Charming Colorwork Socks: A Book Review

"Charming" is the exact word to describe this beautiful book! There are so many charming sock patterns, separated by theme: animals, flowers, food, the outdoors, and holidays. I love the October Halloween socks, the Vitamin C socks, and the Blooming Lavender Socks. I can't wait to make them!

The book itself is beautiful and well laid out. The charts are large and easy to read, and the instructions seem to be clear and to the point. I also love how there's colorwork tips and tricks as well. 

I've seen so many knitters use this book, so I'm very excited to have a copy. I've especially heard good things about Charlotte Stone's German short row heel, so I will update my thoughts when I try it. 

Overall: 5 stars

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

We Redeemed the Rain: A Book Review

Ashely Dill is a MASTER at writing emotional, deep romances, which are my absolute favorite kind of romances to read. I love when characters come together to heal their trauma and become better people both individually and together. And I love when their love helps them view the world differently. It's so inspiring and heartwarming to read. This book has all of that, and it deeply touched my heart.

Love is patient and kind, and that's exactly the kind of romance that develops in this book. The characters are incredibly mature through very difficult times. But this romance also has a lightheartedness to it that had me snort-laughing at some parts. The beautiful love story will take you on a journey through all the emotions.

The cowboy vibes are PERFECT in this book too, and the writing is, of course, phenomenal. I was swept away and couldn't put it down! Highly recommend this beautiful romance. 

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

Thank you, Ashely Dill, for the arc!

Trigger/Content Warnings: child sexual assault, child abuse, PTSD, side character with chronic health issues, suicide attempt

A Sea of Unspoken Things: A Book Review

Okay, I read that in almost one sitting! I was so drawn in with the murder mystery, the mysterious and claustrophobic forest town, and all the secrets the characters kept. Adrienne Young’s writing never fails to captivate me, even when the plot is a bit slower. She really focuses on the atmosphere and the tension of secrets in this book, so don’t expect a lot of action or dialogue or focus on the romance. But nevertheless, it took me on a JOURNEY, and I couldn’t look away. Another win from Adrienne Young!

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

Thank you, Ballantine, for the arc!

Trigger/Content Warnings: fade to black, swearing, murder

The Fury of the Gods: A Book Review

The Viking vibes are perfection in this book. I felt very immersed in the world with the language and accuracy. And it felt good to spend time with the characters again! They have gone through so much in this series, so it was satisfying to see their endings and how they all work together.

However, the plot felt too slow. There wasn't enough tension overall in the first half, and I think it's because we have to wait for all the POVs to get in position for the final battle. I wanted more action leading up to that point. And I did get overwhelmed by the big paragraphs of fighting descriptions. I couldn't easily follow along with the action.

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

Thank you, Orbit, for the arc!

Trigger/Content Warnings: fighting violence and death, gore, torture, fade to black

Fledgling: A Book Review

The futuristic dystopian world was so interesting. I felt immersed in the world once I understood all the politics and futuristic technology.

I also loved all the POVs. There wasn't a single POV that I had to trudge through. Each character had so much going on for them, and I LOVE when there's a villain POV.

The plot was engaging and tense! Once I picked it up, I had a hard time putting it down. The story sets up for an interesting sequel.

However, I did have some dislikes. The writing had some distracting quirks in its style as well as grammar, and one sentence near the end ruined my whole mood with the story. I'm still angry about what happened in that sentence, and don't understand why it had to happen. What was the point?

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

Thank you, Penguin Teen, for the arc!

Trigger/Content Warnings: one fade to black, violence and murder, torture

Knitovation Stitch Dictionary: A Book Review

I’ve been seeing this book used by fellow knitters and designers, so I thought I’d feature it as well! What a versatile and inspiring book to add to your knitting book collection. There are so many motifs in here, and the pages are beautiful and well laid out. I can’t wait to use some of these for some colorwork socks!

There’s also a section for patterns as well as colorwork knitting tips and which yarns/colors work best. This really is such a useful knitting book, one that I’ll be reaching for over and over for years.

Overall: 5 stars

Thank you, Interweave, for the review copy!

Heir: A Book Review

What a joy to be back in this world from Sabaa Tahir! The magic, politics, and cultures in this world are so expansive and interesting, so I'm pleased she is exploring more of this world with new and old characters.

It really warmed my heart to see characters from An Ember in the Ashes series again. There was a good balance in how much we see them and how they influence events, but they also took a backseat so the new generation could take the spotlight. All the new POVs were interesting, and I love seeing them meet up through the story.

The plot is tense, there's some great character growth, and of course there's a cliffhanger at the end. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it whenever I picked it up. However, I never felt fully sucked into it. I often forgot about the story when I put it down and never felt the urgency to see what happens next. (I'm not sure if this is the fault of my weird reading mood or the book.) But I'm still looking forward to the sequel!

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

Thank you, Penguin Teen, for the arc!

Trigger/Content Warnings: one vague open door, graphic violence and murder (including children), abuse, torture, sexual assault (vague on-page), genocide

Once Upon a Boy Band: A Book Review

Nobody writes celebrity romances like Jenny Proctor. She really spends the time to understand what a celebrity's perspective could look like, and how hard living with fame can be. It adds so much tension and originality to a romance. Celebrity romances are quickly becoming my favorite because of Jenny Proctor!

Laney and Adam are wonderful characters to spend time with. Their relationship grows organically, and I love their communication and support of each other. Every scene with the two of them is really sweet, and I love seeing them grow together through overcoming their own issues and relationship issues too. 

My one critique is I wanted more justice for a "bad guy" in the end. It seemed like everything was solved really quickly and easily, and I wanted more push and pull to have closure and be satisfied with the ending. But otherwise, this book was really cute and another win for Jenny Proctor!

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

Thank you, Jenny Proctor, for the arc!

Trigger/Content Warnings: past parent death from cancer, kisses

So True a Love: A Book Review

Right away, I was entertained and captivated by the suspense with the robbery! I love that Verity is fearless and determined to solve it. And I love Verity and Nathaniel's banter and friendship as they work both in competition and together to solve the mystery. Their relationship unfolds naturally and beautifully, and I loved the quiet moments they shared together.

Overall, the plot is quick and engaging, and there's some great character growth in the main characters overcoming their pasts to deal with the present. It's a perfect, quick regency read that feels unique and is memorable. 

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

Thank you, Shadow Mountain, for the arc!
Releases September 3, 2024

Trigger/Content Warnings: mild violence, kidnapping, kisses

A Monsoon Rising: A Book Review

Words are FAILING ME with how much I loved this sequel!!!! The Hurricane Wars was one of my favorite books last year, so I had pretty high expectations for A Monsoon Rising. And let me just say, this sequel hit every. single. mark. 

The romantic angst is still there, but there's so much of Alaric and Talasyn working together too. It made my heart MELT. They are constantly in a push and pull with each other, so there was always tension to keep me hooked. I loved them examining their past traumas with each other and tentatively trying to figure out their feelings as well as where their loyalties lie. It's a perfect mix for an engaging, romance-heavy plot.

Not to be outdone, thought, is the actual saving-the-world plot. The inevitable threat of the end of the world also ramps up the tension, so even though there's not a lot of action or fighting scenes, I still felt like I couldn't put this book down easily. And also . . . the PLOT TWISTS?? THAT CLIFFHANGER ENDING THAT WAS EVEN WORSE THAN HURRICANE WARS?!?!?!?!?!? I need the next book right now!!!!!!

This series has the potential to be in my top 3 favorites of all time. I love the emphasis on the romance, it has all the Kylo Ren and Zuko vibes with the MMC that my heart could want, and I am entertained and engaged the entire time while reading. I love these books with all my heart.

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

Thank you, Avon and Harper Voyager, for the arc!
Releases Dec 10, 2024

Trigger/Content Warnings: parent abuse, fighting and violence, death, three open door scenes

Rebel Summer: A Book Review

A new, cute romance from Cindy Steel! I love the small island setting with everyone knowing everyone, the fun outdoor activities, and all the summer vibes. The characters themselves have depth too. Dax and Ivy each have some past trauma they haven't fully gotten over, and I love that Cindy Steel used this to bring the two of them together. Give me all the supportive, cute relationships! 

This book has a fun and unique plot too. It seemed a little too silly to me sometimes, but that may be the serious realist in me. But I won't deny that it held my attention. I think this book is the perfect beach read—not too serious, but something you can easily sit and enjoy.

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

Thank you, Cindy Steel, for the arc!
Releases July 31, 2024

Trigger/Content Warnings: parent manipulation, sibling abandonment, mild sexual assault, kisses

Beneath These Cursed Stars: A Book Review

Absolutely loved being back in this world after the previous duology. It's such an immersive and expansive universe with lots of fae/human places to explore. And I loved that this time we could experience everything through Brie's sister, Jasalyn. She definitely deserved her own story after what she went through in the previous duology! Jasalyn is a character you instantly want to root for after all her trauma and subsequent mental health challenges. She has her own quiet strength that you see blossom through the story. I can't wait to find out even more about her in the sequel to this!

There are plenty of big reveals in this book, and even a new POV with Felicity and her hidden identity romance with Misha. I did get frustrated with how long the hidden identity went on, but overall the book kept me entertained, and of course left me on a cliffhanger. I'm anxiously awaiting the next book!

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

Thank you, HarperTeen, for the arc!
Releases July 30, 2024

Trigger/Content Warnings: past torture and trauma, mild violence and murder, one vague open door scene

Summer in the Highlands: A Book Review

This collection of romantic short stories was an utter DELIGHT to read. I was instantly transported to beautiful Scotland with such atmospheric descriptions of the landscape and its people. It was the perfect setting for romance!

What I love most about these stories is the characters. They all have such incredible growth. The authors all did a commendable job giving us a full romance and deep character growth with how short the stories are! I feel attached to all the couples and their stories. Each romance felt unique to me, and once I started each story I had trouble putting it down again. This collection is truly perfection, and one I will be recommending for years!

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

Thank you, Nichole Van, for the arc!
Releases June 25, 2024

Trigger/Content Warnings: war violence and injury, mild injury, parent deaths, mild physical abuse, closed door

Knitting Books Feature

Today I’m highlighting some recent pattern books I got! Be sure to check these out if you’re interested.

LOVELY LACE KNITS
The beautiful lace patterns in this book feel timeless and classy. There’s a good variety of projects: hats, shawls, scarves, sweaters, etc. All patterns are size inclusive and are clearly written out! And I love how the book is organized into unique categories: nature-inspired textures, fuzzy and dainty designs, romantic patterns, and joyful designs.

KNIT SHAWLS & WRAPS IN 1 WEEK
The patterns in this book are expertly organized by season, and it even has a section on cowls. This book feels comprehensive with its variety of patterns! I think shawl knitters will find every pattern and technique they need in this book.

THE NORDIC KNITTING PRIMER
Every single pattern is stunning in this book. And I love how it has a colorwork 101 section at the beginning, so even beginners can learn everything they need to before they begin. Even the book is organized from beginner to master, so this book appeals to a wide skill set! All patterns are size inclusive, and several have step-by-step pictures of techniques needed.

Thank you, Page Street Publishing, for these review copies!

Beneath a Crescent Shadow: A Book Review

What really drew me into this book is its medieval Serbian setting. The story is rich with historical details, and I was fascinated with the culture and politics of the time. Add in marriage of convenience? I'm a goner. I loved the circumstances that brought Konstantin and Suzana together, and their relationship is so sweet as it develops. There's great tension in the first half of the story with an attempted-murder mystery and Suzana overcoming the trauma of her past. 

However, the last half fell a little flat for me. The romantic tension dropped off pretty immediately after the midway point, and that left Konstantin to make some self-sabotaging decisions. In short, I had no patience for his stupidity. The ending does have a good climax though, and the story ends well. I like the set up for Sowards's next book with Ivan. I'll definitely give it a chance!

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

Thank you, Shadow Mountain, for the arc!
Releases June 4, 2024

Trigger/Content Warnings: past child abuse, past and present (off page) sexual assault, attempted murder, violence and death, kidnapping

The Rom-Commers: A Book Review

There's something in Katherine Center's romcoms that makes me devour them SO fast. The Rom-Commers was no different! I binged this so hard. I never wanted to stop reading it, and even when I had to stop reading, I thought about the characters constantly. I adored this story and its characters.

I loved the setup of two screenwriters writing a romcom together and falling in love along the way! It made for a unique story and the perfect excuse for forced proximity. The two main characters were so vibrant in my mind. I appreciated Emma's wild red hair and her witty, dependable personality. I had a soft spot for Charlie's grumpy but kind demeanor. And I loved the journey they took together discovering what love looked like for them. 

As expected for Katherine Center's book, this book dealt with some tough themes. Emma and Charlie went through some really hard times. But that's what I love about Center's romcoms. The banter and chemistry was delicious, but it was made even more special though the hard times the characters overcame. And while I had some issues with the ending (no spoilers here), I really appreciated this story and would absolutely recommend!

Writing Aesthetic/Style: 5
Plot/Movement: 4.5
Character Development: 5
Overall: 5

Thank you, St. Martin's Press, for the arc!
Releases June 11, 2024

Trigger/Content Warnings: death of a parent (recounted), chronic injury, care-taking, cancer (recounted), kisses, near drowning

Romancing the Grump: A Book Review

This romance is so sweet! Jenny Proctor is quickly making herself a queen in the sweet hockey romcom genre with her Appies character series. This book has all the romcom tropes readers love:

- a soft-hearted grump male main character

- a workplace romance

- fake dating

- one bed

- caretaking during sickness

But most of all, I love the communication with the two main characters. There's tons of banter both in person and over text, and they also have some sweet, heartfelt conversations. They are honest with each other, which always makes me love a romance book more. 

My only critiques are that I wanted a bit more tension, maybe in the female main character development or in the side plots. But I think if you're expecting and excited for a fluffy, feel-good romance, Romancing the Grump would be perfect to pick up! It's very binge-able and has an adorable, sweet romance. Don't hesitate on this next Jenny Proctor book!

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

Thank you, Jenny Proctor, for the arc!
Releases April 23, 2024

Trigger/Content Warnings: workplace harassment, death of a parent (recounted), alcoholism, kisses

Savor It: A Book Review

This book is such a sincere and heartfelt romance. I love the opposite worlds the characters come from: small town farm girl and a Michelin-star New York chef. Opposites really attract in this romance, and I love the constant use of open communication throughout their story.

There are so many motifs that make this romance unique (Sage's robes, for example—iykyk). I also like the themes of overcoming work burnout, figuring out how to parent teenagers, small town versus big city, savoring things while they last, and choosing to live a happy life no matter what that looks like to you. I really identified with that last one, and it made me love and appreciate the journeys the characters went on both together and separately. 

My only critique is that the tension did drag a bit for me at some parts, making me want to skim. But overall, I think this romance is special and worth reading. 

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

Thank you, St. Martin's Griffin, for the arc!
Releases May 21, 2024

Trigger/Content Warnings: death of loved ones (off page), injury, four-ish open door scenes

Fast and Fabulous Knits: A Book Review

Ummm can I make every single pattern in this book?!

Fast and Fabulous Knits by Jaime Doefman was my most anticipated knitting book EVER, and it does not disappoint! Each pattern is so unique, so beautiful, and so versatile. I love how Jaime shows the versatile range of bulky knits, complete with cables, textures, colorwork, and lace! This really is the perfect all-around pattern book for gorgeous, fast knits.

The patterns are all size inclusive, and the instructions are all laid out clearly and beautifully. The photos are bright and fun too. I love flipping through this book, planning future knits! This book is a must have. 

Overall: 5

Congrats to @jaime_creates for such a fabulous book!!
And thank you to Page Street Publishing for the review copy!

A Letter to the Luminous Deep: A Book Review

This incredible book took me completely by surprise. I was not expecting to love it as much as I did! From the beginning, this book pulled me in with its letter format, a tense mystery to solve, and its beautiful (almost academic) writing. The story, the world, the writing, and the characters were all utterly unique to me, and I was intrigued all the way through.

Sometimes there's a risk in writing all letters—risk of losing important information not included in letters, risk of readers' boredom, etc. However, Sylvie Cathrall is an absolute expert in how she manages the format. There's extensive world building to understand, and she utilizes letters to do it in a practical way. I also found the tension to be strong throughout with gathering evidence towards solving a mystery. And the characters! I love that we got all their points of view through letters.

This first book in the series sets itself up for massive potential. It has all the science-academia vibes with a breathtaking underwater world and a hint of fantasy/sci-fi/dystopian all rolled into one. There truly is no other book like this one! I can see how some people wouldn't like it with its more formal, academic writing and slow set-up. But if you give it a chance, it has the chance to captivate you and take you for an unforgettable ride.

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

Thank you, Orbit, for the arc!
Releases April 23, 2024

Trigger/Content Warnings: near drowning, tense underwater scenes, death of family members

The Outlaw Noble Salt: A Book Review

I think this book was written just for me. 

Growing up, I never forgot that I lived in what used to be the Wild West, thanks to my cowboy grandpa and his love for Mormon history, wild west stories, Butch Cassidy, and Native Americans. He told endless stories and wrote scores of fiction books about the wild frontier, so I like to think these stories are somehow imprinted in me too. 

The Outlaw Noble Salt combines my ancestral history, my ceaseless love and fascination with the wild west, and my current love for romances and books that make me cry. I was enthralled with every chapter, and I have a deep love for each character in this book. I feel so grateful to have spent time with these characters and to never forget them. 

The plot, though not full of train and bank robberies, holds its own heart-stopping tension. I was so stressed through this book, wondering how everything would work out. Amy Harmon isn't afraid of addressing difficult subjects and creating a torrent of emotions for the reader. But true to her style, I trust her endings. And this book had the perfect ending I think it could have had. But that didn't stop me from sobbing.

This is without a doubt my favorite Amy Harmon book so far. It touched me in a deeply personal way, and reminded me of hiding in my grandpa's barn with the horses, reading his wild west stories and wondering what it would be like to have nothing but a horse, a saddlebag, a dream, and wide open space. I love this book with my whole heart.

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

Thank you, Amy Harmon, for the arc!

Releases April 9, 2024

Trigger/Content Warnings: fighting violence and death, swearing, miscarriage, sexual abuse recounted, two vague open door scenes

Knitting Light: A Book Review

With spring and summer approaching, I've been wanting to knit lighter tops, but it can be hard to find ones I like on Ravelry and Instagram. This book came at a perfect time!

There is such great variety of tops, tees, and tanks in this book. There's something for every knitter's style here. I also love the attention Marie Greene gives to types of yarn that are best to use for warmer weather, and how to achieve a great fit.

The book is organized well into three different pattern sections: Lace Details, Texture & Color, and Minimalist Designs. The patterns themselves are clearly written, are size inclusive, and have lots of tips and stitch count check-ins.

I can definitely see myself making several of these tops for spring and summer, and I think it's a great staple book for knitters in warmer climates!

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

Cable Knit Style: A Book Review

If you’re a cable knitter, this book would be PERFECT for you. Every single design in this book is stunning. There’s cable pullovers, tees, cardigans—any kind of top you’re looking for!

The organization of this book is more theme-based rather than garment type. It has the following sections: fashion forward, oversized & chunky, simple & clean, and light & breathable. The simple & clean section is my favorite, but I can see myself making something from all of the sections.

The patterns are size inclusive, include schematics and construction notes, and have clear charts. I like how it clearly identifies yarn weight too, instead of listing a yarn I’ve never heard of. It also has a technique section with detailed, full-color photos.

All in all, this is a beautiful and useful book. I think it’s great for the advanced beginner and beyond who loves cable knitting!

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

Queen of Shifting Sands: A Book Review

This book has all the elements of a fantasy I love: a desert setting, forced-proximity romance, secrets to uncover, hidden identity, and political tension. And have you seen the cover?! It's no surprise that this was one of my most anticipated releases this year. 

Right away, this book starts out with a ton of tension. Lystra's whole world turns upside down, and I appreciated her journey with feeling her grief but also leaning on her strength for the good of her people. I love loyal, strong characters. Elerek's world also turns upside down, and I love his underdog story. I also appreciate how different he is from other male main characters in other books with being in a wheelchair and being untouchable from his curse. His trials add a deeper layer of complexity to the plot and the romance. 

Overall, I think this is a great debut. The tension did drag a bit in the middle, and I do wish there was more romance (Elerek being untouchable did not help the romance lol). I hope there's more romance to come in the next book. Otherwise, I love the writing style, world building, and unique characters. I can't wait to see where the next book leads us, especially after that cliffhanger ending!

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

Thank you, Whimsical Publishing, for the gifted ebook!

Releases March 12, 2024

Trigger/Content Warnings: fighting violence and death

A Feather So Black: A Book Review

What I loved most about this book is its atmosphere. It has a lot of One Dark Window vibes mixed with a similar plot with Swan Lake. I'm always on the lookout for a good Swan Lake retelling, so I loved that the plot centered around this! I also liked how all the characters had secrets. It gave the story some good tension. 

Unfortunately, I didn't love the pacing. Nothing much happened. The action scenes were few and far between. The pacing felt disjointed with the characters entering the fae world only once a month for a night, and then all they did was talk. And even with all the talking, I feel like there should have been more reveals and more clarity on the fae world and its history. I got too confused with the info dumps. 

As for the characters, I found Fia to be an interesting character who's battling a nature versus nurture aspect of herself. But I didn't like how her love triangle (maybe love square?) developed. I usually enjoy love triangles, but this one felt weird and awkward. Alas, this wasn't the book for me.

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

Thank you, Orbit, for the arc!

Releases March 12, 2024

Trigger/Content Warnings: violence, mild self harm, child abuse, child kidnapping, a few open door scenes

A Story Spun in Scarlet: A Book Review

No one is more surprised than I am. I really, really wanted to like this. I've heard such great things about Dugan's books, and almost everyone I know loves this book! I just didn't click with the writing style. There are tons of long-winded, flowery descriptions for even the most basic things. It repeatedly pulled me out of the story and put me to sleep a couple times. I also thought some of the sentence structure was really confusing, and I had to reread at times. I also struggled with the pacing of the action scenes. The stories told during the action gave me whiplash, and I had trouble switching from the story in italics to the characters' actions. As a result of struggling through the writing, I didn't feel any empathy towards the characters and their goals. 

Obviously, I am the odd one out with this book, so take my review for a grain of salt. I'm DNFing it for now.

A Knitter's Year: A Book Review

A Knitter's Year is without a doubt the prettiest knitting book I own. I love how the patterns are separated into seasons, making it super easy to find the style of pattern I want. The pictures are whimsical and lush, perfectly highlighting distinguishing features of each knit. The patterns seem to be clearly written as well.

I’ll update this review once I try a few patterns!

Thank you, Search Press, for the review copy!

This Could Be Us: A Book Review

I liked this one even more than Before I Let Go! The plot gets incredibly tense right away, with high stakes and an interesting set up with the enemy-like relationship of the main characters. I could barely put it down with all the plot and romantic tension!

I also appreciated the autism rep with Judah's sons, and Soledad's realistic relationship growth with her daughters through tough times. I can always count on Kennedy Ryan to explore tough subjects within realistic families and circumstances. And there's always an undercurrent of hope and trust and growing through hard times.

My only critique for this book is I got impatient with Soledad's growth. I appreciated her journey of self love in the beginning, but I felt like it carried on for a bit too long. This is just my opinion though!

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

Thank you, Forever, for the arc!

Releases March 5, 2024

Trigger/Content Warnings: swearing, cheating, cancer, divorce, multiple open door

A Heart Sufficient: A Book Review

Whatever I was expecting for this book, I didn't expect the utter BEAUTY and DEPTH of this romance. Oh my goodness, my heart. This is one of the best romances I've ever read that shows true maturity, true growth, and the true meaning of love. I just want to give this book and its characters the biggest, warmest hug.

What I love most is the story's focus on the male POV. Even though we have Isolde's POV too, Tristan's growth is forefront, and being in his head through his villain phase and beyond is a true gift. I don't think I've ever read a romance with the series villain being a main character, but Nichole Van blew this story out of the water. I highly recommend reading her earlier books to get the full view of Tristan's past, all leading up to a beautiful end in A Heart Sufficient.

I'll always remember the beauty of this story, with the greatest character growth in a romance I've ever read. And the chemistry in Tristan and Isolde's romance is UNPARALLELED. Goosebumps all over my body. I will be rereading this book over and over again. It's a true masterpiece. 

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

Thank you, Nichole Van, for the arc!

Releases February 7, 2024

Trigger/Content Warnings: mild swearing, closed door