Aimee
I was quite excited to read this as I've seen it heavily recommended online. Sad to say that it fell short for me for a few reasons.
Now, going into this, I'd already accepted how women were to be perceived and portrayed—something that I've just accepted as a given in historical romance, for obvious reasons.
The main thing was the incongruence between established attitudes and actions. The Scots/Highlanders were said to distrust—or hate—the English, and Iain himself established as this grumpy, stern, and prejudiced person. So why, then, are these prejudiced Highlanders all of a sudden smiling and loving this woman two seconds after the first meeting? I found it difficult to reconcile established tone with what we saw during Judith's pickup, and it was something that irked me throughout. It felt as though she circumvented a lifetime of ingrained prejudice simply because she was beautiful and jovial, which I didn't find very realistic. In a similar vein, the whole ambush and Maclean scenes were. . .weird? There's no way an enemy would share his life story in the middle of an ambush!
On a similar note, I also found the Iain's attraction too insta-love for my tastes. We go from strangers to snogging and thinking of future possibilities in no time.
That being said, I thought that there was a really good constant, natural flow to the scenes, and plot points developed in a way that kept things moving quite nicely. There was also a few small scenes that I thought were quite funny, like the wedding scene.
One of the standout qualities of this book was the female friendships. I loved Judith and Frances Catherine's (and later others') friendship. It was wholesome, and seeing the close bond and ride-or-die attitude was so sweet.
Overall, it wasn't too bad if you don't read into or think about things too hard. The beginning wasn't to my taste, but the middle and end weren't too bad.
The blurb made me intrigued, the “Letter to the Reader” solidified my excitement.
A bisexual duke, you say? SIGN ME UP.
I absolutely loved Thorne. Such a refreshing take on an often overused and homogenous character archetype; someone who is forthcoming and unashamed in his want for love, who is unapologetically romantic. It's an MMC I haven't seen much of in historical romance—especially when it comes to rakish, confident dukes. He's confident in himself in a way that doesn't come across as the typical, and with extremely human and understandable vulnerabilities that make him all the more endearing. I found him wonderfully refreshing and kind of adorable.
Also, can we take a moment for the names? Titsworth, Cumming, Effinghell, Bonkinbone 😂
And while I very much appreciate the prologue, I felt like the quote:
Katherine Pastorino, known to family and friends as Kit since the day she was born, tried not to stare at her employer's penis.
Kind of disappointed. Having read Devil in Winter, I was hoping that Cam's story would be on par quality- and content-wise, yet I found aspects slightly lacking. Hell, I thought he had more promising chemistry in that short scene with Daisy! That's not to say I didn't necessarily enjoy the book—I did. It was just. . .meh; not the best, not the worst.
I felt that Cam was underutilised in some ways. I felt that his Romany identity was used superficially in that if you ignore the descriptions of his appearance and the occasional tidbit of culture he imparts, he doesn't feel too distinguishable from Kleypas's other MMCs. I'd have loved for rumination's on his identity and freedom to culminate in something other than I've found them in you ☺️😘💕. Romantic and all, but too convenient for my tastes.
Amelia was also meh for me. Why she was so captivating to Cam is lost on me, beyond the evident case of insta-lust. Loved that she was a ride-or-die girly for her family—though her patience for Leo surpassed my own at times.
The supernatural aspect, while somewhat intriguing, just wasn't for me. I liked how it connected with Cam and his Romany beliefs though. I also didn't quite understand the whole thing with Beatrix's condition of stealing things??? She steals things during tumultuous times yet doesn't remember doing so???. . .What??
Also, wtf happened to Christopher Frost?? You can't tell me the guy held two people at gunpoint, threatened to murder one of them to steal priceless jewellery, and was able to ride off into the sunset unscathed and unheard of from again???
Overall, compared to Kleypas's other books (specifically Devil in Winter and Hello Stranger as my favourites), I think this one's pretty forgettable. I only read it to gain some backstory/context for Win/Kev. But the dead gay king was a nice surprise :)
Actually really glad that this was my foray into the Hathaways series; very strong plot and characters—probably one of the strongest in Lisa Kleypas's oeuvre, imo. I wasn't expecting to like/enjoy it so much.
Despite my usual dislike of possessive/“alpha” MMCs, I found Kev to be more substantive than the typical, where his overprotectiveness—while no longer necessarily needed—was fuelled by genuine concern and interest in Win's welfare. I thought that they both complimented each other well; Win being someone that's outwardly “delicate” and “fragile” whilst still having strong convictions and somewhat of a backbone that I can admire and commend—especially when the object of her affections, while being endearingly (?) self-sacrificing, was being a bit of a dick.
My one bit of discontentment involves some feelings that Harrow's actions and previous history remained unfinished. We learn a bit as to possible motivations for his past deeds, and learn he's been locked up for poisoning Cam, but I felt that things were left rather half-concluded as to the consequences or further info on him. Maybe it's covered in subsequent books, but I'd have liked to see him get his deserved penance.
I'm not quite sure what I expected going into this, but it for sure wasn't enjoying a romance with a 7ft spider-man nomad with a pop-out dick. (*anyone who knows me...ignore this 😁)
I found the whole political setup—while surface-level in nature—interesting and very much a welcome addition to the overarching romance theme of the story. It added a lot more grit to the plot that I wasn't necessarily expecting, but enjoyed nonetheless. Tbh, the world-building as a whole was an intriguing part; I half-expected this to be a superficial monster romance, so it was a welcome surprise that the plot development went beyond.
On that note, I also really enjoyed Ivy and Ketahn's initial meeting/relationship development, from the way differences and respective oddities were highlighted and discussed to how the language barrier was tackled and overcome. It reminded me a lot of Tarzan and Jane's initial connection 😂 I thought it was done really well and realistically (or as realistic as a story like this can be).
Overall, I'm actually kind of glad that an obscure Reddit thread lead me to reading this for shits and giggles. Intrigued to read the rest of the series :)
I didn't expect to feel so intrigued by this book from the get-go, nor be as content reading it as I was.
That being said, I do think the latter half post-reveal went a bit too quick for me. It felt like the build up to the reveal/relationship and other major plot points started off well but concluded so quickly that it felt like loose ends were tied up quickly just for the sake of it, as opposed to it feeling natural and earned.
Along those lines, the whole Nikiok plot line felt really rushed and slightly underdeveloped. I thought that the mystery and intrigue was set up quite well, but the execution was a bit lacklustre and was just a bit meh overall.
Those are just the ones I can think of at the moment. Overall, if you don't think too hard or look too much into things, it's a pleasant and intriguing read. As others have mentioned, the execution of the whole “human as pet” was done well compared to other books.
Having really enjoyed Lord of Scoundrels I thought to try another favourite in the Scoundrels series, and while not besting Lord of Scoundrels for me, I still very much enjoyed this book.
Most likely my favourite thing that I really enjoyed seeing throughout the book was Vere's overt vs covert personality. I loved the duality and the moments where we saw more of that vulnerable side to him. I thought this was done extremely well—not in any way incongruent with his established personality or backstory, instead serving to strengthen the personality/persona he showcased to the world. I think Vere's character as a whole was done extremely well.
This book could be anywhere between a 3.75-4 for me.
First of all, so happy to have discovered books set outside the “main” series trio (Ravenels, Hathaways, and Wallflowers). It's purely my own ignorance in not looking through Lisa's oeuvre for other works, but so happy that I finally did! 😂
Immediately, I was hooked on this book. The initial setup and character dynamics were chef's kiss. I was so intrigued by Derek as a character and the workings of a world so different to what I've read in the Ravenels and Wallflowers series.
That being said, I think the first half of the book is much stronger than the latter. I found that the second half unfolded much like a bad soap opera in terms of events and location changes. That's not to say I didn't necessarily enjoy it; I just wish the second half unfolded in the same natural, non-overdramatic way of the first half—which I understand the dramatics were deliberate. I'm just personally not too fond of bombs going off constantly, especially when the first half was so promising a setup 😂
My main and only real gripe with this story was WHY did Sara have to be assaulted—almost raped—for their “happy ever after” ball to get rolling? I despise when violence against women is used as purely a plot device. I can understand some substantive reasons behind it in terms of Derek's development—which, again, I take issue with; utilised to further a man's development—but I think the outcomes fall short of the reasonings. Similarly, I found attitudes around explicit consent to be lacking compared to Lisa's more recent works.
Overall, while I have some complicated thoughts surrounding how I feel about this book, I very much enjoyed it in the grand scheme of things. Derek Craven's development at the end, as well as the girl dad reveal, was such a wholesome touch. Will definitely be searching for some hidden gems in Lisa's other books!
I wasn't expecting to like this book as much as I did. I definitely wasn't expecting it to be my favourite in the series (so far; I read them based on intrigue, not order 😬).
Having read Devil in Winter—my foray into the Wallflowers series—I'd firmly placed it as my predictable favourite, so colour me surprised at now having it displaced! This book is on par with my favourites from the Ravenel series, and has everything I enjoy in a historical romance: a variable and compelling plot that has its twists and turns but also its more subdued moments, that doesn't detract from the buildable romance and overall journeys of the MCs. I'm not usually a fan of overly domineering MMCs, but found Simon quite likeable and compelling as a love interest. If anything, he's a top contender for me in this series.
Overall, I found this a wholly enjoyable read—from the natural developments of Simon and Annabelle's relationship to the endearing elements of seeing the Wallflowers at their beginnings. Plenty of “protective/attentive Simon”, which was most definitely appreciated as I love a good protective MMC moment. Reluctant to head to the subsequent (and my final) book in the series as I'm reluctant to witness evil Sebastian, but Westcliff has my interest piqued.
I've returned to historical romance after my OCD's been making fantasy reads too difficult, and where best to continue than with a favourite author?
I will say, I had high expectations going into this novel; I heard it's a fan favourite in the Wallflowers series, and Matthew is a favoured MMC too. Whilst the story didn't capture me as much as Evie/Sebastian's story, I did very much like Matthew as a love interest, and the story wasn't bad by any means. The story was okay, but I read for Matthew.
I did find Lillian a bit aggravating at times—deliberate, I know; a kudos to Lisa Kleypas in making us see as Daisy would—but adored how ride-or-die she was for her sister. I'm a sucker for aggressively loving older siblings.
Despite having not read the series in its entirety (I'm sorry! I like to pick and choose unless my interest is piqued 🙈), the ending with the four Wallflowers was very touching. I think the friendship between the four is the best thing about this series.
After being in the depths of a book slump where I could only re-read a favourite series, I'm so happy I decided to give this book a try (after having it on my TBR for ages)!
I was immediately enticed, finding the world-building and set up extremely interesting—not to mention the Middle Eastern-inspired influences that I haven't found in any other series. I did find the initial explanations surrounding the Wheel slightly confusing to fully understand, but I think that's just me 😂
I wholly enjoyed Naime and Makram; both parallel characters yet different in very distinguishable ways that thus allowed them to stand as individual characters instead of simply existing to become a couple, if that makes sense? I really felt the strength of Naime that goes beyond the superficial “strong female character” that feels so prevalent in fantasy genres; someone who feels real and authentic in that strength, but also deeply human in her emotional and environmental vulnerabilities, and how these perceived “weaknesses” only serve to add to her strength. And don't get me started on Makram's devotion and obsession with Naime, as well as his journey to self-acceptance (the whole thing with the inner child kept inside was...🥲).
Overall, a book that's put an end to my painful reading slump—which is a testament to its engaging plot (that came together without feeling contrived), interesting world, and complex characters. If this is a debut novel...holy shit. SO excited to read the rest of this series.
I loved this so much it brought me out of a reading slump.
I've been devouring books non-stop for the past few months (like finishing multiple in a week) and thought I'd finally reached my limit. Books just weren't hitting it for me; I was DNFing so many. So I took some advice and started to re-read old favourites in the hopes of spurring some love for it again. The Wraith Kings series was top of my list; I absolutely loved the first book, Radiance. I wasn't expecting to like this book as much as I thought I was, but I'm so happy it surpassed my expectations.
One thing I really appreciated was the continuous emphasis on attractiveness that goes beyond appearance that's central to this series (or at least from Ildiko/Brishen's and Anhuset/Serovek's perspective). But dear Serovek was infatuated from the beginning—and for reasons that don't follow the “conqueror”/notch-in-the-belt mindset. I found it such a natural progression in how Anhuset came to love Serovek, and liked the parallels to Brishen's own journey of falling for Ildiko.
I also really liked the subtle but significant tells of Serovek's character, one being how others omit her title as sha or merely reducing her to a woman of her race, versus his constant use of her title and seeing her as a warrior, regardless of her gender—especially when diminished by others. It just made him all the more likeable, on top of his deeper qualities that we get to learn about that serve to make him a multifaceted character. I also love that his charm was strong enough to worm its way through Anhuset's layers 😂
One thing I will say is that I feel this book could've gone through one last round of editing. There were sentences in some places that just didn't read well to me.
Overall, definitely a top spot contender for me in the series, and serving to reinforce why this series as a whole has been amongst my favourite reads this year ❤️
For such a short story, I really liked this!
It gave us an opportunity to see Brishen in his where-is-my-wife era, whilst simultaneously showing that Ildiko's strong in her own way. I didn't quite understand why Ildiko wouldn't have been able to be kept alive by Ineni long-term, even for the purpose of renewing the spell so that she could cosplay as Ildiko forever should it wear off (disregarding her subpar spell casting 😂), but maybe more of this will be covered in the next book.
One thing that did make me slightly uncomfortable was the allusions to sex when Brishen was plastered. Things that are toe the line of dub-con aren't my cup of tea, but that's just me!
Overall, a lot was packed into this short novella and I really enjoyed it despite not fully grasping why certain things were so set in stone. I'm so excited for the release of the next book!
Okay, I have a lot of feelings about this book that I'm hoping I can convey eloquently and without tumbling into a post-reading infused rant.
My first thoughts had to do with the initial banishment; I found it rather difficult to reconcile how it was done—how what she was saying didn't match the reality of their joint experiences. How she mentions becoming “bored” of him despite over a decade of close friendship, that she couldn't love a mere servant despite her closest parental figure also being someone of “low” birth. I firmly believe that this should've been done differently, and more believable, to convey Aline's need for McKenna to believe she no longer loves him without contradicting everything established at that point in the book.
To that end, I would've also have liked to see more of their time apart. It feels as though we get the separation and then boom, the reunion. I would've enjoyed seeing some of McKenna's perspectives on his time in New York, and his feelings perhaps during his travels back to England.
As for the relationships between the couples, I felt like the affection and intimacy came a lot quicker than I was expecting. I can understand it a bit better for McKenna/Aline—Aline wanting to dabble in the past as much as she's able to, wanting to give McKenna that sense of vengeance fulfilled—but I would've liked to have seen more build-up in both relationships. Maybe this build up could've been done if the couples had separate books, which is something I think I'd have enjoyed a lot more.
Relating to that, by the end, I felt extremely annoyed at Aline. I literally had a ffs moment while reading McKenna's initial love confession. I understand the deep-rooted fear, the anxiety, how scary it would be to tell the man you love about something so personal and life-changing—and worried that it would influence his decisions and feelings, but My. Fucking. God, it didn't make it any easier to read. It may be in part due to my feelings on Aline and her decision, but McKenna deserved so much more in that moment. I felt quite angry on his behalf; to have poured out his feelings, been more vulnerable than he's ever been, practically begging for this woman to show even an ounce that she loves him, only for her to throw it back in his face with the exact same excuses as before??? Fuck. No.
The only saving grace at this point for me was Gideon/Livia. A green flag of a man that demonstrated from day dot his attraction and feelings for Livia, and wholeheartedly threw himself into growing into the man she deserves.
On the note of green flag men: Adam (ADAMMMM 🫶). One of my reasons for being rather dissatisfied with the ending is that we never heard more about Adam. Granted, he's not a major character, but I felt like he was so easily discarded post-refusal of his proposal. I'd have loved to see his and Aline's relationship once she moved to America. Considering they're besties, I'd have expected something cute about him visiting or something. In some ways, I want to see Aline's future in a marriage of friendship with Adam. The future he painted was so wholesomely beautiful.
Relating to the above, I was dying for some of their relationship post-reconciliation—for both couples; how McKenna's/Aline's loves differed, comparing their young love to the love they have later; how time and hurt and distance and their unending love changed and matured, as well as more of an in-depth look at Gideon/Livia's reunion. Rather disappointed that we didn't get that :(
To finish an overly long review, I found this a good read that, while fine, fell a bit short...personally. I always enjoy Lisa Kleypas, and while it was definitely by no means among the worst of her books, I found aspects more frustrating than I cared to read for—hence a rating lower than I tend to give for her books.
I was quite excited to read this book, and while it didn't quite merit the level of said excitement, it was still a lovely, pure, and wholesome read.
The first thing—and my favourite—that I noticed right off the bat was the brilliant writing. It's what I would consider perfect writing; numerous, dry wit, where the refined narration allows that dry wit to stand out further and make it all the more funny. The way scenes and feelings were described, the ability for built up to feel natural, as if experiencing it yourself; I absolutely adored it, and will definitely be perusing Emily's other books for that reason.
I found both Seth and Matilda were extremely lovable characters. I thought Matilda's use of academic knowledge when it comes to rationalising her attraction to Seth wholly sweet and endearing, likening it to evolutionary or animal contexts over the fact that she was just attracted to her employer—which who can blame her 😂
And don't get me started on Mr. Seth Hawkins; a total green flag. Something I truly loved was that marriage wasn't immediately proposed when trouble arose, as is so often done in a shit-I'm-going-to-be-pawned-off type situation. As he said himself, it allowed for her to retain the autonomy and freedom that she'd only just achieved—something which had been withheld from her; allowing it to be on her own terms and her own choice, beyond a decision done under duress. The gentle way he helps her work through her thoughts and feelings without speaking for her was such a nice thing to see in a historical romance, where men are often controlling and domineering.
Also, “his governess”?...FUCK.
Overall, a solidly lighthearted (ish) read that makes me wish more regency/historical MMC's were like Seth :)
Having first read the Ravenel series, Sebastian/Evie's story was quickly put on my TBR. I'm not sure whether it's because I had ample exposure to their relationship in the Ravenels, or whether it's because this book is considered the strongest in the Wallflower series, or what, but it goes toe-to-toe with what I consider the strongest of the Ravenel series—which I was surprised by, having expected it to feel slightly dated. I found there to be a good plot that doesn't feel overburdened or too sparse; good character dynamics, without feeling forced; a decent redemption/development arc, and a solid romance plot.
On that note, it was really nice and interesting to see the beginnings of their relationship, and especially the difference between Ravenels/older Sebastian versus Wallflowers/younger Sebastian. The differences and developments are clear in how he's portrayed in both: childish arrogance vs. mature self-assuredness; inherited power vs. earned power; emotionally inhibited vs. unreservedly expressive.
Also, you can definitely tell that Lisa Kleypas's writing has improved between the Wallflowers and the Ravenels series—as you'd hope for during the decade between the start of both. One thing I did feel, and notice others did too when reading reviews, was the slight uncomfortableness of some of the more intimate scenes. I think Lisa did explicit consent much better in the Ravenels series.
Overall, I quite enjoyed this read. I wish there was a series just for Sebastian and Evie, as I'd love to see more of how he became the man we see in the Ravenels, as well as seeing Evie come into her own a bit more and develop some of that quiet confidence.
This book could mean anywhere from a 3.75–4 for me.
Going into it, I thought that Tom Severin made for an interesting and complex character, and was interested to see how his character fairs romantically. Now, at first, I thought that Tom's initial frozen-heart-melting felt a bit too quick and contrasting to what I personally thought of his character. But as the story progressed, it felt like the true changes and character development in Tom happened more gradually; his superficial want and desire moulding into something a bit deeper, which was really nice to witness. I also found Tom to be quite funny and quick-witted with his one-liners:
“If you ask me, a woman would benefit far more from a diversified investment portfolio than love.” (sound advice I will be taking 😂)
“...if you could just overlook this one small issue of my inability to form emotional attachments to other human beings, we'd be very happy together.”
“Wh-what would you call a middle-aged lady who's never married?”“A woman with standards?” West suggested.
I didn't love it as much as other books in the series; coming off the back of Hello Stranger—my favourite book in the series thus far—it had a high bar to reach. Nevertheless, I still very much enjoyed reading!
I'm actually really glad that the premise of the story wasn't mainly about Phoebe reconciling her feelings for Henry's former bully; instead focusing on demonstrating West's character and love for Phoebe and her family (and difference from his old ways) through his reluctance to have his past influence their futures and standing. I felt like this was a much better arc that reconciled past vs present West, and more compelling for Phoebe's character, as well as allowing him to develop a really nice relationship with Sebastian. It was also touching to see emotion from a man like West, who's character stereotype is so often depicted as too manly and gruff to show feelings. My only gripe is NO EPILOGUE? 😭
On that note, it was really nice to see more of the Challon's and see some scenes that were glossed over (deliberately, now I see) from Devil in Spring. I've been meaning to read Sebastian/Evie's book, and this has only served to reinforce it!
Excited to read the next book :)
I made the (looking back, slightly flawed) decision to read this after Hello Stranger (#4), thinking it would be good to get a better sense of West before diving into his book. In my defence, I wasn't expecting to read the whole series! That being said, I'm, in some ways, rather glad I didn't read this book first; I'm unsure how I feel about it.
My main gripe is my feelings towards Kathleen and Devon's compatibility. While I appreciate Devon's pragmatism, and how he feels a good friend and family member, I just don't like him romantically. Similarly, while I appreciate Kathleen's backstory and her protective instincts towards her found family, I just felt that her and Devon were ill-suited. Kathleen came off as cantankerous (googled to make sure it's what I thought it meant 😂) and Devon as wholly brutish in many ways. I was sort of on-board with their budding connection, but I felt the whole pregnancy saga put a real dent in whatever you'd call their relationship. I enjoyed their relationship a lot more when I didn't know it very well 😂
Slightly off-topic, but having started from Marrying Winterborne (#2), I originally assumed that Rhys's apology to Kathleen was acceptable and just. However, having now read the scene, I found Rhys's attitude and words to be disgusting, and his apology in #2 wholly lacking. I understand that we don't yet see Rhys as a whole in this book, but I found him too aggressive and controlling to be comfortable (something I also found in his book).
Overall, compared with the stronger books that I've read so far in this series (thinking specifically of Hello Stranger), I can't say I was very impressed with this book. For those wanting to get into the series, I'd recommend reading Helen/Rhys's bits in this novel and skipping to the second—that is, unless you'd like to get an earlier picture of West. The subsequent books in the series are much better!
I feel like I always enjoy each book in this series more than the previous.
I loved the different atmosphere and vibe that this had to the previous books, and the cumulative build-up and revelation that begun in Devil in Spring. I found Garrett to be a really interesting heroine—her backstory something I could read a book on in itself. I loved the balance between her self-assuredness and vulnerability, and how Ethan both uplifts and protects both sides. Ethan is definitely a favourite MMC in this series for that reason alone; wholly smitten but doesn't allow that to restrict or infantilise her, recognising Garrett for the incomparable woman that she is—and, if anything, loving her all the more for it.
Beyond the romance, I found the side plots and the historical aspects of medicine and detective work to be really interesting to read about, and gave some really nice substance to the plot beyond the romance.
On that note, one thing I also really appreciate is the author's notes in these books! The series covers so many interesting aspects of the period that I love the info dump in the author's notes almost as much as the novel itself.
One thing I was rather disappointed in was NO EPILOGUE? 😭 The last scene was so wholesomely perfect that I was looking forward to seeing a bit of their future. Hoping to get a bit of that in the next book 🤞
For someone who presupposed that Marrying Winterborne would remain a favourite in the series, I'm happily surprised that I enjoyed this equally, if not slightly more.
I found Pandora's character to be wholly endearing and charming—and I firmly believe she will stay my favourite Ravenel no matter the other books. She was substantive, and her witty humour had be laughing a few times while reading. While Gabriel's interest came a bit quick to be realistic to his character type, in my opinion, I really enjoyed how well-matched their characters were, without sacrificing their beliefs and going against their established personalities. He was endearingly patient with her; respecting and indulging in her oddities without an air of being condescending to a scatterbrained woman, or pandering to an overactive child. Well, mostly. During the times where it did feel mollycoddling, I felt it was done in a way where it was what she needed at the time, given her upbringing—almost like healing her inner child.
One thing I love about these books is the writing. Granted, I haven't read too many historical/regency era novels to have a knowledgeable repertoire, but Lisa Kleypas has to be among my favourite authors in the genre. I found the way she wrote Pandora's injury scene—the disorientation, the sensory dissonance, the overwhelm—to be really well done in conveying that sense of confusion and hey, what just happened?
Overall, a (mostly) lighthearted and enjoyable read! Onto the next book in the series! :)
For what Radiance lacked in action and angst, this sure made up for.
While not delving into too much, I thought it had a really strong balance of high-pressure stakes while not feeling too angsty or tense. Just enough material to sink your teeth into without feeling overwhelming and taking away from the romance—if anything, only serving to fuel it.
Brishen is so wholesomely sweet (and sexy), and I love the strength of character that Ildiko presents. Definitely a well-matched couple that balance each other out.
Definitely staying as a favourite (relatively) low-stakes romantasy with strongly developed characters and plot. I definitely see the first book as a re-read for me especially; a twist on the whole “opposites attract” that I haven't yet come across anywhere else. Onto the next book in the series! :)
This was exactly what I needed it to be: a relatively lighthearted, easy read, with some good romance. I found Guinevere so wholesomely endearing, and the dynamic between both her and Oskar was a good blend of heartfelt and passionate.
100% understand and agree why many describe this as a “cosy romantasy”; it's exactly that. Short and sweet with enough action to add some flare, though isn't bogged down by overly complex or detailed world-building/fantasy elements.
Overall, a relaxing, cosy read that I very much enjoyed :)
I went into this not expecting anything, but holy shit; I loved this book. Definitely one of my best reads this year. Where to fucking begin!
Started reading for the demon x human love story; stayed for...everything else. At its core, it's a story about love, self-acceptance and growth, and found family. But there's so much more that I just wasn't expecting! Deeper questions and reflections on so many different things—things that had me relating to so many different aspects of this book, and quotes that really stuck with me. So many different views, commentaries, lessons, things to think about. While I wholeheartedly loved reading about Bel and Lily and all the others, I wasn't expecting to simultaneously reflect and think and realise and want so many different things in—and for—my own life. It feels like a book that's so much more than a love story.
Bel is the sexiest bean ever, and Lev is such an awkward lil sweetheart. Asmodeous made me cackle, and Greg's the definition of hard outside, soft inside.
I'm patiently but excitedly waiting for the next book in the series, already giddy at the prospect of Greg and Penny.
Also, “feckless cuddle slut” will now be my new epithet.