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indieandajean's reviews
408 reviews
The Pumpkin Spice Café by Laurie Gilmore
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
Fluff of the highest order. This great fall inspired read has all the welcome tropes of a Hallmark movie with just the right amount of (pumpkin) spice!
Content Warnings
Minor: Death, Vomit, Death of parent, Abandonment, and Alcohol
Assistant to the Villain by Hannah Nicole Maehrer
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Assistant to the Villain is an adorable fantasy rom-com with more emphasis on the "com". The slow burn in this book will be of no surprise to anyone who enjoyed watching the tiktok series it was based on, and it makes for a lot of exasperation from a reader's perspective when you read many chapters of pining and them "almost" getting to the point. This is a feature, not a bug.
The characters are lovable, the plot moves along at a decent pace, and it has just the right amount of tropes that one would expect from a slow-burn, mutual pining, workplace rom-com. It also has a dragon, which is always a positive.
My only complaint is that at times the book was a little too slow. There were unnecessary scenes that did little to move the plot forward or deepen the reader's understanding of the characters. I understand that the author was given a three book deal and that where there is a three book deal about a single romance, there is going to have to be some filler. That said, the story never dragged, even through these filler moments, and it was always fun to pick back up to read.
My review is probably somewhat biased as I fell in love with Evie Sage played by Hannah Nicole Maehrer in her Tiktok videos that were the catalyst for the books, but I challenge anyone who loves a good underdog to watch the videos or read this book and not also love the character. She, the Villain, Blade, Tatiana, and yes, even Becky, are great characters and it was fun to see them more fully fleshed out in this book.
I am very much looking forward to book two which is coming out this fall, particularly because of the cliffhanger ending!
I recommend this one for anyone who enjoys a bit of humor in their romances, morally grey fantasy villains, dragons, and strong female characters who overcome obstacles and earn the respect of people around them.
The characters are lovable, the plot moves along at a decent pace, and it has just the right amount of tropes that one would expect from a slow-burn, mutual pining, workplace rom-com. It also has a dragon, which is always a positive.
My only complaint is that at times the book was a little too slow. There were unnecessary scenes that did little to move the plot forward or deepen the reader's understanding of the characters. I understand that the author was given a three book deal and that where there is a three book deal about a single romance, there is going to have to be some filler. That said, the story never dragged, even through these filler moments, and it was always fun to pick back up to read.
My review is probably somewhat biased as I fell in love with Evie Sage played by Hannah Nicole Maehrer in her Tiktok videos that were the catalyst for the books, but I challenge anyone who loves a good underdog to watch the videos or read this book and not also love the character. She, the Villain, Blade, Tatiana, and yes, even Becky, are great characters and it was fun to see them more fully fleshed out in this book.
I am very much looking forward to book two which is coming out this fall, particularly because of the cliffhanger ending!
I recommend this one for anyone who enjoys a bit of humor in their romances, morally grey fantasy villains, dragons, and strong female characters who overcome obstacles and earn the respect of people around them.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Chronic illness, Cursing, Death, Gore, Torture, Violence, Blood, Murder, Fire/Fire injury, Injury/Injury detail, and Classism
Minor: Animal cruelty, Bullying, Child abuse, Chronic illness, Confinement, Cursing, Death, Emotional abuse, Gore, Misogyny, Panic attacks/disorders, Physical abuse, Sexism, Sexual assault, Torture, Violence, Blood, Kidnapping, Grief, Fire/Fire injury, Gaslighting, Abandonment, Alcohol, Sexual harassment, Injury/Injury detail, and Classism
Daughter of the Deep by Rick Riordan
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Daughter of the Deep is a brilliant "what if" piece of science fiction. I love how it pulls from the works of Jules Verne to create a narrative around a group of diverse freshmen students doing what adults deem impossible. It is very much in the vein of Percy Jackson, and Riordan doesn't shy away from mixing the fantastical with the real struggles of a teenage girl.
The characters are extremely lovable, the plot is fun and mostly well paced, and the twist was one that was well foreshadowed. I found that the plot did drag a bit while the students were on the ship trying to arrive to the base, but despite the fact that this section could have used a little more action or conflict, it didn't detract much from the book.
Overall I very much enjoyed this read. I would highly recommend it for tweens particularly as it doesn't shy away from the very real experiences that they are having or will have (anxiety, imposter syndrome, trouble with peers, death of loved ones, menstrual cramps, crushes, and responsibility). I would also recommend it for those with an interest in science fiction, those who enjoyed any of Rick Riordan's books (or Rick Riordan Presents), and for those who enjoy a good adventure story.
The characters are extremely lovable, the plot is fun and mostly well paced, and the twist was one that was well foreshadowed. I found that the plot did drag a bit while the students were on the ship trying to arrive to the base, but despite the fact that this section could have used a little more action or conflict, it didn't detract much from the book.
Overall I very much enjoyed this read. I would highly recommend it for tweens particularly as it doesn't shy away from the very real experiences that they are having or will have (anxiety, imposter syndrome, trouble with peers, death of loved ones, menstrual cramps, crushes, and responsibility). I would also recommend it for those with an interest in science fiction, those who enjoyed any of Rick Riordan's books (or Rick Riordan Presents), and for those who enjoy a good adventure story.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Death, Panic attacks/disorders, Violence, Medical content, Grief, Death of parent, Abandonment, and Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Death, Gun violence, Panic attacks/disorders, Violence, Blood, Medical content, Kidnapping, Grief, Death of parent, Gaslighting, Colonisation, and Injury/Injury detail
The Tea Dragon Society by K. O'Neill
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
An adorable quick children's graphic novel read. The characters are charming and relatable, The story is cozy with little conflict, and the overall theme of friendship and ensuring that traditions are not forgotten comes through very well without knocking the reader over the head with the information.
The illustrations are gorgeous and exactly what one would expect from K O'Neill. The colors are vibrant and well suited for the cozy illustrations that invite the reader into the world of tea dragons.
Highly recommend this one for beginning graphic novel readers, fans of fantasy, anyone looking for a quick graphic novel read, and for anyone who loves gorgeous illustrations of magical creatures!
The illustrations are gorgeous and exactly what one would expect from K O'Neill. The colors are vibrant and well suited for the cozy illustrations that invite the reader into the world of tea dragons.
Highly recommend this one for beginning graphic novel readers, fans of fantasy, anyone looking for a quick graphic novel read, and for anyone who loves gorgeous illustrations of magical creatures!
The Saturday Night Ghost Club by Craig Davidson
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
4/5 stars
Not my usual read, but I enjoyed it much more than I have other realistic fiction coming of age stories.
The characters were loveable, the story was entertaining, and the switching between the past and future was very fluid.
Going into this book I wasn't sure what to expect, and I'm glad I gave it a shot!
Not my usual read, but I enjoyed it much more than I have other realistic fiction coming of age stories.
The characters were loveable, the story was entertaining, and the switching between the past and future was very fluid.
Going into this book I wasn't sure what to expect, and I'm glad I gave it a shot!
Content Warnings
Minor: Addiction, Alcoholism, Body shaming, Bullying, Cancer, Child death, Cursing, Death, Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, Mental illness, Panic attacks/disorders, Physical abuse, Self harm, Sexual assault, Suicidal thoughts, Violence, Blood, Grief, Car accident, Suicide attempt, Murder, Pregnancy, Fire/Fire injury, Alcohol, Sexual harassment, and Injury/Injury detail
Enola Holmes and the Boy in Buttons by Nancy Springer
adventurous
hopeful
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
5/5
A lovely short story that really shows Enola's development into a confident young woman who cares deeply about those around her.
It's a fun little read to enjoy while waiting for more Enola Holmes stories!
A lovely short story that really shows Enola's development into a confident young woman who cares deeply about those around her.
It's a fun little read to enjoy while waiting for more Enola Holmes stories!
The Veil of Violence by Marilyn Marks
adventurous
dark
emotional
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
4/5 stars, a solid sequel!
Wow, just wow!
I am still reeling from that ending. Seriously did not see the twist coming, and it's very rare that a twist catches me totally off guard like this.
Another cliffhanger I'm dying!
I loved getting to learn so much about Addie & Jack's past in this book, although at times it did slow the story which is what makes this a 4/5 for me instead of full marks. While it was important to get the background context, there were times where it felt like it was a bit much especially with the alternating POV. I'm very much looking forward to book 3 to see how our merry gang of fae manage to secure their HEA!
Wow, just wow!
I am still reeling from that ending. Seriously did not see the twist coming, and it's very rare that a twist catches me totally off guard like this.
Another cliffhanger I'm dying!
I loved getting to learn so much about Addie & Jack's past in this book, although at times it did slow the story which is what makes this a 4/5 for me instead of full marks. While it was important to get the background context, there were times where it felt like it was a bit much especially with the alternating POV. I'm very much looking forward to book 3 to see how our merry gang of fae manage to secure their HEA!
Content Warnings
Moderate: Cursing, Death, Emotional abuse, Gore, Physical abuse, Rape, Sexual assault, Sexual content, Sexual violence, Suicidal thoughts, Violence, Blood, Grief, Suicide attempt, Death of parent, Murder, War, Injury/Injury detail, and Classism
The Bodyguard by Katherine Center
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
The Bodyguard is a fun romantic comedy with some truly heart-string-tugging moments. I loved the way Hannah was written as snarky, strong, and truly lovable. It was easy to feel a kinship with her, and I loved how she grew to share her life and stand up for herself more and more as the book went on.
I generally don't love "celebrity" or "millionaire" romance (with a few exceptions), but Jack was an excellent male lead and the struggle Hannah had to initially understand what parts of him were mere mortal and what parts of him were the action hero made his character more interesting to read.
There were places where the plot dragged a bit and where I wasn't able to take certain supporting characters seriously (the best friend and ex boyfriend situation was a little ham-fisted if not expected) but overall I enjoyed the pace of the relationship forming. This is a rare romance where the third act conflict didn't feel jarring, and I appreciated the way it didn't totally rely on misunderstanding as so many romances do.
Ultimately I really enjoyed this one! It's a light, comforting read.
I generally don't love "celebrity" or "millionaire" romance (with a few exceptions), but Jack was an excellent male lead and the struggle Hannah had to initially understand what parts of him were mere mortal and what parts of him were the action hero made his character more interesting to read.
There were places where the plot dragged a bit and where I wasn't able to take certain supporting characters seriously (the best friend and ex boyfriend situation was a little ham-fisted if not expected) but overall I enjoyed the pace of the relationship forming. This is a rare romance where the third act conflict didn't feel jarring, and I appreciated the way it didn't totally rely on misunderstanding as so many romances do.
Ultimately I really enjoyed this one! It's a light, comforting read.
A Demon's Guide to Wooing a Witch by Sarah Hawley
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I was not prepared to forgive Astaroth when I picked up this book, but the amazing way with which his redemption was handled made me love it just as much (if not more) than A Witch's Guide to Fake Dating a Demon.
I appreciated how strong and unapologetically herself Calladia is allowed to be in this book. There has been a really great trend in romance lately of embracing women's bodies in any and every form they come in and I love to see that this has extended to strong women as well. The way that this book (and the previous) focuses on the characters building the strength they need to stand up for themselves is brilliant because it intertwines so well with the narrative while not coming off as beating the reader over the head with a message of "love yourself".
Also, the reference to AO3 got me. I definitely laughed, this author knows her audience.
The way Sarah Hawley writes these books is honestly healing for me and I can't wait for book three!
I appreciated how strong and unapologetically herself Calladia is allowed to be in this book. There has been a really great trend in romance lately of embracing women's bodies in any and every form they come in and I love to see that this has extended to strong women as well. The way that this book (and the previous) focuses on the characters building the strength they need to stand up for themselves is brilliant because it intertwines so well with the narrative while not coming off as beating the reader over the head with a message of "love yourself".
Also, the reference to AO3 got me. I definitely laughed, this author knows her audience.
The way Sarah Hawley writes these books is honestly healing for me and I can't wait for book three!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
Moderate: Cursing, Sexual content, Violence, and Classism
Minor: Body shaming, Bullying, Child abuse, Cursing, Mental illness, Sexual content, Toxic relationship, Violence, Blood, Stalking, Gaslighting, Abandonment, Alcohol, Sexual harassment, Injury/Injury detail, and Classism
The Prince of Prohibition by Marilyn Marks
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
The Prince of Prohibition is the best mix of the historical fiction, fantasy, and romance genres.
The unique spin on faerie lore is enjoyable, even if you are familiar with fae and their many forms, there is enough adaptation to the lore that it doesn't make things too predictable.
I loved the setting, the characters were like-able and varied, and the story's structure was the perfect blend of fast paced and slow moments.
I will say that the ending felt a bit too quick, due to the cliffhanger, but book 2 is out and I am looking forward to seeing the resolution to Adeline and Jack's story.
I would recommend this book to fans of faerie or monster romances, as well as fans of roaring 20's romances or historical fantasy. All will find plenty of appeal in this phenomenal series starter!
The unique spin on faerie lore is enjoyable, even if you are familiar with fae and their many forms, there is enough adaptation to the lore that it doesn't make things too predictable.
I loved the setting, the characters were like-able and varied, and the story's structure was the perfect blend of fast paced and slow moments.
I will say that the ending felt a bit too quick, due to the cliffhanger, but book 2 is out and I am looking forward to seeing the resolution to Adeline and Jack's story.
I would recommend this book to fans of faerie or monster romances, as well as fans of roaring 20's romances or historical fantasy. All will find plenty of appeal in this phenomenal series starter!
Content Warnings
Moderate: Confinement, Cursing, Death, Eating disorder, Panic attacks/disorders, Racism, Self harm, Sexual content, Violence, Blood, Police brutality, Kidnapping, Grief, Religious bigotry, Stalking, Murder, Alcohol, War, and Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Gun violence, Vomit, Death of parent, Abandonment, and Classism