Roman is more than just a pretty face and he isn’t just a smirk and a good hair day. He is the type of guy who acts like he’s got everything under control, but deep down, he's dealing with his own fears and insecurities and he’s just as lost and scared as Iris.  He’s layered, with a past that’s messier than a teenager’s bedroom and a soft side he’s desperately trying to hide—especially when it comes to Iris.

And the best part? These two are unknowingly pen pals—writing to each other through a mysterious magical typewriter that connects them across the battlefield. How’s that for a meet-cute?

RomanIris
Oh, the slow burn. The delicious, torturous slow burn and Oh boy, the romance. It’s the kind that sneaks up on you, wraps you in a warm hug, and then leaves you breathless. Iris and Roman’s chemistry is off the charts. Every interaction is a battle of wits and words, but beneath all that rivalry is a connection that’s undeniable.
Iris and Roman are rivals, then reluctant allies, then something much more complicated. Their dynamic is electric. They bicker, they challenge each other, they banter, and every interaction is charged with this undercurrent of tension that’s more addictive than your morning coffee. 
But the real kicker? The letters. Iris and Roman unknowingly start exchanging letters through a magical typewriter that connects them across distances. These letters are raw, honest, and oh-so-revealing. They don’t know who they’re writing to, which means they’re dropping all their masks and getting real. Watching them fall for each other on paper before they do in real life is such a delicious slow burn. You’re screaming, “Come on, put two and two together!” but also savoring every moment of the buildup. It’s like watching two people fall in love without even realizing it, and you’re just there, screaming, “Kiss already!” But when they do… chef’s kiss. It’s sweet, it’s intense, and it’s so worth the wait.
And let’s talk about the middle name guessing game. It’s not just a cute subplot—it’s the perfect metaphor for their relationship. Iris is determined to figure out Roman’s middle name, and each guess becomes a little more personal, a little more intimate. It's like peeling back layers of his personality with every guess. The banter that ensues is flirty and fun, but there’s also this underlying tension that says, “I see you, and I want to know more.” You can tell Roman secretly loves that Iris is trying so hard, and Iris… well, she’s pretending it’s all about the challenge, but we know better, don’t we?                                                  
 
Ross’s writing is stunning—lyrical without being overly flowery, and her world-building is so vivid you can almost smell the ink on Iris’s typewriter. The themes of love and loss, ambition, and the struggle to hold onto hope in a world falling apart hit hard and finding light in the darkness of war, are beautifully woven throughout the narrative. And Ross doesn’t shy away from the dark stuff—she dives right into it, making the light moments shine even brighter.
Plus, there's this constant sense of urgency and tension, not just from the war with the gods but also from Iris and Roman's evolving feelings.

Tropes included-
➺Rivals to Lovers
➺Slow Burn Romance
➺Fantasy War Setting
➺Witty Banter
➺Academic Rivals
➺Magical Letter Exchanges
➺Dual POV
➺Grief, Love, Loss, Comfort

Overall, Divine Rivals is the kind of book that makes you believe in fate, magic, and the power of words. Iris and Roman’s romance is like a dance—they step on each other’s toes and spin around in circles, but when they finally find their rhythm, it’s beautiful. If you’re looking for a story with deep emotional stakes, witty banter, and a romance that feels like it’s written in the stars (literally), this book is a must-read. Just don’t start it too late at night, or you might find yourself up until dawn, desperate to see how it all unfolds.

𝐏.𝐒 Started the "Ruthless Vows" immediately!

🔸𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.75
🔸𝑮𝒐𝒐𝒅𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒔 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 4.19
🔸𝑮𝒆𝒏𝒓𝒆: Fantasy, Romantasy, Historical fantasy, & Epistolary novel 
🔸𝑺𝒑𝒊𝒄𝒚: No
🔸𝑺𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔: Letters of Enchantment (Book 1)
🔸𝑹𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏: Yes!!!!
So, if you’re looking for a book that’s going to keep you up all night, make you fall in love with its characters, and leave you begging for more, Divine Rivals is your next read. It’s got everything: a world on the edge, a romance that’ll make you swoon, and enough twists and turns to keep you guessing. Just don’t blame me if you end up reading until sunrise. This book? Totally worth the lost sleep.   
                                 
🔸 𝑭𝒂𝒗𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒆 𝑸𝒖𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒔:

“I don't think you realize how strong you are, because sometimes strength isn't swords and steel and fire, as we are so often made to believe. Sometimes it's found in quiet, gentle places.”

“I think we all wear armor. I think those who don’t are fools, risking the pain of being wounded by the sharp edges of the world, over and over again. But if I’ve learned anything from those fools, it is that to be vulnerable is a strength most of us fear. It takes courage to let down your armor, to welcome people to see you as you are.” Sometimes I feel the same as you: I can’t risk having people behold me as I truly am. But there’s also a small voice in the back of my mind, a voice that tells me, “You will miss so much by being so guarded.”

“I am coming to love him, in two different ways. Face to face, and word to word.”

“But time will slowly heal you, as it is doing for me. There are good days and there are difficult days. Your grief will never fully fade; it will always be with you--a shadow you carry in your soul--but it will become fainter as your life becomes brighter. You will learn to live outside of it again, as impossible as that may sound. Others who share your pain will also help you heal. Because you are not alone. Not in your fear or your grief or your hopes or your dreams. You are not alone.”

“I don’t want to wake up when I’m seventy-four only to realize I haven’t lived.”

“I love the words I write until I soon realize how much I hate them, as if I am destined to always be at war within myself.”

“That’s it. You’re doing great, Winnow.” “Shut up, Kitt.” “Absolutely. Whatever you want.”

“I never told you that I love you. And I regret that, most of all.”

“Iris,” said Roman, “you are worthy of love. You are worthy to feel joy right now, even in the darkness. And just in case you’re wondering … I’m not going anywhere, unless you tell me to leave, and even then, we might need to negotiate.”

“It’s not a crime to feel joy, even when things seem hopeless. Iris, look at me. You deserve all the happiness in the world. And I intend to see that you have it.”

“But I think there is a magical link between you and me. A bond that not even distance can break.”

“The days to come will only grow darker. And when you find something good? You hold on to it. You don't waste time worrying about things that won't even matter in the end. Rather, you take a risk for that light.”

“to be vulnerable is a strength most of us fear.”                                                                                                            

“And I’m not afraid to be alone, but I’m tired of being the one left behind.”

“He found me on my darkest day. He followed me to war, to the front lines. He came between me and Death, taking wounds that were supposed to be mine.”

“But I realize that people are just people, and they carry their own set of fears, dreams, desires, pains, and mistakes. I can’t expect someone else to make me feel complete; I must find it on my own. And I think I was always writing for myself, to sort through my loss and worry and tangled ambitions. Even now, I think about how effortless it is to lose oneself in words, and yet also find who you are.”

“You mentioned the other day that you think I’m only here to ‘outshine’ you. But that’s the furthest thing from the truth. I broke my engagement, quit my job, and traveled six hundred kilometers into war-torn land to be with you, Iris.”

“She has to survive this, Roman thought. He didn’t want to live in a world without her and her words.”

“She and Roman would survive this war. They would have the chance to grow old together, year by year. They would be friends until they both finally acknowledged the truth. And they would have everything that other couples had—the arguments and the hand-holding in the market and the gradual exploration of their bodies and the birthday celebrations and the journeys to new cities and the living as one and sharing a bed and the gradual sense of melting into each other. Their names would be entwined—Roman and Iris or Winnow and Kitt because could you truly have one without the other?—and they would write on their typewriters and ruthlessly edit each other’s pieces and read books by candlelight at night.”

𝑻.𝑾: drug use

⚠️This is one of those books where you should really just dive into it blindly. The less you know, the better.

💭Dan Malakin's "The Wreckage Of Us" presents a story brimming with potential, but ultimately struggles to deliver on its promise. I expected an intricate, rather fast-paced thriller with depths that are hidden at first glance, and I was proven wrong on all counts.

Bryan used to be a police officer and is devoted to his sick wife who has been traumatised by a stalker. Her medication leaves her weak, and recently, she went missing briefly, with no memory of what happened when she stumbled home. But this time she doesn’t come home and the police are searching the woods when they find a body.

The pacing of the book was well-handled. There are a few points of view, and between them, there are quite a few things to figure out. I struggled to connect with the characters, who seemed unappealing, apart from Detective Ronson, who has that delightfully dishevelled “don’t-seem-to-know-what-I’m-doing” thing going on but is actually remarkably smart and perceptive. I found almost parts of the plot predictable, including a major twist that was so obvious from early on that it made continuing the book feel like a chore. 

Overall, ‘The Wreckage of Us‘ is hard to review without giving anything away. I was expecting a bit of a rollercoaster ride, and it was definitely not that!

𝐏.𝐒 This was my first book by this author, and I was disappointed. However, I’m willing to give his work another chance and will read one more book to see if his writing resonates with me.

🔸𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: ⭐⭐.5
🔸𝑮𝒐𝒐𝒅𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒔 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 4.36 (86)
🔸𝑮𝒆𝒏𝒓𝒆: Crime, Mystery and Psychological Thriller  
🔸𝑹𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏: No.
This book wasn’t quite to my taste, but reading preferences are highly subjective. You might find it more engaging than I did. If you’re curious, it could be worth giving it a try to see if it works for you.

𝑻.𝑾: Dealing with the Death of a loved one, Grief
 
“That was love, wasn't it? It wasn't just a quick drop -- it was falling, over and over again, for your person. It was falling as they became new people. It was learning how to exist with every new breath. It was uncertain and it was undeniably hard, and it wasn't something you could plan for.”

💭This is my first book by Poston and it was a total gem of a read. This book is like a warm hug wrapped in a quirky, time-travel bow.
It  is way more than just a charming romance; it’s a profound exploration of grief, self-discovery, and the complexities of moving forward. The story kicks off with Clementine, who works in publishing and deals with the tough loss of her aunt Analea. She moves into her aunt’s old apartment, but the place has a quirky surprise: it’s got a time slip that sends her seven years into the past where she meets Iwan for the first time, a tattooed, inspiring chef with big dreams. He’s subletting the apartment from her aunt but from seven years ago. They fall for each other in this magical setting.
 
What makes this book stand out is how deeply it delves into Clementine’s journey. It’s not just about her relationship with Iwan (though their chemistry is undeniable), but it’s also about her personal growth and how she deals with her grief. The way Clementine navigates her emotions, friendships, and mistakes feels incredibly real. You get to feel the weight of her loss and the impact it has on her life.
The bond between Clementine and her aunt is a central, powerful element of the story. Their relationship is portrayed with such depth and authenticity that you can’t help but feel like you’re grieving alongside Clementine. The magical apartment—Analea’s legacy—serves as a beautiful reminder of her aunt’s presence and wisdom. It’s like a comforting bridge between the past and the present, keeping Analea’s spirit alive in a meaningful way.

Furthermore, I have nothing but positive things to say about Iwan; he truly is the sweetest. Incredibly charming and irresistible, he has a golden retriever-like magnetism that makes him impossible not to fall for. From the start, I was captivated by his endearing, fun, and kind nature, along with his joyful and charming personality. Loving him felt effortless. As a chef, his passion for cooking is absolutely adorable. Even though I’m not as passionate about cooking as he is, I could listen to him talk about it for hours without ever getting bored. His struggle with losing sight of his dreams and motivations felt deeply authentic. Seeing him through Clementine’s eyes was captivating—her profound love for him was touching and endearing, and I can’t help but admire her for it. I really wish we’d had his perspective; I’m sure it would have deepened my appreciation for his character even more.

Also, The romance between Clementine and Iwan was undeniably adorable, and their chemistry was off the charts with so many sweet moments that made my heart flutter. Still, I felt it leaned a bit too much into insta-love territory. There wasn’t quite enough build-up for my taste, which was a bit of a letdown. A slower development would’ve made their connection feel more real. I found myself craving more romance. This story leans more toward women’s fiction, focusing a lot on Clementine’s relationship with her aunt and her quest to figure out her life goals, career, and friendships. As a result, there wasn’t enough Clementine and Iwan content to satisfy my romance cravings. It’s such a letdown because their storyline is *Chef's Kiss.*

Overall, The time slip and the romance are just the surface of what The Seven Year Slip offers. The real heart of the story is Clementine’s emotional journey and how she finds herself through her experiences. It’s a poignant reminder of how we can carry the essence of loved ones with us and how their lessons and love continue to shape our lives. The characters are delightful, and the writing is so engaging—definitely kept me hooked from start to finish.
The only reason it’s not a full 5 stars for me is that some parts felt a bit predictable, but the unique concept and emotional depth more than makeup for it.

𝐏.𝐒 I am a sucker for nicknames, and I loved "Lemon".

🔸𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
🔸𝑮𝒐𝒐𝒅𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒔 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 4.22 (262098)
🔸𝑮𝒆𝒏𝒓𝒆:Contemporary Romance, Time Travel, & Magical Realism 
🔸𝑺𝒑𝒊𝒄𝒚:🔥 
🔸𝑹𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏:Yes, Yes, and Yes!
If you’re into a feel-good, magical romance with a touch of nostalgia, this book is totally worth your time. 

🔸 𝑭𝒂𝒗𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒆 𝑸𝒖𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒔:                                                                                                                                                

“I loved how a book, a story, a set of words in a sentence organized in the exact right order, made you miss places you’ve never visited, and people you’ve never met.”

“Nothing lasts forever. Not the good things, not the bad. So just find what makes you happy, and do it for as long as you can.”

“Sometimes the people you loved left you halfway through a story. Sometimes they left you without a goodbye. And, sometimes, they stayed around in little ways. In the memory of a musical. In the smell of their perfume. In the sound of the rain, and the itch for adventure, and the yearning for that liminal space between one airport terminal and the next. I hated her for leaving, and I loved her for staying as long as she could. And I would never wish this pain on anyone.”

“Isn't it strange how the world works sometimes? It's never a matter of time, but a matter of timing.”

“You only live once. And if you do it right, once is all you need.”

“There was something just so reassuring about books. They had beginnings and middles and ends, and if you didn't like a part, you could skip to the next chapter. If someone died, you could stop on the last page before, and they'd live on forever. Happy endings were definite, evils defeated, and the good lasted forever.”

“Because the things that mattered most never really left. The love stays. The love always stays, and so do we.”

“I didn't need to be fixed. I just needed...to be reminded that I was human.”

“You never commit a mundane moment to memory, thinking it'll be the last time you'll hear their voice, or see their smile, or smell their perfume. Your head never remembers the things your heart wants to in hindsight.”

“My aunt used to say, if you don't fit in, fool everyone until you do.
She also said to keep your passport renewed, to pair red wines with meat and whites with everything else, to find work that is fulfilling to your heart as well as your head, to never forget to fall in love whenever you can find it because love is nothing if not a matter of timing, and to chase the moon. Always, always chase the moon.”

“You are who you are, and you like what you like. You are you, and that's a lovely person to be.”

“He was an adventure.
One I suddenly knew I wanted to take.”

“Your life changed because of
some French fries?"
"The things you least expect usually do.”                                                                                                                            
“There was a gap between early twenties and late twenties that only people existing in bodies in their late twenties understood. You could still fight god, but you'd have to ice your knees afterward.”

“Universal truths in butter. Secrets folded into the dough. Poetry in the spices. Romance in a chocolate. Love in a lemon pie.”

“I didn't find out who I wanted to be until I was almost 40. You have to try on a lot of shoes until you find some you like walking in. Never apologize for that.”

“And I knew I was falling. The kind of falling that would hurt when I hit the ground. The kind of falling that would shatter me into pieces.”

💭Disappinted!!

Alright, book lovers, let's talk about Someone in the Attic by Andrea Mara. This one had all the ingredients to be a thrilling ride, but... let's just say it didn't quite hit the mark for me.

First off, the premise was super intriguing. I mean, a mysterious figure in the attic of a new home? Yes, please! I was all in for the chills and the suspense. And to be fair, the book starts off strong, giving off those spooky vibes and setting up a creepy atmosphere that had me hooked from the first chapter.
But, and this is a big but, as the story unfolded, things got a bit muddled. The pacing felt off, with some parts dragging on forever while others felt rushed. I found myself flipping through pages just to get to the action, which isn’t the best sign for a thriller. The tension that was supposed to build up and keep me on the edge of my seat just wasn’t there.

The characters were... okay, I guess? They were kind of one-dimensional and didn’t really evolve throughout the story. Nothing particularly memorable about them, to be honest. I wanted to feel more connected to them, but their actions sometimes didn’t make a lot of sense. And don’t get me started on the big reveal. It just felt a bit... anticlimactic? Like, really, that’s what it all boils down to?

I was hoping for a bit more depth, more twists that make you gasp out loud. Instead, it felt like a lot of the potential was left unexplored. It had all the right elements for a gripping psychological thriller but failed to bring them together in a satisfying way. Also, I had a hard time buying into the plot, it had zero substance. There were moments that just didn’t add up for me, which pulled me out of the story more than I’d like. I kept hoping it would redeem itself in the end, but it left me feeling more frustrated than anything.

Overall, Someone in the Attic was a decent read but not one I’d be rushing to recommend. For me, it’s a 2.5-star read that I’ll probably forget by next day.

Would love to hear what you all thought if you've read it! 

🔸𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: ⭐⭐.5
🔸𝑮𝒐𝒐𝒅𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒔 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 3.99 (3930)
🔸𝑮𝒆𝒏𝒓𝒆: Psychological thriller, Mystery, Crime Fiction, Suspense, Psychological Fiction, Domestic Fiction   
🔸𝑹𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏: If you’re looking for a light read and don’t mind a slower-paced thriller and some shaky logic, you might enjoy it more than I did.
But if you're in the mood for something that will keep you up at night with its twists and turns, you might want to look elsewhere.

💭Just devoured Listen For The Lie by Amy Tintera, and let me tell you—this book is the definition of unputdownable!

First off, I love how Tintera manages to pull you into this small-town mystery right from the start. I love how the story alternates between Lucy’s perspective and the podcast episodes. The short, punchy chapters had me in that "just one more page" mindset, and before I knew it, I was deep into the book!
The podcast transcripts? Surprisingly addictive! Each character spilling the tea on everyone else, stirring up all that delicious small-town drama—it added such a fun, gossipy vibe to the mystery. What really stood out to me was the dynamic between the characters. There's this whole web of lies and secrets, and it makes you question everyone's motives. I found myself constantly wondering who to trust, and that made the story all the more engaging. It kept me guessing and made the whole experience feel super immersive. 
The plot twists? Let me tell you, they did not disappoint. Just when I thought I had things figured out, BAM—Tintera hits you with another curveball. I was on the edge of my seat trying to piece everything together, and I loved every minute of it. 
The pacing is spot on too—fast enough to keep you hooked, but not so rushed that you miss out on the details. And the ending? No spoilers, but let's just say it wrapped things up in a way that left me satisfied but I certainly rolled my eyes at certain scenes!

The main character, Lucy - I loved her. Her inner murderous voice was hilarious and the sarcasm was on point. She had this dark, sarcastic humour about her that made me laugh out loud and instantly connect with her.
Lucy’s grandmother Beverly is the only character in the book I could root for from start to end without any dip.

Overall, Listen For The Lie was an absolute thrill ride. From the engaging characters to the twisty plot, I was completely hooked. The combination of Lucy's gripping narrative and the juicy podcast drama kept me turning pages late into the night.

𝐏.𝐒 This was my first time reading this author and I would be interested to read more from her in the future.                                         
🔸𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
🔸𝑮𝒐𝒐𝒅𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒔 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 4.13 (139048)
🔸𝑮𝒆𝒏𝒓𝒆: Mystery, Thriller, Fiction, Suspense, Dark comedy 
🔸𝑹𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏: Yes!!!
If you're into thrillers with a mix of mystery and strong character development, you should definitely check this out. 
It's one of those books that keeps you guessing until the very end!

𝑻.𝑾: Heart: broken ✔️
          Soul: crushed ✔️
          Eyes: red and full of tears ✔️

“Our fates are intertwined, for I cannot exist in a world where you do not.”

💭Absolute Masterpiece

It's been a long time since a book moved me to tears, but this one did it effortlessly. The story is a masterpiece—filled with love, epic adventure, tragedy, heartbreak, and an aching sense of longing. Yet, amidst the sorrow, there’s a glimmer of hope that keeps you turning the pages. I found myself highlighting nearly every passage; the writing is just that powerful. Each quote, each line, resonated so deeply that it felt like the book was speaking directly to my soul. If you're looking for a story that will leave you breathless and deeply moved, this is the one.

This is a dual-timeline story that flips between two couples. First, we have Georgia and Noah in the present day. Georgia’s great-grandmother, Scarlett, has just passed away, and Georgia is sifting through her stuff. Scarlett was a big deal as a romance author, and she left behind an unfinished novel about her own epic love story for Georgia to complete.
Noah, on the other hand, is a popular author known for his cynical, downer endings. Fate throws them together, and they team up to finish Scarlett’s book. Meanwhile, the other timeline takes us back to the 1940s, where we follow Scarlett and Jameson’s intense love story against the backdrop of WWII. It’s a beautiful mix of past and present, all revolving around this legendary romance and the impact it has on Georgia and Noah’s lives.

Rebecca's writing style is captivating, evoking a range of emotions throughout the story. The author's writing style is very engaging and easy to read. She expertly balanced the moments of heartache with glimpses of hope, drawing me in and keeping me engrossed until the very end.

Scarlett and Jameson’s love story was the absolute highlight for me. Their relationship is the kind of once-in-a-lifetime romance that makes your heartache in the best way. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again—if a book has letters, I’m already hooked 💌. 
Watching Scarlett and Jameson fall for each other while dealing with the chaos of WWII was incredibly moving.
Jameson? Just wow. He’s the kind of guy who makes you believe in true love. For his time, he was so progressive and devoted to Scarlett that it made me tear up. I really hope a love like theirs exists out there.
And Scarlett—she’s amazing! Considering the era, her strength and determination are truly inspiring. Even though she’s gone by the time the story starts, her presence and the love she left behind are felt throughout the book. She made a huge impact on everyone around her, and I couldn’t help but admire her for it.
Constance, I love you. She deserved so much more than what she got and the bond she shared with Scarlett transcends onto every page. I loved their sisterhood and learning their story. Sometimes, side characters can feel like fillers, but Constance stood out, and I cherished every moment.

Noah and Georgia's Love Story
Georgia and Noah were absolute fire—like, their chemistry was off the charts. Their love story had that irresistible spark and the whole hate-to-love dynamic made it even more intense. The way they pushed and pulled each other, with all the sexual tension and playful banter, was just spot on. The slow burn between them was like a slow, smoldering flame that made every moment they shared feel so worth it in the end ❤️‍🔥.
They were total opposites—Georgia was the ice queen while Noah was all fire. Yet, their contrasts made their relationship epic. Noah never pushed Georgia into anything. He understood her trust issues and took his time to earn her trust. He showed up in her life right when she needed someone to lean on, someone she could really rely on. Even though Georgia was often closed off, Noah managed to break down all her walls and reach her heart. Their journey together was truly something special.                                                           

The ending wrecked me—it tore my heart to pieces but then pieced it back together with Noah and Georgia’s story. The way Noah wrapped up Scarlett and Jameson’s tale, along with Constance’s truth, was something I never expected but somehow felt right in the end. Even though it hurt, there was a bittersweet satisfaction.
Seeing Scarlett and Jameson’s love story find closure was both heart-wrenching and beautiful. I was so sad for them but also happy knowing they would be together even in death. Constance’s reveal broke my heart, but I was glad she found some peace. 

Overall, The Things We Leave Unfinished is a perfect title and applies to more than just the manuscript. It's inspirational and filled with hope. It's about trust, acceptance, the healing power of forgiveness, and second chances. I loved it and highly, highly recommend.

𝐏.𝐒 This is my first book by Rebecca and I absolutely loved it. I will read every other book written by her soon!

🔸𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🔸𝑮𝒐𝒐𝒅𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒔 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 4.30 (189786)
🔸𝑮𝒆𝒏𝒓𝒆: Contemporary Romance & Historical Fiction
🔸𝑺𝒑𝒊𝒄𝒚: 🔥🔥 
🔸𝑹𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏: Holy Moly Yes!!!

🔸 𝑭𝒂𝒗𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒆 𝑸𝒖𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒔:

“Tragedy has a way of breaking gentle things and soldering the shattered pieces together in ways we can't control. Some, it remakes into stronger, more resilient creatures. In others, the pieces fuse before they heal, leaving only razor-sharp edges. I can offer you no other explanation or excuse for the way she's cut you over the years.”

“We’re all entitled to our mistakes. When you recognize them for what they are, don’t live there. Life is too short to miss the lightning strike and too long to live it alone.”

“Sometimes the only way to keep what you need is to let go of what you want.”

“Sometimes I wonder if I just enjoy the beginnings, and that's why I never seem to move past them. The beginnings are what make everything romantic.”

“This is not our end. My heart will always remain with you no matter where we are. Time and distance are only inconveniences to a love like ours. Whether it’s days, months, or even years, I will be waiting. WE will be waiting.”

“Perhaps the kindest thing I could do for the characters would be to leave their stories unfinished. Leave them with their possibilities, their potential, even if they only exist in my own mind.”

“You are the culmination of every lightning strike and twist of fate.”

“There’s a warning, a sound your heart makes the first time it realizes it’s no longer safe with the person you trusted.”

“I see the way he looks at her, like she’s the reason the seasons change and the sun rises until they’re a hundred and one years old.”

“Without the potential for disaster, would we ever really know what we have?”

“My heart will always remain with you no matter where we are.”

“Romance isn’t about unrealistic expectations and sex. It’s about love and overcoming adversity through what can be considered a universal experience.”

“maybe it’s really the possibilities that are easy to fall in love with. Looking at any situation, any relationship, any story, and having the sublime ability to wonder where it will take us is a bit intoxicating, really.”

“I will wait for you every second, every hour, every day for the rest of my life, and if that’s not enough, then eternity, which is exactly how long I’ll love you,”

“I love you, Scarlett, and it’s not the kind of love that fades with distance or time. I’m yours and have been since the first time I looked into your eyes. I’ll be yours no matter how much time passes before I see your eyes again. Always.”

“when a story is finished, no matter what kind it is, the possibilities are gone. It is what it is, or it was whatever it was.”

𝑻.𝑾: Make sure to read the author’s warning before diving in!
⚠️ - If you’re a fan of this book, then definitely skip my review. It’s not going to be what you want to hear.
 
💭Absolutely Terrible 

Haunting Adeline was a huge disappointment which had the potential to be a dark and gripping story, but unfortunately, it fell flat in almost every aspect and it turned out to be a total waste of time. The plot, which revolves around a stalker romance, wasn't intense or exciting—it was just plain disturbing. 
The characters were underdeveloped, with the main protagonist, Adeline, lacking depth and relatability.
When diving into a dark romance, you usually expect some depth and intense themes, like drugs or death, to give the story a serious edge. Instead, this book throws in a goofy hacker vigilante stalker and an insufferable heroine, calling itself a dark romance. It’s really just a joke.

The central storyline revolves around Adeline, a young woman who becomes the target of a stalker, Zade. The relationship dynamic between the two characters is deeply unsettling, and while dark romance often pushes boundaries, the portrayal here crosses into uncomfortable and problematic territory. The concept of romanticizing stalking and non-consensual behavior is not only disturbing but also detracts from any emotional depth the story might have had.
The writing dragged on with way too much unnecessary description, making the story feel slow and boring. The romantic parts? Awkward and uncomfortable, to say the least. Instead of feeling any chemistry or tension, it just left me cringing.
The book tried to tackle dark themes like obsession, but it completely missed the mark. It ended up feeling more exploitative than anything else, and I kept wondering why I was even reading it.

Adeline was incredibly frustrating. She came across as so clueless and childish and fucking dumb that it felt like a personal insult. I never meet women like this in real life—women who act so irrationally and immaturely. 
It’s disheartening and insulting to see female characters written this way—completely lacking in logic or maturity. We need to see more respect in the portrayal of women in literature, with characters that feel authentic and well-rounded.

Zade was just awful. I seriously feel like there's some joke I'm missing—people actually like this guy? He’s so pathetic. He’s constantly hyping himself up in his inner monologue, acting like he's some tough guy. His “thing” is killing sex traffickers and making it his hobby, which he uses to stroke his ego. But then, he’s casually stalking and assaulting a girl in his spare time, completely without remorse. It’s beyond messed up.
Zade is the epitome of double standards and hypocrisy! 

The most infuriating and ironic part is that Mr. Savior, the so-called hero who can’t stand to see innocent kids being abused by powerful men and supposedly saves them, ends up RAPING the main character with gun!!
Are you kidding me? How does the author not see the problem here? You can’t have him be this so-called savior for rape survivors and then turn around and rape the main character!

Overall, Haunting Adeline was a major letdown. I honestly regret spending my time on it, and I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone. If you're looking for a good dark romance or thriller, skip this one.

𝐏.𝐒 Not sure if I am going to read the Hunting Adeline!

🔸𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: ⭐
🔸𝑮𝒐𝒐𝒅𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒔 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 3.96 (544354)
🔸𝑮𝒆𝒏𝒓𝒆: Romance, Thriller, Suspense, Erotic literature, Gothic fiction 
🔸𝑺𝒑𝒊𝒄𝒚: 🔥🔥🔥🔥                                                                                                                                                   
🔸𝑺𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔: Cat and Mouse Duet (Book 1)
🔸𝑹𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏: NO!
I skimmed through 85% of the book because I don't DNF. If you’re thinking about picking this up, save yourself the time and avoid it.

🔸 𝑭𝒂𝒗𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒆 𝑸𝒖𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒔:

“When you make someone fall in love with the darkest parts of you, there’s nothing you can do that will scare them away. They will be yours forever because they already love all the fucked up bits and pieces of you.”

“Baby, you rule the fucking kingdom, and I will gladly bow to you.”

“Love is an enigma, and it's redefined every time someone says it.”

“Sometimes the happiest people are the saddest,”

“If it’s real, then I’ve chased you across time and space, and you’ve never been able to get away.”

“I guess I wanted to see roses all over your house, too. Maybe because you feel like home.”

“It’s a gift to know someone when you’re in love with them, and a curse when you’re”

💭Another solid romance from Jessica Joyce! I was a big fan of You with a View, and while The Ex Vows was enjoyable, it didn’t quite reach the same level of impact for me as YWAV did. The book dives into the whole Second Chance Romance trope, which, if done right, can be pretty awesome. And Jessica Joyce does a decent job with it!
This book isn’t just about rekindling a past romance; it’s a heartfelt journey of self-discovery and personal growth. I was completely invested in Eli and Georgia’s quest to save their best friend wedding, and their little adventures were charmingly cute, keeping me hooked throughout. The way they rediscovered each other while navigating these escapades was both touching and engaging.

I found myself laughing, swooning, and genuinely feeling happy as I read. The growth and development of the characters are so well done that it's impossible not to adore them. The friend group dynamics and the realistic changes that come with life’s transitions, like after college and marriage, added a layer of authenticity that many can relate to.

Georgia’s character, in particular, struck a chord with me. Her journey from being a people pleaser who hides her true feelings made her incredibly relatable and endearing. Eli, with his swoon-worthy charm, was the perfect love interest—handsome and utterly captivating. I was rooting for him every step of the way. This book is a perfect blend of romance, self-discovery, and delightful adventures, and it’s definitely one that left a lasting impression on me.

This book really hit home with how people can drift apart as they grow older. Watching the characters deal with these changes and the deeper message of the story really resonated with me. It’s not just about finding love; it’s also about handling shifts in friendships and the different directions we all end up going. It can be tough to accept, but the way the book portrayed it felt super relatable.

Overall, while the story was enjoyable and had its cute moments, it didn’t blow me away completely. It was a fun read, but I felt like there was a little more potential that wasn’t fully realized.

Tropes included-
➺Friends To Lovers
➺Second Chance Romance
➺Forced Proximity
➺Witty Banter
➺Anxiety Representation
➺Found Family
➺Single POV

𝐏.𝐒 I’m a big fan of books that showcase strong friendships, whether they’re between males and females or among women!

🔸𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: ⭐⭐⭐.75
🔸𝑮𝒐𝒐𝒅𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒔 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 4.35 (9241)
🔸𝑮𝒆𝒏𝒓𝒆:  Contemporary Romance
🔸𝑺𝒑𝒊𝒄𝒚: 🔥🔥🔥                                                                                                                                                       
🔸𝑹𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏: Yes

🔸 𝑭𝒂𝒗𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒆 𝑸𝒖𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒔:

“For past me, who didn’t give up, and for future me, who will look back on all of this and be so proud.”

“Sometimes I swear adulthood is staring at your phone and wondering which of your friends has enough time to deal with your latest emotional meltdown, then realizing none of them do.”

“Time is a miracle. It shows you what you had, and sometimes it brings it back to you. Different. Better.”

“When I say I’m still in love with you,” he says quietly, “I mean today and yesterday and this entire week. I mean at Nick and Miriam’s wedding and I mean for the past five years.” If possible, he gets even quieter, but now he’s closer so I get every word. “When I say I’m still in love with you, I mean the first time I saw you and right now. I mean every second in between.”

“Fuck, the way I’ve wanted you,” he breathes against my mouth. “I don’t know how anyone can look at me and not see it.”

“It’s a privilege to have someone trust you enough to show you those pieces of themselves, the most vulnerable and tender, the least polished. It’s a show of trust to let you see them first thing in the morning, in the middle of a panic attack, right after they’ve cried. To give you a shaky smile after a messy fight. To come back to you again and again with their heart in their hands.”

“Each brick was a time he’d fucked up or I had, a time when either one of us could’ve said what was on our mind and said nothing instead. It was endless tiny transgressions that didn’t ruin us at the moment but added to the wall we built. On this night in December five years ago, I saw how tall it is. How unclimbable.”

“And I think about how utterly heartbreaking it is that we’re using the same connection that allowed us to conduct a wordless conversation across the room to know each other in such a clinical way now. Like strangers who’ve seen each other naked in every way that counts, in all the ways that wreck you.”

💭Laugh Out Loud Moments

It is a delightful blend of romantic comedy and witty banter, making it an enjoyable read for fans of contemporary romance. The story follows the classic trope of a fake relationship.

The story centers around Lottie, a determined and quick-witted woman who finds herself in a sticky situation, and Huxley, a brooding billionaire who needs a fiancée for appearances. What begins as a mutually beneficial arrangement quickly spirals into something far more complicated—and far more real.

Lottie and Huxley, have an undeniable chemistry that leaps off the page. 
Lottie is a breath of fresh air as a heroine. She's strong, independent, and doesn't shy away from speaking her mind, which leads to some truly hilarious moments. Her interactions with Huxley are filled with sharp, witty banter that makes their growing attraction palpable. 
Huxley, on the other hand, is the epitome of the modern romance hero—rich, handsome, and emotionally guarded. Yet, as the story unfolds, readers get to see the layers beneath his stoic exterior, revealing a man who is vulnerable, caring, and unexpectedly sweet. Their banter is quick, clever, and often laugh-out-loud funny, which keeps the pacing lively and the reader invested in their relationship.

However, despite its strengths, "A Not So Meet Cute" isn’t without flaws. Some plot points are predictable, especially for seasoned romance readers, and the story occasionally leans too heavily on clichés. There are moments when the pacing drags, with certain scenes that feel cringe. Additionally, while the characters are charming, their emotional arcs sometimes lack the depth needed to fully connect with the reader, making some of the more dramatic moments feel less impactful.

Overall, "A Not So Meet Cute" is a charming and entertaining read. It's perfect for anyone looking for a lighthearted romance and plenty of laughs.

❥𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒔:
➺ fake dating
➺ billionaire romance
➺ forced proximity
➺ enemies to lovers
➺ spicy rom-com

𝐏.𝐒 Not so excited for reading the next instalment in this trilogy. I will read it but maybe after some weeks.

🔸𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: ⭐⭐⭐.5
🔸𝑮𝒐𝒐𝒅𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒔 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 4.05 (193011)
🔸𝑮𝒆𝒏𝒓𝒆: Contemporary Romance
🔸𝑺𝒑𝒊𝒄𝒚: 🔥🔥🔥
🔸𝑺𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔: Cane Brothers (Book 1)
🔸𝑹𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏: Yes!

🔸 𝑭𝒂𝒗𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒆 𝑸𝒖𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒔:

“Just when you think you’ve hit rock bottom, when you don’t think there’s any way you could climb the mountain again to find happiness, you stumble across a trail, one that has its bumps and bruises, but offers a gorgeous outcome.”

“Sometimes it’s not the beginning that screams romance, but rather the journey.”

“And just like that, I’m a taken man. Fucking besotted. This is what I want. Her, in my arms. Exactly like this.”

“Your helping heart. You don’t let people see it; you hide it away from the public eye. But as a spectator, having paid close enough attention, I’ve seen it, and it’s beautiful.”

“I want more from you. And I know this crosses the line of our agreement, but I can’t pretend I don’t have feelings for you, because I do. I like you, Lottie. I like you a lot.”