The Camelot Betrayal: A Book Review

I really enjoyed the first book to this series, The Guinevere Deception, so I was excited to read The Camelot Betrayal too. The second book continued with the unique magic system, epic quests, mystery surrounding Guinevere's origins, and Guinevere's complicated relationships with Arthur, Mordred, and Lancelot. However, I was surprised that almost all the conflicts in this book were continuations of the first book's subplots. This sequel had almost nothing to do with the Dark Queen, and it didn't really answer any questions about the main plot and Guinevere's identity. Because of this, I was a little annoyed at parts. But I'm still really looking forward to the last book so I can get my questions answered and continue with all the characters I love. 

Writing Aesthetic/Style: 4
Plot/Movement: 3
Character Development: 4
Overall: 4

Thank you, NetGalley and Delacorte Press, for the review copy!

For more ratings and reviews and to see what I'm currently reading, visit my Goodreads page here! 

The Arctic Fury: A Book Review

I was pleasantly surprised with The Arctic Fury. The premise drew me in: in 1853, a party of twelve women brave the arctic to lead an expedition to find the lost Franklin Expedition. The story is told in alternating timelines though. The second timeline follows the leader of the group, Virginia, during her trial where she's accused of murdering one of the women. I found both timelines fascinating and engaging, and the way Greer Macallister weaves them together is impressive. I could barely put this book down. I'd highly recommend if you're into historical fiction!

Writing Aesthetic/Style: 4
Plot/Movement: 5
Character Development: 4
Overall: 4

Thank you, NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark, for the review copy!

For more ratings and reviews and to see what I'm currently reading, visit my Goodreads page here! 

Written in Starlight: A Book Review

First off, love the cover. Isabel Ibañez is extremely talented. Second, my high hopes were a little dashed with this one. I loved Woven in Moonlight, but Written in Starlight felt too conventional, too frustrating at times, and too boring. I struggled most with the romance (or really lack thereof). Manuel and Catalina reminded me of Alina and Mal from the Grishaverse trilogy . . . and I didn't especially love both of their romances. The reasons keeping Manuel and Catalina apart weren't enough for me, and I was never really rooting for them in the first place. 

Overall, I'm disappointed in this book. But there was some good character development with Catalina, and I really enjoy Isabel Ibañez's writing style. I'll definitely give her future books another chance. 

Writing Aesthetic/Style: 4
Plot/Movement: 3
Character Development: 3
Overall: 3

Thank you, Page Street Publishing, for the review copy!

For more ratings and reviews and to see what I'm currently reading, visit my Goodreads page here! 

The Gentleman and the Thief: A Book Review

It's been a long time since I've read a 19th century romance, and I forgot how fun and innocent they can be. The premise of The Gentleman and the Thief is fun: a gentleman who secretly writes stories to support himself falls in love with a music teacher who secretly steals back her family treasures. There's also a secret society and a suspicious gambling den. What could go wrong? 

I enjoyed reading this for the most part. The two main characters, Hollis and Ana, are lovable and the plot progresses well. But if I'm being honest, everything was simply lackluster. The romance wasn't thrilling, the plot wasn't tense enough, and sometimes I got confused with all the little details with the society and the criminals' backstories. I think this is the second in a companion novel series though, so that could be my fault coming in late. 

Overall, it was cute. It was fine. I don't think I'd recommend it to just anyone, but people who enjoy "proper romances" would probably enjoy this one as well!

Writing Aesthetic/Style: 4
Plot/Movement: 3
Character Development: 3
Overall: 3

Thank you, Shadow Mountain, for the review copy!

For more ratings and reviews and to see what I'm currently reading, visit my Goodreads page here!