peedsreads's reviews
486 reviews

I’m shook how much I loved this one. There is a majorly annoying miscommunication but it’s clear, not fully their fault, and they’re steadfast and big communicators to resolve it so there’s that.

It’s hot. GRUMPY SUNSHINE MASTERPIECE!!!

Big themes on reputation, not caring/controlling others’ opinions, insecurities, and discussion of not blaming a woman’s clothing choices for men’s behavior (inappropriate or flattering).

I also like that the two main characters don’t see eye to eye always and that he is kind of stubborn and slow to come around. Like in a perfect world he would get it from the start or from his first correction, but this seemed more realistic and healthy. He also was open to her opinions and experiences. And I liked that he was all “I’ll never tell you what to do but I will tell you my opinions” which like his opinions really needed to evolve but he understood that he likes her for who she is and wouldn’t dare change her to fit a mold.

Ugh. It’s wanton and I loved it

I could see my rating go up to a 5 or anywhere in between. I really enjoyed this book, I just didn’t want to pick it up until 1am. A slow read but I still enjoyed the whole ride. Maybe I wish it was a little tighter, but I cannot get past the fact that she was a TEENAGER when she wrote this. Like what?! Im so excited for the rest of the series. I love Celaena. I love Chaol. I dig Dorian. I love that Phillipa has Alis vibes, and if you know me, you know I love Alis.

I am very glad strangers on the internet bullied me into reading Assassin’s Blade first.

Celaena is like a lovable Villanelle and I can’t wait to learn more about her past and destiny.

my least favorite of the series so far :/

I'll keep reading

I think Hunter was the problem.

re-read as a listen in prep for Iron Flame. I was concerened I'd gaslit myself into buying the hype, but on the re-read it really is that good

5 bloody stars! The characters, the pacing, the world, the dragons, the everything.  Chef's kiss.  For once I was more invested in the action than the romance (but don't get me wrong, the romance was 100% crucial to my enjoyment of this book, and there can never be enough time between our two main characters on page for me).  It's not perfect, and I have lots of ~thoughts~ on parts that didn't work for me or I need resolved quickly or annoyed me. But overall, 10/10! I cried and was worried I'd streak my spray tan.

ugh

I want a dragon. But I don't want to go to war college.  SO. MANY. THOUGHTS.

Book slump over.  Book hangover commenced.

NOVEMBER RE-READ:
lol foolish one, you did not know the song foolish one yet when you wrote this first review, or that after this book you would be in a reading slump twice as long as its predecessor.  However I'm glad you enjoyed this oasis.

I listened to the audiobook for my re-visit before Iron Flame and it did not disappoint.  I loved it just as much if not more. 

SPOILERS/PREDICTIONS BELOW:

deffo think Xaden is end-game.
I think the mom is a Snape.
I actually have more hope for Mira than before.
And I think there is an arc for Dain to be a real friend. But I still hate him.
Oh and final act Violet was way more annoying this time.

changing this shit to a 3 because the more time that passes, the more it ticks me off.

a great holiday novella!

Novellas are hit or miss, but this one is definitely very plot heavy (not that much smut). It covers many heavy topics but still had me giggling and kicking my feet like a little girl.

Hot tattooed grumpy male hero (secretly a cinnamon roll)
Dorky, size 18 (on the bottom), black female heroine with dreads
grumpy-sunshine
mutual pining
friends with benefits
workplace romance

CW: homelessness, domestic/parental abuse (happened in the past but are retold here), intrusive thoughts

didn't love it. 50/50 if I'll revisit the series

Might as well give one of them 5 stars.  I love Tom. I love Cassandra. I really thought they were two of the least interesting side characters leading up to this book, but I think that's just because we needed to get to know them better.

For Cassandra her personality is easily shadowed by Pandora's.  And for Tom well he's deffo on the spectrum, and has become cold "and limited emotionally" for sheer survival.

But I'm all for the self-made mogul getting it on with the curvaceous and flirtatious innocent lady.

SO MANY QUOTES IN THIS ONE!

"My lady, you're not too plump.  The more of you there is in the world, the better."

"According to basic geometry, one kiss could change your life."

"...alone with a man. no chaperone. no shoes."

"Your body isn't an ornament designed for other people's pleasure.  It belongs to you alone.  You're magnificent just as you are.  Whether you lose weight or gain more, you'll still be magnificent.  Have a cake if you want one."

[it should be noted that as body positive as this is, she is not a fat character.  She still fits in her old dresses, she just has some muffin tops and assets on display. Which lead to a great conversation about "asking for it" and being a "flirt" just because of her body.  It even gets her into a bind where she is assaulted on page - nothing too violent but extremely unpleasant to read.  And of course this story illustrates and criticizes how society puts all the shame and blame on the woman in this and holds none of the men involved accountable.]

Insta-love. But still a fun ride!