Scan barcode
karin_goodreads's reviews
116 reviews
Leather & Lark by Brynne Weaver
dark
emotional
funny
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
I blinked, and I was finished. That's how fast I read through the second installment in the Ruinous Love trilogy. I finished "Butcher & Blackbird" the same day that I started "Leather & Lark", so the change was really smooth from one story to another.
I was already smitten with Lachlan from the first book and familiar with Lark, so this book was just feeding the already growing interest. Interestingly enough, these two were way more involved in the first book's story than Rowan and Sloane were in this one. It's not a complaint, since they drew me in with their own story, but it seems that in this one we got the same pattern for the third main couple. I don't intend to read the third installment, sorry!
I was already taken by Lachlan in the first book, and when it clicked that Lark and him would be the next main couple, I was sold immediately. They seemed like an interesting dynamic and an unconventional pairing, and as they say, where there's a will, there is a way. And, oh boy, did they make it work!
I love how Lark's portrayal stayed mostly consistent throughout the books, which also made me look back at her differently. What we were experiencing through Sloane and Rowan's eyes versus the reality from Lark's perspective was done really well. (Side note: there were some inconsistencies.) Her character resonated with me, and I really took a liking to her 'show one and be other' struggles. I guess you could call her the sunshine character, but with Lark's statement gold stars and some shadier secrets. A truerock star, but with a cello, if you will. Things weren't as they seemed, which is always a fun road to take. ✨
Well, that is, until you're forced to stop hiding from someone you didn't even expect to be the one to meet the real you. That's Lachlan Kane for you. He's presence was more menacing in the first book, but since we got to see his inner world, once again, the 'show one and be other' statement stands true. I kind of like this scary older bother who is an asshole but actually has his family as his main concern. It felt like we witnessed Lachlan starting to live his own life after so long. From shadow to light. This man was a contract killer who was locked into a lifestyle but wanted out.
And would you look at that, conveniently, Lark was the key to open that lock. From the start there's tension and contrast between these two - Lark is snarky and guarded, while Lachlan is all danger and charm on the outside yet a softy inside. Their chemistry is on the second they meet, but circumstances make them back off, which results in their sharp banter. The switch-up was honestly crazy and quite enjoyable - a fake marriage that benefited them both and gave us some real, and very lethal, family drama. It's always the damn muffins... (P.S I fucking loved Lachlan's boss Leander and auntie Ethel; pure entertainment.) As the Kanes (I know) get used to the married life, their connection deepens. Just as much as there was sugar, there was also spice. And all the while, all sorts of background forces and their own inner shadows drive the story forward without it feeling overwhelming or messy, but perfectly twisted together. The antagonist was compelling but a little underwhelming in the end. I enjoyed the emotional resolution of Lark and Lachlan's journey more than the "mystery", I guess.
I was already smitten with Lachlan from the first book and familiar with Lark, so this book was just feeding the already growing interest. Interestingly enough, these two were way more involved in the first book's story than Rowan and Sloane were in this one. It's not a complaint, since they drew me in with their own story, but it seems that in this one we got the same pattern for the third main couple. I don't intend to read the third installment, sorry!
I was already taken by Lachlan in the first book, and when it clicked that Lark and him would be the next main couple, I was sold immediately. They seemed like an interesting dynamic and an unconventional pairing, and as they say, where there's a will, there is a way. And, oh boy, did they make it work!
I love how Lark's portrayal stayed mostly consistent throughout the books, which also made me look back at her differently. What we were experiencing through Sloane and Rowan's eyes versus the reality from Lark's perspective was done really well. (Side note: there were some inconsistencies.) Her character resonated with me, and I really took a liking to her 'show one and be other' struggles. I guess you could call her the sunshine character, but with Lark's statement gold stars and some shadier secrets. A true
Well, that is, until you're forced to stop hiding from someone you didn't even expect to be the one to meet the real you. That's Lachlan Kane for you. He's presence was more menacing in the first book, but since we got to see his inner world, once again, the 'show one and be other' statement stands true. I kind of like this scary older bother who is an asshole but actually has his family as his main concern. It felt like we witnessed Lachlan starting to live his own life after so long. From shadow to light. This man was a contract killer who was locked into a lifestyle but wanted out.
And would you look at that, conveniently, Lark was the key to open that lock. From the start there's tension and contrast between these two - Lark is snarky and guarded, while Lachlan is all danger and charm on the outside yet a softy inside. Their chemistry is on the second they meet, but circumstances make them back off, which results in their sharp banter. The switch-up was honestly crazy and quite enjoyable - a fake marriage that benefited them both and gave us some real, and very lethal, family drama. It's always the damn muffins... (P.S I fucking loved Lachlan's boss Leander and auntie Ethel; pure entertainment.) As the Kanes (I know) get used to the married life, their connection deepens. Just as much as there was sugar, there was also spice. And all the while, all sorts of background forces and their own inner shadows drive the story forward without it feeling overwhelming or messy, but perfectly twisted together. The antagonist was compelling but a little underwhelming in the end. I enjoyed the emotional resolution of Lark and Lachlan's journey more than the "mystery", I guess.
Bravery has nothing to do with not feeling fear, and everything to do with facing it.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Gore, Sexual content, Violence, Murder, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Animal cruelty, Panic attacks/disorders, Sexual assault, Torture, Blood, and Stalking
Minor: Child abuse, Pedophilia, Grief, Death of parent, and Alcohol
Once again, read the content and trigger warnings section in the beginning of the book!
Butcher and Blackbird by Brynne Weaver
To this:
adventurous
dark
funny
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
We listen, and we don't judge. Who doesn't love it when a game gets a little murderous?
Dark romance is a very subjective genre. I've had my fair share of experiences, and this book (by extension, the whole series) felt like a breath of fresh air. I assume it's because of the main couple, Sloane & Rowan, and their dynamic. Both of them are serial killers who hunt other killers and such. They meet in a quite interesting situation and start an exhilarating game between themselves that also bonds them further with their mutual but held-back attraction.
I thoroughly enjoy the fact that Sloane was the woman she was; I'm so tired of MCs who are like deer caught in headlights. We need more Sloane-like characters. She was a skilled killer who was very meticulous and even artistic in her ways while not removing aspects of her humanity and vulnerabilities. A great other half to a charming but just as deadly Rowan, whose humor and cunningness made him seem less killer-y, which is completely untrue; he just has the ability to present himself as something else on the outside than within.
It was interesting to see the story play out from two different perspectives with all the background action. Maybe it was the time skipping's fault, but one thing that bothered me was the fact that the flow of the book made me feel like I was sometimes missing some development moments. Perhaps the plot could've been slower or more written out in some sections.
Also, the story and the characters can be dark, but it's written in a way that didn't feel disturbing with all the murdery and some other questionable bits. 👀 (Who am I kidding? I love that.) I like how all the characters were in the picture; there weren't just Rowan & Sloane moments, but a story that involved many without it being overwhelming or confusing.
I thoroughly enjoy the fact that Sloane was the woman she was; I'm so tired of MCs who are like deer caught in headlights. We need more Sloane-like characters. She was a skilled killer who was very meticulous and even artistic in her ways while not removing aspects of her humanity and vulnerabilities. A great other half to a charming but just as deadly Rowan, whose humor and cunningness made him seem less killer-y, which is completely untrue; he just has the ability to present himself as something else on the outside than within.
It was interesting to see the story play out from two different perspectives with all the background action. Maybe it was the time skipping's fault, but one thing that bothered me was the fact that the flow of the book made me feel like I was sometimes missing some development moments. Perhaps the plot could've been slower or more written out in some sections.
Also, the story and the characters can be dark, but it's written in a way that didn't feel disturbing with all the murdery and some other questionable bits. 👀 (Who am I kidding? I love that.) I like how all the characters were in the picture; there weren't just Rowan & Sloane moments, but a story that involved many without it being overwhelming or confusing.
The character development from this:
"You'll love me someday."
The next day is not that day.
To this:
"You'll love me someday."
One of my steps falters.
Today is that day.
EXTRA: I did read the bonus chapter "Skullduggery" and let me tell you, that was needed. It was nice to see Rowan and Sloane living their best life in many ways, and a nice way to connect us to the beginning of the second book of the series called "Leather & Lark". And then it was spicy. All I have to say are two words – dragon onesie. Do with that what you will! 💋
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Sexual content, Blood, Murder, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Gore, Torture, Violence, Cannibalism, and Stalking
Minor: Child abuse, Sexual assault, Vomit, and Death of parent
Just read the content and trigger warnings section in the beginning of the book!
Skullduggery by Brynne Weaver
A dragon onesie.
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
3.25
A little bonus chapter for "Butcher & Blackbird". Nice to see Rowan and Sloane living their best life in many ways, and a nice way to connect us to the beginning of "Leather & Lark". 💒🐲
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
System Collapse by Martha Wells
The main plot revolves around the planet and its' colony's future, but I think there was a nice balance between the actions of the story and the inner conflicts of Murderbot. Best of both worlds. And best of ART. (Can you hear the heart eyes?) Gosh, I just love Murderbot & ART's banter, especially how their relationship continues to grow.
It was also interesting to see Murderbot kind of pulled away from the usual setting and put into another complex/stressful situation with new people. Seems like Murderbot is branching out from its beginnings and growing its circle. Another iconic hit that ended in a way that had me in a chokehold. Makes me hopeful and excited for the future installments!
adventurous
emotional
funny
mysterious
tense
fast-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
What are the odds that my 100th written review 🪩 (according to Goodreads) ends up being for the final book in my favorite series? Screaming. Crying. Gnawing at the bars of my cage. I'm nine books deep, and I still can't get enough, and THAT says enough.
We continue on straight from "Network Effect" and Murderbot has to continue its internal conflict withredacted trauma. Love the non-human approach to trauma and its influences and echoes going forward. It's comforting to see someone unravel themselves and re-evaluate their whole being (ok, Murderbot kind of does that every day, but you get what I mean). Don't forget the humor and wit; it really puts the fun in misery.
We continue on straight from "Network Effect" and Murderbot has to continue its internal conflict with
But since the thing that happened I don't think I've had an emotion that wasn't the visual equivalent of a wet blanket crumpled on the floor.
The main plot revolves around the planet and its' colony's future, but I think there was a nice balance between the actions of the story and the inner conflicts of Murderbot. Best of both worlds. And best of ART. (Can you hear the heart eyes?) Gosh, I just love Murderbot & ART's banter, especially how their relationship continues to grow.
It was also interesting to see Murderbot kind of pulled away from the usual setting and put into another complex/stressful situation with new people. Seems like Murderbot is branching out from its beginnings and growing its circle. Another iconic hit that ended in a way that had me in a chokehold. Makes me hopeful and excited for the future installments!
And I had decided, for real this time, which ship I would be on when I left.
"Do you know where we're going next?" I asked ART.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Gun violence, Violence, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Panic attacks/disorders, Slavery, and Colonisation
Minor: Death, Blood, and Trafficking
Life Ceremony by Sayaka Murata
Once again, short stories are a great way to pace myself, but the lengths varied more in this one. I don't feel a particular way about this book, but the investigation into human behaviors and experiences is always fascinating. More so when it's pushed to the extreme, it makes you uncomfortable in an introspective way while finding ways to be relatable.
dark
emotional
funny
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.5
Sayaka Murata's "Life Ceremony" is a collection of unusual and definitely bizarre short stories revolving around fundamental aspects of human existence—societal norms, relationships, and identity. Another thought-provoking piece, sort of in a similar wavelength with Julianna Baggott's "I'd Really Prefer Not to Be Here with You", but take it up a notch with the abnormalities. Honestly, I don't remember much, since it took me so long to get through this book (I had it paused for a LONG time), but the end was smooth sailing. The book was fine, but even with the scandalous stories, I think it will be a little bit unmemorable to me, sorry. We love & support strangeness, though!
- A First-Rate Material - an interesting idea; we do that with animals.
- A Magnificent Spread - no recollection at first, but this might've been about food culture.
- A Summer Night's Kiss -🔹an iconic lady (both of them actually), preach. Comforting.
- Two's Family -🔹defying traditional familial structures? Go ladies! This was sweet.
- The Time of the Large Star - total memory wipe, supposedly about sleep.
- Poochie - what don't humans do? This didn't even feel far-fetched.
- Life Ceremony -🔹title story; I wouldn't want to do that, but why did it make logical sense in a weird way? Also, the most memorable one.
- Body Magic - a nice chapter with a refreshing take on the topic of ones sexuality.
- Lover on the Breeze - this makes me laugh, because what are we doing? A curtain of all things...?
- Puzzle - as the name says, this one was perplexing. I'd say it's the most 'difficult' one to read, but it's also an intriguing concept to explore the nature of existence.
- Eating the City - time to eat the weeds from my garden-type inspiration; doesn't it give cannibalism in a nonsensical way?
- Hatchling -🔹most relatable, felt called out, but strangely understood. Unexpected ending.
- Clean Marriage - I'm side eyeing so hard, I can't even say anything.
Once again, short stories are a great way to pace myself, but the lengths varied more in this one. I don't feel a particular way about this book, but the investigation into human behaviors and experiences is always fascinating. More so when it's pushed to the extreme, it makes you uncomfortable in an introspective way while finding ways to be relatable.
I mean, normal is a type of madness, isn’t it? I think it’s just that the only madness society allows is called normal.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Body horror, Sexual content, Vomit, and Cannibalism
Moderate: Death, Gore, and Mental illness
Minor: Animal death, Incest, Excrement, Stalking, and Pregnancy
I'd Really Prefer Not to Be Here with You, and Other Stories by Julianna Baggott
I think I enjoy the systematic progression of listening through a short story collection one story at a time. That way there isn't any confusion and breaks. One story in one sitting and soon the book will be over. Each story takes about 30 minutes to an hour, so it’s a good timeframe. Though some stories stuck with me more than others, the collection overall was thought-provoking and emotionally engaging. A solid listen, and I’m definitely eager to dive into more short story audiobooks in the future!
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.5
Wrapped up my second audiobook! (9 hours 8 minutes ✔️)
Julianna Baggott's "I'd Really Prefer Not to Be Here with You" is a collection of speculative fiction short stories revolving around human nature in its many shades. An interesting listening experience, granted some stories I was keenly listening to, while other times I was waiting to be done with. Despite that, most were a pleasant experience. Some thoughts for each story, but no plot spoilers:
Julianna Baggott's "I'd Really Prefer Not to Be Here with You" is a collection of speculative fiction short stories revolving around human nature in its many shades. An interesting listening experience, granted some stories I was keenly listening to, while other times I was waiting to be done with. Despite that, most were a pleasant experience. Some thoughts for each story, but no plot spoilers:
- Welcome to Oxhead - what an opening, definitely set the mood for the coming stories and themes.
- I'd Really Prefer Not to Be Here with You - the ~drama~ was here, also the name of the book.
- How They Got In - eerie and mystical, with a creepy vibe.
- The Now of Now - wanted a little bit more of something..
- The Versions - aww? a little bit in a cute way, but mostly in the sad way.
- Nest -🔸a personal attack, so it probably hit the most, plus I liked the horror of it too!
- The Gaslighter's Lament - this one got stretched out for me, couldn't focus, but an interesting plot twist.
- Backwards -🔸cool take, liked this one too.
- The Drawings - kind of sad, kind of messy.
- Portals -🔸"curiosity killed the cat, but satisfaction brought it back" and I liked the vibes.
- The Knockoffs - wild (but not crazy) with a hint of sorrow.
- The Virtuals -🔸that's actually a great idea, I would like to try that and it doesn't even seem that unrealistic. Liked.
- The Holographer - the twinge of suspense was always in the air, disturbing, but so delicious.
- Inkmorphia -🔸really liked the concept and the execution of this storyline, the right amount of distress.
- Mental Diplopia: An Eradication - insane, but somehow grounded in our collective experiences—hard to explain, but it left me with mixed feelings.
I think I enjoy the systematic progression of listening through a short story collection one story at a time. That way there isn't any confusion and breaks. One story in one sitting and soon the book will be over. Each story takes about 30 minutes to an hour, so it’s a good timeframe. Though some stories stuck with me more than others, the collection overall was thought-provoking and emotionally engaging. A solid listen, and I’m definitely eager to dive into more short story audiobooks in the future!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death
Moderate: Child abuse, Sexual content, and Grief
Minor: Animal cruelty, Self harm, and Murder
Diary of an AssCan: A Mark Watney Short Story by Andy Weir
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Loveable characters? Yes
3.75
Hehe, I'm so excited! I watched "The Martian" movie a while ago, and it solidified my wish to also read the book. I've read through the entire Murderbot series, and I love it, so I'm always on the lookout for some funny space books. 🤖 Just some science and well-equipped wit to make it a good time.
This was a short peek into the literary world of Mark Watney, and I vow to not compare it to the cinematic one! Over & Out🌌🚀
This was a short peek into the literary world of Mark Watney, and I vow to not compare it to the cinematic one! Over & Out🌌🚀
Content Warnings
Moderate: Confinement
Layover (a Beach Read epilogue) by Emily Henry
emotional
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
3.0
This is a "Beach Read" epilogue, and I read that book a long time ago, but despite that, I was easily relaxing back into January and Gus' world. Short, sweet, and simple, but still able to evoke some emotions.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Pregnancy
Minor: Grief, Death of parent, and Alcohol
Lights Out by Navessa Allen
I saw a clip from this audiobook online, and I was instantly taken. I was aware that this was a stalker romance and all that (which isn't a problem; dark romance is my old friend), but the humor... that's what got me hooked at first. I just had to look it up, and suddenly I was 9 hours into the book, unable to stop. Also, let's be real, the male narrator, Jacob Morgan... The man you are.
Aly Cappellucci might be a trauma nurse who drowns herself in work, but the woman has her priorities straight: cuddle her fur baby and watch masked men thirst traps online. Now, some drinks and bold decisions later, she has made her fantasies very, very real. On the other side, Josh Hammond keeps his "normal" life pretty low-key, but his online persona is everything other than that. I suppose being faceless helps. The two get involved with each other, and the narrative follows their escalating relationship, which is driven by their dark fantasies and intense chemistry. That is, until a third party gets involved who throws the story (only a little bit) off track and turns Josh from a stalker to a saviour with many following consequences that keep the reader/listener on edge. The plot gets steered from edgy romance into straight up dangerous territory(let's pretend it wasn't dangerous from the beginning).
The relationship between Aly and Josh was perfect in a "they can match each other's freak" kind of way. The banter and their energy was great to experience, I was amused almost the entire time. It made the book really fun to get through, as is evident by the fact that I haven't gotten through a book this fast in a while. The story developed pretty fast, so sometimes it felt a tad bit weird or I got a little second-hand embarrassment, but otherwise it wasn't a major problem. We won't discuss the sexual parts, but I'll say that it was... extensive. 😳 I guess on an emotional note, we got to see the couple grow and heal together, both of them trying to deal with past traumas that still carry their influence. And in many ways, the things they did and experienced together bonded them in a way that is hard to forget.
Also, props to the narrators, Elena Wolf & Jacob Morgan, for making the characters feel so alive, they did an excellent job! The writing made it very easy to connect with Aly and Josh, plus it was a dual POV duet narration. If we're getting technical, then this book could be summed up as a dark rom-com erotica, but somehow the author made it all seem lighter compared to some other stories. At least this one felt easy to digest and not overwhelmingly tropey.
adventurous
dark
funny
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
4.0
My first time listening to an audiobook is done! (13 hours and 38 minutes ✔️) I'm definitely picking up more audiobooks in the future. 😗 Why did no one tell me how fun this is!?
I saw a clip from this audiobook online, and I was instantly taken. I was aware that this was a stalker romance and all that (which isn't a problem; dark romance is my old friend), but the humor... that's what got me hooked at first. I just had to look it up, and suddenly I was 9 hours into the book, unable to stop. Also, let's be real, the male narrator, Jacob Morgan... The man you are.
- The audiobook had content/trigger warnings at the beginning, so be sure to check them out.
Aly Cappellucci might be a trauma nurse who drowns herself in work, but the woman has her priorities straight: cuddle her fur baby and watch masked men thirst traps online. Now, some drinks and bold decisions later, she has made her fantasies very, very real. On the other side, Josh Hammond keeps his "normal" life pretty low-key, but his online persona is everything other than that. I suppose being faceless helps. The two get involved with each other, and the narrative follows their escalating relationship, which is driven by their dark fantasies and intense chemistry. That is, until a third party gets involved who throws the story (only a little bit) off track and turns Josh from a stalker to a saviour with many following consequences that keep the reader/listener on edge. The plot gets steered from edgy romance into straight up dangerous territory
The relationship between Aly and Josh was perfect in a "they can match each other's freak" kind of way. The banter and their energy was great to experience, I was amused almost the entire time. It made the book really fun to get through, as is evident by the fact that I haven't gotten through a book this fast in a while. The story developed pretty fast, so sometimes it felt a tad bit weird or I got a little second-hand embarrassment, but otherwise it wasn't a major problem. We won't discuss the sexual parts, but I'll say that it was... extensive. 😳 I guess on an emotional note, we got to see the couple grow and heal together, both of them trying to deal with past traumas that still carry their influence. And in many ways, the things they did and experienced together bonded them in a way that is hard to forget.
Also, props to the narrators, Elena Wolf & Jacob Morgan, for making the characters feel so alive, they did an excellent job! The writing made it very easy to connect with Aly and Josh, plus it was a dual POV duet narration. If we're getting technical, then this book could be summed up as a dark rom-com erotica, but somehow the author made it all seem lighter compared to some other stories. At least this one felt easy to digest and not overwhelmingly tropey.
“Are you saying that the couple who commits homicide together, stays together?” He snorted. “Too wordy. I prefer the couple who slays together, stays together.”
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Sexual content, Violence, Blood, Medical content, Stalking, Murder, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Rape, Sexual assault, Grief, Car accident, Death of parent, and Murder
Minor: Child abuse, Vomit, Mass/school shootings, and Cannibalism
Sa suudad! by Helen Exley
inspiring
A special little someone handed it to me and it was a really inspiring short read!