Book Review: The Sinner by Shantel Tessier

Title: The Sinner

Author: Shantel Tessier

Series/Standalone: The L.O.R.D.S (Book #2)

Genre: Dark Romance, Adult Fiction, 

Pages: 640

Publisher: Self-Published 

Year Published: 2022

Format: Ebook (Kindle Unlimited)

"LITTLE DEMON

I was raised in a world where money and power are at your fingertips. My father is a LORD, a very respected member of a secret society that knows no bounds. When tragedy struck my family, we discovered we weren't untouchable. Just when I thought life couldn't get any worse, I was shown what hell is really like. Then he came and saved me. The devil disguised as my personal hero. But of course, nothing is for free. Not when a soul is up for grabs.

I VOW. YOU VOW. WE VOW.

Easton Bardley Sinnett- Sin- uses his power for his own sick pleasure. Like a typical Lord, he never thought about the consequences of his actions. I grew up with him, obsessed over him, craved him. He was who I pictured when I imagined doing things my body shouldn't want.

One day, I realized he was not who I thought he was. It didn't change anything, though, because I was already too far gone. If anything, I fell for him harder.

Every now and then, someone enters your life who flips it upside down. Sin wrecked me in the worst way, and I thanked him for it by serving on my knees.

As they say, nothing lasts forever. Men like him never stay with a woman like me. I'm what they use, not keep. So when he threw me away, I shouldn't have been all that surprised.

My body had always craved the darker side of love. The kind that left bruises and scars. I was what most would call unholy. And when the devil whispered in my ear that he loved me, I was more than determined to show him just how devoted I could be.

My Rating: 4/5

These books are not for the faint of heart. You definitely have to know what you're getting into if you're picking up a dark romance of any kind please check the trigger warnings. For me, this was fun and shocking but it did what it set out to do. The plot twists were outrageous in the best way and I can't even count how many times I said, "What the fuck?" I am excited to see where the series goes from here, now that the author has expanded the universe. 

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: Lore Olympus Volume 2

Title: Lore Olympus Vol. 2

Author: Rachel Smythe

Series/Standalone: Lore Olympus (Volume 2)

Genre: Graphic Novel, Fantasy, Romance, Mythology, 

Pages:368

Publisher: Inklore

Year Published: 2022

Format: Paperback (Library Copy)

"Persephone was ready to start a new life when she left the mortal realm for Olympus. However, she quickly discovered the dark side of her glamorous new home- from the relatively minor gossip threatening her reputation to a realm-shattering violation of her safety by the conceited Apollo- and she's struggling to find her footing in the fast moving realm of the gods. Hades is also off-balance, fighting against his burgeoning feelings for the young goddess of spring while maintaining his lonely rule of the Underworld. As the pair are drawn even closer, they must untangle the twisted webs of their past and present to build toward a new future."

My Rating: 5/5

I want to preface this by saying that I had read some of this series through webtoons before the physical copies had started to be published. And I loved them then, and I continue to love them now. Rachel Smythe's merging of mythology and current world technology leads to fun story telling and excellent art. I loved this instalment and look forward to reading more soon. 

Thanks for reading,

Sidny 

Book Review: Bookshops & Bonedust by Travis Baldree

Title: Bookshops & Bonedust

Author: Travis Baldree

Series/Standalone: Legends & Lattes (Prequel)

Genre: Adult, Cozy, Fantasy

Pages: 352

Publisher: Tor

Year Published: 2023

Format: Audiobook

"When an injury throws a young, battle-hungry orc off her chosen path, she may find that what we need isn't always what we seek.

In Bookshops & Bonedust, a prequel to Legends & Lattes, New York Times bestselling author Travis Baldree takes us on a journey of high fantasy, first loves, and second-hand books.

Viv's career with the notorious mercenary company Rackam's Ravens isn't going as planned.
Wounded during the hunt for a powerful necromancer, she's packed off against her will to recuperate in the sleepy beach town of Murk—so far from the action that she worries she'll never be able to return to it.
What's a thwarted soldier of fortune to do?
Spending her hours at a beleaguered bookshop in the company of its foul-mouthed proprietor is the last thing Viv would have predicted, but it may be both exactly what she needs and the seed of changes she couldn't possibly imagine.
Still, adventure isn't all that far away. A suspicious traveler in gray, a gnome with a chip on her shoulder, a summer fling, and an improbable number of skeletons prove Murk to be more eventful than Viv could have ever expected."

My Rating: 4.5/5

This was such a fun read, it was so perfect and blended so well with the original book. I think that Travis Baldree has an incredible talent in world and character-building. If you are a dnd player or someone who watches any streaming RPGs, this may be for you. The audiobook was excellent and I look forward to taking time to reread them once more.

Thanks for reading,

Sdiny

Book Review: Lore Olympus: Volume 1

Title: Lore Olympus Volume 1

Author: Rachel Smythe

Series/Standalone: Lore Olympus Series (Vol. 1)

Genre: Graphic Novel, Adult, Mythology,

Pages: 384

Publisher: 2021

Year Published: Del Rey

Format: Hardcover (Own It)

"Experience the propulsive love story of two Greek gods- Hades and Persephone- brought to life with lavish artwork and an irresistible contemporary voice.

Scandalous gossip, wild parties, and forbidden love- witness what the gods do after dark in this stylish and contemporary reimagining of one of mythology's most well-known stories about creator Rachel Smythe. Featuring a brand-new, exclusive short story. Smythe's original Eisner-nominated web-comic Lore Olympus brings the Greek Pantheon into the modern age with this sharply perceptive and romantic graphic novel."

My Rating: 5/5

I had originally read most of the comics through webtoons as they were published weekly and once they were traditionally published I was quick to buy the first volume. This series has an amazing art style, an addicting storyline and great character changes. I look forward to continuing the series and reading the physical additions. I highly recommend it, it's worth the hype.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune

Title: The House in the Cerulean Sea

Author: TJ Klune

Series/Standalone: Standalone

Genre: Cozy Fantasy, Adult 

Pages: 394

Publisher: Tor Books

Year Published: 2020

Format: Hardcover (Library Copy)

First Line: "'Oh dear,' Linus Baker said, wiping the sweat from his brow."

"A magical island. A dangerous task. A burning secret.

Linus Baker leads a quiet, solitary life. At forty, he lives in a tiny house with a devious cat and his old records. As a Case Worker at the Department in Charge Of Magical Youth, he spends his days overseeing the well-being of children in government-sanctioned orphanages.

When Linus is unexpectedly summoned by Extremely Upper Management he's given a curious and highly classified assignment: travel to Marsyas Island Orphanage, where six dangerous children reside: a gnome, a sprite, a wyvern, an unidentifiable green blob, a were-Pomeranian, and the Antichrist. Linus must set aside his fears and determine whether or not they’re likely to bring about the end of days.

But the children aren’t the only secret the island keeps. Their caretaker is the charming and enigmatic Arthur Parnassus, who will do anything to keep his wards safe. As Arthur and Linus grow closer, long-held secrets are exposed, and Linus must make a choice: destroy a home or watch the world burn.

An enchanting story, masterfully told, The House in the Cerulean Sea is about the profound experience of discovering an unlikely family in an unexpected place—and realizing that family is yours."

My Rating: 4.5/5

This was such a cozy read. The concepts were easy to understand so the fantasy element wasn't overwhelming. The plot was so character-driven that it was easy to pick up and feel immediately immersed. The only reason this wasn't a five-star was the heavy-handed symbolism. I both loved it but also felt annoyed by it at the same time. I think that it's an entertaining and beautiful read and I would strongly recommend it for fans of Lemony Snicket or those who liked Legends & Lattes but want something leaning more urban fantasy. 

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: Tools of Engagement by Tessa Bailey

Title: Tools of Engagement

Author: Tessa Bailey

Series/Standalone: Hot & Hammered Series (Book #3)

Genre: Adult, Romance, Contemporary

Pages: 368

Published: Avon

Year Published: 2020

Format:  Audiobook

"Hair, makeup, clothing, decor... everything in Bethany Castle's world is organized, planned and styled to perfection. Which is why the homes she designs for her family's real estate business are the most coveted in town. The only thing not perfect? Her track record with men. She's on a dating hiatus and after helping her friends achieve their dreams, Bethany finally has time to focus on her own: flip a house, from framework to furnishings, all by herself. Except her older brother runs the company and refuses to take her seriously.

When a television producer gets wind of the Castle sibling rivalry, they're invited on Flip Off, a competition to see who can do the best renovations. Bethany wants bragging rights, but she needs a crew and the only member of her brother's construction team willing to jump ship is Wes Daniels, the new guy in town. His Texas drawl and handsome face got under Bethany's skin on day one, but the last thing she needs is some cocky young cowboy in her way. 

As the race to renovate heats up, Wes and Bethany are forced into close quarters, trading barbs and biting banter as they remodel the ugliest house on the block. It's a labor of love, hate, and everything in between, and soon sparks are flying. But Bethany's perfectly structured life is one kiss away from going up in smoke and she knows falling for a guy like Wes would be a flipping disaster."

My Rating: 3.75/5

I liked this one, but it wasn't my favourite out of the whole series. The characters were relatable, their issues were real and sincere and the setting was fun. The overall arc of the story was good, but a lot was crammed into the book. The separate plots, the epilogue and the other characters' story arcs fall into this making it hard to believe that everyone got their happily ever after. It was fun and would recommend it if you're looking to round out the series.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: The Fade Out Act Three

Title: The Fade Out: Act Three

Author: Ed Brubaker

Artist(s): Sean Phillips 

Series/Standalone: The Fade Out Series (Vol. 3)

Genre: Adult Fiction, Graphic Novel, Historical, Mystery

Pages: 128

Publisher: Image Comics

Year Published: 2016

Format: Paperback (Library Copy)

"The final act of the bestselling Hollywood noir comics from the award-winning team of Brubaker and Phillips."

My Rating: 1/5

I feel like this whole series was wasted on me. Maybe it just wasn't for me, or maybe it just wasn't long enough for the kind of stories that I enjoy. Nothing to add from other reviews. 

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: All Things Aside by Iliza Shlesinger

Title: All Things Aside

Author: Iliza Shlesinger

Series/Standalone: Standalone

Genre: Nonfiction, Memoir, Comedy

Pages: 256

Publisher: Harry N. Abrams

Year Published: 2022

Format: Audiobook

"All Things Aside is a punch, honest, incisive book that shares a view of the world through the eyes of the inimitable Iliza Shlesinger. From the macro to micro, Shlesinger tackles it all with her no-bullshit comedic style.

Throughout the book, Shlesinger dives from one subject into the next, making her hilarious asides the meat of her stories, much like she does in her stand-up comedy. Topics range from dissecting social expectations to the notion that products marketed specifically to women are scams, and all manner of things in between. She even dares to ask herself the all-important question that every woman is forced to consider at some point- Am I actually an annoying person? Shlesinger also shares intimate moments, including a devastating miscarriage, which she manages to navigate with not only grace but somehow with side-splitting humor."

My Rating: 5/5

I usually have a hard time rating memoirs and autobiographies but this one was a 5/5. I have loved Iliza's comedy for a while, most of my adult life and having a chance to listen to this book on audio narrated by her was phenomenal. I recommend it to anyone who has enjoyed her work before. The overarching tones, similar to her comedy specials have deeper tones which was perfect. I could gush about this to great lengths. 

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: The Fade Out: Act 2

Title: The Fade Out: Act 2

Author: Ed Brubaker

Artist(s): Sean Phillips (Artist) 

Series/Standalone: The Fade Out Series (Volume 2)

Genre: Graphic Novel, Historical, Mystery

Pages: 120

Publisher: Image Comics

Year Published: 2015

Format: Paperback (Library Copy)

"Act Two of the acclaimed Hollywood Noir from the best-selling team of Brubaker and Phillips."

My Rating: 2.5/5

This instalment felt like filler for a three-volume graphic novel series. I will be finishing the series, but I anticipated something else. It's just ok. Not something I could recommend at this current time.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: The Midnight Star by Marie Lu

Title: The Midnight Star

Author: Marie Lu

Series/Standalone: The Young Elites Series (Book #3)

Genre: Fantasy, Young Adult, Romance

Pages: 316

Publisher: GP Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers

Year Published: 2016

Format: Audiobook

"There was once a time when darkness shrouded the world, and the darkness had a queen. 

Adelina Amouteru is done suffering. She's turned her back on those who have betrayed her and achieved the ultimate revenge: victory. Her reign as the White Wolf has been a triumphant one, but with each conquest her cruelty only grows. The darkness within her has begun to spiral out of control, threatening to destroy all she's gained.

When a new danger appears, Adelina's forced to revisit old wounds, putting not only herself at risk, but every Elite. In order to preserve her empire, Adelina and her Roses must join the Daggers on a perilous quest- though this uneasy alliance may prove to be the real danger."

My Rating: 4.25/5

Completing the trilogy was an excellent way for it to wrap up. The use of religion mixed with the dystopian fantasy is so interesting and I enjoyed the world-building. The idea of this fever gives not only visible markings but also powers. The view of Adelina as queen and all her choices were fascinating. Although this is a villain arch it left off in an excellent place, and I was impressed to see just how well the author wrapped the series.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny