Ԩdz are far worse than a thorn in my side,� he said, his dark eyes gleaming at her. Ԩdz are a knife in my heart.�
In a world of everlasting ph
Ԩdz are far worse than a thorn in my side,� he said, his dark eyes gleaming at her. Ԩdz are a knife in my heart.�
In a world of everlasting physical ailments, never-ending illnesses, and a mercurial winter, the spontaneous and unexpected arrival of Rebel Witch brought me out of a deep, dark depression. It’s not often anymore that I can immerse myself into a book and actually enjoy it, let alone finish it, but when I picked up Heartless Hunter last summer I had no idea how it would save me. It’s a funny story, actually, how I chose to read it. I was in a year long reading slump where I either didn’t read at all or would pick up book after book and just�.not care. Or I’d get to 75% and say 'meh'. Now, if you know me even a little, that is NOT me-at all. But one day I saw this gorgeous cover and thought…sure, why not? And added it to my library queue immediately. It took forever to become available, so I almost forgot about it, and when it did become available I kept pushing it off with a callous ‘deliver again later�.
She wasn’t sure what was more upsetting: that Alex had loved her, or that Gideon didn’t.
Then It happened-one of the books I was perpetually ‘deliver later’ing....was accidentally accepted. I was a bit upset because I didn’t want to ‘waste� my turn, but then thought-why not give it a try??? �FROM. PAGE. ONE. My heart ignited. My soul was set alight-I hadn’t felt that way in at least a year. Do you ever get that feeling? Where you open a book and you just KNOW? It rarely happens anymore-if at all. But this series??? It speaks to my deranged person and I cannot for the life of me find a single fault.
And if a small voice inside him objected, it was only because Gideon was still compromised. Still weakened by her. If he thought about how Rune risked herself tonight to help him, he would waver. Gideon couldn’t waver.
I mean…I could if I tried-but, sometimes, as my friend says-it’s just about the vibes. And this series? It holds my heart in the vibes department. I would walk hand in hand into a house of fire with this series. Hell, I'd set that house ABLAZE. I’d lay it all on the line to be able to read Heartless Hunter again for the first time…and while that is not possible, I’d like to think that with every re-read I’ll learn something new, feel something more, and find so much more to obsess about that hadn’t spoken to me in the same way before.
Gideon had no choice. Killing Rune was the only way to stop that from happening. If it broke him, so be it.
So�.why is this series so perfect, you ask? Well…I know a deranged woman when I read one and this author just understands what makes a book TICK. Gone is the worry that I won’t get tension-it’s so HEAVY in book one AND two. There is no lack of peril, which makes me absolutely feral, mind you, because our two elusive lovebirds are ALWAYS in danger because they’re too stupid in love not to be. And, lastly, our author does not shy away from tortuous and grueling scenes that many don’t show-some authors lead us to water but won’t let us drink-but if you love the ‘wHo DiD tHiS tO yOu� trope, I can assure you-Kristen Ciccarelli will not let you go thirsty.
He was thinking about how, now that he wasn’t allowed to have her, she was all he wanted. Maybe he was destined to want things forever out of his reach.
I mean, also, the PINING. The pinnninnnggggg. I know that too much can be overkill..and while I’m quick to disagree with you, I cannot say this is untrue. You have to do it correctly or-in my opinion-not at all if you want it to be lengthy and drawn out. Fear not, Friends-the pining is wholly worth it, in my opinion. I just think that if you get together too quick…what’s there to yearn for? Yeah, okay�.you got him/her…now what? Let’s light our saddle ablaze and yo ho matey to the ends of the earth, my darling? No. Sorry. That. Is. TIRED. And BooorRRRRiiiNNNNgggg. Though I know a lot of people are not a fan of slow burn…whereas my general and overwhelming preference is for slow burn-the slower the better, I say. I can’t do sappy, so I loathe insta-love. Insta-love this is not.
Ԩdz’re not exactly the most trustworthy person, either,� she shot back. Ԩdz handed me over to be killed the moment you found out what I was.� And I’ll do it again.
Better yet, I loved this series with the whole
[image]
Enemies to slow burn/mistrust to lovers-to-enemies to absolute ride or die lovers-call me crazy, but double hate, betrayal, obsession, jealousy-even-though-you-hate-them-yet-still-want-them-and-damn-if-anybody-else-can-have-them is the superior trope but maybe that’s just me.
[image]
Grabbing her gun, he pushed it down, aiming it at the ground. Ԩdz nearly shot me,� he hissed. �Sorry.� Her tone suggested she was sorrier she’d missed him.
Look, this is getting stupid long whilst going nowhere so I will try to wrap it up with my hero and heroine who, I’m sorry, are refreshingly honest with themselves about the fact that they still are freaking obsessed with the other even though they know not to be. I would say the only flaw (IF THERE EVEN ARE ANY) was the naivety that the other didn’t feel the exact same-this benefited me because I HATE when getting together or back together is easy, but I could see how it could bother some…you’re entitled to your opinion-
[image]
You’re extremely wrong opinion.
Rune lay on her side in a pool of blood. Get up. The room went dark at the edges. Get . . . up . . . Cressida’s shadow slid over her.
But I digress-Gideon may be one of my newest obsessions and I’ve been without for a LONG time. He is everything I love about heroes, from the self-sacrificial nature even though it goes against everything he believes and holds dear, to the tender way he would do anything to protect Rune, even if it doesn’t come off that way, to the way that he knows he is one hundred percent not good enough for her ([image]) and lets his insecurities and jealousies show even while being a confident and sure soldier. I cannot express ENOUGH how I adore this man.
Hooking her arms around his neck, Rune arched against him. Telling him how very mutual this feeling was. That he wasn’t alone in his wanting. If this was weakness, he wanted to be weak. If this was sin, let him be damned to hell.
And Rune, so strong and resilient and willing to die in the name of doing what’s right for her kind…all the while having a soft spot for Gideon and seeing through his armor.
But Rune’s heart and her head refused to align. They were two ships on different courses. Her heart had gone rogue a long time ago.
Time and again these two know what they need to do to achieve their goal and help their side of the war, and yet they can never quite do it. And, in this one, it was so nice because Rune hit a snag in her self sacrifice- she found fear and self-preservation…and this added another layer to the story.
The damp cold seeped through her clothes, and across from her stood Gideon. Water glistened in his dark hair and trickled down his face. Rune was overcome with an urge to go to him. To press her cheek against his chest and listen to the beat of his heart while he held her. Before she could, Gideon raised his gun. Rune froze, her heart pounding. Surely he wouldn’t. Not after everything they’d admitted to each other. He cocked the gun, aiming it at her chest. I’m sorry, his eyes seemed to say. I wish it didn’t have to end like this. But hadn’t she always known it would?
Also, can we address that THIS is how a duology should be done? A war is going on�.and yet it doesn’t feel bogged down or boring and there was NO long drags with separation. That is a big second book trope and it just…man it is so tired. I like it sometimes when done EXTREMELY WELL (a rare feat), but it’s so far and few between that happens. And�.I could just go on for days, couldn’t I?
“The problem with love is the more you try to destroy it, the stronger it becomes.�
At the risk of becoming even more annoying, I’ll stop here. Look, I loved this book. I’m sure there will be plenty who don’t-and that’s fine-but I really think that if you loved the first, you’ll love the second. And why wouldn’t you? Easy is boring, and absolutely NOTHING about this is easy for them. It’s wrapped up, it has many dangerous moments, and it definitely makes them question and battle their internal longing in their heart from their head one chapter to the next�.the most realistic thing ever, in my opinion, when it comes to relationships these days-except, ya know, this could end in death soooo. Anyway- I am so beyond grateful to have gotten this ARC and it really and truly brought light into my life. Sometimes it’s the smallest things that have the largest impact…and for that I am eternally grateful.
Now I have to try and find the Fairyloot version that I HAD and SOLD because I was low on money *anger*.
“Ro! Why’d you ride with him for?� To Alex: “King, you flirting with my girl?� “No,� he returns with a lazy dazzle of a smile. “I’m flirting w
“Ro! Why’d you ride with him for?� To Alex: “King, you flirting with my girl?� “No,� he returns with a lazy dazzle of a smile. “I’m flirting with mine.�
[image]
My heart. My heart is so full. When I opened up this document to write, my heart grew warm and fuzzy and my stomach erupted in butterflies- but is that surprising when it comes to Hogle? I feel like I will always be a broken record when it comes to my favorite contemporary author. She writes in the quirky manner in which I think. She doesn’t do cookie cutter. She makes at least every other FMC a little unhinged. And, mostly, for whatever reason, she writes from not only her heart, but mine.
Someday. For now, I still have today, and I will make it a lovely one.
I don’t know if I ever would have tried this author if not for my long time friend on goodreads who INSISTED I give You Deserve Each Other a try. And it just goes to show that it’s not always what YOU know but WHO you know, because we cannot POSSIBLY catch all the new authors or series that manifest every year.
My inability to forge deep, serious, lasting connections with the men I’ve dated throughout my twenties might stem from the fact that I am not, as is painfully obvious to my family and friends, all the way over Alex. And I don’t like the effect he had on me when we were young, either, so I’m sore about that, too. When we started dating, I was a wild, self-centered, carefree young thing, and he stunted my development with his pretty, hypnotic eyes and slow, deep, “There’s my girl.� Now I weep at diaper commercials. I invent distinct personalities for each of my crocuses, I prefer the company of chickens to people, I chalk hopscotch boxes on the sidewalk for kids to play on. I am overly emotional when I watch videos of babies reacting to eating lemons. It is all his fault. He brought all of my nerve endings to the surface, when life would’ve been smoother if I’d remained feral.
[image]
That being said, I will never find a book that speaks to my soul quite like YDEO does with Nicholas and Naomi and their toxic battle to end the relationship without being the one to pull the plug. And it’s so funny to me because that book, by all accounts, has so many realistic triggers for me�.but it made me feel seen…heard…and perhaps a little more sane. It reached me in a way no author has because she writes in the sporadic and adhd way my brain works and it made me feel better about myself [with Naomi being just a little less certifiably insane, though it’s by a very thin margin]. And with all that being taken into account, Old Flames and New Fortunes-For about 50%-seems to be the closest to that book Hogle has gotten.
“Aren’t you going to congratulate us for being such a pretty couple?� Trevor wheedles, and Alex laughs. Laughs! I hate him for it. Who does he think he is, pretending to be unbothered? He has to be bothered. I would be, if my ex were presumably sleeping with my soon-to-be stepsibling. It is infuriating that he might not be bothered.
I will say that y’all had me scared on here with the angry spoiler warnings and, I guess?, trigger warnings for the latter half of the book-and on that I can say that it did not bother me in the slightest�.but maybe it’s because I am in a different mindset than probably ten years ago (I still like to think that with such consistent and strong writing I would have still loved it or gotten over it). I will begrudgingly admit that, with this new twist, it did change the tone and leave a little of the YDEO vibes behind-and that’s okay. For some, that’s a turnoff. For me, well, I didn’t want a carbon copy of my other favorite by her because, obviously, that was done and this is a totally different couple AND for this book it showed growth. It showed maturity. And…I’m sorry�.if you don’t know it’s coming then perhaps you didn’t really get what the FMC was all about.
I had hoped that enough time had passed, that I had changed enough, that I had become unreadable to him. It never occurred to me that he’d figure me out all over again exactly like he did the first time.
[image]
What I mean to say is that it’s a very obvious character trait of our female lead and I KNOW it comes as a shock to some but if you look at the way it is leading up to what our character wants out of life�it can be considered very on the nose, in my opinion. And, ya know, I’m not just saying this because I adore Hogle, but it’s OKAY for a female lead to want less than or to crave something people don’t all identify with. Some may find it hard to relate but I, personally, was this way, am this way, and will always be this way and-shocker-Hogle somehow managed to pin down my wildest, darkest, deepest innermost thoughts and longings and dreams and she made me feel like I wasn’t crazy for that being my main goal in life. Somehow her passages always melt my heart, draw me in to the story, and make me feel like an extension of our MC.
This quiet pain is unbearably worse than cursing, shouting. There is nothing more awful than Alex rolling up his sleeves to show me all the wounds I left on him, and him reckoning with the ones he gave to me.
[image]
Another thought may be some people just didn’t love how the trope was introduced or handled…fair. I get it. But, other than that, I think it can be a pretty easy guess where the story goes when it’s time to be more serious. ALL THAT ASIDE-
“Is it the same picture I uploaded to Instagram two years ago that you liked at four in the morning last week, then quickly unliked?� He’s gloating. “I was hoping you didn’t notice that.� “I notice everything.� I glare. “Damn you, Alex King.� He smiles at me, eyes molten.
This book had banter. Rivalry. The BEST chemistry…I truly think this story is weirdly beautiful, as all of hers are, and will reach many people even WITH the end being less bantery and more about heart and what makes you happy in life. I absolutely loved how Alex was in the end, what he was willing to do…I am all about gestures and this one melted my heart and made it sing. I adored Romina’s story and I loved even more that it was a small town…sometimes these work for me, other times not-I felt the vibe here and I enjoyed it. NOW, this one may be biased LOL I have zero idea if someone else did it if I’d love it but eh�.I dig it. I do not always dig.
[image]
“Chickens as pets,� he muses, getting up and wandering over to my cabinets. He starts opening them, poking around. “Is that allowed? You’d think there’d be codes about that. Livestock within city limits, etcetera.� “My chickens aren’t livestock, they’re family. What are you doing? What are you looking for?�
So, you know, I think with all Sarah Hogle books I recommend them with a grain of salt because this author has time and again proved she is unhinged and you should know by now she doesn’t go by any mold. I do recommend this with my whole heart�.but not for everyone. Just as I recommend all her other stories…but for each person I recommend different books based on their personality. There is a Hogle book for everyone, you just need to find it.
Why was I acting this way? Why was I constantly having to remind myself of logic and consequences to the point I
**ARC PROVIDED BY PUBLISHER**
Why was I acting this way? Why was I constantly having to remind myself of logic and consequences to the point I wanted to scream at myself? Why did I keep asking the same questions despite knowing the answers to all of them?
*Please please please do not judge my rusty writing...it has been MONTHS since I've written a review and it felt like THIS typing-
[image]
then upon editing it felt not so great lol. Anyway!*
[image]
I’m so sad to say it’s been far too long since I’ve even CONSIDERED writing a review and it’s been months since I’ve read a book. I don’t know what it was about this particular slump that took me down to that level, but for whatever reason I have been mentally and physically unable to process even as little as one page of a book. Never in the history of all my histories have I ever been so down in the dumps…and then this book.
My family understood me. My friends understood me. But there were parts of me that they wanted to change, whereas Bjorn seemed to accept the way I was. Seemed to encourage the parts of my character that everyone else in my life had tried to quash.
This wonderful, addictive, exciting, page-turner of a book lands on my phone and the moment I open It up to check it out I. Am. HOOKED. Maybe it’s the writing (oh, assuredly). Maybe it was the flow (Yep). Or�maybe it’s the unhinged bloodthirsty opening line that sparked my interest and dragged me into this beautifully woven masterpiece of a book. But…and this is most likely the truest notion of all�.maybe it was when Bjorn, our absolutely BREATHTAKING male lead, appeared on the scene and they exchanged charged and witty flirting and banter that made me an absolute wreck of an utter fool for this story.
“Don’t call me that.� Ԩdz’re right,� he said. “It’s not original—I shall think of something better. Perhaps Freya Onehand. Or Freya Axethief. Or Freya Scorchedpalm.�
YEAHHH NAILED IT. No, in all seriousness, that first paragraph drew me in so quickly and I was shocked at my instant attraction and draw to this book. I may be a bit deprived, but even some of my favorite novels take a moment for me to become attached to so this was a pleasant and VERY welcome surprise. That being said�.the writing drew me in, but Bjorn made me stay.
"Next you’ll tell me that I’m pretty and I’ll lose all respect for your wit.� “It is hard to keep one’s wits when faced with a woman as beautiful as the sight of shore to a man who has been lost at sea.�
What really struck me about this book-and I know this is an odd or taboo thing to say- is how utterly different it was than my favorite series by Jensen, The Bridge Kingdom. Gone was that THICK layer of angst between two true enemies where every page you lost more and more of the already precious air supply you had and the countdown to utter HEARTACHE and BETRAYAL, and instead we saw this slow burn angst, simmering and festering beneath the surface as you just KNEW Bjorn and Freya were playing with fire, walking a tight-rope of forbidden love under the guise of mentor/mentee friendship.
I liked him. Liked how he was both terrifyingly ruthless and heartbreakingly kind. Liked how he made me laugh and how his wit kept me on my toes. Liked the way I felt not just safe in his presence, but strong. I wanted to be close to him, and I was terrified of how my feelings might grow if I kept feeding that want.
We saw him pine as she did what was ‘right�, what was ‘necessary� to keep those around her safe and to fulfill her duty that was foretold by a prophecy long ago. We saw as they slowly lost control around one another and the forbidden love began to unfold even as the world around them started to crumble and Freya time and again was faced with impossible choices.
He turned me in his arms, one hand rising to tangle in my mess of braids. “I used to dream only of fire and ash,� he whispered, running a thumb over my cheek as I lifted my face to meet his gaze. “Now when I close my eyes, all I see is your face.�
I just …this book. It wasn’t just the romance, though I love how Jensen always tends to make it a central development in the plot because, I’m sorry, let’s be real, I LOVE FANTASY but I am not seeking out romantasy for the profound nature of history and self-worth and saving the world. Yeah sure�.that, too. BUT I AM HERE FOR THE PINING. THE HEARTACHE. THE ABSOLUTELY UNHINGED FORBIDDEN OBSESSIONS AND GROVELING. THE SACRIFIES OF THE LOVE INTEREST FOR THE WOMAN HE IS SLOWLY AND UNCONTROLLABLY FALLING IN LOVE WITH. But hey...that’s just me *shrug*
“The ships will be under guard. Gnut’s no fool—he’ll protect his line of retreat.� My hands balled into fists. “Then help me.� Tension thickened between us, and I could hardly breathe. Not because I thought Bjorn would try to stop me but because I wanted him to help me. Wanted him to be the sort of man who’d do what it took to save all those in the hall. The breath I was holding came out in a gust as Bjorn finally said, “Lead the way, Born-in-Fire.�
I digress, my point is, it wasn’t just the romance lol. That is why I love her writing style so much. She has these interesting, rich stories layered with heartache and self-discovery, but her emphasis on what you’d do for the one you love despite the odds and all it will cost you?? I’m sorry, but that is just worth it’s weight in gold and SO hard to find. An author who can mix all that and do it WELL? Sign me up, because there are far and few between who can do it and she is one of the few you can count on to give you an excellent story AND a love that will tear you apart from the inside out. She cuts my heart out every single time. This is why she has my undying loyalty-I never said I wasn’t unhinged!
Ԩdz will not die today, Born-in-Fire, because I will slaughter anyone who comes near you. That is a promise.�
All that being said, this book means more to me than anyone could ever know. Not only did it become an instant favorite, but it brought me back to life and pulled me back into the world that keeps me sane, makes me happy, and pulls me from depression on a need-to basis. I love this book and I truly hope her book tour brings her close enough to me that I can get my Bridge Kingdoms signed, and especially A Fate Inked in Blood. If not, no worries�.I’ll be stalking the stores that will grant me signed wishes and shipping from afar. I refuse to not have this absolute work of art signed.
This book was absolutely amazing- I was so obsessed from beginning to end. I immediately wanted to pick this up the moment I finished...and that's sayThis book was absolutely amazing- I was so obsessed from beginning to end. I immediately wanted to pick this up the moment I finished...and that's saying something right now for me, in the state I am in.
I unfortunately read this at a time where I was at a difficult point in my life, so I read it in 10% chunks after devouring the first in a mere two daI unfortunately read this at a time where I was at a difficult point in my life, so I read it in 10% chunks after devouring the first in a mere two days.
It had its issues, to be sure, but overall it kept the same tone and had the same passion and love and depravity (my favorite) seeping from every page that the first installment did....so, somehow, I still feel-even in my detached state- that this was a 5 star read that I'll have to re read in the near future....more
Again, I read this when in a terrible mental state but the epic shined through. Well-written and about as good of a fanta*ARC Provided by Orbit Books*
Again, I read this when in a terrible mental state but the epic shined through. Well-written and about as good of a fantasy as you can get, I highly recommend this one! Review to come. :D
This could not come more highly recommended from my Darling French Snake, so I am very excited for this one! i fEeL tHe PaIn CoMiNg...more
Ԩdz’re doing it again,� he says at last. I look away quickly. “Doing what?� “Romanticizing nightmares.�
Words cannot express how deeply this
Ԩdz’re doing it again,� he says at last. I look away quickly. “Doing what?� “Romanticizing nightmares.�
Words cannot express how deeply this book made me happy. Long gone are the ‘good� vampire books that are worth picking up and reading, which has always broken my heart because when well done, these tend to catapult straight up to my absolute favorites and become books I tend to think about daily. To think we may finally be getting the content we deserve, authors finally taking a serious stab at picking up the seductive and extremely difficult art of vampires� it’s such an exciting prospect.
I already know the danger of their speed, their strength. I know the danger of their teeth. What more could there possibly be? What more could there be?
I’m not saying vampires have went anywhere, but what I AM saying is that anyone who attempts the genre falls flat-terribly flat. It was such a ‘fad� following the Twilight Saga and it never seemed to hold up to expectations-so, like many highly popular and extremely trendy things, people grew tired. Now, all this being said, maybe I’m wrong and it stayed around-but from what I remember, all the reviews I read people were tired of them popping up everywhere so people cooled their jets and tackled other genres for a while, to my knowledge. Please note I’m also not saying Twilight put vampires on the map, I’m simply stating that it was a global phenomenon and took the world by storm�.thus making it the ‘it� thing to talk about. You can’t tell me werewolves took off after that, but that has always been around, too.
Hatred tastes like poison, like the charred wick of a candle the second before it ignites—and it always ignites.
I digress-my whole point in all of this is to say even if no one else wanted to read about vampires, I have NEVER lost interest-I simply stopped trying because, in all honesty, the authors weren’t making it edgy enough, making it addictive enough, making it…well. Do I have to spell it out????? I AM OF THE VARIETY WHERE IF I AM READING ABOUT VAMPIRES I LIKE BLOOD TO BE SUCKED, OKAY. I don’t know what’s wrong with me that this is a secret bookish kink (come near me in real life and try this, I fucking dare you)
(well)
(hmm)
[image]
(okay we’ll discuss it later BUT)
My point (again) is that when you write a story with high stakes, REAL vampires, and have REAL…sucking…I am most likely OBSESSED. Not to mention if the lead male is morally gray, super protective, jealous, ride or die, and of the ‘touch her and DIE viciously and without honor� variety, I am blindly and inexplicably yours. Not to mention the peril. Did I mention I love peril? And this book had ALL that�.to say I am trash for this book is an understatement.
Perspective is a wonderful thing.
I won’t lie and say every book in the previous series worked for me- do I look back at it fondly? Of course I do. Reid had my heart from book one, but the first couple books weren’t without their issues. Lou was never my favorite, BUT she was WONDERFUL in book three when she finally had to grow up. And, in The Scarlet Veil, I adored her. For some reason, though, the story I should have loved in book one (I think it was partially Lou and maybe partially the writing, even though I LOVE the plot of book one) and the plot of book two didn’t consume me�.but I still held on because I really enjoyed them. Then book three came out and it was utter perfection-every self-sacrificing bit. The all-consuming love and willingness to do anything to save one another between Lou and Reid in Gods and Monsters really tore at my heartstrings and made me a forever worshipper of them, but not ONCE did I get AS enraptured as I did when reading Celie and Michal’s story. What can I say�.I am a for a morally gray villain type.
“Have you partaken of the apple before?� I ask with a note of accusation. “Many times.� As before, his lips twist into a not-quite smile. “For example, our pythoness once predicted that I would take a bride—a mortal woman with hair of onyx and eyes of emerald, not unlike yourself.� My cheeks blaze instantly at the ridiculous image—at the two of us, together, bound forever in holy matrimony—before he reaches out without warning, tucking a strand of hair almost affectionately behind my ear. His black eyes glitter with malice. “She also predicted that I’d kill her.�
From the first page this story jumped out to me. I feel, as a writer, Mahurin just really has become one of the best, up there with some of my all-time favorites. It flowed, it was so so addicting, it was interesting…and it just felt right when I picked it up. Don’t you just love when you pick up a book and you don’t have to wait for it to ‘click�? That was this book and DAMN if that has not been happening much lately.
I have never been a violent person. Indeed, I usually abhor the sight of blood, but when a porcelain doll breaks, she is nothing but sharp edges.
Celie was never my favorite (other woman…DUH), but the minute I was in her head I loved her. And, obviously, the SECOND I saw that conniving vampire man all-encompassing butterflies and utter numbness swept through me and I was done for. It’s not simply a hero/anti-hero/villain that does it for me, I do need MORE. But when there IS more? Storyline, atmosphere, adventure, tortured/pained love…it’s like catnip to me. This story, for all intents and purposes, consumed me from minute to end.
Dark, eerie atmosphere. Check. Strong, compelling female lead. Check. Don’t know who to trust. Check. Morally gray male lead. Check. Peril. Heartbreak. Heartache. CHECKKKKK. Each and every thing I love and desire is in this novel and I can’t be anything but **** for it. Call me basic, but this is Fall 101 and anyone who doesn’t read it is severely missing out�.and that’s a heinous understatement and grievous error on their part.
Lou has found her place in life—she’s found her family, her home—and I just . . . Haven’t. It’s a sobering realization.
Dealing with Celie’s past trauma was harrowing, heartbreaking and it really added depth to her already interesting character. We saw how her past effected how she treats her future, how she would do anything for any one of her friends and even, after a little time, her vampire ‘friends�. I connected with her on such a deep emotional level, for I found that her inner angst reflected much of mine and the way she thought of herself was nothing short of transparent of myself. I loved how she held herself, how she battled and fought and showed no fear in the face of death MULTIPLE times. She was the epitome of bravery and…I have to agree with Michal here, recklessness and a foolhardiness.
“I thought vampires didn’t crave human blood.� � Michal’s smile widens as if he knows. “There are exceptions to every rule, Célie.�
AHHHH MICHAL. WELCOME TO THE SHOW, BESTIE. Yeah yeah, is anyone surprised? Look, I’ll make it short and brief. I love the darker storyline, so it only goes hand in hand that I would enjoy a male hero I don’t often get to see anymore. I wasn’t lying when I said we get very few vampire male leads anymore, but I have high hopes Michal is part of a trend to make them more prevalent-or, as I kind of said earlier where it’s been done, YES, but done WELL? No, thus it feels like they don’t exist-again. I really really am not into paranormal as much as I used to be back in the day (over 10 years ago is when I liked it) but I will NEVER ever turn down the chance to read a vampire novel and that will never change. And when one is done as well as Michal was, they are an unstoppable force. His loyalty, his rage on her behalf, his protectiveness� it undid me.
Sighing heavily, Michal drags me toward the shop anyway. I dig in my heels. “What are you�?”Before I can finish the question, however, he breaks the lock on the door with a quick flick of his wrist. I gape after him as he sweeps inside and reappears seconds later with a toothbrush and mint paste. He thrusts them both at me, closing the door firmly behind him. “Happy?� he asks. “I—� My hands close around the items. “Well, yes—that was very—very—� He rolls his eyes and paces several feet away. Giving me privacy, I realize with another start. “Thank you,� I say awkwardly. “Did you, er—did you happen to pay for these?� Slowly, he turns to look at me.
The close proximity in more than one scenario, the way he very clearly found her fascinating and slowly came to admire her inner hidden strength, her charm, her wit, he started to like everything about her and sneakily did so many things to aid her behind her back as to help her out without her knowing. He slowly became a permanent ‘secretly in your corner� guy and it was so natural it felt like breathing. You know how sometimes a romance feels forced for the sake of it? Not here. I truly felt like he viewed her as a tool, as someone to further his ends, until he didn’t. He couldn’t help but fall for the sweet but fierce and loyal girl, and he wasn’t shy about standing up for her, defending her when others made her feel small, and his anger on her behalf slayed me. He was�.unforgettable to me. And, this is a HUGE thing-HE REMINDED ME SO. SO. MUCH OF JACKS. I can’t explain it, but he had the same sardonic attitude, the same craftiness. The way he slowly began to care for her and retaliated against those who wronged her gave me nothing less than STELLAR Ballad vibes. It was�.such a shock and a wonderfully welcome feeling that I was not expecting. I do not think I have EVER compared another male lead to the likeness of Jacks, so this feels monumental, in a way. And I was SO SICK when I read this- I was in a haze, a fog. Yet I stuck with it and persevered and read and re read and read again until I finally finished it. I do not do that� so that should tell you just how much I loved it.
He speaks the words coldly, absolutely, as only a king could, and my chest pinches unexpectedly as his cruel mask slips back into place. As his eyes flatten to terrifying black, as his face hardens into that of the vampire I met aboard the ship and in the aviary. Gone is the spark of interest, the reluctant amusement. This is the Michal I know. No—this is the Michal he is.
And, lastly, I would be remiss to not touch on the fact that we DO get the one thing I love most about vampire books-DO NOT JUDGE ME, OKAY-we DO get a blood sucking scene. I will not say where or when or what context� but it is good. It is everything a girl could dream of (if you are unhinged, much like myself). And I DO hope we get more. And also also, I love the aftermath and how he reacted. Just�.chef’s kiss. But also also also, (view spoiler)[ Please don’t be upset my dear Michal, take what you NEED. Because I NEED MORE. (hide spoiler)]. Probably my other fog induced haze of a scene that I’ve thought about frequently would have to be the close proximity scene�.yeah. That’s the one. The small space…the dark space…you’ll know when you’re blessed with it. Call me crazy (I am though) but I LOVE when past traumas, or phobias, or what have you come to light and the hero knows/secretly knows and does everything he can to counteract it just�.AGHHHH. PLEASE. And just again�the way he gets so ANGRY on her behalf, just downright affronted…I need it. Please take me back.
“I’m angry at everyone.� “But you’re angrier at me,� Lou says shrewdly. “No,� I lie. She crosses her arms. Ԩdz’ve always been a shit liar, Célie.� “How did you find me?� “Are you trying to deflect the master of deflection?� When I say nothing, her lips twitch, and I probably imagine the subtle glint of approval in her eyes.
That being said, I’ll shut my obsessed mouth now. I’d say my only complaint-if you even want to call it that-is the end end and what may be done with it. This is a trope that I am heavily against in most cases and it always scares me for what may come…but I have a good feeling about it. I hope it’s done well and adds some more tension to an already wonderfully angsty book.
Ԩdz must look like the innocent flower, Célie Tremblay, but be the serpent under it.� “Be the serpent,� another ghost echoes. “Leave now,� another snarls. “I”—forcing deep breaths, I choke down my panic—“Michal, p-please, we really need to—�
I hope that many of you pick this up-if not only to give the vampires a chance at an epic comeback, but because some of our old favorites resurface and I really feel like they added the perfect amount of heart and strife in the story. I can’t say I’m shocked I loved this, but I WILL say I am surprised at the depth of my love. So, yes, I will push this on anyone and everyone I can, and I will not stop reliving it over and over until next year’s release. I imagine I’m in for some pain. I LOVE pain.
I stormed into the elevator, facing a frantic, frazzled Cara. “Sir, you have never, in the eleven years I’ve known you, missed an appointment.�
I stormed into the elevator, facing a frantic, frazzled Cara. “Sir, you have never, in the eleven years I’ve known you, missed an appointment.� “I have never, in the eleven years you have known me, chained my destiny to that of a beautiful psychopath.�
I always feel restless and twitchy when I haven’t reviewed in a while, especially when I read so many amazing, explosive stories. I don’t know why Romeo was the straw that broke the camel’s back, but when I got on the computer and gave myself carte blanche to choose whatever book to write a review for I wanted…this one came to my mind first.
If you had to change yourself to be accepted, you didn’t need that person in your life in the first place. Because it wasn’t you they wanted to be with. It was their version of you.
I know Shen isn’t always the most popular -but her All Saints High is my absolute FAVVVOORIIIITTEEEE by her, and they’ll always hold a special place in my heart, right alongside The Kiss Thief, Vicious, and, now, My Dark Romeo. I guess it says more about me than any asshole male lead could that I ENJOY these ridiculous, vicious men- but only certain things work for me and when Shen is on, she. Is. ON. But that’s why only this set of books work for me-no cheating, loyalty, never taken TOO far, and when it IS far-fetched or crazy, I find it enhances the story to the point of making a book a literal obsession. So sue me, I like what I like.
“My meeting is cancelled.� Cara scurried after me. “Mr. Costa-� “The answer is no.� “What should I tell Mr. Reynolds?� “That something urgent came up. Family-related.� This wasn’t a fabrication. Something had come up. My blood pressure.
And this one had LOTS I like, trope wise. I didn’t know I liked arranged marriage, but it has been a recurring theme in a lot of my favorite stories so I’d say it has made it's mark. And then there is the fact that MDR has my absolute all-time favorite trope- enemies to lovers. And they REALLY don’t like each other, for real, at first. But, with all of these tried and true stories, the pay off is the slow-burn. The way the hero falls first without even knowing it-all possessive and ish (I know, I’ve already scared you off but *heart eyes*), the way we see the progression of how he’d deny her nothing, would literally do ANYTHING for her, the way he’d do anything to protect the heroine, the way we get a ‘MY WIFE� scene…it’s all just so top tier.
“I’m sure there is logic behind your words, though for the life of me, I cannot find it.�
And, can I just say, this cold-hearted man does the sweetest, warmest thing for her�.he literally (view spoiler)[goes and stands in line to get her a first edition all night outside Barnes and Noble when she falls very ill (hide spoiler)] and it just�.slayed me. And, when the inevitable third act fight comes, it is taken care of so quickly and it’s done so well. Or, ya know, I think so.
I wondered what kind of heinous crimes I’d committed against the human race in a previous life to deserve these two nutjobs as my love interests.
The inevitable negative, as I’m always fair in my reviews, is that this book is far and away not for everyone. It has some content that many would find offensive-Romeo IS cruel in several moments, and I’m not sure how people feel about fictionalized ‘God of War trade� heroes, but I imagine this might bother some. And, ya know, he tells her what to do and he just won’t compromise on the one thing she wants most (what she wants will be ‘small� to a lot, and the other side won’t understand why he won’t just give in and give her the one thing she covets most and there is a big divide and an easy way for lots to not like that want or need or rejection, however you see it). The other inevitable factor? I love it all.
“We don’t choose our traits. We merely endure them.�
I am a bit of a special case, but when you like the way an author (or authors) writes and they nail your favorite type of storyline, you can’t help but fall. I am just SO damn picky, so I don’t get many darker romances (or even romances) I fall hard for...so when an author I’ve found a connection with writes one of her storylines I LOVE, I can’t help but become obsessed. That being said, this is my favorite LJ Shen work to date (I mean the All Saints High is absolute horrendous perfection) as it just covers so many bases. And…just…Romeo. The way he falls, in the end? PERFECTION. That confession? Chef’s Kiss. I didn’t want to do a fangirl review surrounding the hero, but the more I recall, the harder I fall all over again. There was just SO MUCH I loved about this story…and it also brought me out of a SEVERE depression and book slump. So…there ya go.
Ԩdz’re going to be a headache, aren’t you?� “A headache?� I cocked my head. Ԩdz kidnapped me, you psycho. I’m not gonna be a headache. I’m going to be, at the very least, a deadly brain tumor.�
Oh! And, just a small note- I LOVED THE HUMOR.
“What are you doing?� “Hanging up our wedding portrait.� “In my office?� “Where else would I hang it?� She nodded for Vernon to hike up the left edge, then signaled for him to stop with a raised cookie. “Perfect.� I studied the image, noting one important fact. “I’m not in this.� She beamed. “I know. Isn’t it perfect?�
The heroine is funny, quirky, and I loved their back and forth-their banter. The way she never stopped giving him grief and never let him have one over on her. Her inner thoughts were hilarious and totally my brand of humor, and I loved everything about how they interacted. He pretends to be so grumpy, all the while he's giving into things he doesn't want to and doesn't believe in behind her back and she is none the wiser. He is obsessed with her from the start, which is where all our back and forth comes from (him tolerating her and engaging with her about the silliest things), and I just love getting the 'I-hate-you-but-really-am-obsessed-with-you' content-
“I’m not jealous. I’m protective of her. Dallas did nothing wrong, other than existing.� “Denver did plenty wrong.� A sad smile stretched across Zach’s face. Ԩdz just keep forgiving her for everything.�
it may be my favorite kind of banter, almost Jacks and Eva-ish. They pretend like they can hardly stand the heroine, when really, inside, their dead hearts are beating again for their true loves. Okay, this is a stretch, as Jacks may say some mean things but he would NEVER say or do the things Romeo does. BUT this IS a dark romance so I get that it will be different -though one must admit there are a LOT of parallels that Jacks matches...just saying. Maybe that's why I loved this so much.
“Sometimes, when I read, I realized I was happiest in a world that wasn’t mine.�
This review was rusty, I could tell, as its been so long since I sat down and wrote one, but I am so so happy I chose THIS book to bring me out of my review slump to try and bring me back from the dead. It was effortless-as many of my reviews are-because I love doing it. And I just loved this book so much and didn’t have much to think about. It just made sense. I hope a lot of people will find something to love about this book, but I also hope those that weren’t sure and WON’T like it saw my review and it helped them to decide to not read it and move on. And, wouldn’t you know it, I’m sick and this was difficult with all the fog in my brain so I’m sure you saw a lot of that in my review, too. Still, I’m so glad to have finally written one, good or bad.
Punk provided something I hadn’t realized I had been missing: Fun. Yes, I’ve read plenty of fun books and yes, believe it or not, I’ve read a fair sha Punk provided something I hadn’t realized I had been missing: Fun. Yes, I’ve read plenty of fun books and yes, believe it or not, I’ve read a fair share of hot, steamy books. But I can admit one thing, for sure: Not for a long time have I found a more satisfying mix of sexy, fun, and smoldering hot hate.
It may come as a surprise to many of you that I used to read so many of these books it was almost exhausting. I got to the point where it became mundane, meaningless, and I felt like I was trapped in a pretty bad book funk. And I was-that’s the problem.
Eventually we all have to weigh what we want more: wanting back what we had or wanting what could be. To stay or to risk everything to move forward.
And, because of this problem, I really don’t let myself indulge in the finer trashy books in life. I don’t normally miss them, either, if I’m being honest. But there comes a time when you’re just in the mood for something hot, angsty, and completely antagonistic you’d go so far as to search into your old roots. And, it just so happens, I have a friend who knows me about as well as anyone�.and she specializes in smut, the little tart.
So, after a long week in NC where I was having the best time ever, relaxing and truly enjoying myself, but not finding the book to match my mood, I figured out what I was craving: Angst. All the books I had targeted seemed like they might have angst, but they weren’t hitting that perfect spot. So, when I finally connected the dots that that was exactly what I craved, I thought of none other than my lovely, smut-loving friend, Pea.
Which, as you can all see…led me to my first five star read of 2017. A great start, if you ask me. Bold, daring, antagonistic, and even with a bit of moral ambiguity, this book touched on everything I had been aching for since The Hating Game.
Punk 57 isn’t necessarily a new formula, I don’t imagine, but it certainly felt new. Two 7 year friends who were accidentally made pen pals in the fifth grade continue to write to one another long after the school year ends. They have rules to never exchange phone numbers, to never look each other up, to keep things as they have always been.
Masen just makes everything seem smaller. Like I have a new perspective. He’s becoming a part of my heart, and I feel good when he’s around. Almost like none of my fears matter as long he’s there.
But, as they grow older, they become each other’s crutch. They begin to secretly (or not so secretly?) fall for one another, having been each other’s sounding board for so long. And as they begin to near the end of High School, something happens that will irrevocably change their lives…even if only one of them knows about it. And, after all these years, they both finally want to see what the other is like in real life�but what if it changes everything?
Fat tears spill over, and I feel a weight on my shoulders. It’s not Trey. It’s not Lyla. It’s me. I don’t know who I’m supposed to be.
I’ll admit that I didn’t know what I would think of this book-I’ve always been fond of the old Penelope Douglas. I mean, come on, Bully??? I ate that shit up!!! But I’ve heard some things over the years that deterred me from really following up on her work, perhaps hiding from the progressive approach she had been taking a path towards. But I’ve never forgotten, never stopped watching, and always kept tabs with H, making sure to not let any hidden gems slip through my fingers-and here we are, three years later…And I’m already like a junkie ready for my next fix.
I’ll admit this wasn’t without its flaws. I even was going to mention them…but why taint what I thought was a pretty addicting book? I don’t want to be negative, I just want to focus on the positive, which is how I’m going to end this review-with why this book was so unflinchingly addicting.
I may have mentioned before that they wanted to meet each other-But what happens if they meet and see its all been a lie? That they aren’t truly made for one another and after all these years, falling in love with one another is all a big fat waste?
I learned a long time ago that you don’t need to reveal everything inside of you to the people around you. They like to judge, and I’m happier when they don’t. Some things stay hidden.
By far the best part of this book is when Misha decides that its all been a lie-that Ryen is a fake, a phoney, and nothing at all like she is in her letters. When he realizes this, sees he has fallen for a girl that is all smoke and mirrors, as fake as a person can be, he snaps. He immediately hates her. How could she be so different than that beautiful girl (on the inside) he had been talking to all these years?
I know him very little, but after every encounter, I feel like I know him less.
What follows is him taunting her, berating her, trying to show her she is better than she acts-that this facade she is putting out there for the world to see makes her no better than the trash she hangs out with. But by far the best part of the novel…is that she has no idea why the hot new guy hates her so quickly when the rest of the school practically worships her. That’s right-The best part of this book is that she has no idea that the new guy who seemingly hates her for no reason is her best friend, the guy she compares all other guys to, the one she loves, and the one she cares about most in the world.
Fucked up, right?? But oh so perfectly perfect. Need I say more? I don’t think so. For all it’s minor errors and total lack of believability (I mean…a principle would let this shit go on? I hardly think so), it was exactly what I needed. So, maybe its for you, maybe it isn’t�.but I’ll tell you one thing-It was hot as hell. ‘Nuff said.
For more of my reviews, please visit:
MY FIRST 5 STAR READ OF 2017!!!!!
Thank you, Pea for this wonderful rec!
Merged review:
Punk provided something I hadn’t realized I had been missing: Fun. Yes, I’ve read plenty of fun books and yes, believe it or not, I’ve read a fair share of hot, steamy books. But I can admit one thing, for sure: Not for a long time have I found a more satisfying mix of sexy, fun, and smoldering hot hate.
It may come as a surprise to many of you that I used to read so many of these books it was almost exhausting. I got to the point where it became mundane, meaningless, and I felt like I was trapped in a pretty bad book funk. And I was-that’s the problem.
Eventually we all have to weigh what we want more: wanting back what we had or wanting what could be. To stay or to risk everything to move forward.
And, because of this problem, I really don’t let myself indulge in the finer trashy books in life. I don’t normally miss them, either, if I’m being honest. But there comes a time when you’re just in the mood for something hot, angsty, and completely antagonistic you’d go so far as to search into your old roots. And, it just so happens, I have a friend who knows me about as well as anyone�.and she specializes in smut, the little tart.
So, after a long week in NC where I was having the best time ever, relaxing and truly enjoying myself, but not finding the book to match my mood, I figured out what I was craving: Angst. All the books I had targeted seemed like they might have angst, but they weren’t hitting that perfect spot. So, when I finally connected the dots that that was exactly what I craved, I thought of none other than my lovely, smut-loving friend, Pea.
Which, as you can all see…led me to my first five star read of 2017. A great start, if you ask me. Bold, daring, antagonistic, and even with a bit of moral ambiguity, this book touched on everything I had been aching for since The Hating Game.
Punk 57 isn’t necessarily a new formula, I don’t imagine, but it certainly felt new. Two 7 year friends who were accidentally made pen pals in the fifth grade continue to write to one another long after the school year ends. They have rules to never exchange phone numbers, to never look each other up, to keep things as they have always been.
Masen just makes everything seem smaller. Like I have a new perspective. He’s becoming a part of my heart, and I feel good when he’s around. Almost like none of my fears matter as long he’s there.
But, as they grow older, they become each other’s crutch. They begin to secretly (or not so secretly?) fall for one another, having been each other’s sounding board for so long. And as they begin to near the end of High School, something happens that will irrevocably change their lives…even if only one of them knows about it. And, after all these years, they both finally want to see what the other is like in real life�but what if it changes everything?
Fat tears spill over, and I feel a weight on my shoulders. It’s not Trey. It’s not Lyla. It’s me. I don’t know who I’m supposed to be.
I’ll admit that I didn’t know what I would think of this book-I’ve always been fond of the old Penelope Douglas. I mean, come on, Bully??? I ate that shit up!!! But I’ve heard some things over the years that deterred me from really following up on her work, perhaps hiding from the progressive approach she had been taking a path towards. But I’ve never forgotten, never stopped watching, and always kept tabs with H, making sure to not let any hidden gems slip through my fingers-and here we are, three years later…And I’m already like a junkie ready for my next fix.
I’ll admit this wasn’t without its flaws. I even was going to mention them…but why taint what I thought was a pretty addicting book? I don’t want to be negative, I just want to focus on the positive, which is how I’m going to end this review-with why this book was so unflinchingly addicting.
I may have mentioned before that they wanted to meet each other-But what happens if they meet and see its all been a lie? That they aren’t truly made for one another and after all these years, falling in love with one another is all a big fat waste?
I learned a long time ago that you don’t need to reveal everything inside of you to the people around you. They like to judge, and I’m happier when they don’t. Some things stay hidden.
By far the best part of this book is when Misha decides that its all been a lie-that Ryen is a fake, a phoney, and nothing at all like she is in her letters. When he realizes this, sees he has fallen for a girl that is all smoke and mirrors, as fake as a person can be, he snaps. He immediately hates her. How could she be so different than that beautiful girl (on the inside) he had been talking to all these years?
I know him very little, but after every encounter, I feel like I know him less.
What follows is him taunting her, berating her, trying to show her she is better than she acts-that this facade she is putting out there for the world to see makes her no better than the trash she hangs out with. But by far the best part of the novel…is that she has no idea why the hot new guy hates her so quickly when the rest of the school practically worships her. That’s right-The best part of this book is that she has no idea that the new guy who seemingly hates her for no reason is her best friend, the guy she compares all other guys to, the one she loves, and the one she cares about most in the world.
Fucked up, right?? But oh so perfectly perfect. Need I say more? I don’t think so. For all it’s minor errors and total lack of believability (I mean…a principle would let this shit go on? I hardly think so), it was exactly what I needed. So, maybe its for you, maybe it isn’t�.but I’ll tell you one thing-It was hot as hell. ‘Nuff said.
I swear to God she is my new favorite 'I Need Cute' author. Is she unforgettable? No...but every book so far has been WHY. IS. SARAH. ADAMS. SO. CUTE.
I swear to God she is my new favorite 'I Need Cute' author. Is she unforgettable? No...but every book so far has been a slam dunk and just made me so happy, laugh out loud (THIS IS UNHEARD OF-I hate chick/lit/romantic comedies), and just...altogether resonated with me.
I can't explain how it works...how she writes such light reads that make you feel weightless yet she throws in deeper moments that hit you deep within about your own internal struggles. Yet here we are.
Three books in...and she is now an author I will always trust with my heart �...more
I didn't want to fall in love with Elfhame all over again, but Holly Black's renditions on fae dare you to deft your love for them and I literally canI didn't want to fall in love with Elfhame all over again, but Holly Black's renditions on fae dare you to deft your love for them and I literally cannot.
I hope now that I feel better I can review this- we shall see! This was absolutely epic....more
**I wrote this review in different spurts so my moods shifted�.it’s a mess but it’s MY obsessive mess so…here we are. Editing was a joke. This is a cl**I wrote this review in different spurts so my moods shifted�.it’s a mess but it’s MY obsessive mess so…here we are. Editing was a joke. This is a cluster, just know I'm aware**
He’d just told her goodbye. He’d said he wished their story could have had a different ending, as if they’d already reached the final page. But Evangeline wanted more pages.
It is absolutely NO secret how obsessed I am with this series. It is also no secret how HARSH of a critic I am when a series comes to an end-no one is harsher than I when I have invested time, money (in this series� case I have risked life and limb and my marriage to attain every edition known to man), my heart, and every waking moment thinking and obsessing over my favorite characters and their most iconic scenes. There was a lot at stake here when Curse released…and I am so so glad I have taught myself to go in with a calmness and level head so I can truly immerse and not *expect* every little thing my heart made canon as that is not how it works lol Thanks to that aforementioned mindset this book was as close to perfect as I could have asked for and for that I am eternally grateful.
Jacks’s back hit the ground as Evangeline flung herself at him. Ԩdz monster!� she cried, and cursed. He’d never heard her curse properly before. She wasn’t very good at it, but she was trying furiously.
I won’t lie and say the beginning just blew me away…on the contrary, a morally gray Apollo made my skin crawl with ick. As time progressed, though, I saw the picture Stephanie was trying to paint and though it tore my soul up from the inside out, I understood it and I trusted the process. I am just one who believes that the best ends come from those that are not easily won and are hard fought and earned. Too many times problems are solved so quickly that the build up and anticipation falls flat and, in my experience, the more delayed the gratification, the better the story.
She was truly elsewhere, and it seemed she had been for long enough to meet heroes and villains, and to find herself in a battle between them.
But then we slowly began seeing our ‘mysterious third figure� watching from the shadows…and I seriously combusted. I love a slow burn, a slow ache, an agonizing love unfulfilled pining from the shadows. It feeds my chaotic soul and after FINALLY meeting Stephanie in person- 10/10 can confirm that is and was and always will be her goal. She isn’t into easy ends and beginner level romances� she makes them AND YOU work for it…and that is why she is my favorite. Evil blends well with masochistic, ya know.
But the problem with wanting something you can’t have, or shouldn’t have, is that the second it seems possible, all reason flees. Reason and wanting go well together only when the reason encourages a person to get what they want. Any reason opposed to this want becomes the enemy.
From the moment I began this series it has been like a demented fairytale and a dream come true all in one. Never in 100 million years would I have guessed what this series about a chaotic cruel fate and hopeful romantic who believes in hope and goodness and happy endings would come to mean to me. But the minute my eyes found page one I was GONE. It was just a feeling, you know? I just KNEW…and I inhaled OUABH so quickly my head was spinning. It still is, really.
Maybe it merely meant she was a fool, or maybe it meant that her heart remembered things her mind did not.
Jacks. Eva. Luc. Marisol. Apollo. CHAOS, even. I just…this STORY. It unraveled in a marvelous string of whimsy and effervescence and HOPE and, my personal favorite, masochism, deception-TENSION. AHHH the TENSION-Never in my LIFE has tension stretched me so thin I thought my seams would burst as I took my next breath but Stephane DID that. She made a story without kisses hotter than a sex scene and I am SO here for it because I’d much rather read a YA written in oozing intent and want and need and desperation than pages and pages of smut- I realize I am in the minority here but the HEAT in these three books-emphasis on one and two-they were my perfect blend of torture and I have read the first two books no less than 5 times each. Well...Ballad more like 3 or 4 but IT HASN’T BEEN ON MY SHELVES AS LONG, OKAY.
Evangeline knew that Jacks had told her heroes didn’t get happy endings. But that didn’t mean they were supposed to give them to the villains.
And shelves� let us talk about that. Stephanie is now home to probably 3 rows of shelves because of my complete (as they roll in) OUABH collection and I’d love to say I’m sorry but I just am not. There is no way. Never have I felt so fulfilled and happy and utterly COMPLETE than when I’m dropping these editions in my cart. And, even better, the minute those pastel colors hit my shelves, the earth stops spinning, the sun shines brighter, and the world goes quiet. There is just something so beautiful and sacred about it and I am so sad it’s all coming to an end.
Once a bit of hope had come to life, it was difficult to kill.
[image]
All that aside…perhaps it’s also because Jacks and Eva have such a chokehold on my soul. Cardan and Jude are and have been my heart for as long as I can remember but now, the fact remains, Jacks and Eva own my heart, my soul, my entire being. They have touched me in ways that are so out of my realm that I haven’t been the same since. I can’t say why…other than maybe it’s when an author just gets me. Sees me. Writes everything I never knew I needed and everything I have ever wanted in a story-I just love the peril, the way things are never okay, the way it takes just. So. MUCH. To even get from point A to B. And, most of all, when the characters satisfy your cravings and sing to your soul-when they speak to you on all levels, both good and bad…and that’s what Jacks and Eva were to/for me.
She tried to pull away, but Jacks held tight, knotting her hair in his fist and keeping his forehead pressed to hers. “Please, Little Fox, remember."
[image]
Eva was a heroine I could root for, cry for, relate to. I have always been hopeful and I always always try to see the good in everyone…and I have been prone to naivety in my 33 years. Like…a LOT. So not only was I obsessed with Eva for her sweetness, but her absolute bravery in all moments. Anyone can hope, but it takes more to act on that bravery. Time and again Eva proved that she was courageous based on her own personal beliefs and what she knew to be ‘right� even as others called her out for it. The growth from book one to three is evident, going from a naïve girl who was easily manipulated to a stubborn, scorned foe, to reluctant allies, to a girl who would sacrifice it all for the love of her life even knowing it may go up in flames or end in failure-because she knows in her heart it’s right.
“I know I seem naive,� Evangeline pressed on. “I know my faith in love might appear foolish. I also know it might not be enough. But I’m not doing this because I believe I’ll win. I’m actually a little afraid I’m going to lose. I no longer think love is a guarantee of victory or of happily ever after. But I think it’s a reason to fight for those things. I know my attempt to save Jacks could end in a fiery explosion, but I’d rather go up in flames with him than watch while he burns.�
But I suppose I’d risk everything, too, for my all-time favorite book husband (omg I am so fucking sorry, Cardan. Jesus I never thought I’d see the day…but he cries boy tears…tears of literal BLOOD OKAY…I just�.I can’t. I’m too weak). When I started this series -NO JOKE HERE- I. Didn’t. Even. Like. Jacks. THERE. I SAID IT.
[image]
MY BIG SECRET REVEALED. That’s right- I thought old boy was problematic af! He was terribllleee in the Caraval trilogy and I just…BLEH! Why would I want a story about the guy who tried to kill Tella when we all knew he was just a distraction for Dante. Sad. But then�.because I am who I am and I do not like to miss out on things, I just had to pick OUABH up. And let me tell you�.my whorish book heart literally started beating out of my chest the minute his ass showed up on the page-friends…that was chapter one. Literally. My treacherous heart gave out on. Chapter. ONE.
Little Fox. Little Fox. Little Fox.
Look, can you blame me? It was love at first. And I am not one to deny myself something that is so clearly a piece of my heart-and that’s what Jacks is now, a piece of my heart, and he always will be. From the moment he showed ‘lukewarm� interest in his church of pain and sadness to the first time he saved her life to the first time he sacrificed himself to the end when he would do anything for her even at the cost of everything he has ever held dear, I was done for. Did you catch how depraved it all is??? MY HEART. HOW WAS I NOT SUPPOSED TO BECOME OBSESSED? (*Side note. After having finished ouabh I went back to get more Jacks because I was OBSESSED and thought 'well maybe I was looking at things wrong'-to say I was a squeeing mess would be an understatement- I was all 'Poor Jacks, he’s just misunderstood�, 'Aw, Jacks, I know you’re hurting but why’d you have to do that?�, to ‘LEAVE MY BABY ALOOOONEEEEEEE� I had a whole new perspective, inexplicably)
“I just saved your life,� he said, but the words came out with a bit of a growl. “I’m not going to hurt you.� “I feel as if that’s what people always say just before they hurt you.�
Jacks went from being a person who thought of literally no one but himself to a guy who would literally walk into a burning building to save Evangeline and I just cannot FATHOM how anyone could not be obsessed with him. The way he’s always there lurking (stalking lol) in the shadows, always ready to jump in and save her from herself (among 100 other people who want her dead), the way he would cut out the tongue of someone merely looking at her funny, hurting her feelings, or even mildly threatening her well-being. Some may call this toxic…I guess?? Lol. But the fact remains he is intense and morally gray and he legitimately never pretended to be anything else. And I love that so much about him.
“Yes, I am a murderer. I enjoy hurting people. I like blood. I like pain. I am a monster, but whether you remember it or not, I’m your monster, Evangeline.�
[image]
sorry not sorry I had to add my favorite newly discovered monster, Tommy Shelby (wish I'd have known him for past reviews)
One of my favorite things about this series is the illusion Jacks is forever trying to paint to Eva that he doesn’t care for her, that he’s not into her, that he won’t change and can’t change, that his goal is his alone and he won’t alter his course for her-he is selfish and always will be and she needs to stop trying to look at him differently or change him�.this is all a farce, of course. He’s obsessed with her, okay lol as if the jealous antics and absolute unhinged protective nature and constant bickering and teasing Eva didn’t make that clear, his actions and seriousness in the face of danger for her sake did. And, I’m sorry, I lived for the moments when he’d give her the unspoken dry look like, ‘C’mon Evangeline, Really.� haha I love how he responded to her with such familiarity and sarcasm-not to mention the way he always called her ‘Little Fox� both out loud and when he’d talk to her in her mind.
But the blood left behind looked something awful�she probably looked awful as well. Ԩdz could never look awful,� he said faintly.
Ի…a�Little Fox is my favorite nickname of all time and that’s a no negotiation truth. It’s up there in “I’ll die thinking of this� territory alongside ’I hate you I hate you I hate you/JudeJudeJude� territory. IFYKYK. When he calls her that? My heart stutters, I melt into a puddle of goo, and I feel like I’m home all at once. I can’t explain the hold this series has on me perhaps besides the mix of utter devastation repeatedly, the peril, the heartbreaks, Evangeline’s sense of everlasting hope, and the fact that Jacks doesn’t change the fact that he’s a morally gray ‘vero� (yes, I’ve coined this myself, thank you, he’s a mix of hero and villain and I’ll die on that hill) and he owns it with every thread and fiber of his being. We need more of this. Though…hearing it all laid out like that, I sound quite deranged�.but we already knew that so oh well.
[image]
I don’t know, guys…my heart is just so full. I’m happy, I’m content. I’m pining to re-read already. I am so harsh as I stated before and I think I’m just so happy I enjoyed it that I can’t help but feel this utter sense of peace. This book and this series is so beyond heartwarming to me and it has become my happy place-I love to read it. I love to collect. I love reading quotes and finding new fanart artists and I could just live in this world forever…and I hope I get to, if you catch my drift ;) All that aside, no one will ever top EvaJacks and their tremulous story. The way he looks at her�.the subtle looks and glances and utter devotion (I added this out of sheer will and madness but don’t worry it’s canon lolol) made it clear he is always pining for her and won’t stop or move on until she is safe and happy-even if it’s without him …nothing short of a masterpiece. Slow-burn is my favorite, paired with the fact I can’t stand when couples get together too early, so this series was a balm to my senses and truly made my heart beat. It’s no wonder TFOTA and OUABH are forever favorites, as I just love the characters having to work for their love and it not being easy…and there was no way this could be classified as easy or smooth.
Two simple words. Only they did not feel simple at all. They felt like falling. They felt like hope. They felt like the most important words in the world. The words made her blood rush and her head spin until once again it was only her and Jacks. Nothing existed except for the press of his cool forehead, the feel of his strong hand tangling in her hair, and the pleading, broken look in his quicksilver blue eyes.
So, whether you liked the end or didn’t, this series still was a very solid addition to the Caraval world (way way WAY better in my opinion, though I may be biased and I freaking LOVE fairytales, especially demented ones) and a great stepping stone to expand with other characters (HELLLOOOOOO ‘alternate� endings). And, in all honesty and in true Chelsea fashion, I loathe super wrapped up and cheesy and overly descriptive epilogues. I KNOW I KNOW burn me at the stake- but more often than not, for me, they take away from the story and I just don’t love them. I don’t know…for such a terrible and difficult path it all feels so easy and contrived, you know? I’d much rather have a small ending suited to the characters and an open path for them to travel. Because guess what? If something happens that makes me cringe or I don’t like or I didn’t envision for them or it’s too over the top…guess who loses a little love for the story? This Gal lol. Either way though…she answered most of my questions and I followed the breadcrumbs enough to figure out what I needed to know so I am so happy and I know that she will continue to answer things with her next installment�.so yes, I’d have loved to have known a couple key things I always wanted to know, but the apples were obvious and it was confirmed by her when I met her so I am more than happy.
Her heart still hurt, as if it had been broken and only jagged bits remained.
[image]
I hope anyone who has any issues can see it was a choice-like it or not-and Stephanie has always been about wonder and hope. For those who didn’t love it-I’m truly sorry for you…but I just can’t be anything other than ecstatic. I love Jacks and Eva more than is socially acceptable and I already can’t wait for my next re read. #JacksandEva4eva
Chelsea ✨Arielle’s Nebular Ally and Team Acrux�
>
Books:
could-read-over-and-over-again
(394)
Loading...
