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Merissa (13422 KP) rated Embrace the Wind (The Blood Rose #7) in Books
May 24, 2023
OK, call me shallow, but I have to admit that reading about a tattooed man, with long hair, into bikes, makes the story a lot easier to read. I love The Blood Rose series, but this book was outstanding. I love how although the Mastyrs are important, it is their Blood Roses who are coming into their own. Each is different, each bringing just what is needed, I think they are all magnificent but I will admit to loving Olivia's attitude! She rocks!!
As with the other books, the Mastyr and the Blood Rose have their own obstacles to overcome, as well as whatever Marghetta is currently throwing at them. One of the things that make this series so interesting is that each couple has their own problems, it's not the same old reasons regurgitated for a new title.
Well written, with a smooth pace, leading up to a climactic battle at the end, this is a book to savour and enjoy. Steamy and sensuous, as well as action-packed, this is an excellent addition to the series. Already looking forward to Ian and Regan's story. Definitely recommended.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Feb 28, 2016
As with the other books, the Mastyr and the Blood Rose have their own obstacles to overcome, as well as whatever Marghetta is currently throwing at them. One of the things that make this series so interesting is that each couple has their own problems, it's not the same old reasons regurgitated for a new title.
Well written, with a smooth pace, leading up to a climactic battle at the end, this is a book to savour and enjoy. Steamy and sensuous, as well as action-packed, this is an excellent addition to the series. Already looking forward to Ian and Regan's story. Definitely recommended.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Feb 28, 2016
ClareR (5996 KP) rated The Mars House in Books
Oct 1, 2024
Can I just say that I loved a book and leave it at that? Because this is one of those books.
Ok, a short summary:
January Sterling is a climate refugee, escaping the floods and intense heat for the Mars colony of Tharsis. Life as an Earthstronger on Mars isn’t ideal. He and the other Earthstrongers are seen as a danger to the native Martians: they are much stronger because of the weaker gravity, even though they’re much smaller. January and his fellow Earthstrongers are discriminated against and given the worst manual labour jobs.
January meets a Martian politician who is staunchly anti-Earth stronger, an somehow ends up in a sham-marriage. Of course, it’s a slow-burn romance with lots of peril, lies and climate change politics.
My only complaint, is that in trying to make the characters asexual, they all read as being very male. Perhaps it was just the way I read it.
The Mars House has a lot to say about climate change and its refugees - and the predictable refugee-haters. Instead of boats, they arrive in space ships, and the inhabitants of Mars are as scared of, and enraged by, these people, as some elements in our own society today.
I really enjoyed this book, and I loved how different it was to Natasha Pulley’s previous books. Whatever will she write next? I’ll be waiting!
Ok, a short summary:
January Sterling is a climate refugee, escaping the floods and intense heat for the Mars colony of Tharsis. Life as an Earthstronger on Mars isn’t ideal. He and the other Earthstrongers are seen as a danger to the native Martians: they are much stronger because of the weaker gravity, even though they’re much smaller. January and his fellow Earthstrongers are discriminated against and given the worst manual labour jobs.
January meets a Martian politician who is staunchly anti-Earth stronger, an somehow ends up in a sham-marriage. Of course, it’s a slow-burn romance with lots of peril, lies and climate change politics.
My only complaint, is that in trying to make the characters asexual, they all read as being very male. Perhaps it was just the way I read it.
The Mars House has a lot to say about climate change and its refugees - and the predictable refugee-haters. Instead of boats, they arrive in space ships, and the inhabitants of Mars are as scared of, and enraged by, these people, as some elements in our own society today.
I really enjoyed this book, and I loved how different it was to Natasha Pulley’s previous books. Whatever will she write next? I’ll be waiting!
Merissa (13422 KP) rated The Vampire's Delicious Fae (Brinnswick: Tales From Gauhala #2) in Books
Mar 24, 2025
THE VAMPIRE'S DELICIOUS FAE is the second book in the Brinnswick: Tales From Gauhala series and, although it says you can read it as a stand-alone, I would recommend you read the other books set in this world. I haven't and although it didn't stop me from enjoying this book, I think I would have enjoyed it more if I knew more about the world.
Anton is our old man, an ancient vampire, whose viramore (fated mate) is Keryth, a nature fae. These two have already met but their meeting didn't end quite the way Anton wanted it to. Two years later and they're still not talking. It takes the intervention of one of Anton's children and one of Keryth's sisters for them to bridge the gap caused by misunderstandings and hurt.
There is plenty of action / danger in here, but Anton, Keryth, and their extended family are more than capable. With a smooth pace and well-written world- and character-building, this was a great story that I thoroughly enjoyed and have no hesitation in recommending.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Mar 24, 2025
Anton is our old man, an ancient vampire, whose viramore (fated mate) is Keryth, a nature fae. These two have already met but their meeting didn't end quite the way Anton wanted it to. Two years later and they're still not talking. It takes the intervention of one of Anton's children and one of Keryth's sisters for them to bridge the gap caused by misunderstandings and hurt.
There is plenty of action / danger in here, but Anton, Keryth, and their extended family are more than capable. With a smooth pace and well-written world- and character-building, this was a great story that I thoroughly enjoyed and have no hesitation in recommending.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Mar 24, 2025
Merissa (13422 KP) rated Not That Guy in Books
Sep 15, 2025
NOT THAT GUY is an enemies-to-lovers story, featuring politician's son, Weston, and foster kid, Brenner. As you can imagine, having very different backgrounds means they grew up in different ways, but not the ways you might imagine.
My favourite part of this story was that both of them were more amazed at who they found attractive, rather than why. My least favourite part of the story, although it was absolutely necessary, was the sperm donor who called himself Weston's father. I felt as though I'd trodden in something whenever I read a scene with him in it, my mouth twisted as though I was sucking on a lemon. That man is a tool on the nth degree.
A steady pace and mostly low angst (unless you count the tool!), this was an emotional book about finding out how people can be different to how you expect, and having money isn't necessarily the best thing.
I enjoyed this story and have no hesitation in recommending it. I hope to see more of Grady and his brother in future books.
** Same worded review will appear elsewhere. **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Sep 15, 2025
My favourite part of this story was that both of them were more amazed at who they found attractive, rather than why. My least favourite part of the story, although it was absolutely necessary, was the sperm donor who called himself Weston's father. I felt as though I'd trodden in something whenever I read a scene with him in it, my mouth twisted as though I was sucking on a lemon. That man is a tool on the nth degree.
A steady pace and mostly low angst (unless you count the tool!), this was an emotional book about finding out how people can be different to how you expect, and having money isn't necessarily the best thing.
I enjoyed this story and have no hesitation in recommending it. I hope to see more of Grady and his brother in future books.
** Same worded review will appear elsewhere. **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Sep 15, 2025
Haley Mathiot (9 KP) rated Radical: Taking Back Your Faith from the American Dream in Books
Apr 27, 2018
A while back in the beginning of the year, I was offered a copy of Radical for review. I didn't have time, I was loaded down with school, and I wanted fiction, not "God-books." But before I went to college, I was browsing the books in my book store, and saw Radical. I read the back and thought "why didn't I get this earlier?" So I bought it.
Yep, you read right. I, a broke college student, forked over fifteen hard-earned dollars and bought a book.
Probably the best fifteen dollars I've ever spent.
In a sentence: Radical will change your life. It's not a 'feel-good' kind of book, it's a 'dangit-now-i-feel-guilty' kind of book. Platt takes Jesus' commandment to His followers of going and making disciples and puts it in our world, in our day and age, at our level.
Which, as he will show you, is exactly the same as it was 2000 years ago—whether we like to believe that or not.
I don't think I can possibly go a day without thinking about the things I've learned from this skinny little book. I read through it very fast, I journaled and underlined in it, I've re-read sections, I've prayed about it.
Summarizing Radical and the effects it's had on my thinking would be pointless for me to do: it would be better for you to get a copy for yourself and read it, cover to cover. Trust me when I say there is no going back, there is not excuse. After reading this book, a question is posed: What is Jesus worth to you?
Recommendation: All ages
Yep, you read right. I, a broke college student, forked over fifteen hard-earned dollars and bought a book.
Probably the best fifteen dollars I've ever spent.
In a sentence: Radical will change your life. It's not a 'feel-good' kind of book, it's a 'dangit-now-i-feel-guilty' kind of book. Platt takes Jesus' commandment to His followers of going and making disciples and puts it in our world, in our day and age, at our level.
Which, as he will show you, is exactly the same as it was 2000 years ago—whether we like to believe that or not.
I don't think I can possibly go a day without thinking about the things I've learned from this skinny little book. I read through it very fast, I journaled and underlined in it, I've re-read sections, I've prayed about it.
Summarizing Radical and the effects it's had on my thinking would be pointless for me to do: it would be better for you to get a copy for yourself and read it, cover to cover. Trust me when I say there is no going back, there is not excuse. After reading this book, a question is posed: What is Jesus worth to you?
Recommendation: All ages
Rachel King (13 KP) rated Not a Sparrow Falls (Second Chances Collection, #1) in Books
Feb 11, 2019
When I first began reading this book, I was a bit hesitant about reading it because it does not fall into the categories of books that I prefer to read. What propelled me to keep reading was my curiousity about the grandmother of the main character, as well as how the plot seemed to sort of verge to the right of what I tried to predict would happen next as I read. I enjoy reading books that are not completely predictable, but not so unpredictable that the events are absurd. This would definitely fall under that heading.
With this book, I got a peak into a lifestyle (of drugs) that I have blessedly never experienced first hand, and it opened my eyes to the desperation and hopelessness that accompanies it. I also got a look into the polar opposite of that lifestyle - that of a pastor and the politics within a specific denomination. Along with these two heavy topics, Nichols also seamlessly weaves the equally heavy topics of depression and suicide beautifully, albeit bittersweetly. I found myself shedding tears over the book, not once, but twice. The wisdom addressing these topics was right on target and fit very naturally into the plot without the book coming across as "preachy." Each of the characters, no matter how small his or her part in the plot, was well-defined and unique, and I appreciated each one. All of the "loose ends" were accounted for and tied up, and every character seemed to reach a place of redemption in their own way.
This book was very satisfying and I am glad I decided to read it.
With this book, I got a peak into a lifestyle (of drugs) that I have blessedly never experienced first hand, and it opened my eyes to the desperation and hopelessness that accompanies it. I also got a look into the polar opposite of that lifestyle - that of a pastor and the politics within a specific denomination. Along with these two heavy topics, Nichols also seamlessly weaves the equally heavy topics of depression and suicide beautifully, albeit bittersweetly. I found myself shedding tears over the book, not once, but twice. The wisdom addressing these topics was right on target and fit very naturally into the plot without the book coming across as "preachy." Each of the characters, no matter how small his or her part in the plot, was well-defined and unique, and I appreciated each one. All of the "loose ends" were accounted for and tied up, and every character seemed to reach a place of redemption in their own way.
This book was very satisfying and I am glad I decided to read it.
graveyardgremlin (7194 KP) rated The Secret History of the Pink Carnation (Pink Carnation, #1) in Books
Feb 15, 2019
In the ways of mystery, intrigue, and espionage in both the past and present narrative, I thought that [b:The Intelligencer|1098168|The Intelligencer|Leslie Silbert|http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1180962888s/1098168.jpg|1135397] was better (only brought up because I read it recently). I am a bit disappointed that there wasn't more of those in it and less romance, but not much. While predictible and not always original, it still has a charm of its own and, at times, was impossible to put down. The characters were great and I enjoyed Amy's spirited ways and the banter between her and Richard. All the secondary characters, epecially Jane and Richard's family and friends, were interesting and added to the story. I really liked Eloise, and even though she's not in it much, I really got a sense of knowing her and I can't wait to find out what happens with her next. That intrigues me as much as finding out what happens next with the Pink Carnation!
I haven't come across many books with the past/present espionage storyline and would be interested in reading more, so I'm glad that the author has decided to write more of these novels. I hope the sequels are equally as engaging and fun! And some more mystery might be nice too.
Mini-kinda-spoiler: <spoiler>
The one thing that kind of bothered me was that the title implies it is about the Pink Carnation when there really isn't much about ol' Pinkie. And the one major mission isn't really described at all! Probably because it didn't really involve the central characters or story, I imagine.</spoiler>
I haven't come across many books with the past/present espionage storyline and would be interested in reading more, so I'm glad that the author has decided to write more of these novels. I hope the sequels are equally as engaging and fun! And some more mystery might be nice too.
Mini-kinda-spoiler: <spoiler>
The one thing that kind of bothered me was that the title implies it is about the Pink Carnation when there really isn't much about ol' Pinkie. And the one major mission isn't really described at all! Probably because it didn't really involve the central characters or story, I imagine.</spoiler>
Sam (74 KP) rated Furiously Happy in Books
Mar 27, 2019
I love reading books on mental health, with some of my favourites being Matt Haig’s Reasons To Stay Alive and Notes on a Nervous Planet, however Matt Haig’s stance is very serious. This is the complete opposite to that – it takes mental illness and turns it into something laughable and relatable.
And the relatableness was the reason that I enjoyed this so much. Lawson makes references to A Series of Unfortunate Events which everyone knows is one of my absolute favourite series of books. She also loves cats, which is the way to my heart.
Just before reading this, I had read Art Matters by Neil Gaiman, which is a collection of a few of his essays illustrated by Chris Riddell. Neil Gaiman talks about how he helped an author believe they could narrate their own audiobook by telling them to tell their self that they are a professional audio book narrator.
Seems unrelated? Well the weird thing is, in Furiously Happy, Lawson talks about when Neil Gaiman gave her some advice for narrating her own audiobook. This freaked me out a bit, especially since I had just picked up Furiously Happy on a whim.
Think of it as you like, but for me that was meant to be. It was proof that I was meant to find this book in a little charity shop.
Overall, I found the book to be a good giggle and I read it within a day. It’s definitely worth checking out if you are a fan of Matt Haig or if you just need a pick-me-up.
And the relatableness was the reason that I enjoyed this so much. Lawson makes references to A Series of Unfortunate Events which everyone knows is one of my absolute favourite series of books. She also loves cats, which is the way to my heart.
Just before reading this, I had read Art Matters by Neil Gaiman, which is a collection of a few of his essays illustrated by Chris Riddell. Neil Gaiman talks about how he helped an author believe they could narrate their own audiobook by telling them to tell their self that they are a professional audio book narrator.
Seems unrelated? Well the weird thing is, in Furiously Happy, Lawson talks about when Neil Gaiman gave her some advice for narrating her own audiobook. This freaked me out a bit, especially since I had just picked up Furiously Happy on a whim.
Think of it as you like, but for me that was meant to be. It was proof that I was meant to find this book in a little charity shop.
Overall, I found the book to be a good giggle and I read it within a day. It’s definitely worth checking out if you are a fan of Matt Haig or if you just need a pick-me-up.
Merissa (13422 KP) rated Home For Christmas (Texas #9) in Books
Dec 7, 2018
Home For Christmas (Texas #9) by R.J. Scott
Home for Christmas is the ninth book in the Texas series, and we reunite with the Campbell-Hayes clan. It starts with Christmas (obviously) and Connor ready to make his way home. Before he goes though, he has to rescue a friend from a roof. River is blind drunk and speaks about things he had wanted to keep from Connor. Connor decides to throw an intervention, and the story starts.
Connor admits to being a fixer, and he thinks River needs fixing. The only trouble is, he doesn't really know River that well, and therefore has no idea on what to fix.
It was good catching up with the clan again, and I love how Jack and Riley still have their say, and insights, in their children's lives. Personally, I would have liked a bit more about River and his past, his condition, and what it took to move him forward, but this is only a short novel so I guess I can't have everything.
As with all of R.J. Scott's books, this was smoothly written, with some angst, and definitely some sexy times. The characters are wonderful to return to, and the scenery is breathtaking, making me want to see their ranch in real life.
Another winner for this author, and the series. I know this is supposed to be the final book, but is it really...? I hope not! Definitely recommended by me.
* I received a copy of this book with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Connor admits to being a fixer, and he thinks River needs fixing. The only trouble is, he doesn't really know River that well, and therefore has no idea on what to fix.
It was good catching up with the clan again, and I love how Jack and Riley still have their say, and insights, in their children's lives. Personally, I would have liked a bit more about River and his past, his condition, and what it took to move him forward, but this is only a short novel so I guess I can't have everything.
As with all of R.J. Scott's books, this was smoothly written, with some angst, and definitely some sexy times. The characters are wonderful to return to, and the scenery is breathtaking, making me want to see their ranch in real life.
Another winner for this author, and the series. I know this is supposed to be the final book, but is it really...? I hope not! Definitely recommended by me.
* I received a copy of this book with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Caffeinated Fae (464 KP) rated All Your Perfects in Books
Aug 18, 2018
Emotional & Heavy
I've read a few of Colleen Hoover's books back in college but I have yet to pick up one of her newer ones. I've enjoyed them but I have to be honest, many of her books are what I would consider emotional porn. They're made to bring you intense emotions and I swear they're made to make you cry.
Going into this book I only knew the bare minimum about this book. I saw a few quotes here and there and I knew that it was about a failing marriage. What I did know is that I wanted to finally pick up another Colleen Hoover book. When I saw this book on Netgalley as a "wish" I knew I needed to click that button. I was lucky enough to be approved for this book.
I have to admit, I struggled with this book. I struggled with some of the actions of characters and honestly the characters themselves. I never truly felt connect with the characters. Now, Graham & Quinn were wonderful characters that were flawed and realistic, but I couldn't connect with them. Their story was tragic and beautiful at times and I can see why so many people have grabbed onto their story. Unfortunately, I just couldn't connect how I normally do.
As expected with any Colleen Hoover novel, it is well written. You are going to feel emotions and you're going to feel them very deeply. Colleen Hoover does emotions well, I may not have felt connected to the characters but I did feel emotions and even tear up a bit at moments.
All in all, it was a good book & well written.
Going into this book I only knew the bare minimum about this book. I saw a few quotes here and there and I knew that it was about a failing marriage. What I did know is that I wanted to finally pick up another Colleen Hoover book. When I saw this book on Netgalley as a "wish" I knew I needed to click that button. I was lucky enough to be approved for this book.
I have to admit, I struggled with this book. I struggled with some of the actions of characters and honestly the characters themselves. I never truly felt connect with the characters. Now, Graham & Quinn were wonderful characters that were flawed and realistic, but I couldn't connect with them. Their story was tragic and beautiful at times and I can see why so many people have grabbed onto their story. Unfortunately, I just couldn't connect how I normally do.
As expected with any Colleen Hoover novel, it is well written. You are going to feel emotions and you're going to feel them very deeply. Colleen Hoover does emotions well, I may not have felt connected to the characters but I did feel emotions and even tear up a bit at moments.
All in all, it was a good book & well written.