Blog Tour Spotlight: Embrace (Off The Ice #4) by Bal Khabra

 

An unexpected spark between a hockey player and the coach’s daughter might cause them to cross the line in the next Dalton University book from international bestselling author Bal Khabra.

Kian Ishida is all about parties, hockey, and living in the moment. But when he realizes he’s headed to the NHL without his degree, his late dad’s one wish for him, he’s determined to make up those last few credits. Desperate for help, he joins a study group led by none other than Scarlett Kilner. She’s as gorgeous as she is smart. Too bad he doesn’t know yet that she’s his coach’s daughter.

After making a reputation for herself, all Scarlett wants for her senior year is to prove she’s more than her mistakes and graduate without tarnishing her well-respected father’s name. But when Kian Ishida, one of her dad’s star hockey players, joins her study group, things get complicated.

As Scarlett helps Kian, their study sessions turn into something more—stolen glances, lingering touches, and a connection neither of them expected. Kian has to decide what’s more the dream he’s worked for his whole life or the girl he never saw coming.

Title: Embrace (Off the Ice #4)

Author: Bal Kahbra

Publisher: Berkley Publishing Group

Expected Publication Date: August 4, 2026

Bal is a Canadian writer, romance enthusiast, and book lover. Before she decided to jump into the romance pool, she spent her time gushing about books on social media.

She loves reading about love, watching movies about love, and now, writing about it herself. There really isn’t much else that gets her heart fluttering the way HEAs do. She fell in love with writing and hopes to continue living out her romance author dreams.

ARC Review: Infinite Shores (Drowned Gods #3) by Pascale Lacelle

 

Ninth House meets The Hazel Wood in this spellbinding conclusion to the New York Times bestselling Drowned Gods Trilogy, a gorgeous dark academia fantasy following a teen mage and her friends on their desperate quest through worlds and time!

Fate cannot be broken—not even by the gods who serve it.

Emory refuses to lose Romie again. Her friend’s fate hangs in the balance as the monstrous Clover plans to use her as a sacrifice to steal power from the deity Atheia—and make himself into a proper god. To stop Clover, Emory needs the help of Atheia’s dark counterpart, Sidraeus. Yet this enigmatic deity cannot be trusted, and if Emory is to ally with him, she must invoke an ancient magic to keep him tethered to her side.

Meanwhile, in the divine workshop of the god of balance, Baz learns he has a role to play in the coming fight to save the crumbling worlds and their weakening magics. Yet all he can think of is Kai and the gruesome fate that awaits him at Clover’s side—a fate, the god tells him, that is beyond even his reach. But Baz is determined to save Kai, even if he has to rewrite time itself.

As chaos reigns and the tides of a corrupted magic threaten to consume all, Emory and Baz must contend with mercurial gods, vengeful deities, and those hell-bent on eradicating Eclipse magic to save the people they love—and write an ending to their stories that defies fate itself.

Title: Infinite Shores (Drowned Gods #3)

Author: Pascale Lacelle

Publisher: Simon and Schuster/Margaret K. McElderry Books

Publication Date: April 7. 2026

Review:

Thank you to Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing/Margaret K. Mclderry Books and Edelweiss for providing me with a copy of this title to read and give my honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.

In all honesty, it's so hard to write a review of the third book in a trilogy. Mostly because I don't want to spoil anything for anyone who might stumble upon the review without having read the other books. I've been rather obsessed with this series since I read an early copy of the first book sent to me by the publisher. I will admit, it took me a while to crack that one open. I wasn't a huge fan of the cover (yes, I do judge books that way) and thought I wouldn't like it. Boy was I SO SO WRONG! This trilogy is one I will always recommend. Lacelle's writing is lush and expansive. Not only do you feel the emotions of her characters but you find yourself right next to them, experiencing their world as if you are a passenger on their journey. I wish I could probably explain how engrossed I became in this world. How if surrounded me, sucked me right in and brought me along for the ride. But I can only tell you how Lacelle makes you feel as if you are truly part of each character's journey.

As with the other books, this installment is told in alternating POVs from four different characters. While often times such story telling can get me confused, that was not the case with this series. Lacelle made each of her characters truly unique with personalities it was easy to distinguish from one another. And, while there are villains in this story, you still come to love all the characters for who they are and what they represent.

I can truly say I didn't want this series to end. I actually drew out reading this last book because of that. I knew once it was over I would not even know where to begin with my review. And here I sit, still floundering and trying to figure out what words will truly help others understand how special this story truly is. The range of emotions I endured throughout the series, but especially with this last book is hard to put into words. I laughed at so many parts while I cried hard at others. And still felt the tenderness in sone scenes and the fear where Lacelle surly needed me to feel it. This is the type of series that makes my chest ache: sometimes in a good way, sometimes not so much.

There is a lot to unpack in this book. At times, it seemed as if the story would not be able to come to a full circle conclusion. Or at least i had no idea how Lacelle would get the reader to that point. And, while it was wrapped up well, I will say I took 1/4 star off because I was sad to see the story of two particular characters just kind of end. I cannot go into specifics but I felt like that was left dangling, perhaps on purpose so I could come to my own conclusions about the fate of those characters. I'd love to ask Lacelle if that's why she ended their story in the way she did.

I can truly say I don't think Lacelle could write something I don't want to read. I am excited to see what she comes up with next in Stars Incarnate. If you're looking for a deeply emotional dark academia story where the characters growth and development feels real, pick this series up and give it a try. I honestly think anyone who enjoys a gripping high fantasy will fall right into the world of Aldryn College and be swept away by what Lacelle offers to them.

Author:

Pascale Lacelle is the New York Times bestselling author of Curious Tides and Stranger Skies. A longtime devourer of books, she started writing her own at the age of thirteen and quickly became enthralled by the magic of words in both French and English. She lives in Ottawa, Canada with her loving dog and an ever-growing library of books waiting to be read. You can find her online at PascaleLacelle.com or on Instagram.

ARC Review: The Wicked and the Damned (The Dark Inheritance #2) by Rebecca Robinson

 

In the exhilarating second romantasy novel in Rebecca Robinson’s Dark Inheritance Trilogy, a fiery couple forced apart must navigate a deadly maze of politics and power to reunite across a continent at war.
Torn from her husband Reid’s arms and dragged back to her homeland in chains, Vaasa is no longer a ruler, but a political pawn. Now under the control of Ozik—a cunning Zetyr witch with a stranglehold on her magic—she faces annulment, forced betrothal, and a kingdom that no longer feels like her own. As Ozik’s machinations aim to install himself as the true power behind the Asteryan throne, Vaasa is forced to take part in his game.

Meanwhile, across the continent, Reid is done playing politics. But waging war is never simple, and a soldier’s fury cannot stand up against Icruria’s bureaucracy. With allies fading and time slipping away, Reid may have no choice but to infiltrate Asterya on his own to find the woman he loves and bring her home.

As Vaasa’s magic begins to flare, she desperately seeks control, even if Ozik is the only one who can offer it. She then finds a cryptic final message from her mother about a precious missing necklace that might just be the answer to finally freeing her magic from Ozik. Yet when a ghost from Vaasa’s past reemerges among the suitors vying for her hand, escape might be within reach—but will it demand a betrayal that real love may not survive?

Title: The Wicked and the Damned (The Dark Inheritance #2)

Author: Rebecca Robinson

Publisher: Saga Press 
Publication Date: February 24, 2026

Review:

Thank you to Saga Press and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book to read and give my honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.

If you have not read the first book: STOP RIGHT HERE. You cannot read this one without reading the first of the series. You will be lost and miss out on all the things that lead up to this book. So, do yourself a favor, stop what you're doing and go read The Serpent and the Wolf because I promise you WILL NOT be disappointed.

That being said, I wasn't sure I'd get to review this book before publication. I received a copy from the publisher but had not read the first book yet and it took forever to come through on my library. When it finally did, I tore through it. It was so good I just knew I would tear through this one, as well. And I was write. I loved the first book but this one? WOW! It was over the top fantastic.

This book picks up right where the first one left off. Vassa and Reid have been separated as she gave herself up for him to live. She's imprisoned in her own home by Ozik, a man she trusted growing up but who has completely changed and is now a power hungry person set on taking over her country.

I knew this book would be dual POV as the last chapter of the first book is told from Reid's POV. And let me tell you, I did not mind having both their POVs one bit. I honestly kind of craved it with the first book but author's make choices they feel keeps the book in line with their view of it and I would never fault Robinson for the choice she made with that. Plus, with the separation of Reid and Vassa, it was necessary to see Reid's POV.  I honestly would have liked more chapters from him than what Robinson provided but what I did get was phenomenal. I loved watching him fight for Vassa and what they had begun to build together in Icruria. The story told here is that of vengeance but also of passion and love and the lengths people will go to in order to save the ones who are so dear to their hearts.

The return of characters from the previous book was, of course, necessary. But we also get introduced to some new characters in this book. Some of them I absolutely adored, others made me see red. I will say the surprise character that popped up was not such a surprise for me. I had a feeling there was more to his story than what we saw in the first book but I wasn't sure how it would have worked out.

I loved how Robinson expanded the world building even more in this book. It truly made the plot much deeper and the story so much more interesting!  There were a ton of revelations in this story! They kept the pace moving and pushed the story forward. Plus Robison imbued so much action and emotion into the pages of this story I just did not want to put it down. I didn't think she could write a follow up to the first book that I would love more but she did!

I cannot tell you how much I love this series. I haven't read fantasy that pulled me in and twisted my heart up in a long time. I absolutely adored the characters, the setting, the plot, the pacing, the political intrigue, the deep world building, the magic system, and everything Robinson has offered up with his story line. It's dark and twisted but also romantic and at times witty. I would venture to say this series is going to make it to my top three fantasy series of all time. If you're looking for a series to get you out of your Maas or Yarros slump, may I suggest you pick this one up and see what Robison has to offer? I do not think you will be disappointed in the least! I cannot wait for the final installment to see how everything that is happening plays out!

Author:

By day, Rebecca Robinson works as a high school administrator. By night, she’s an avid reader, writer, and consumer of all things art. When she’s not writing, Rebecca loves to cook, spend time with her husband and son, and lounge in the garden with her husky.

BLOG TOUR: And Now Back To You (Heartstrings #2) by B.K. Borison

 

Two competing meteorologists are forced to find common ground in this opposites attract, When Harry Met Sally inspired romance, from New York Times bestselling author B.K. Borison.

Jackson Clark and Delilah Stewart have had their fair share of run-ins over the years, often ending in disaster. While Jackson thrives on routine and organization from the comfort of his radio booth, Delilah loves the spontaneity and adventure out in the field. When they’re partnered against their will to cover the snowstorm of the century, they find themselves scrambling to figure out how to work together.

Eager to be taken seriously as a journalist, Delilah offers Jackson a deal. If he can help her ace this assignment, she’ll help him rediscover his long-lost fun side. With an undiscovered chemistry burning beneath their clashes, the unlikely partnership quickly tumbles into an easy and surprising friendship.

But when other feelings start to enter the equation, can Jackson and Delilah withstand the storm? Or does what happens in the mountains, stay in the mountains?

Title: And Now Back To You (Heartstrings #2)

Author: B.K. Borison

Publisher:

Expected Publication Date: February 24, 2026

Review:

Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this title to read and review. The opinions expressed here are my own.

This was my most anticipated book of 2026. I adored the first one so much and I just could not wait to get Jackson and Delilah's story in my head. And my expectations for this book were 100% met! BK Borison is my favorite romance author. She writes absolutely fabulous stories and characters. Every book she writes is better than the last and her characters 100% grab my heart, twist is around, break it apart, and then put it back together!

If you haven't read the first book in this series, I strongly recommend you do. While you could potentially read this as a stand alone, it will ruin the first book for you if you ever choose to go back. Plus, you meet Jackson and Delilah in the first book and you get some good insight into the person Jackson is, which I think is important. 

That being said, I may love Jackson and Delilah more than Aiden and Lucie and that is saying A LOT!

Delilah is this manic pixie girl. She's all over the place, accident prone, and never holds back what's on her mind (for the most part). She's spunky and so much fun. And she has this huge heart that is always worried about everyone else around her. Unfortunately, this does not trickle over to herself. I was actually sad for her for much of the book because she truly thought people didn't think much of her. I wanted to take her by the shoulders and shake her on more than one occasion to say: GIRL! People ADORE you! But this was part of her growth throughout the book. She had to take things from people in order to eventually see her worth and stand up for herself. 

Jackson, oh Jackson. I don't even know where to begin. He has the biggest heart of them all. I love his family and how his sisters mean the absolute world to him. He would protect them to the ends of the earth. At the same time, he suffers from some pretty severe anxiety that trickles over into his relationships. I adored his friendship with Aiden in the first book. Aiden was so supportive of Jackson and that continued in this book. Jackson has so much weight on his shoulders. He would carry the world if everyone let him. And watching him struggle with his feelings for Delilah was really quite the show. As much as he tried to not like her and her chaos, he could not help but be pulled into her orbit. I think the most interesting thing about Jackson was his vulnerability. It really made his character more likeable to see his faults.

The chemistry between these two is undeniable. I loved the slow build up. The small nuances of their attraction peeking through as they became closer. And the setting for it was perfect. Did I know what trope would happen? I sure did. Did I care? Not one iota. Borison took it and ran with it. She unapologetically used it to the full advantage and it totally worked.

Most of all, Borison knows how to take topics that are serious but present them in a manner that is easy to understand and has you rooting for the main characters the whole way. This book made me laugh a lot but I also had tears in places for the things the main characters had to endure.

I cannot leave this review without talking about the side characters. There is not one I do not love. And dare I say we might be seeing a certain camera man get his HEA in the next book? Just taking a guess here but I'm also really hoping that's the case!

I've already put the audio version of this on hold through my library because I need to read it again and I know I will love the narration (I did the same with the first book in this series; no regrets). 

If you're looking for a romance that is atmospheric, characters who have amazing growth and development, a story line that is both serious and filled with excellent banter, you need to dive into Borison's books. I have not been disappointed in any of them yet and will continue to read her stories for as long as she's willing to write them!

Author:

New York Times, Sunday Times, and USA Today Bestselling author B.K. Borison is the author of cozy, contemporary romances featuring emotionally vulnerable characters and swoon-worthy settings. When she’s not daydreaming about fictional characters doing fictional things, she’s at home with her family, more than likely buying books she doesn’t have room for.

ARC Review: Maybe This Once (Rockbottom Love #3) by Sophie Sullivan

Two people end up with more feelings than they bargained for after pursuing a summer fling, in this small-town, opposites-attract romance from Sophie Sullivan.

Charlotte “Charlie” Ashford has worked hard to become her own person. Tired of living in the shadow of her famous parents, she gladly left behind a life of glitz and glamour to pursue her true passion: becoming a counselor. However, when a viral video upends Charlie’s plans, she wonders if the real key to discovering herself is through her late father.

Grayson Keller has finally found his footing. He’s settled in one place, surrounded by family, and secure in his business. By his third summer as owner, Get Lost Lodge is showing a steady profit and seeing its fair share of repeat visitors. Whatever happens, Grayson is perfectly content with his quiet life and careful heart. That is, until he meets Charlie, who he can’t seem to get out of his head.

On the surface, Charlie and Grayson seem to have nothing in common more than a growing attraction that neither of them can fight. Trusting each other isn’t easy. They’ve both been hurt before, and they’re not looking for anything serious. The solution is easy: they’ll date, have some fun, and walk away unscathed. Right? Or, maybe this once, they can see past the hurt to what, or who, is on the other side waiting for them.

Title: Maybe This Once (Rockbottom Love #3)

Author: Sophie Sullivan

Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin

Expected Publication Date: February 10. 2026

Review:

Thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this title to read and give my honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.

I've really enjoyed reading this series of books from Sullivan. I loved watching each sibling get their HEA. Of course I could not way to see what happened for Gray and he was somewhat of a mystery to me throughout the other two books. Don't get me wrong, I liked him, but deep down I needed his story and his own HEA and this book gave that to me.

If you're looking for spicy, steamy romance, this is not the place to come for it. I'm 100% ok with that if the story is written well and Sullivan does that job in the best way. Her scenes happen but they are truly fade to black and what you get is the emotional connection to the characters and their relationship.

Gray has trauma from his divorce and this has kept him at arms length from any type of relationship. He's resigned himself to being happy with his lodge and his family, surrounded by great friends and a life he feels is full. Until Charlie walks into it. Then he's thrown for a loop as his attraction to her slowly grows and he realizes that maybe his life was not quite as full as it was meant to be. His life before was what he thought was fulfilling: a wife, a good job, money. But when it came tumbling down, he wasn't left with much more than the shell of himself. I really would have liked to see a bit more of this past for him. While Sullivan does have him tell us about it, seeing some scenes would have solidified it more in my head and given me a deeper understanding of how what Gray had been through shaped him into the man he is now.

Charlie, on the other hand, is running. Running away from her problems and her family and trying her hardest to find herself and the pieces she has lost along the way. Her experience as a therapist hasn't leant her any ideas of how she herself can put her life back together. I will say, she doesn't truly seem to have much of this experience and I wish it had been explored just a bit more in the book. The job, while talked about, seems more surface level, barring one scene where she puts her education in that area to work. You can tell she has a knack for what she does but I didn't see enough of it to see how it has truly shaped her.

The chemistry between these two is done very well. There's never any holding back or lying about their attraction to one another. I loved that honesty between them, even when there were other things they were not honest with one another about. And there's not true third act break up in this book. Just a small blip that is quickly resolved.

I really enjoyed seeing all the characters from the previous books in this installment. It was fun to watch them get to know Charlie and bring her into the fold of the family and friends. The small town setting is perfect to show just how invested such a community gets when it comes to those they love.

Overall, I really like Sullivan's writing. She shows the emotions and feelings of her characters well. There is some repetition with the struggle both characters feel from their falling into one another, which is expected but just a bit overdone for my taste. That's not to say I would not read more from this author because i would like to check out her other series and see what they are about.

A strong and solid 4 star read. If you have not read the first two, it's not a necessity, but this will ruin some relationships for you if you choose not to read them in order.

Author:

SOPHIE SULLIVAN is a Canadian author as well as a cookie-eating, Diet Pepsi-drinking, Disney enthusiast. She's written ten books for St. Martin's Press, including Ten Rules for Faking It, Can't Help Falling in Love, and the Rock Bottom Love series. She loves reading and writing romance in almost equal measure. She's had plenty of practice writing happily ever after as her alter ego, Jody Holford.

 

ARC Review: Catch Her If You Can (Big Shots #5) by Tessa Bailey

This special paperback features gorgeous sprayed edges with stenciled artwork.

#1 New York Times bestselling author Tessa Bailey is back with an all-new marriage of convenience, friends-to-lovers sports romance about a baseball catcher and the burlesque club owner he can’t get out of his head.

Madden Donahue, the newest catcher for the Yankees, has been in love with Eve Mitchell since high school, but for some mysterious reason, the burlesque club owner always turns him down. That never stopped him from being her self-appointed protector. Case in point, now that Eve’s sister has left Eve with her two children indefinitely, Madden steps in with a proposition—marry him for the much needed health benefits.

Eve has secretly harbored feelings for Madden all along, but there’s one problem—her best friend Skylar called dibs on him when they were fourteen. Eve has always put their friendship above all else, and she’s not willing to risk losing Skylar over a man. Raised by the local strip club owner, Eve is woefully short on friends and treasures the ones she has. But with Skylar happily paired off, Eve finds herself accepting Madden’s proposal—on the condition that their marriage remains strictly private. She’s not about to let her unique profession and maligned reputation destroy Madden’s shiny new career.

Madden won’t let Eve get away that easily, though. What starts as a marriage of convenience soon ignites into something much hotter, and now it’s up to Madden to convince Eve that their connection is far more than 

Title: Catch Her If You Can (Big Shots #5)

Author: Tessa Bailey

Publisher: Avon Harper Voyager

Expected Publication Date: Janaury 20, 2026

Review:

Thank you to Avon Harper Voyager and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book to read and give my honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.

I really enjoy the stories Tessa Bailey puts out. Every time I read her, I'm immersed and don't want to put the book down. I was very excited to get Madden's story. He was a bit of a mystery in Pitcher Perfect. I loved the glimpses we got of him. How he was shy and reserved and grumpy. I needed to know more about him and Bailey made that happen.

Eve and Madden have known each other since they were teens and Madden moved from Ireland to America. They have both harbored feelings for all that time but have not been able to act on it (she because of her best friend Skylar's crush and him because of his preoccupation with their age gap). When Madden finds out Eve needs help, he jumps in with a proposal, literally. Marry him for the benefits, just for six months, so she can get back on her feet. A marriage of convenience, though his plan is anything but. Of course they cannot help their feelings getting in the way of their arrangement.

I will say the vibe of this book was unlike the first four. There are much more serious topics in this book. Much more trauma the character have endured from physical to emotional and mental abuse. Madden escaped by moving far away from his abuser. But Even is still stuck in the same town where her father's legacy has followed her and the bullying towns people all her life. 

Madden, oh Madden. Gah, I just love him. He's grumpy and totally possessive. But his heart is so very big. Considering his background, and the trauma he seems to have endured during his childhood, it's surprising he is so well adjusted. One thing I really need more of from him was his background. We get it from him, he tells a bit of his story, but not as much as I would have liked. I really would have liked to see more of what he endured so I can understand how he was able to come out on the other side with such a positive attitude. Then again, we endure trauma and it often makes us stronger and we figure out ways for that trauma not to enter into our lives again.

I liked Eve but not as much as bailey's other FMCs. She nice enough. I love her connection with her niece and nephew. I love the fact that she is selfless enough to take on their care when it's needed and her act of selflessness towards Madden (I will not get into it since it's kind of a spoiler though I figured it out right away).  I just wish she would have been stronger in her conviction of who she is and what she stands for. We do get this a bit at the end of the book. But mostly she keeps her head down and kind of lets others abuse her with their snark and gross comments. Most of the time she just walks away. Ok, we are taught to walk away from the bullies, I get it. But I needed her to really start to stand up for herself and who she was deep down. To show everyone how selfless and loving she could be.

The spice is absolutely spicing in this one. I love the exploration of the voyeur kink. It wasn't unexpected given the background of the character, to be honest. I actually thought it was a little too on point and kind of wished it was a different kink that was explored.

This one was a fast read. I started and finished in less than 24 hours. The flashbacks at the beginning were a nice addition, giving us a good background for Eve and Madden's romance. Their chemistry was definitely off the charts. Bailey made that attraction very palpable throughout the book. Bailey throws in the virgin card for one of the characters, which could have been such a better plot line if explored a bit. It just kind of comes up and then it's like it wasn't that big of a deal when I feel like it kind of should have been. Especially given the reasoning for it. And while it was fast paced and for the most part I enjoyed the story, there were some plot holes that I had a hard time getting over which lowered my rating.

I will forever pick up Bailey's books as I really do love the stories she tells. She always keeps me entertained, even if I've read the tropes a million times in other stories. I love the journey she takes and how she brings her characters together with such great connections. Fingers crossed she continues because I need Elton's story! I was totally shipping him and Veda in this book!

Autor:

New York Times Bestselling author Tessa Bailey can solve all problems except for her own, so she focuses those efforts on stubborn, fictional blue collar men and loyal, lovable heroines. She lives on Long Island avoiding the sun and social interactions, then wonders why no one has called. Dubbed the “Michelangelo of dirty talk,” by Entertainment Weekly, Tessa writes with spice, spirit, swoon and a guaranteed happily ever after. Catch her on TikTok at @authortessabailey or check out tessabailey.com for a complete list of books.

 

ARC Review: Wilid Reverence (Letters of Enchantment #0) by Rebecca Ross

Born ​in the firelit domain of the under realm, Matilda is the youngest goddess of her clan, blessed with humble messenger magic. But in a land where gods often kill each other to steal power and alliances break as quickly as they are forged, Matilda must come of age sooner than most. She may be known to carry words and letters through the realms, but she holds a secret she must hide from even her dearest of allies to ensure her survival. And to complicate matters . . . there is a mortal boy who dreams of her, despite the fact they have never met in the waking world.

Ten years ago, Vincent of Beckett wrote to Matilda on the darkest night of his life―begging the goddess he befriended in dreams to help him. When his request went unanswered, Vincent moved on, becoming the hardened, irreverent lord of the river who has long forgotten Matilda. That is, until she comes tumbling into his bedroom window with a letter for him.

As Fate would have it, Matilda and Vincent were destined to find each other beyond dreams. There may be a chance for Matilda to rewrite the blood-soaked ways of the gods, but at immense sacrifice. She will have to face something she fears even more than losing her magic: to be vulnerable, and to allow herself to finally be loved.

Title: Wild Reverence (Letters of Enchantment #0)

Author: Rebecca Ross

Publisher: St. Martin's Press

Expected Publication Date: September 2, 2025

Review:

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for providing me with a copy of this title to read and give my honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.

I was really looking forward to this book. I enjoyed The Letter's of Enchantment duology. I figured this book would be a good background to the duology since it's a dive into the Gods we heard so much about during that story. Unfortunately, it just was not for me. I ended up DNFing the book due to it being super slow and me not feeling any draw to pick it up and read it.

I do like Ross's writing. It is lyrical and flows well. It's almost poetic. But I just don't think her story telling for this particular tale gave me the hook I needed to continue to be invested in the characters. I didn't feel any draw to Matilda or Vincent. I didn't care about their story or their relationship. I didn't feel the romance. And I didn't connect with either of them at all. I felt like there was hardly any development.

The pacing of this book left something to be desired. It felt like it dragged most of the time. The story was so dense. And the jump from the younger Matilda and Vincent to the older just seemed like too much of a time leap for me. And I needed a bit more world building. I felt like I was thrown in and left to gather the pieces on my own.

There was a lot of telling in this book, as well. I wanted to see what was going on and the writing didn't allow me to picture anything that was happening in my head. It felt tedious and dense, like I was trudging through very thick mud with no end in sight. And I was often lost with what was even happening in the storyline.

If someone comes into this one having not read the duology, I think it might actually be more enjoyable. It has a Greek mythology feel to it. But coming in and comparing it to those ruined it for me. I struggled to get swept up in it as I did with the others. I could not possibly continue on to finish a 550 page book when I was absolutely not sucked into the story.

Author:

Rebecca Ross is the #1 New York Times and Sunday Times bestselling author of fantasy books for teens and adults.

She has written multiple highly acclaimed duologies, including LETTERS OF ENCHANTMENT, ELEMENTS OF CADENCE, and THE QUEEN’S RISING as well as two standalone novels: DREAMS LIE BENEATH and SISTERS OF SWORD & SONG.

When not writing, she can be found in her garden where she plants wildflowers and story ideas. She resides in Northeast Georgia with her husband and her dog. Find her on Instagram @beccajross or online at www.rebeccarossauthor.com.

Rebecca is represented by Suzie Townsend of New Leaf Literary & Media.

 

ARC Review: A Theory of Dreaming (A Study in Drowning #2) by Ava Reid

Return to the immersive, lush, and dreamlike world of the instantly bestselling dark academia fantasy A Study in Drowning as the aftermath of their first discovery pulls Effy and Preston on a final adventure and brings their haunting love story to its end in this stunning sequel and final book in the duology.

All stories come to an end.

Effy learned that when she defeated the Fairy King. Even though she may never know exactly what happened at Hiraeth, she is free of her nightmares and is able to pen a thesis with Preston on the beloved national fairy tale Angharad. She has finally earned a spot at the literature college, making her the first woman in history to enroll.

But some dreams are dangerous, especially when they come true. The entire university—and soon the entire nation—is waiting for her to fail. With the Fairy King defeated and Myrddin’s legacy exposed, Effy can no longer escape into fantasy. Who is she without her stories?

With Effy under threat, Preston is surprised to discover a rage simmering inside him, ringing in his ears like bells. He begins to dream of a palace under the sea, a world where he is king—visions that start to follow him even in waking.

As the war between Llyr and Argant explodes, Effy and Preston find themselves caught in the crossfire: Effy losing her dreams and Preston losing himself in his.

Are dreams ever truly just dreams?

Title: A Theory of Dreaming (A Study in Drowning #2)

Author: Ava Reid

Publisher: Harper Collins

Expected Publication Date: July 29, 2025

Review:

Thank you to HarperCollins and Edelweiss for supplying me with a copy of this title to read and give my honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.

A return to the world of Ava Reid's dark academia was something I was really excited for. The first book in this series was really lush and immersive and I couldn't wait to see where Reid would take the second part of this story. I was not disappointed at all. I will say, you cannot read this second book without having read the first. The first book truly builds the world for this second book. Reid takes that world and makes it even more complex and enriched with this story.

We pick up with Effy and Preston after they have returned from Hiraeth. Effy and Preston are facing scrutiny since they have challenged the beloved national fairytale. Everything they do is put under a microscope. And Effy has been admitted as the first woman to the literature college which puts her even more in the spotlight.

I loved the dual POV of this book. It allowed us to really get an in depth look at Preston and be in his head. I enjoyed experiencing things through his eyes. The book also focuses more on him and his dreams. We also see his love for Effy and how she has embedded herself in his life to the point that he would be totally devastated to lose her.

Reid continues to blur the line between reality and fantasy with this book, as well. The line between being awake and being asleep and how those two worlds collide.

Reid also tackles many big issues including but not limited to politics, misogyny, xenophobia, mental health, and substance abuse. While this is a fantasy, Reid truly anchors much of the book in reality. May of the issues she tackles can be related to the things we are seeing in our world today.

Reids writing is lyrical and addictive. The story is poetic in how it is presented. Pretty spot on since the books have their stories built around poets.

Reid gives a stunning follow up to A Study In Drowning with this book. I read this in less than 24 hours. It concludes well but you can also see there is room for more if she chooses to do so. I see she has written a novella and I cannot wait to read that one, as well. 

Author:

Ava Reid is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of A Study in Drowning, A Theory of Dreaming, Lady Macbeth, Juniper & Thorn, and The Wolf and the Woodsman. Her books have been published in over fourteen territories. She lives in the New York area. Follow her on Instagram @avasreid and find her online at tumblr.com/avasreid.

ARC Review: Nothing Like the Movies (Better Than the Movies #2) by Lynn Painter

 

In this highly anticipated sequel to the New York Times bestselling Better than the Movies, Wes and Liz struggle to balance their feelings for each other with the growing pains of being a college student.

For a few beautiful months, Wes had his dream girl: strong-willed girl-next-door Liz. But right as the two were about to set off to UCLA to start their freshman year together, tragedy struck. Wes was left dealing with the fallout, which ultimately meant losing Liz in the process.

Flash forward months and months later and Wes and Liz find themselves in college, together. In a healthier place now, Wes knows he broke Liz’s heart when he ended things, but he is determined to make her fall back in love with him.

Wes knows Liz better than anyone, and he has a foolproof plan to win her back with the rom-com worthy big gestures she loves. Only…Liz will have none of it. Wes has to scheme like a rom-com hero to figure out how to see her. Even worse, Liz has a new friend…a guy friend.

Still, Wes won’t give up, adapting his clever plans and going hard to get Liz’s attention and win back her affection. But after his best efforts get him nowhere, Wes is left wondering if their relationship is really over for good.

Title: Nothing Like the Movies (Better Than the Movies #2)

Author: Lynn Painter

Publisher:

Expected Publication Date: October 1, 2024

Review:

Thank you to Edelweiss and Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers for providing me with a copy of this egalley to read and give my honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.

I really love Lynn Painter but I especially love this little series. The first book was so much fun. Enemies to friends to lovers, lots of romance, and just an all around good feeling book.

What I was not expecting was the heartache that came with this one. I had zero idea Painter was going to take it where she did and then make is a second chance romance. And, while I was praying for a wonderful HEA, I honestly wasn't sure I was going to even get it, even when I was nearing the end of the book! But Painter always comes through with her stories (love her adult fiction, as well) and I was graced with an ending that truly did this couple justice.

Wes has to be one of my favorite YA book boyfriends. I love his sense of humor. I love his commitment to family and friends, and I especially love his heart. His story for this book really got to me. His guilt over the tragedy that struck his family. His willingness to let it all go in order to support them. He carried such a burden in this book. You could feel it weighing him down, even after he kind of got things together and was giving himself a chance to grow.

Liz was very different in this book, definitely not the same girl we knew in book #1. Her thoughts on love and being a lover of love were totally different from the Liz we saw in the first book. She's totally jaded and has done a 180 in terms of where she stands with this. I know this was from dealing with the loss of Wes and what they had built together in high school but I wasn't expecting it to be such a tremendous turn around. She went from believing in romance to kicking it to the curb. Her turn around made me angry and very sad for her. There were times in the book I wanted to really give her a little smack upside the head and say "snap out of it!" I was very happy when she opened her heart to the potential of a second chance.

The pacing on this one was just as great as the first. I wanted to climb into the book and experience it from all sides and never put it down. I felt torn between the need to get to the ending as quickly as possible to see what happens and wanting to experience each scene and interaction with the the MMC and FMC in slow motion so it would not end.

The plot is definitely a figure out who you are, grow a little, and then go after what you really want type of flow. I had one plot hole that really was annoying to me. I don't want to spoil anything but I felt like the fake dating trope that was introduced was truly unnecessary and didn't really lend anything to the plot. Plus, it was never truly revealed to all in the long run so I'm not sure why it was even included.

Overall, I truly enjoyed this book. Painter continues to be on my list of must read authors whenever she publishes something. The characters are more mature, with bigger problems than high school kids, yet it was still kept on a level that YA lovers will understand and appreciate. I laughed, I cried, I held my breath, and I sighed. It took me through all the emotions and definitely had me shedding some tears at times.   I've done Painter's books in both print and audio for all of them and I cannot wait to listen to this one when it's released. Definitely a read it again book for me!

Author:

Lynn Painter is the international bestselling author of Better Than The Movies. She writes romantic comedies for both teens and adults, and when she isn't reading or writing, odds are good she’s guzzling energy drinks and watching rom-coms. 

Obscure facts that might make her sound interesting (but probably don't): 

*She is the step-aunt to one of the actors on Riverdale, even though she's technically only met him once and he likely wouldn't remember her. Hint: He starred in a movie with Yara Shahidi. And another one with Will Smith. His name rhymes with Barles Gelton.

*She can fit an entire cupcake in her mouth. BOOM.

*She threw up all over herself on the first day of 2nd grade.

*She once saw Kelsey Grammar hailing a taxi in Manhattan, so she's pretty much an NYC native who is best friends with celebrities.

*She has a one-inch vertical.

*Her love for spaghetti is brighter than the sun, stronger than The Rock.

*If you see her doing anything crafty, it isn't her; she has literally set things on fire with a hot glue gun and has the motor skills of a preschooler. No offense, preschoolers.

*Her 4th grade teacher moved her desk out into the hallway because she wouldn't shut up. Like, ever.

*She held the record at her elementary school for finding the most bats (vampire, not baseball) in a single year. The little dork located - and alerted authorities to - four potentially-rabid bats.*

So technically, if you think about it, she might've saved hundreds of lives with her nerditude. #hero

*She was the only one to ever find any bats because everyone else had better things to do at recess.