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Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated Wings of Stone ( The Dragons of Ascavar 1) in Books
Jul 16, 2023
94 of 235
Kindle
Wings of Stone ( The Dragons of Ascavar 1)
By J.D. Monroe
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Doctor Gabrielle Rojas knows her Jane Doe patient shouldn’t heal this fast, or have a blood type that doesn’t exist. She also knows that Tarek, the sexy stranger who claims he’s her next of kin, is out of his damned mind.
But she can’t deny her own eyes when she watches him turn into a dragon and fly out the window with her patient. There’s no mistaking his gleaming scales and massive wings, and her day only gets weirder when he calls her to dig a couple of bullets out of his delicious backside.
Meddling in the affairs of dragons lands Gabrielle in a dungeon in the magical land of Ascavar, where dragons rule and magic burns bright.
With war on the horizon for his people, Tarek swears to take Gabrielle home to her safe, normal life. But her healing touch soothes his wounded heart, and he soon realizes that this is one promise he can’t keep.
As passion binds them together, both dragon and doctor must ask…can they ever go back?
I enjoy this a lot more than I expected to for the first quarter of the book I was a bit weary but I ended up really enjoying it. It was one of those reads that catches you by surprise. The story line was good, the characters were good and it had some grit. Definitely surprised me.
Kindle
Wings of Stone ( The Dragons of Ascavar 1)
By J.D. Monroe
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Doctor Gabrielle Rojas knows her Jane Doe patient shouldn’t heal this fast, or have a blood type that doesn’t exist. She also knows that Tarek, the sexy stranger who claims he’s her next of kin, is out of his damned mind.
But she can’t deny her own eyes when she watches him turn into a dragon and fly out the window with her patient. There’s no mistaking his gleaming scales and massive wings, and her day only gets weirder when he calls her to dig a couple of bullets out of his delicious backside.
Meddling in the affairs of dragons lands Gabrielle in a dungeon in the magical land of Ascavar, where dragons rule and magic burns bright.
With war on the horizon for his people, Tarek swears to take Gabrielle home to her safe, normal life. But her healing touch soothes his wounded heart, and he soon realizes that this is one promise he can’t keep.
As passion binds them together, both dragon and doctor must ask…can they ever go back?
I enjoy this a lot more than I expected to for the first quarter of the book I was a bit weary but I ended up really enjoying it. It was one of those reads that catches you by surprise. The story line was good, the characters were good and it had some grit. Definitely surprised me.
Merissa (13979 KP) rated Ariadne Unraveled: A Mythic Retelling in Books
Jul 6, 2021 (Updated Jul 17, 2023)
ARIADNE UNRAVELED is a retelling that involves Ariadne (obviously), plus Dionysus, Theseus, Artemis, and so many more.
The story takes various myths and legends and weaves them into one epic story that features betrayal, transformation, friendship, loyalty, and love. Instead of the usual Athenian telling of the Minotaur, we hear from the Minoans themselves. We learn how their women knew things about their own bodies that others didn't. We see how the Minoans were a magical, intelligent race that made mistakes just like any other. And woven through is Dionysus as he feels his way and figures out just who he is.
Wow! Just... wow! What a story. So intricate and rich in detail, I was totally immersed in Ariadne's story. I loved hearing about her - both the big picture and also the small, intimate details that made her life. And, yes, I know this is myth, but with how it has been written, I could see myself there and it all seemed real. There were even tears shed at some points, it was that good! The pacing is perfect and the writing style is smooth.
This is the first book by this author I have read, but I can guarantee you it won't be the last. Absolutely brilliant and highly recommended by me.
** 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, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jul 6, 2021
The story takes various myths and legends and weaves them into one epic story that features betrayal, transformation, friendship, loyalty, and love. Instead of the usual Athenian telling of the Minotaur, we hear from the Minoans themselves. We learn how their women knew things about their own bodies that others didn't. We see how the Minoans were a magical, intelligent race that made mistakes just like any other. And woven through is Dionysus as he feels his way and figures out just who he is.
Wow! Just... wow! What a story. So intricate and rich in detail, I was totally immersed in Ariadne's story. I loved hearing about her - both the big picture and also the small, intimate details that made her life. And, yes, I know this is myth, but with how it has been written, I could see myself there and it all seemed real. There were even tears shed at some points, it was that good! The pacing is perfect and the writing style is smooth.
This is the first book by this author I have read, but I can guarantee you it won't be the last. Absolutely brilliant and highly recommended by me.
** 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, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jul 6, 2021
Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated Soulceress ( Mythean Arcana 2) in Books
Aug 17, 2023
110 of 235
Kindle
Soulceress ( Mythean Arcana 2)
By Linsey Hall
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
He hates what she is
Three hundred years ago, Warren sold his soul in exchange for the safety of his people. He lives immortal and inhuman, a life in the shadows, hiding his secrets. Until now, when he finally has the chance to reclaim his soul after three centuries of suffering…
She’s wanted him forever
Esha is a soulceress, an immortal who drains the magical powers of others. Shunned by everyone she meets, she’s a rogue mercenary who hunts evil for a living. The only man she cannot harm is Warren, and she’s wanted since she first met him. The only problem? He hates what she is as much as everyone else.
A passion they want to resist--but can’t
Esha is the only person who can help Warren reclaim his soul, but the simple quest soon becomes a deadly battle fraught with secrets that could tear them apart. Warren will have to rely on the woman he wishes he didn’t want—one whom he can’t resist. But Esha isn’t going to settle for so little this time around. She’s going to make him work for it.
I really loved hearing Warrens and Eshas stories it just all came together so well a few bits I hadn’t clues onto as well so it always nice when a book surprises you. Would you give up your soul for that one love? If it was this romantic sign me up! Recommend!
Kindle
Soulceress ( Mythean Arcana 2)
By Linsey Hall
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
He hates what she is
Three hundred years ago, Warren sold his soul in exchange for the safety of his people. He lives immortal and inhuman, a life in the shadows, hiding his secrets. Until now, when he finally has the chance to reclaim his soul after three centuries of suffering…
She’s wanted him forever
Esha is a soulceress, an immortal who drains the magical powers of others. Shunned by everyone she meets, she’s a rogue mercenary who hunts evil for a living. The only man she cannot harm is Warren, and she’s wanted since she first met him. The only problem? He hates what she is as much as everyone else.
A passion they want to resist--but can’t
Esha is the only person who can help Warren reclaim his soul, but the simple quest soon becomes a deadly battle fraught with secrets that could tear them apart. Warren will have to rely on the woman he wishes he didn’t want—one whom he can’t resist. But Esha isn’t going to settle for so little this time around. She’s going to make him work for it.
I really loved hearing Warrens and Eshas stories it just all came together so well a few bits I hadn’t clues onto as well so it always nice when a book surprises you. Would you give up your soul for that one love? If it was this romantic sign me up! Recommend!
Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated Gallant in Books
Oct 5, 2023
140 of 235
Book
Gallant
By V.E. Schwab
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sixteen- year-old Olivia Prior is missing three things: a mother, a father, and a voice. Her mother vanished all at once, and her father by degrees, and her voice was a thing she never had to start with. She grew up at Merilance School for Girls. Now, nearing the end of her time there, Olivia receives a letter from an uncle she's never met, her father's older brother, summoning her to his estate, a place called Gallant. But when she arrives, she discovers that the letter she received was several years old. Her uncle is dead. The estate is empty, save for the servants. Olivia is permitted to remain, but must follow two rules: don't go out after dusk, and always stay on the right side of a wall that runs along the estate's western edge. Beyond it is another realm, ancient and magical, which calls to Olivia through her blood…
At first I was unsure it took a few chapters for me to get comfortable with it but once I was I just didn’t want to put it down. I’m really liking the gothic horror feel at the minute and this was done so well. A 16 year old non verbal girl just looking for a home and family to call her own. Abandoned by her mother and brought up in an awful place to find she has a family with a dark history. Loved it!!!!
Book
Gallant
By V.E. Schwab
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sixteen- year-old Olivia Prior is missing three things: a mother, a father, and a voice. Her mother vanished all at once, and her father by degrees, and her voice was a thing she never had to start with. She grew up at Merilance School for Girls. Now, nearing the end of her time there, Olivia receives a letter from an uncle she's never met, her father's older brother, summoning her to his estate, a place called Gallant. But when she arrives, she discovers that the letter she received was several years old. Her uncle is dead. The estate is empty, save for the servants. Olivia is permitted to remain, but must follow two rules: don't go out after dusk, and always stay on the right side of a wall that runs along the estate's western edge. Beyond it is another realm, ancient and magical, which calls to Olivia through her blood…
At first I was unsure it took a few chapters for me to get comfortable with it but once I was I just didn’t want to put it down. I’m really liking the gothic horror feel at the minute and this was done so well. A 16 year old non verbal girl just looking for a home and family to call her own. Abandoned by her mother and brought up in an awful place to find she has a family with a dark history. Loved it!!!!
Midnight Hunt (Bonded By Blood Vampire Chronicles #3)
8.0
Rate It
Book
Germany - 1636 Driven by the desire to have the true love she's experienced in her dreams, MONIKA...
Historical Paranormal Romance
Tempting Fate (Monsters of London, #3.6)
8.0
Rate It
Book
They’re fated for each other, but that doesn’t stop me wanting them both. I want Patch....
Contemporary Fantasy MMM Romance
Merissa (13979 KP) rated Demon Dating Service in Books
Oct 31, 2025
DEMON DATING SERVICE is a lighthearted book full of magical mishaps caused by well-meaning demons. It starts with them being bored and looking for a new game. One of them comes up with the idea of renting out a room to a local college student, and they take turns scaring the student. Sounds like a plan, right? Well, it would have worked except Luke is usually too exhausted and bone weary to be scared. Plus, he likes horror movies and is a nice person. Basically, they all love him and don't want to scare him any longer. So what they decide to do is help him with his crush on Matteo, and focus all their game on getting the two of them together.
This leads to plenty of laughs, mayhem, and the sheer wonderfulness that is this group of demons. I didn't want to get to the end of this book, due to the warm hug it was giving me as I read it. Each of the demons is fantastic in its own way, and Matteo and Luke fit right in. There is some nastiness with bullying, but that is also dealt with perfectly.
This was a great read that was brilliantly written and paced, and that kept me perfectly entertained. Definitely recommended by me.
** 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!
Oct 31, 2025
This leads to plenty of laughs, mayhem, and the sheer wonderfulness that is this group of demons. I didn't want to get to the end of this book, due to the warm hug it was giving me as I read it. Each of the demons is fantastic in its own way, and Matteo and Luke fit right in. There is some nastiness with bullying, but that is also dealt with perfectly.
This was a great read that was brilliantly written and paced, and that kept me perfectly entertained. Definitely recommended by me.
** 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!
Oct 31, 2025
Merissa (13979 KP) rated The Prince's Charm (Princely Plans #1) in Books
Mar 31, 2026
THE PRINCE'S CHARM is the first book in the Princely Plans series, a new series in a new world, with a host of new characters to fall in love with, but the same exceptional writing and world-building as I have come to expect from this author.
Torex and Pelun (I wouldn't dare to be so familiar as to call them Tor and Pel!) are both princes and both the black sheep of their families for differing reasons. Torex has a plan to marry for love in a FAR FROM NOW future, and goes to Tond to annoy his brother and get out of an arranged (sort of) marriage. Pelun doesn't know what game the High Prince is playing, but he isn't interested anyway.
I find it so easy to lose myself in Ellie Ash's worlds. This one is slow-burning, but with snippets and comments that made me chuckle. Yes, Pelun has a chip on his shoulder, and no, I don't blame him (fully). As for Torex, well, he's charming, but also slightly conceited. This isn't really a surprise, given his upbringing and magical level.
I thoroughly enjoyed every word of book one, and I can't wait to continue with the next. Absolutely loved it and HIGHLY RECOMMEND it.
** 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 31, 2026
Torex and Pelun (I wouldn't dare to be so familiar as to call them Tor and Pel!) are both princes and both the black sheep of their families for differing reasons. Torex has a plan to marry for love in a FAR FROM NOW future, and goes to Tond to annoy his brother and get out of an arranged (sort of) marriage. Pelun doesn't know what game the High Prince is playing, but he isn't interested anyway.
I find it so easy to lose myself in Ellie Ash's worlds. This one is slow-burning, but with snippets and comments that made me chuckle. Yes, Pelun has a chip on his shoulder, and no, I don't blame him (fully). As for Torex, well, he's charming, but also slightly conceited. This isn't really a surprise, given his upbringing and magical level.
I thoroughly enjoyed every word of book one, and I can't wait to continue with the next. Absolutely loved it and HIGHLY RECOMMEND it.
** 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 31, 2026
I would like to start off by saying to Owlcrate, amazing job at curating this book for the box. I was stoked when I opened the box to see this one in there because this was on my wish list!
I know quite a few people on this site did not enjoy this book. I, obviously, am not one of them. I really liked the magical quality of Caraval. It seemed like a really creepy, yet beautiful place to be. As you probably can see, it took me a while to actually read this book, but that's not the writing's fault. I just kept getting distracted or into mini slumps. I promise, I liked this book a lot.
Caraval has gotten a lot of hype and attention, I think for a good reason. This, I believe, is Stephanie Garber's first full novel and she did an excellent job at it. I am excited to see what she comes up with next.
The characters were interesting. I liked Scarlett and her sleuthing skills. She was strong and wanted to protect those around her which I can understand. She is a little too self-sacrificing to be completely relatable, though which is one fault I will put onto her. I can say I wasn't a big fan of her sister, Donatella. That's all I will say about that. The Grand Master Legend was creepy as hell and he wasn't really seen in the book at all. That was great writing to be able to feel that creeping sensation throughout the book. He was just a heavy presence at the back of your mind that you couldn't quite shake. I felt immediately attached and wary of Julian. When you read the book, you'll find out why.
The plot is primarily about the game and sisterhood. Scarlett will do anything to protect Donatella, and I mean anything. She knows she has to win this game she has been dreaming about her whole life to keep Tella safe, and damn it, she is going to do her best. I respect that. I liked the pacing of the plot, though there were a few moments things happened too quickly. I feel like there were a few too many jumps to immediate conclusions for the hints in the game that the readers couldn't necessarily keep up with.
The setting was beautiful. Who wouldn't want to go to this magical circus island? I mean, yes, it's super dangerous, but I would go! I love the rose imagery throughout. It was a great connecting theme that I liked because even if the characters sometimes were disoriented, you could find your way again with the roses.
The game was crazy. Literally. I was so blown away with the thought process Garber had to forman of when she was writing this. Blown. Away.
The twists and turns of this book had me going at all times. I really enjoyed not being able to see things coming, which I usually can when there is more of a suspenseful plot line, but in this one, there were only a few moments I could see ahead.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading this book and I can't wait for the next one!
I know quite a few people on this site did not enjoy this book. I, obviously, am not one of them. I really liked the magical quality of Caraval. It seemed like a really creepy, yet beautiful place to be. As you probably can see, it took me a while to actually read this book, but that's not the writing's fault. I just kept getting distracted or into mini slumps. I promise, I liked this book a lot.
Caraval has gotten a lot of hype and attention, I think for a good reason. This, I believe, is Stephanie Garber's first full novel and she did an excellent job at it. I am excited to see what she comes up with next.
The characters were interesting. I liked Scarlett and her sleuthing skills. She was strong and wanted to protect those around her which I can understand. She is a little too self-sacrificing to be completely relatable, though which is one fault I will put onto her. I can say I wasn't a big fan of her sister, Donatella. That's all I will say about that. The Grand Master Legend was creepy as hell and he wasn't really seen in the book at all. That was great writing to be able to feel that creeping sensation throughout the book. He was just a heavy presence at the back of your mind that you couldn't quite shake. I felt immediately attached and wary of Julian. When you read the book, you'll find out why.
The plot is primarily about the game and sisterhood. Scarlett will do anything to protect Donatella, and I mean anything. She knows she has to win this game she has been dreaming about her whole life to keep Tella safe, and damn it, she is going to do her best. I respect that. I liked the pacing of the plot, though there were a few moments things happened too quickly. I feel like there were a few too many jumps to immediate conclusions for the hints in the game that the readers couldn't necessarily keep up with.
The setting was beautiful. Who wouldn't want to go to this magical circus island? I mean, yes, it's super dangerous, but I would go! I love the rose imagery throughout. It was a great connecting theme that I liked because even if the characters sometimes were disoriented, you could find your way again with the roses.
The game was crazy. Literally. I was so blown away with the thought process Garber had to forman of when she was writing this. Blown. Away.
The twists and turns of this book had me going at all times. I really enjoyed not being able to see things coming, which I usually can when there is more of a suspenseful plot line, but in this one, there were only a few moments I could see ahead.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading this book and I can't wait for the next one!