bookish_selkie's reviews
2054 reviews

Earl Crush is the story of hopeless bluestocking Lydia Hope-Wallace. I was so excited for her story after meeting her in Ne’er Duke Well! Lydia has been exchanging letters with the Earl of Strathrannoch using a pseudonym. Arthur is supportive of her radical opinions and has been a faithful penpal. When Lydia realizes that he needs money, she decides to pay him a visit in person to propose a marriage of convenience. To her shock, she learns that the actual earl has not been corresponding with her at all. As they unravel the truth between them, will Lydia and Arthur fall in love for real?

Earl Crush is a hilarious and delightful romance. Lydia is one of my favorite characters and I was so happy to see her get the romance she deserves. I absolutely loved how Lydia fights her shy nature to make positive social change for all. Alexandra Vasti’s writing is truly hilarious and makes it impossible to put this book down. The connection between Lydia and Arthur is filled with longing and heat. I loved the twist of who really wrote the letters and how they worked together to solve the espionage mystery. The ensemble cast is filled with witty and entertaining characters. I also enjoyed the cameos of characters from Ne’er Duke Well.

Earl Crush is perfect for readers who love a marriage of convenience, witty dialogue, and scorching romance.

Thank you to Alexandra Vasti, St. Martin’s Griffin, and NetGalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I Think They Love You by Julian Winters

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emotional funny hopeful 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

5.0

I Think They Love You is an unputdownable and highly enjoyable adult debut from Julian Winters. Denz has lived his whole life needing to impress his powerful and influential family. To be a Carter means to always have it handled. In their event planning business, a single moment can make or break everything. When Denz’s father announces his retirement, the race is on to see who will be the new CEO. To Denz’s horror, shenanigans occur and he ends up in a fake relationship with the ex who shattered his heart into pieces. As Denz struggles to prove himself to his family, can Braylon and Denz reconcile their past before it’s too late?

I Think They Love You is charming and romantic. I loved Denz and completely understood his desire to both prove himself to and take care of his family. Denz is deeply motivated by preserving what his father sacrificed for. Braylon and Denz have a second chance romance that I really enjoyed, because it made sense to me that they needed time apart to grow before they could reunite. The ensemble cast of friends and family were delightful. Julian Winters’ writing makes you feel like you’re right there in the joyful chaos with these characters. I Think They Love You is a warm and entertaining romance. Readers who love fake dating, queer love stories, strong ensemble casts, and lovable characters will love this book.

Thank you to Julian Winters, St. Martin’s Griffin, and NetGalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.

The Rose Bargain by Sasha Peyton Smith

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adventurous 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

5.0

The Rose Bargain is Sasha Peyton Smith’s latest enchanting story! I loved this take on a magical regency world where a fae queen holds power. Ivy Benton is ready to make her debut into society, but struggles to overcome the scandal of her older sister’s debut. When a mysterious betrothal contest is announced, Ivy risks it all to end up with a crown. As the contest intensifies, Ivy must decide whether she will choose love or power.

The Rose Bargain was fantastic! I loved the cast of characters, especially Ivy and Emmett. As Ivy gets to know both Bram and Emmett, she learns more about her sister’s secrets and the whims of the fae. I really enjoyed the intricate system of magic that comes with a price. The twist at the end took my breath away and made me eager for the sequel! The Rose Bargain is perfect for readers who wish The Cruel Prince and Bridgerton were combined. Readers who love dangerous competitions, costly magic, and excellent characters will devour The Rose Bargain.

Thank you to Sasha Peyton Smith, HarperCollins, and NetGalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Disney High: The Untold Story of the Rise and Fall of Disney Channel's Tween Empire by Ashley Spencer

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informative reflective medium-paced

5.0

Under Loch and Key by Lana Ferguson

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funny lighthearted medium-paced