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fresholivebread's reviews
645 reviews
You Can Die by Rebecca Zanetti
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Laurel and Huck gets tangled up in another serial killer case involving her father. The romance between our MCs is moving slowly but steadily. They decided to give dating a go in the last book, and they now gotta maneuver their personal and professional relationships. Laurel's attempts to be less literal and read social cues are amusing and rather cute. Huck is as protective as ever, and is more obvious about showing his affection through words and actions.
They're also a couple that talked things through and I loved that. The small intimate moments of touches and glances are 😍. The trust and support between them is super solid, and there's a surprise at the end. The murder plot disturbing and well crafted, and Laurel's sister (and father) is a terrible terrible person that needs to GTFO, despite the intriguing Holmes/Moriarty dynamic between them.
They're also a couple that talked things through and I loved that. The small intimate moments of touches and glances are 😍. The trust and support between them is super solid, and there's a surprise at the end. The murder plot disturbing and well crafted, and Laurel's sister (and father) is a terrible terrible person that needs to GTFO, despite the intriguing Holmes/Moriarty dynamic between them.
You Belong With Me by Arianna Pryor
adventurous
dark
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
A bartender goes toe-to-toe with her new boss while an unknown stalker lurks. Our MCs are not very likeable at first - Alanna is bit of a bitch and Andreas is a jerkface. But she fire, and she pushes back often. The instalust vibes at start were weird and very wtf (what's with the inappropriate spanking?!?), and I really just couldn't gel with their romance. Andreas does shed his jerk persona to become a nicer person, and he becomes very protective of Alana.
They make a little more sense as a couple in the later parts and there're some good moments, though orgasm denial is not my kink 😂. Alana is also stupidly stubborn, which can be frustrating. There's also the perspective of the stalker, who's very creepy, but it makes the suspense more engaging. It's a decent debut, just that the romance needs more depth. And the writing felt mechanical sometimes.
They make a little more sense as a couple in the later parts and there're some good moments, though orgasm denial is not my kink 😂. Alana is also stupidly stubborn, which can be frustrating. There's also the perspective of the stalker, who's very creepy, but it makes the suspense more engaging. It's a decent debut, just that the romance needs more depth. And the writing felt mechanical sometimes.
All Kinds of Tied Down by Mary Calmes
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
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? It's complicated
4.25
Two US Marshals work their cases while redefining their relationship. Calm and rational Miro has been pining for his brash, impulsive partner/best friend, Ian. First off, I loved their friendship. They're each other's confidantes, there's solid trust, and the banter between them is hilarious. The romance builds slowly - Ian defines as straight (but he's very attached to Miro) - and the sexual tension is written well.
There's a mutual dependence between them, and it's lovely when they finally get together, though the transition felt a bit abrupt. There's a unexpectedly different dynamic in bed, which makes for some interesting steamy times. There's plenty of OTT action but it's entertaining as heck. It starts slow though, and things feel a little messy/jumbled at times. It's kinda hard not to compare this to the Cut & Run series but it stands strong on its own.
There's a mutual dependence between them, and it's lovely when they finally get together, though the transition felt a bit abrupt. There's a unexpectedly different dynamic in bed, which makes for some interesting steamy times. There's plenty of OTT action but it's entertaining as heck. It starts slow though, and things feel a little messy/jumbled at times. It's kinda hard not to compare this to the Cut & Run series but it stands strong on its own.
Archangel's Kiss by Nalini Singh
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Elena struggles to adjust as a fledging angel, when an ominous invitation arrives. Elena shows more vulnerability here, especially when acknowledging her weakness but never lost her badass edge of strength. Raphael has 100% claimed her, and their banter is just awesome - playful, sarcastic and sweet. He pushes her to be stronger, but he's also very caring and gentle with her. I kinda loved his bossy protectiveness, and the way Elena stands up to him.
Their chemistry remains explosive, their romance is steamy and sweet, and how Elena made Raphael "just a little bit human" is really endearing, though he still keeps his ice cold edge. I'm really loving them as a couple! The Forbidden City saw some action, and that was kinda cool. And the strong side cast of angels and vampires rallying around Elena is great (though the vamps can be meanies).
Their chemistry remains explosive, their romance is steamy and sweet, and how Elena made Raphael "just a little bit human" is really endearing, though he still keeps his ice cold edge. I'm really loving them as a couple! The Forbidden City saw some action, and that was kinda cool. And the strong side cast of angels and vampires rallying around Elena is great (though the vamps can be meanies).
Content Warnings
Graphic: Torture, Violence, and Murder
Trap 'N Trace by Tee O'Fallon
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
An FBI agent protects a socialite when she gets caught up in murder. Both MCs are really likeable, Kat is sweet and dedicated with a big heart while Dayne has a strong, capable presence. Despite initial misconceptions, their shared love for dogs sparks attraction and an eventual strong bond. and a growing understanding. There's good chemistry, though the push-pull and Dayne's struggle with duty makes it kinda slow burn until they gave in to their feelings.
The romance worked fine for me - lots of sweet moments coupled with some good steam, and Dayne is caring and supportive. I liked how they both show some vulnerability, even though Dayne's stubbornness with the whole "separate world" thing got on my nerves. The suspense is kinda so-so though, but the doggos Remy and Angus are all kinds of adorable and gets all my love.
The romance worked fine for me - lots of sweet moments coupled with some good steam, and Dayne is caring and supportive. I liked how they both show some vulnerability, even though Dayne's stubbornness with the whole "separate world" thing got on my nerves. The suspense is kinda so-so though, but the doggos Remy and Angus are all kinds of adorable and gets all my love.
Angel's Blood by Nalini Singh
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
slow-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
A vampire hunter is tasked by an archangel to track a rogue archangel, and she risks her life and her heart in the process. Elena is a gem - she's smart, resilient, snarky and can kick major ass. Raphael is the stone cold, dangerous but sexy archangel who can be a total jerk. Though rife with sexual tension from the start, it's a slow burnish romance. The chemistry and push pull is intense, but there's a lot for them to work through, not to mention Raphael keeps thinking about offing Elena (kinda Anne Stuart-esque).
The pacing of the romance and action is well balanced, and Raphael's walls coming down is a sight to behold. The sweeter moments between them are a treat, and there're also doses of sensual steam. And I can jive with Raphael's possessive protectiveness. The action is great - I liked the world building, and the supporting cast is interesting.
The pacing of the romance and action is well balanced, and Raphael's walls coming down is a sight to behold. The sweeter moments between them are a treat, and there're also doses of sensual steam. And I can jive with Raphael's possessive protectiveness. The action is great - I liked the world building, and the supporting cast is interesting.
Crash & Burn by Abigail Roux
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
It's the final showdown as Ty and Zane take on the cartel, find the mole and live their HEA. After 8 books, here we are. Ty and Zane have never been stronger, and I lived for every single moment of them together. They have come *such* a long way, waded through countless storms, and these two are still standing strong against everything thrown at them. The love and devotion between them are everything, and they would burn the world down to protect each other.
Their wedding is perfect, and they're 100% among my OTPs in book world. The whole gang is back in the final stand-off, with all of them rallying (even Julian and Preston) around Ty and Zane. The action and adrenaline are a rush with all the crazy plot twists. Their HEA is beautiful, and I couldn't have asked for a better ending (except maybe 100 more books of them ala the In Death series).
Their wedding is perfect, and they're 100% among my OTPs in book world. The whole gang is back in the final stand-off, with all of them rallying (even Julian and Preston) around Ty and Zane. The action and adrenaline are a rush with all the crazy plot twists. Their HEA is beautiful, and I couldn't have asked for a better ending (except maybe 100 more books of them ala the In Death series).
Enter the Duke by Grace Callaway
adventurous
challenging
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
4.5
A Duke in debt teams up with a widow - his ONS from years ago - on a high-stakes treasure hunt. Rhys was an asshole in the last book but shows a better side here. The Rhys that Maggie unearths is a lot more endearing. He learns to takes responsibility for his actions, and strives to be a better man. Maggie is smart, independent and capable. Their relationship is a whirlwind of romance and adventure, with some very steamy chemistry. Seeing them slowly falling for each other is 😍 and his sweet, tender protectivenes of her is just lovely. She sees the real Rhys and his vulnerabilities, loves him for who he is and her love really opens up his heart. The treasure hunt is great fun, and there's no unnecessary conflict with Maggie's (very obvious) secret. Glory (the daughter) is an absolute delight, and Rhys' Chinese heritage is acknowledged.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Child abuse and Domestic abuse
Monster in the Closet by Karen Rose
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
sad
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
An equine therapist bonds with the ranch owner's son while searching for her estranged father, while a killer lurks. Both MCs are likeable - they're strong, resilient and compassionate. They form a connection from start - though Ford is coping with the trauma of his kidnapping + the betrayal by his ex, and Taylor has her own secrets. The romance takes place over a few days, but it felt natural, given all that's happening.
I liked their chemistry and friendship, and there're good moments of them bonding and supporting each other. Ford is also super protective. Their tender and sweet moments offer respite from the darker moments of the suspense, which is chilling and disturbing, and heartbreaking as well. But the early reveal of the villain (who is a real piece of work) is a disservice. Loved seeing the past MCs, Clay and Joseph especially.
I liked their chemistry and friendship, and there're good moments of them bonding and supporting each other. Ford is also super protective. Their tender and sweet moments offer respite from the darker moments of the suspense, which is chilling and disturbing, and heartbreaking as well. But the early reveal of the villain (who is a real piece of work) is a disservice. Loved seeing the past MCs, Clay and Joseph especially.
Until Death by Delaney Diamond
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.0
Reviewed as a duology - a spook gets close to a bookseller for investigative reasons and falls for her. Shanice is a strong FMC, and very caring of those she loves, and she held herself well. Cruz is charming, ruthless but also principled in his own way, and very protective. The romance heats up quite fast - the secrets are not kept for long though Shanice should've stayed mad for a while. There's a lot heightened emotions as they maneuver danger and action. They have pretty great chemistry, and I liked Cruz's tender side when Shanice needs comfort. He puts her first and willingly sacrifices for a future with her. The suspense is kind of middle of the road though, and this ends with a massive cliffy.
Book 2 is a lot more intense - especially the romance. Their reunion is emotional and written well, and I loved all the feelings that came with it, especially from Cruz's side. And it's great to see them fighting hard to stay together from then on. The tender moments of them reconnecting are wonderful. Steamy times are pretty steamy, and I enjoyed how they rediscover and protect each other. The book had a lull in the middle, though it picked up soon after. Cruz and Shanice get their HEA, but some threads in the action plot remains hanging.