Book Review: My Funny Demon Valentine by Aurora Ascher (Hell Bend Book 1)

 Genre: Paranormal Romance • Dark Fantasy Romance

Tropes: Demon Prince, Cursed MMC, Touch Her and Die, Escaped From Hell, Fated Mates Vibes, Brothers in Exile, Protective Hero, Jazz Musician FMC, Forced Proximity

Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

Format: eBook

Series: Hell Bent Book 1

    Asmodeus is a Prince of Hell, and feelings are supposed to be beneath him. Love, joy, music—those are human weaknesses. After centuries cursed to exist in a dull, colorless world where no one can truly see him, Ash has accepted that emptiness is simply his reality.

    Now living in London alongside his equally dangerous brothers after escaping Hell, Ash spends his nights hiding in jazz clubs, clinging to one of the few things that still makes him feel something. Then he meets Evangeline. Talented, beautiful, and somehow completely unaffected by his curse, Eva sees the real him immediately—and the curse begins to crack. Unfortunately, Hell wants its princes back. And by getting close to Eva, Ash may have just painted a target on her back.

    This was my book club’s pick of the month and I ended up enjoying it way more than I expected. I’m always weak for demon romances, and this one absolutely delivered on the vibes. Broody immortal demon prince obsessed with a talented woman who sees past his curse? Immediate yes.

    The chemistry between Ash and Eva is intense from the start, and the book wastes absolutely no time bringing the spice. Their relationship is packed with tension, emotional vulnerability, and plenty of explicit scenes while they try to stay one step ahead of the forces hunting Ash and his brothers.

    I also loved the curse aspect of the story. Watching Ash slowly rediscover joy, color, and emotion through Eva was honestly my favorite part of the book. Underneath all the spice and action there’s a surprisingly emotional core about loneliness, identity, and finally being seen for who you truly are.

    The humor throughout the book caught me off guard too. Between the brothers’ banter, Ash trying to navigate emotions after centuries of emptiness, and the supernatural chaos unfolding around them, there were quite a few moments that genuinely made me laugh. Some twists were pretty easy to predict early on, especially surrounding Eva, but honestly it didn’t take away from the enjoyment for me. The fun was in watching everything unfold and seeing how the characters handled it.

    The romance wraps up nicely by the end, but the larger conflict is clearly just beginning, and I’m very interested to see where the rest of the brothers’ stories go from here. I’ll absolutely be continuing this series.

You’ll Love This Book If You Enjoy:

• Demon romances with morally gray MMCs
• Super spicy paranormal romance
• Protective heroes obsessed with the FMC
• Jazz club aesthetics and moody London settings
• Escaped-from-Hell storylines
• Cursed immortals learning to feel again
• Brothers who banter while causing chaos
• Fast-paced fantasy romance with humor and action
• Romance mixed with supernatural politics and danger

A sexy, emotional demon romance packed with curses, chaos, jazz clubs, and a surprisingly heartfelt story about learning how to feel alive again.

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $8.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: The Game Master’s Legacy by Michael D Bridges

Genre: LitRPG • Sci-Fi Fantasy • Cyberpunk Adventure

Tropes: Full-Immersion VR, Disabled MC, Sentient NPCs, Evil Corporation, Glitch-Walker, Virtual Reality Survival, Inherited Legacy, AI Consciousness

Spice Level: None

Format: ARC / eBook

Series: Potential Series Starter

    Kade’s real world is painfully small. Confined to a wheelchair and dependent on a ventilator for most of his life, his only true escape exists inside Aethelgard, the fully immersive VR world his father created before his death. In the game, Kade isn’t weak or fragile—he’s a legendary speedrunner and glitch-walker capable of bending the world’s rules.

    But now the corporation Neosy wants control of the system. And Kade refuses to let them take it. Aethelgard is more than just a game. It’s the only place Kade has ever truly felt free, and his father left him the keys to protect it. There’s just one problem: every code alteration comes with a cost under the Law of Conservation of Code. And Kade himself is the price.

    Meanwhile, Neosy has unleashed EGO to “optimize” the system and recover the mysterious soul-data hidden within the game. They won’t stop until they control everything—including the sentient NPCs who may be far more alive than anyone realizes.

    I received a complimentary ARC copy of this book from the author.

    As someone who absolutely loves LitRPGs and full-immersion VR stories, this immediately grabbed my attention—but what surprised me most was how different it felt from most books in the genre. Kade’s physical disability fundamentally shapes both the emotional core of the story and the stakes within the game itself. In most VR LitRPGs, the virtual world is simply an escape or power fantasy. Here, Aethelgard is deeply personal. It’s the one place where Kade can move freely, feel independent, and connect to the legacy his father left behind. That emotional weight made the story hit harder than I expected.

    The concept behind the “Law of Conservation of Code” was one of the coolest parts of the book. Any change to the game must be balanced with a cost, and because Kade is considered the most unstable variable, he absorbs the consequences physically. It added genuine tension to every major action and made the coding mechanics feel dangerous rather than convenient. That said, the phrase itself was repeated a lot throughout the story—twenty-three times, according to my count—and it occasionally became distracting. Similarly, Kade consistently referring to his father by his full name instead of simply “Dad” during emotional moments felt a little unnatural to me.

    But honestly? Those were very minor complaints in an otherwise incredibly engaging read. I finished the book within 24 hours because once it gets moving, it’s hard to put down. The battle scenes are intense, the emotional moments land well, and the sentient NPCs completely stole my heart. I will always love stories where artificial beings blur the line between programming and personhood.

    And the revenge? Absolutely deserved. Vane got off far easier than I personally would have allowed. The ending leaves room for future books with a small cliffhanger that feels intriguing without being frustrating, and I would absolutely continue this series if the author expands the world further.

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You’ll Love This Book If You Enjoy:

• LitRPG and VRMMO stories
• Full-immersion virtual reality worlds
• Disabled protagonists in fantasy/sci-fi
• Sentient NPCs and AI consciousness
• Cyberpunk corporations and conspiracies
• Emotional sci-fi adventures
• High-stakes coding and game mechanics
• Fast-paced action with emotional depth
• Ready Player One-style vibes
• Stories where virtual worlds truly matter

A fast-paced and emotionally grounded LitRPG that blends immersive VR gaming, corporate intrigue, and heartfelt character stakes into a genuinely compelling sci-fi adventure.

This book will be published June 1, 2026, but I do not yet have price points or if it will be available with Kindle Unlimited. I will update this page when I know more. 

Book Review: The Phantom Beast by K. B. Broas (The Seers Book 1)

 Genre: YA Sci-Fi Horror • Paranormal Thriller

Tropes: Teens with Powers, Hidden World, Small Town Horror, Psychic Abilities, Creatures in the Dark, Found Friendship, Cosmic Horror Vibes

Spice Level: None

Format: Paperback

Series: The Seers Book 1

    Jake is losing his mind. At least, that’s the only explanation that makes sense after watching his best friend literally fall from the sky and wake up buried in a golf course. Ever since surviving a cave collapse, Johnny has come back… different. He can see and manipulate mysterious forces he calls strands.

    Now Jake and Johnny's girlfriend are being pulled into a hidden reality where people can alter perception, manipulate emotions, and bend the world around them in terrifying ways. But Jake’s abilities are unlike the others. Instead of flying or controlling objects, he can make people feel disgusted —or force their attention to slide right past him entirely. And once you become aware of the strands, you also become visible to the things lurking in the dark. Especially the creatures hunting Johnny.

    I received a complimentary paperback copy of this book from the author, and first off—the cover is absolutely gorgeous. It immediately caught my attention, and thankfully the story inside lived up to it.

    This is a fast-paced YA sci-fi horror novel that follows three teenagers as they uncover a hidden world tied to these mysterious “strands” and the terrifying entities connected to them. What starts as confusion and discovery quickly spirals into something much darker.

    I really enjoyed watching the characters go from ordinary high school students starting a new school year to kids trying desperately to survive forces they barely understand. Their shared connection to the strands initially brings them closer together, but the horrors stalking them slowly begin tearing those bonds apart. 

    The horror elements were easily my favorite part. The whistling creatures were deeply unsettling—especially the way they lure people into trancelike states—and the larger entity capable of tearing apart reality itself to reach Johnny added genuine tension and danger to the story. The deeper the group gets into this hidden world, the more oppressive and terrifying everything becomes.

    The pacing stays strong throughout, and the story constantly pushes you forward wanting to know what happens next. Even seemingly smaller moments, like dealing with school bullies, end up feeding directly into the larger horror unfolding around them.

    That turning point? Incredible. It’s the moment the darkness truly notices them, and from there there’s no going back. As soon as I finished the book, I handed it off to my high-school-aged niece, and she ended up loving it just as much as I did. This feels like the kind of YA sci-fi horror that could easily hook both teen and adult readers alike. I’d absolutely read more from this author in the future.

You’ll Love This Book If You Enjoy:

• YA sci-fi horror
• Teenagers discovering supernatural powers
• Hidden worlds and secret abilities
• Creepy creatures lurking in the dark
• Cosmic horror vibes
• Fast-paced paranormal thrillers
• Friendship dynamics under pressure
• Psychological horror mixed with action
• Stranger Things-style energy

A tense and imaginative YA horror story packed with eerie creatures, mysterious powers, and teenagers thrown into a terrifying hidden reality.

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $0.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: Dungeon Crawler Carl by Matt Dinniman (Dungeon Crawler Carl Book 1)

 Genre: LitRPG • Sci-Fi Fantasy • Apocalypse Adventure

Tropes: Dungeon Crawl, Alien Invasion, Survival Game, Talking Animal Companion, Dark Humor, Reality TV Apocalypse, Leveling System, Found Family

Spice Level: None

Format: Audiobook

Series: Dungeon Crawler Carl Book 1

    When The Flattening happened, Carl was outside in nothing but boxers, a jacket, and his girlfriend’s too-small Crocs trying to coax her prize-winning cat out of a tree during the coldest night of the year. Then every building on Earth vanished. Aliens have arrived, civilization has collapsed, and the only chance humanity has to survive is entering massive underground dungeons scattered around the globe. If humanity can clear every level, they get to keep Earth.

    Simple, right? Now Carl and Princess Donut—yes, the cat—must descend floor by floor through a televised apocalypse filled with monsters, traps, insanity, and an AI host that may be having entirely too much fun watching humanity suffer-and a weird fetish.

    Welcome to the dungeon, crawler.

    I absolutely love LitRPGs, and this series had been floating around my book group forever before I finally gave in and started it. My husband had technically started it first but never finished… until I bullied him into continuing because I needed someone else to witness the chaos. And chaos is truly the best word for this book.

    Princess Donut Queen Anne Chonk, Best in Dungeon is hands-down one of the greatest characters I’ve ever encountered in a LitRPG. She starts off delightfully obnoxious, overly dramatic, and completely ridiculous—but somehow becomes impossible not to love almost immediately.

    Book one mainly establishes Carl, Donut, and Mordecai while throwing them headfirst into complete madness. Between murderous monsters, explosive combat, bizarre dungeon mechanics, and an AI obsessed with feet for reasons I genuinely do not want explained, the humor in this series is unmatched. The dark comedy absolutely lands.

    One minute you’re laughing at Donut demanding proper recognition and the next you’re witnessing horrifying dungeon brutality. Somehow the series balances absurdity and violence perfectly without losing momentum.

    I listened to this on audiobook and immediately started book two the second it ended. The narration is phenomenal. The narrator gives Carl this Kronk-esque energy that somehow works perfectly, and now I genuinely cannot imagine Carl sounding any other way. Donut’s voice is equally iconic.  And yes—Donut talks. A magical pet biscuit gives her sentience, and from that point onward the series becomes even more unhinged in the best possible way.

    This book ends with Carl and Donut descending to the next floor, already mildly traumatized and wildly underprepared for what’s coming next. Unfortunately for them—and fortunately for us—it only gets worse from there. The combination of nonstop action, dark humor, ridiculous dungeon mechanics, explosive violence, and genuinely lovable characters makes this one of the strongest LitRPG starters I’ve ever read. Add in the unusual detail of Carl being former Coast Guard instead of the typical overpowered military archetype, and the whole thing just feels fresh.

    At this point my ringtone, notification sound, and phone background are all Dungeon Crawler Carl themed, so I think it’s safe to say this series consumed my personality a little bit. No regrets. I don’t feel like I need to say that I will be reading on in this series, because who could possibly stop after book one? After all crawlers, we have to get out there are “Kill, Kill, Kill!” There isn’t a thing I would change about these books and will be sad when I run out of them. Side note. I MAY have a DCC tee shirt on that says "I AM YELLING, CARL" as I write this...

You’ll Love This Book If You Enjoy:

• LitRPG and dungeon crawl stories
• Dark humor mixed with brutal survival
• Talking animal companions
• Reality TV-style apocalypse settings
• Explosive action and nonstop chaos
• Alien invasion stories
• Video game leveling systems
• Audiobooks with incredible narration
• Found family dynamics
• Ridiculous humor alongside real emotional stakes

An absolutely chaotic LitRPG masterpiece full of explosions, monsters, dark comedy, and one unforgettable talking cat.

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $4.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: Curvy Girls Can’t Date Quarterbacks by Kelsie Stelting (The Curvy Girl Club Book 1)

Genre: YA Contemporary Romance

Tropes: Plus-Size FMC, High School Romance, Fake Dating Vibes, Homecoming Bet, Popular Boy x Quiet Girl, Self-Discovery, PCOS Representation, Opposites Attract

Spice Level: No Spice

Format: eBook

Series: The Curvy Girl Club Book 1

    Rory has struggled with her weight since middle school, and by high school she’s mastered the art of blending into the background as much as possible. Between cruel classmates and a mother obsessed with diets and “fixing” her body, Rory has spent years feeling like she’s too much and never enough all at once.

    Then comes the diagnosis: PCOS. On the very same day she finally gets answers about her body, the school’s resident mean girl loudly declares that no guy would ever want a girl Rory’s size. Fed up and speaking out for the other curvy girls in class, Rory fires back—and somehow ends up trapped in a bet. She has to convince star quarterback Beckett to take her to Homecoming. If she fails, none of the plus-sized girls are allowed to attend. What could possibly go wrong?

    This is an incredibly cute YA romance with zero spice, and honestly, I was relieved about that. I love spice in romance books, but not when the characters are minors. Instead, this focuses on confidence, friendship, self-worth, and first love in a way that feels wholesome and emotionally genuine.

    I originally wanted to read this because the ads for it were everywhere on Facebook, and the line: “Why was I being forced to take a pregnancy test as a virgin?” absolutely hooked me immediately. When I finally got the chance to grab it during a Stuff Your Kindle event, it completely lived up to the hype.

    Rory’s anxiety throughout the story feels painfully real, especially once the bet becomes public knowledge. Watching her navigate the fallout, her growing feelings for Beckett, and the fear of humiliation made the emotional moments hit even harder. I’m never a huge fan of secrets in relationships, but in this case it added tension that worked really well for the story.

    One of my favorite aspects of the book was how supportive Rory and Beckett became of each other’s passions. Beckett's photography and Rory's painting weren’t treated like throwaway hobbies—they genuinely encouraged each other to pursue their dreams and believe in themselves. Their relationship felt sweet, healthy, and rooted in emotional support rather than just attraction. And honestly? Watching Rory slowly discover her own style, confidence, and voice may have been my favorite part of all.

    This was adorable, heartfelt, and such a solid YA romance with genuinely good representation and emotional growth.

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You’ll Love This Book If You Enjoy:

• Plus-size YA romance
• PCOS representation in fiction
• High school romance with emotional depth
• Popular boy x quiet girl dynamics
• Confidence and self-worth journeys
• Homecoming and school drama
• Sweet romances with zero spice
• Supportive relationships and healthy communication
• Creative characters pursuing art and photography

A heartfelt, confidence-boosting YA romance that balances emotional vulnerability, sweet first love, and important representation beautifully.

    This book is available on Amazon for $5.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: A Pack for Autumn by Emilia Emerson (Cozyverse Book 1)

 Genre: Cozy Omegaverse Romance • Paranormal Romance

Tropes: Reverse Harem / Why Choose, Small Town Romance, Lighthouse Setting, Protective Alphas, Fresh Start, Plus-Size FMC, Found Family
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Format: Audiobook
Series: Cozyverse Book 1 

    After losing her parents five years ago, Autumn has slowly drifted away from everything connected to her old life. Desperate for a fresh start, she accepts a job as a lighthouse keeper in a small coastal town her family once visited together. For the first time in years, things finally seem peaceful. 

    Then she meets Easton. Persistent, protective, and very much an Alpha who doesn’t understand the meaning of “no,” Easton immediately disrupts Autumn’s carefully controlled life. With his pack helping restore the lighthouse, avoiding them quickly becomes impossible—and while her Omega instincts may want to lean into the connection, her painful past makes trusting anyone difficult.

    I listened to this on audiobook, and the duet narration absolutely made the experience for me. Dual POV romances are already fun, but duet narration is quickly becoming my favorite format because it makes the stories feel so much more immersive. The narrators did an amazing job, and honestly, I didn’t want the book to end.

    This is a cozy, open-door Omegaverse romance where polyamorous relationships are normalized, and I loved how naturally the world handled it. One of the most unique aspects for me was that the Alpha/Beta/Omega dynamics exist without shifters. Most Omegaverse books I’ve read tie the hierarchy to wolf shifters or other paranormal creatures, so this felt refreshingly different.

    Autumn’s relationship with the pack develops in such a comforting way. I especially loved how patient and reassuring her men were when it came to her insecurities and fear of being “too much,” particularly as a plus-sized FMC with low self-esteem. Their support felt genuine without completely erasing her struggles overnight.

    But let’s be honest—the true star of this book was Felix the cat. That cat is absolutely not normal, and I refuse to believe otherwise. The epilogue from Felix’s perspective completely hooked me, and now I desperately need answers about whatever secrets that suspiciously intelligent feline is hiding.

    This was cozy, spicy, comforting, and exactly the kind of Omegaverse read I needed. I’ll absolutely be continuing the series.

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You’ll Love This Book If You Enjoy:

• Cozy Omegaverse romance
• Lighthouse and small-town settings
• Protective Alpha love interests
• Why choose / reverse harem romance
• Plus-size FMC representation
• Found family vibes
• Duet narration audiobooks
• Cats that are definitely hiding secrets
• Open-door romance with emotional comfort

A warm, spicy Omegaverse romance with lighthouse charm, supportive relationships, and one unforgettable cat.

This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $5.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: We Are Legend by Daron Kappanauff

 Genre: YA Horror • Post-Apocalyptic Horror

Tropes: Apocalypse Survival, Monster Invasion, Teen Survivors, Creature Horror, Survival Camp, Cannibalism, Fast-Paced Horror

Spice Level: None

Format: Physical Book

Series: Standalone 

    Nine months after the goblin apocalypse began, a group of gifted teens are still surviving on their own. No adults. No real safety. And supplies are running dangerously low.

    If they want to survive much longer, they’ll have to leave the relative safety of their camp and venture back into a world overrun by flesh-hungry goblins. The problem? Every supply run could easily become their last. And even if they make it back alive… how long can this kind of survival really last?

    I received a physical copy of this book complimentary from the author. 

    First and foremost: check your triggers before going into this one. This YA horror contains a lot of teen death. Like… a lot. Child and teen death is usually an immediate DNF for me, and in this case I ended up skipping multiple scenes because it was simply too much for my personal tastes. That said, outside of that issue, the actual premise is incredibly fun.

    The book has a very strong Gremlins-inspired apocalypse feel. The goblins are chaotic, vicious little creatures with an appetite for human flesh, and the similarities in appearance to Gizmo were hard to miss—in the best way. The reveal surrounding how the goblins come into existence was fairly obvious early on, but the deeper explanation later in the story still worked well.

    The pacing is one of the book’s strongest elements. Once things start moving, the story barely slows down. Between the goblin attacks, survival tension, and moments of outright horror—including cannibalism—the book keeps the pressure high throughout.

    The author clearly has a talent for writing fast-paced creature horror and survival situations. I’d absolutely read more from him in the future… preferably with significantly fewer dead kids. At least let them turn eighteen first.

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You’ll Love This Book If You Enjoy:

• Gremlins-style creature horror
• YA apocalypse survival stories
• Fast-paced monster attacks
• Survival camps and scavenging missions
• Horror with constant tension
• Creature features with gruesome stakes
• Post-apocalyptic worlds overrun by monsters

A brutal, creature-filled YA horror with nonstop action, survival tension, and goblin chaos straight out of a nightmare version of Gremlins.

This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $0.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: Dungeon Incursions 3 by Adam Bright (Dungeon Incursions Book 3)

 Genre: LitRPG • Post-Apocalyptic Fantasy • Dungeon Crawl

Tropes: Dungeon Runs, Monster Portals, Team Progression, Apocalypse Survival, Leveling System, Government Control

Spice Level:  None

Format: Audiobook

Series: Dungeon Incursions Book 3

    Lance and his team have survived another brutal dungeon run and are steadily leveling up in the aftermath of the apocalypse. Once they’ve stopped “vibrating” enough for another incursion to be considered safe, they head toward a farm two hours outside the city. But outside the dungeons, the world is still changing. The government has issued a new directive that could drastically alter how survivors move forward—and Lance’s group will have to decide where they stand before the next portal opens.

    I’ve now read the first three installments in this series, and they absolutely need to be read in order. That said, I use the term “book” loosely here because these read more like episodic dungeon-crawling adventures than full-length novels.

    The primary focus is very clearly dungeon runs, combat sequences, monster encounters, and power progression.

    And honestly? The dungeon sections are the only fun bit. The portals themselves are one of the coolest aspects of the series. Each dungeon functions like a gateway into another world where monsters spill into Earth until the boss is defeated and the surviving humans are ejected back into reality. It’s a fantastic premise and creates nonstop tension whenever the team enters a new incursion.

    This installment’s dwarven enemies were especially well described, and the action scenes remain the strongest part of the series. The author clearly excels at combat and environmental descriptions.

    Where the series struggles a bit for me is outside the action. Even after three installments, there’s been very little character development, and I’m still not heavily invested in the cast themselves. The quieter moments often feel rushed—as though the story is eager to get back into the next dungeon instead of slowing down long enough to deepen the characters or world-building outside the incursions.

    Because of that, these feel more like “episodes” than fully fleshed-out novels. That isn’t necessarily bad—it just depends on what you’re looking for. If you want nonstop dungeon action and progression mechanics, this absolutely delivers. If you’re hoping for deep emotional arcs or heavy character-driven storytelling, it may feel a little thin.

    I already own the next two installments through the box set, so I’ll definitely keep going to see if the emotional investment catches up with the excellent premise.

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You’ll Love This Book If You Enjoy:

• LitRPG apocalypse stories
• Dungeon crawling and boss battles
• Fast-paced action over heavy character drama
• Monster-filled alternate worlds
• Team-based leveling systems
• Episodic fantasy adventures
• Portal fantasy with survival stakes
• Continuous combat and progression mechanics

A fun, action-heavy LitRPG with an excellent dungeon concept that shines brightest when the monsters start pouring through the portals.

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $2.99 by clicking here. 

Books by this author: 

Dungeon Incursions Book 1

Dungeon Incursions Book 2

Book Review: Beautiful Venom by Rina Kent (Vipers Book 1)

 Genre: Dark Contemporary Romance • Sports Romance

Tropes: Secret Society, Hockey Romance, Revenge Plot, Morally Grey MMC, Touch Her and Die, Stalker-ish FMC, CNC, Dual POV

Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

Format: eBook

Series: Vipers Book 1

    Dahlia has one goal: find out who put her sister into a coma. The only lead she has points toward The Vipers, an elite secret society tied to the university hockey team. And the only way inside is through someone already connected to them. So Dahlia picks her target. Kane. After extensive observation that was definitely not stalking, she’s convinced he’s her best way in. What she doesn’t expect is that the cold, controlled persona Kane shows the world is nothing more than a mask hiding something much darker underneath. And once he notices her? There’s no going back.

    This was my reading group’s Book of the Month, and I loved every second of it. It’s a dark hockey romance that blends secret society tension with obsessive attraction perfectly. While hockey is technically the backdrop, the sport itself never overwhelms the story. We get a few hockey scenes, but the focus stays where it belongs: the twisted, addictive relationship between Dahlia and Kane.

    The book is told in dual POV, which works so well here because getting inside Kane’s head makes him even more fascinating. Watching Dahlia slowly break through his defenses was one of my favorite parts of the story. And the spice? Absolutely delivers. 

    The CNC scenes were especially well done because the trust and consent were always clear. The safe word dynamic made it possible for both characters to fully unleash their darker impulses while still maintaining a sense of safety and control. It never felt reckless—just intense in the best way.

    I also loved the balance between suspense and romance. The mystery surrounding Dahlia’s sister kept the tension high throughout the book, and every reveal pushed the story forward without slowing down the relationship development.

    And that ending? Perfect. I’m already excited to continue the series because it definitely feels like we’ll be making our way through the rest of the hockey team. Although… if Marcus gets a redemption arc, the author has a lot of work ahead of them because that man does not deserve a HEA right now.

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You’ll Love This Book If You Enjoy:

• Dark hockey romance
• Secret societies and elite campus drama
• Morally grey, possessive MMCs
• Revenge-driven FMCs
• CNC romance with clear consent dynamics
• Dual POV romance
• Protective “touch her and die” energy
• High-spice contemporary romance with suspense

A dark, addictive sports romance packed with obsession, secrets, and chemistry that practically crackles off the page.

This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $5.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: The Skinny by Monica Ross (The Fatkini Chronicles Book 2)

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Tropes: Why Choose , Author x Narrator, Found Family, Toxic Ex/Sibling Drama, Personal Growth

Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

Format: eBook

Series: The Fatkini Chronicles Book 2 (Must Be Read in Order)

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    Zelda, Aithan, and Drew are finally settling into something that feels real. They know what they want—and none of them are willing to give it up.

    Unfortunately, life isn’t done testing them.

    Zelda’s toxic sister and her equally frustrating ex keep forcing their way back into her life, threatening everything she’s building. But this time? Zelda isn’t backing down. She’s done being pushed around and is more than ready to put both of them in their place.

    I started this immediately after finishing Book 1 because I needed answers—especially with everything going on with Aithan and that ending. This book delivers on all of it, with even more relationship development, higher emotional stakes, and definitely more spice. 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

    The dynamic between Zelda, Aithan, and Drew continues to evolve in a way that feels natural, even as things get more complicated. There’s still the potential for the relationship to expand further, but with everything currently happening, I’m not convinced it’s the best move—at least not right now.

    One of my favorite parts of this book is Zelda’s growth. She isn’t just changing her situation—she’s changing how she sees herself. Watching her step into confidence, embrace her body, and stop hiding behind clothes that don’t fit was incredibly satisfying. Drew pushing her toward that? Exactly what she needed.

    The sister and ex drama was exactly what I expected—in the worst way. Zero boundaries, constant interference, and just overall chaos. I couldn’t stand either of them, but it made watching Zelda finally stand up for herself that much better.

    While this isn’t the end of their story, I was really happy with where this book stopped. I’m not desperate for the next installment, but I’ll absolutely pick it up when I’m ready for more.

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You’ll Love This Book If You Enjoy:

• Why choose romance (or the possibility of it)
• High-spice contemporary romance
• Strong character growth arcs
• Confident, evolving FMCs
• Messy family and ex drama
• Workplace/author industry romance
• Relationship dynamics that grow over time

A spicy, character-driven sequel that builds on everything from Book 1 and delivers growth, drama, and heat.

This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $4.99 by clicking here. 

Books by this author: 

Fatkini (Fatkini Chronicles Book 1)

Book Review: Apocalypse by Kyle West (The Wasteland Chronicles Book 1)

 Author: Kyle West

Genre: Young Adult / Post-Apocalyptic / Dystopian Sci-Fi

Tropes: Bunker Survival, Coming of Age, Survival Journey, Found Allies, Hidden Truths, End of the World, Cliffhanger Ending

Spice Level: None

Format: eBook

Series: The Wasteland Chronicles Book 1

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    It’s been 30 years since the meteor Ragnarok crashed into Earth, forcing humanity into underground bunkers to survive. Of the original 144 bunkers, most have fallen—and no one knows why. The residents of Bunker 108 believe their only chance at survival is to remain completely closed off from the outside world.

    Until everything changes.

    When 16-year-old Alex goes on his first patrol with a senior guard, they discover a survivor from a neighboring bunker and bring him back. Within 24 hours, Bunker 108 falls—and Alex is forced to flee to a surface he’s only seen once in his life.

    This young adult post-apocalyptic novel throws you straight into the action and never lets up. The pacing is fast from the very beginning, making it an easy, bingeable read that keeps you turning pages. Even though this first installment focuses heavily on world-building and character setup, it never feels slow.

    As the story unfolds, we get key insights into what happened to Bunker 108, clues about the fall of other bunkers, and more information about the mysterious people Alex encounters on the surface. The world-building is layered in naturally, keeping the tension high while slowly revealing the bigger picture behind the apocalypse.

    Alex’s journey is filled with constant danger, making this a strong survival story with coming-of-age elements. Every chapter introduces new challenges, whether it’s navigating the unknown surface, dealing with other survivors, or uncovering unsettling truths about what’s really happening in this world.

    By the end, it’s clear this is just the beginning. While some questions are answered, many more are introduced, and the story ends on a light cliffhanger that sets up the next book in the series.

    Overall, this is an engaging YA dystopian survival story that balances action, mystery, and character development. If you’re looking for a fast-paced post-apocalyptic read with strong series potential, this is definitely worth picking up.

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⭐ You’ll like this book if you enjoy:

• YA post-apocalyptic or dystopian survival stories
• Bunker or underground society settings
• Fast-paced, action-driven plots
• Coming-of-age journeys in dangerous worlds
• Mystery elements surrounding the apocalypse
• Books that set up a larger series with cliffhangers

This book is available on Amazon for FREE by clicking here. 

Book Review: Fatkini by Monica Ross (The Fatkini Chronicles Book 1)

 Author: Monica Ross

Genre: Contemporary Romance / Plus Size Romance

Tropes: Body Positivity, Plus Size FMC, Toxic Ex, Healing Journey, MFM Romance, Why Choose Vibes, Self-Discovery, Workplace Romance

Spice Level: 🌶🌶🌶🌶

Format: eBook

Series: The Fatkini Chronicles

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    Zelda is done being hidden away and torn down by her boyfriend of two years. The final straw? Him mocking the bikini she bought—calling it a “fatkini” and comparing her to a beached whale. According to him, someone her size shouldn’t wear things like that.

    Yeah… absolutely not.

    When Zelda finally walks away, it opens the door for something much better—especially when Aithan and Drew step in and make it their mission to show her just how gorgeous she really is.

    This plus size romance had been sitting on my TBR for a while, and it delivered exactly what I was hoping for. A toxic relationship gets left in the dust, and the FMC steps into something healthier, more supportive, and honestly? Way hotter.

    Her ex is the kind of character you love to hate—the slow-burn toxic type who chips away at confidence over time until you start believing the lies. That kind of emotional damage is hard to walk away from, and even harder not to go back to. Watching Zelda break free from that mindset and choose herself was incredibly satisfying.

    The journey of self-discovery is a huge highlight here. From how she handles the breakup to exploring her confidence, her body, and what she actually wants out of life and relationships—it all feels empowering without losing the emotional weight behind it.

    I also loved the dynamics between Zelda, her author friend, and her ex’s boss. The relationships build in a way that feels natural while still bringing plenty of tension and chemistry. This is definitely an open-door, spicy contemporary romance, with MFM dynamics that hint at possibly expanding further as the series continues.

    One detail I didn’t expect to love as much as I did was the lifestyle and food aspect. Zelda’s commitment to her health and diet added another layer to her character, and it even inspired me to look into some of the recipes mentioned for my own health issues that I am also supposed to be on an AIP diet for. 

    Overall, this is an empowering, spicy plus size romance that balances emotional growth with steamy relationships and leaves you wanting more. And that ending? Total cliffhanger. I immediately needed book two.

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⭐ You’ll like this book if you enjoy:

• Plus size, body positivity romance
• Escaping toxic relationships and healing journeys
• Spicy MFM / why choose romance dynamics
• Strong character growth and self-love arcs
• Supportive, confidence-boosting love interests
• Books that end on cliffhangers and make you binge the series

This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $4.99 by clicking here. 

Books by this author: 

The Skinny (The Fatkini Chronicles Book 2)

Book Review: Quicksilver by Callie Hart (Fae & Alchemy Book 1)

 Author: Callie Hart

Genre: Fantasy Romance / Paranormal Romance

Tropes: Hidden Powers, Portal Fantasy, Enemies-to-Lovers, Alphahole MMC, Possessive Hero, Fish Out of Water, Royalty / Court Politics

Spice Level: 🌶🌶🌶

Format: eBook

Series: Fae & Alchemy Book 1

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    Saeris is good at keeping secrets. In a world where magic is punishable by death, the small abilities she has with metal could cost her everything if discovered. With her mother gone, she’s all her brother has left—and she refuses to risk leaving him alone.

    But one mistake changes everything.

    After stealing a guard’s bracer, Saeris finds herself facing execution at the hands of the Queen. Just when her fate seems sealed, the floor beneath her turns to liquid and a mysterious man steps through, saving her…only to drag her into an entirely different world. Now she’s trapped with no way home, and her so-called savior? Completely insufferable.

    This fantasy romance wastes no time pulling you in. Between the high-stakes magic system, portal fantasy elements, and intense character dynamics, it delivers a fast-paced and addictive story. And yes—this is a spicy fantasy romance that absolutely leans into its steam. I fell in love the moment he said "I’m about to introduce you to all seven gods. When you meet them, don’t forget to tell them I’m the one you worship on your knees.”

    Kingfisher is peak alphahole energy. Broody, arrogant, and frustrating in all the best ways—but once he falls, he falls hard. The shift from cold and distant to possessive and all-in happens quickly, and it’s incredibly satisfying to watch unfold. Saeris holds her own well, even when she’s completely out of her depth in a new world.

    The chemistry between them is strong from the start, and the tension builds alongside the plot. There’s also a great mix of action, magic, and world-building that keeps things moving beyond just the romance.

    One of the standout elements for me was the overall vibe—this is the kind of book that gives you that swoony, over-the-top alpha energy while still keeping you hooked on the story. And I have to mention the adorable fox, because it absolutely deserves the love.

    Overall, this is a gripping, spicy fantasy romance with a strong heroine, an irresistible (and infuriating) MMC, and a world that leaves you wanting more. I’ll definitely be continuing the series—I need to know what happens next.

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⭐ You’ll like this book if you enjoy:

• Spicy fantasy romance with strong alpha MMCs
• Enemies-to-lovers with lots of tension
• Portal fantasy / transported to another world
• Possessive, broody “alphahole” heroes
• Magic, court politics, and high-stakes adventure
• Memorable side characters (and adorable animal companions!)

This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $9.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: Devil by Rumor by Ariel Brouillette (Diabolic Hearts Book 1)

 Author: Ariel Brouillette

Genre: Dark Romance / Paranormal Romance / Fantasy Romance

Tropes: Deal with the Devil, Touch Her and Die, Morally Black MMC, Forced Proximity, Possessive Hero, Enemies-to-Lovers Vibes, Hell Setting

Spice Level: 🌶🌶🌶

Format: eBook

Series: Diabolic Hearts Book 1

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    Carmen has been on the run for weeks from the man who tried to kill her. Going to the authorities isn’t an option—they’re too well connected, and no one would believe her anyway. Desperate and out of options, she makes a deal with a shadowy stranger to save her.

    The catch? Damon isn’t human.

    He’s the literal devil, and now Carmen is bound to him—forced to travel to Hell while he decides what to do with her. But the longer they’re together, the more she starts to get under his skin, breaking through his cold, unfeeling exterior. Determined to regain control, Damon considers releasing her from their bargain…until she chooses him instead. That’s when something dark, possessive, and eternal takes hold—and walking away is no longer an option.

    This dark paranormal romance delivers exactly what you want from a deal-with-the-devil story. Damon is far beyond morally gray—he’s firmly in morally black territory—and somehow still completely irresistible. The push and pull between him fighting his feelings and Carmen refusing to back down makes their dynamic addictive.

    The “touch her and die” energy is strong in this one, and it only intensifies as the story progresses. Carmen holds her own well, giving as good as she gets, which makes their chemistry even better.

    One of the standout elements for me was the foreshadowing. There’s a moment woven into the story that pays off in such a satisfying way later on, and it added a lot of depth to the overall plot. There’s also a key emotional moment that brings a sense of closure for Carmen, which I really appreciated.

    The story has a dramatic, almost addictive feel—like those over-the-top romance dramas where emotions run high, past relationships resurface, and chaos follows. And honestly? It works. I was completely hooked.

    Everything wraps up nicely while still setting the stage for the next book in the series. And I have one major hope: I need the next book to feature Death. There’s just too much potential there not to explore.

    Overall, this is a gripping dark romance with a powerful, possessive MMC, high emotional stakes, and just the right amount of drama and spice to keep you turning pages.

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⭐ You’ll like this book if you enjoy:

• Dark “deal with the devil” romance
• Morally black, possessive demon MMCs
• Touch her and die energy
• Hell-based or demon realm settings
• High-drama romance with intense emotions
• Spicy paranormal romance with strong chemistry

This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $18.00 by clicking here. 

Book Review: The Librarian of Crooked Lane by C. J. Archer (The Glass Library Book 1)

 Author: C. J. Archer

Genre: Historical Fantasy / Mystery / Magical Realism

Tropes: Hidden Magic, Post-War Setting, Quest for Answers, Family Secrets, Slow-Burn Relationship, Amateur Sleuth, Artifact/Art Theft Mystery

Spice Level: None

Format: Audiobook

Series: The Glass Library Book 1

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    Sylvia was a reporter during the war, but now that the men have returned home, there’s no place for her in that world anymore. Not that she misses it. Instead, she finds quiet comfort working in a library, repairing books and keeping to herself. With no real family left—her mother and brother gone, and no knowledge of her father—she’s always lived a transient life, moving from place to place.

    But everything changes when she reads her late brother’s journal.

    Inside, he writes about magic—about the possibility that their family was connected to it—and his search for a mysterious magician named Glass. Determined to uncover the truth, Sylvia sets out with her friend to track down the elusive Glass family and finally get answers about her past.

    Along the way, they stumble into an unexpected art theft mystery that pulls them deeper into a world of secrets, danger, and hidden magic.

    I listened to this as an audiobook, and I’ll admit—it took a little while to fully grab my attention. Historical settings, especially ones with older social dynamics, aren’t usually my go-to. While this leans more WWII/post-war than Regency, it still carries some of those same frustrations, particularly with how women are treated.

    That said, once the story gets going, it really pulls you in.

    This historical fantasy blends mystery and magic in a way that keeps you guessing. Sylvia’s journey through London, following the clues left behind in her brother’s journal, is engaging and layered with emotion. She’s searching not just for answers about him, but about herself—and keeps hitting dead ends until one name changes everything: Glass.

    The magician she’s searching for is one of the last known magic users, though she rarely practices anymore. That mystery alone is compelling, but when combined with the art theft plotline, the story gains a strong sense of momentum. The investigation feels real, the twists land well, and while the theft itself is resolved, the bigger questions surrounding Sylvia’s past are left open—ending in a solid cliffhanger that sets up the next installment.

    One thing I kept questioning throughout the book was whether this would turn into a romance. The dynamic between Sylvia and Gabe walks that line, but as of now, it reads more like a slow-burn partnership or colleagues working toward a common goal. Personally, I’m hoping it stays that way—at least unless circumstances change—because certain tropes (looking at you, cheating) just aren’t for me.

    Overall, this is a strong historical fantasy mystery with a unique blend of magic, post-war atmosphere, and investigative intrigue. Once it finds its footing, it becomes an engaging and rewarding read.

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⭐ You’ll like this book if you enjoy:

• Historical fantasy set around WWII or post-war London
• Hidden magic and magical realism
• Mystery-driven plots with investigations
• Female protagonists searching for identity and truth
• Slow-burn character dynamics (romance-light or ambiguous)
• Stories with layered secrets and cliffhanger endings

This book is available on Amazon for $4.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: Nameless by Jessica Sorensen (The Broken City Book 1)

Genre: Post-Apocalyptic Romance / Paranormal Romance / Dystopian Romance

Tropes: Reverse Harem, Why Choose, Vampire Overlords, Captive Heroine, Found Family, Hidden Identity, Slow Burn Romance, Survival

Spice Level: None (so far)

Format: eBook 

Series: The Broken City Book 1

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    Humans don’t have names anymore. We are the Nameless—little more than cattle for the Wardens and the monsters that now rule what’s left of the world.

    But I had a name once. Allura.

    I can also do something most Nameless can’t: I can speak. And then there are the dreams—clear blue skies, green grass, and rain. Things that don’t seem to exist anymore. After years of imprisonment, I’m finally freed by Blaise and his group, only to discover that the outside world is nothing like those dreams. Which raises the question… were they ever just dreams at all?

    And if I start uncovering the truth about myself, I might become even more hunted than I already am.

    I originally picked this book up during a free deal and completely forgot about it until I was in the mood for a post-apocalyptic romance. Seeing that it was also a reverse harem (why choose) romance? Immediate bonus points.

    From the very first chapter, I was hooked.

    This is the kind of book that makes you ignore everything else you’re reading. I finished my original copy in one night—only to realize it was an older, much shorter version (about 64 pages). After some digging, I found out the author had combined multiple parts into an updated edition. I immediately downloaded it on Kindle Unlimited and flew through the next 100+ pages just as fast… only to hit another cliffhanger.

    And let me tell you—this story thrives on cliffhangers.

    The world-building is one of the most compelling parts of this dystopian paranormal romance. Earth has fallen, and vampire-like beings now control everything. The Wardens keep humans—the Nameless—imprisoned, while other creatures pay for the chance to feed on them. Most don’t survive long, but Allura is different. She doesn’t know how long she’s been captive or even how old she is, but she does know her essence is more valuable, she can speak, and she still has a name—even if she’s not allowed to use it.

    Once she’s freed, the story shifts into survival mode as she navigates a brutal, unfamiliar world with a group who has never known anything else. The found family dynamic starts to build here, and I was immediately attached to all of the guys.

    But Blaise? Absolutely my favorite.

    He’s a total sweetheart—at least when it comes to her—and I’m really hoping that continues as the relationships develop. As of where this book ends, this is very much a slow-burn reverse harem romance. There’s little to no spice yet, focusing instead on world-building, character development, and setting up future relationships.

    Overall, this is an incredibly addictive post-apocalyptic vampire-esque romance that will pull you in fast and leave you desperate for answers. The mystery, the characters, and the cliffhangers make it impossible to stop once you start.

And the best part? Books 2 and 3 are now available again—so unlike me originally, you don’t have to wait to continue.

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⭐ You’ll like this book if you enjoy:

• Post-apocalyptic or dystopian romance
• Vampire or monster-controlled worlds
• Reverse harem / why choose romance
• Slow-burn relationships with strong buildup
• Found family and survival dynamics
• Books that hook you fast and end on cliffhangers

This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $4.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: River of Fire by Liana Valerian (The Rivers of Hell Book 1)

 Author: Liana Valerian 

Genre: Paranormal Romance / Dark Fantasy Romance

Tropes: Demon Romance, Hell & Purgatory Setting, Forced Proximity, Enemies-to-Lovers Vibes, Morally Gray MMC, Possessive Hero, Supernatural Hybrids

Spice Level: 🌶🌶🌶🌶

Format: eBook

Series: The Rivers of Hell Book 1

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    My life was never particularly exciting, but it was mine—and I loved it. That is, until Hell became overcrowded and decided the solution was to pull half-human hybrids into Purgatory to control the problem. Now I’m stuck in a dangerous supernatural world, and to make matters worse, Ash has decided I’m his personal plaything. As if adjusting to this new reality wasn’t hard enough, my already strained relationships with the other hybrids only get worse.

    This dark paranormal romance is set in Hell and Purgatory—two realms that are surprisingly connected, making the world feel immersive and unique. Humans with demon or angel ancestry are taken from Earth and forced into this hidden war, tasked with managing restless souls before they become a threat. While the souls themselves are mostly harmless, the real danger comes from imps, demons, and other creatures lurking in the shadows. The hybrids must train, fight, and survive using specialized weapons, adding a strong action element to the story.

    Despite all the chaos, one of my favorite characters is actually an imp. He’s clumsy, obsessed with tomatoes, and completely impossible not to love. He adds a bit of humor and charm to an otherwise dark and dangerous setting.

    The FMC has a unique background, tied to both angel and demon ancestry. While that could easily make her overpowered, the story keeps her grounded—her abilities are subtle, enhancing her senses rather than making her unstoppable. Unfortunately, that doesn’t help her much when it comes to Ash. The succubus arch-demon is intensely possessive, and once he sets his sights on her, there’s no escape. Their dynamic leans into dark romance tension, with every interaction charged and addictive.

    Her best friend is another standout character, bringing a lighter dynamic to balance the darker themes. I’m really hoping to see more development there in future books.

    This is a very spicy, open-door paranormal romance, with a heavy focus on chemistry and tension alongside the plot. There’s also an intriguing mystery surrounding a missing arch-demon, which adds another layer to the story and sets up future installments nicely.

    Overall, I had a great time with this one. Between the unique Hell-based setting, strong character dynamics, and high level of spice, it’s an addictive dark fantasy romance that I’ll definitely continue.

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⭐ You’ll like this book if you enjoy:

• Dark paranormal romance set in Hell or demon realms
• Morally gray, possessive demon love interests
• Supernatural hybrid or hidden world storylines
• Very spicy, open-door romance
• Action-packed plots with mystery elements
• Unique side characters (especially lovable chaotic ones!)

This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $4.99 by clicking here.