Review for Jill Shalvis' "HE FALLS FIRST"

 

HE FALLS FIRST
Contemporary Romance

 

 

AUTHOR:
Jill Shalvis

RELEASE DATE:
August 05, 2025

PUBLISHER:
Sourcebooks, Casablanca

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781464243899

RATING:
5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.jillshalvis.com/

 

 

Ryder Colburn owns and operates a successful restoration business. He also takes on the care of his stroke-addled father – the very man who had abused him and his siblings as children. The death of his best friend and business partner has left Ryder emotionally stunted. Until he encounters the snarky-mouthed Penny Rose. The woman awakens something inside him, and Ryder finds himself drawn to her. Can Ryder help Penny overcome her issues? Or will his own stand in their way?

Penelope “Penny” Rose moves back home a broken shell of her former self. The fiasco of her last relationship causes her to swear off men and dating. Penny has given up her dream of opening a café to financially support her family. Then Ryder Colburn enters her orbit. Penny does not trust herself or her instincts when it comes to him. Can Penny trust Ryder not to hurt her? Will he help her heal from the trauma of her last relationship? Or will they both self-sabotage the possibility of a relationship?

Ryder is my favorite type of hero: wounded/tortured type. He is a man burdened daily by his own emotional baggage. Ryder puts everyone else’s needs before his own. I admire his decision to take care of his father. Ryder could have washed his hands of the man who had abused him and his siblings. Or hire a full-time caretaker to see to the man’s care and needs. Ryder even feels conflicted when confronted by the father of the present to the man of the past. What I adore the most about Ryder is his patience and care with Penny. He recognized a kindred spirit, one who has experienced something like he and his siblings did.

Penny impressed me. Not too many women have the bravery or temerity to escape an abusive relationship. She did. Penny knows the experience has left some issues she needs to deal with and heal from. I also empathize with her. With the state of the economy today and prices of things, being financially stable is a pipe dream. Many people are stuck at a job that hardly provides for them or their family. What I like the most about Penny is how she and Ryder have so much in common. They both have the inability to ask for help when it’s needed, preferring to take care of things on their own. They both take care of their loved ones and friends.

HE FALLS FIRST is the first installment in Jill Shalvis’ brand-new, contemporary romance series, COLBURN BROTHERS. This book is everything I come to expect from Shalvis: humor, witty characters and touchy/difficult subject matter. If I did not need to sleep or deal with the day-to-day housework, I could have finished this story in a day. I simply did not want to put it down because I became emotionally invested from the first chapter.

Now the wait for Caleb and Tucker’s books (impatiently I might add!). I have a suspicion on who Tucker’s love interest will be… I had hoped Penny’s friend Violet would be a good candidate for Caleb. Also, I am curious if Shalvis has any plans for Kiera. She deserves to find happiness again.

My favorite character in the book is Pika-boo, the green and yellow budgie. He makes me almost wish I had a bird again… almost. I remember the fun a mischievous, talking bird could be. Pika-book brought up sweet memories of my Nanday Conure, Draven and his favorite phrases.

Review for Youga Rayri's "SHOUT LOUD, MY HEART"

 

SHOUT LOUD, MY HEART
Music, BL

 

 

 

AUTHOR:
Youga Rayri

RELEASE DATE:
June 17, 2025

PUBLISHER:
Kodansha Comics

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9798888775042

RATING:
4.5

 

Gen is EVE’s antisocial guitarist. He keeps to himself and does not interact with people much. Mike is the lead singer for ADAM, EVE’s rival. They two meet at a joint gig, where Gen becomes fascinated by Mike’s voice. Their paths continue to cross frequently which leads to feelings developing between the two. Will Gen’s sound evolve thanks to Mike’s influence? Is it a good thing? Or bad?

 Gen and Mike are complete opposites. Mike is like the day in appearances and personality to Gen’s night. These opposites balance the other.

I like that Gen calls Mike by his given name (Mika) and not the nickname saddled onto him. And I love how Mike is not put off by Gen’s loner personality.

 GIVEN and PINK HEART JAM started my enjoyment for music/band-oriented mangas. This one, SHOUT LOUD, MY HEART, did not disappoint. A one-shot – which is a bummer. It had potential if it would go further. There is a spicy scene near the end.

Review for Casey Griffin's "DEAD RINGER"

 

DEAD RINGER
Cozy Mystery, Paranormal-Mystery

 

AUTHOR:
Casey Griffin

PUBLISHER:
Charming Frog Publishing

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.caseygriffin.com/para-cozy-books

 

 

Violet Woods agrees to resize an engagement ring for two former suspects-turned-friends. When it disappears, literally beneath her nose, she uses her witchy ability to locate it. Violet discovers other shops have experienced thefts too. Can she find the culprit behind the thefts and retrieve the ring? Or will this loss spell doom for Charming Treasures’ business?

It is nice to see the interaction between Violet and Zelda. They still have their problems, but the two are slowly learning their partner’s quirks. I like how Violet is slowly learning to use her witchy ability. She does not have full control and blunders often.

DEAD RINGER is a novella in Casey Griffin’s paranormal-mystery series, CHARM ISLAND MYSTERY. The story takes place between books two and three, so it is necessary to read them first. Sadly, there is no clue revealed about the accident that claimed Violet’s fiancé at the end. DEAD RINGER is a quick yet cute story.

REVIEW: Casey Griffin's "Inlaid to Rest"

 

INLAID TO REST
Cosy Mystery

 

 

AUTHOR:
Casey Griffin

RELEASE DATE:
May 22, 2025

PUBLISHER:
Charming Frog Publishing

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781990470370

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://books.caseygriffin.com/

 

 

Violet Woods has gleaned new information on the accident five years ago that took her fiancé. She hopes Max can answer some questions she has about the incident. Violet accompanies her best friend to a new luxury resort, the very place that Max works at. However, she discovers a dead body near his boat. When Max becomes the top suspect, Violet knows she must help clear his name. Can she find the real murderer? And what other clues will Violet unearth about her fiance’s tragic accident?

Violet is still struggling to adjust to being a witch and her abilities. Then there is the guilt of her fiancé’s death AND abandoning her family and friends five years ago. I like how Violet is finally coming to terms with all of that. That she came to that conclusion herself allows her to heal and move on. I hope we learn more about Violet’s mother. She and her dad need closure.

INLAID TO REST is the third book in Casey Griffin’s paranormal-mystery series, CHARM ISLAND MYSTERY. The series is best read in proper order, starting with ENGRAVE DANGER.  Each book shows Violet’s growth, in both accepting being a witch AND healing from her fiancé’s death. The author does like to drop important clues on the accident at the end of each novel. Neat way to keep readers hooked and needing to read the next installment. I cannot wait for the next book!

I am giddy that my suspicions on Max proved correct! The author took her own approach with shifters, breaking away from the normal mold cast. I like that. I could elaborate but I chose not to because of possible spoilers. The fun is learning for oneself.

REVIEW for Jennifer K Lamber's NEVER THE ROSES

 

NEVER THE ROSES
Fantasy Romance

 

AUTHOR:

Jennifer K Lambert
(her other alias is Jeffe Kennedy)

RELEASE DATE:
July 8, 2025

PUBLISHER:
Bramble

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781250360342

RATING:
4

AUTHOR LINK:
https://jenniferklambert.com/

 

 

Oneira is a former leashed battle mage for the Southern Lands. A formidable oneiromancer, wearied by the years of war and killing, she has retreated to isolation. On a whim, Oneira visits her rival’s extensive library. When she steals one of his books, an illicit correspondence begins between them. However, an impending war threatens to drag her back to her former life. Can Oniera find a way to thwart the war? Or will she make the ultimate sacrifice to save herself and Stearanos?

Stearanos Stormbreaker is a powerful battle mage contracted to the Northlands. When a thief steals one of his books, he sets out to learn their identity. Stearanos never imagined his mysterious thief to be his nemesis and rival. They engage in taunting yet engaging correspondence. However, his king’s greed threatens to ruin the relationship brewing between Stearanos and Oneira. Will war be inevitable? And what price will Stearanos pay to keep it from happening?

Oneira and Stearanos are kindred souls. They are both renowned and powerful battle sorcerers. The only difference is their specialty: Oniera with dreams and Stearanos with wards. Both mages understand the other where others cannot or will not. The weariness of countless wars only to satisfy their spoiled monarchs’ demands. The ramifications those deeds have on their conscience and spirits. I like how Oniera finally finds a way to atone for the sins she was forced to commit in the past. Stearanos had a part in it.

NEVER THE ROSES is the newest fantasy-romance novel by Jennifer K. Lambert. I am familiar with the author’s works under her other alias, Jeffe Kennedy. NEVER THE ROSES start off slow. Necessary, since the author needs to set up this brand-new world and its unique dynamics. It did take me a while to get accustomed to the pace, the characters, and the plot. Sometimes, the repetitious reminder that Oniera being an oneiromancer, caused my interest to flag.

I persevered. And I am glad that I did because the story’s momentum picks up once Oniera interacts with Stearanos. Their playful interactions kept my interest for the remainder of the book. I needed to know what happened next with the two battle mages.

Review: Bethany Bennett's MY BEST FRIEND'S EARL

 

MY BEST FRIEND’S EARL
Historical Romance

 

 

AUTHOR:
Bethany Bennett

RELEASE DATE:
August 12, 2025

PUBLISHER:
Forever (Grand Central Publishing)

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781538740507

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://bethanybennettauthor.com/

 

 

Constance “Connie” Martin is the youngest daughter of a bookshop owner. She does not mind the reputation she has earned for jilting her fiancé at the altar. When a friend comes to her shop and asks for a matchbreaker, Connie decides to help. She devises plots to make the stuffy, straightlaced earl to end the engagement. Connie never anticipated in falling for the man herself. Will Connie succeed? Or will this endeavor end in heartbreak?

Oliver Vincent, the Earl of Southwyn, prefers a staid and orderly life. He intends to honor the betrothal agreement his late father made with their neighbor. Unfortunately, his fiancé does not feel the same. Oliver knows the wedding must take place; however, he becomes distracted by her vivacious, chaotic friend. The woman is his complete opposite. Will Oliver allow Connie to disrupt his life? Or will the wedding continue as planned?

In GOOD DUKE GONE WILD, I knew that Connie would be a good match-up for Oliver. Their separate nature benefits the other. Connie’s impulses disrupt Oliver’s organized existence, while his staidness acts as a grounding for her chaotic thoughts. What I like the most is that Connie has ADHD, before it was widely known as in today’s era. The author does a great job of showing the trials that she faces on a day-to-day basis.

Oliver pleasantly surprised me! I do not read many romances where the man is the virgin. It is a nice (and refreshing) change of pace from the usual “experienced” male lead. I also admire his reasons for abstaining. Very noble. What I love the most about Oliver is how he could tell when Connie’s cheerful facade was faked. He hated it, but he never called her out on it.

Series: Yes, it is the second book in Bethany Bennett’s historical romance series, BLUESTOCKING BOOKSELLERS. The story can standalone. There are no on-going problems or controversy that spill over from the first book. Dorian and Caro, the couple from GOOD DUKE GONE WILD, do play helpful, supporting roles in this story.

I have a suspicion that the next book will center around Hattie and Lord Bixby. Perhaps it is my wishful thinking after their interaction near the end of the book. If so, then I eagerly await the next installment.  If not, then I hope the author will consider writing a series about the intriguing man and his quest to find suitable partners for his sisters. I would definitely read it!

Review: Laura Lee Guhrke's "BAD LUCK BRIDE"

 

BAD LUCK BRIDE
Historical Romance

 

 

 

AUTHOR:
Laura Lee Guhrke

RELEASE DATE:
July 29, 2025

PUBLISHER:
Forever (Grand Central Publishing)

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781538722664

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://lauraleeguhrke.com/

 

 

 

Lady Kay Matheson needs her wedding to a wealthy American to take place. She hopes it will repair the damage a failed elopement and broken engagement has done to her reputation. Kay never imagined she would run into the very man responsible for her downfall. She is determined not to allow Delvin Sharpe to ruin her chances to secure her family’s future. Will Kay change her mind once she learns the truth behind their separation? Or will she forsake love for her family’s security?

Devlin Sharpe is the disgraced, unwanted son of a baron. He returns to England a wealthy businessman and engaged to a marquess’ daughter. Devlin never anticipated running into the woman who broke his heart or learning about her engagement. He tries to avoid Kay, but fate has other plans. They both soon learn the real reason behind their breakup and separation. Can Devlin fix all the wrongs of the past? Or will he allow Kay to slip through his fingers for the final time?

I could not help but empathize with Kay. The poor woman has endured a lot, especially being the unfortunate victim of gossip and rumors. She also bears heavy responsibility for her mother and sister’s future. What I hate the most is how Kay did not have many options available to provide for her family, thanks to gossipmongers. Women faced many restrictions back then. There was only so much they were allowed to do.

Devlin is amazing! He made something of himself through hard work. Devlin chose a trade school over the colleges for nobles. What I love the most about him is how Devlin noticed Kay when their peers overlooked her. He did not see a red-haired, chubby girl but a delightful woman. I also like how Devlin disliked how she disparaged herself or bowed to others wishes, sacrificing her own wants and desires.

SERIES: Yes, it is the third book in Laura Lee Guhrke’s Victorian romance series, SCANDAL AT THE SAVOY. This story can easily standalone. However, I suggest starting with LADY SCANDAL, book two, before this one. Much of Kay and Devlin’s reunion and interactions happen in the background. I love how Delia (from LS) plays an important role. Simon (from LS) and Max (from BOOKSHOP CINDERELLA) appear here or there. Sadly, Evie (BC) is only mentioned.

Review: Kate Bateman's ROAD TRIP WITH A ROGUE

 

ROAD TRIP WITH A ROGUE
Historical Romance

 

AUTHOR:
Kate Bateman

RELEASE DATE:
July 29, 2025

PUBLISHER:
St. Martin’s Press

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781250907387

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.kcbateman.com/

 

 

Lady Dorothea “Daisy” Hamilton is the third co-founder of an investigation firm called King & Co. She agrees to take on the case of thwarting an heiress from eloping. However, Daisy’s mission goes horribly awry when she encounters the wrong carriage. Instead of the runaway pair, she finds the rogue who broke her heart five years ago. Daisy has no other choice but to tolerate the man as she continues with her mission. Will Lucien distract Daisy from her mission? Or will she gain another success for King & Co?

Lucien Vaughan, The Duke of Cranford, decides to help his nephew elope with his beloved. He never imagined he would encounter Daisy Hamilton, a woman who is off limits to him, along the way. Lucien is not about to let the hoyden thwart his nephew’s upcoming nuptials. He uses every tactic in his arsenal, including seduction, to delay her from finding the lovestruck pair. When Daisy’s reputation is compromised, Lucien steps forward to do what is right. Can he convince the headstrong miss to marry him?

Daisy did annoy me near the end of the book. Yeah, I understand her requisites for marriage, especially after seeing what her mother endured. However, Daisy knows how cruel the ton can be towards women whose reputations are tarnished.  Yet, she is still willing to face their wrath. A wise person knows when to concede and when to fight or make the best of their situation.

Lucien is positively swoon-worthy! I simply adore the man’s sardonic, hedonistic personality! It made his interactions (and dialogue) with Daisy entertaining and fun. What I like the most about Lucien is how he is not put off by Daisy’s blades. It impressed him, especially since she knows how to wield them. Other men of his station would have been either repulsed or intimidated by them.

SERIES: Yes, this book is the third and final book in Kate Bateman’s historical romance series, HER MAJESTY’S REBELS. It is more enjoyable to read this delightful series in proper order, starting with SECOND DUKE’S THE CHARM. The first book reveals the reason why the three ladies decide to set up an investigation firm. The couples from the prior two books (Tess and Justin and Harry and Ellie) do make frequent appearances throughout the story.

Review: Lydia Drake's THE WRITER AND THE ROGUE

 

THE WRITER AND THE ROGUE
Historical Romance

 

 

 

AUTHOR:
Lydia Drake

RELEASE DATE:
April 14, 2025

PUBLISHER:
Entangled Publishing, LLC

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781649375025

RATING:
4.5

 

Miss Caroline Devereux knows she does not measure up to the ton’s expectations of a gentlewoman. She provides food for her family and staves off her profligate father’s creditors by writing Gothic stories. When their situation turns dire, Caroline is forced to try her hand at blackmail. However, the Earl of Rockford refuses to comply with her extortions. Will Caroline follow through with her blackmail? Or will she have a change of heart?

Gabriel Kane, the Earl of Rockford, has promised his late brother to keep the Rockford legacy secure. However, an impoverished baron’s daughter threatens to expose his family’s secrets to their peers. He has no intention of submitting to her demands, but Caroline is not what Gabriel expected. The woman’s peculiarities surprises and seduces him. Will Gabriel find a way to escape Caroline’s blackmail? Or will he become a willing participant?

Caroline is a woman after my own heart! She does not quite fit in amongst her peers. And Caroline is fine with that. She is happy with the way she is with any intention of becoming what she is not. I like the fact that Caroline uses her passion for writing to help provide for her family. It saddens me that the only people who appreciated her contribution were her two brothers – who were such a delight. Her father’s behavior, on the other hand, made me so angry.

Gabriel won me over instantly. He is a little rough around the edges, but he has a good heart. I love how Gabriel notices how different Caroline was to the other debutantes. And he found that he liked her individuality and eccentricity. What I adore the most about Gabriel is how angry he got over their peer’s treatment of Caroline. He did not follow the status quo but instead stood up for her. It is always fun when a hero shares one of my sons’ names (though I have only ever seen my oldest boy’s name in a paranormal book or as a last name). Some mothers get weirded out about it but not me.

SERIES:  Yes, it is the second book in Lydia Drake’s historical romance series, DEBUTANTES OF LONDON. The story can easily stand alone. I have not read the first book, THE DUCHESS AND THE WOLF. Luckily, there is no on-going plot spilling over into this story from the first. The hero of TDTW (Rafe) does make a brief appearance, but he does not play a major role.

Review: Casey Griffin's THIRD CRIME'S THE CHARM"

 

THIRD CRIME’S THE CHARM
Cozy Paranormal Mystery

 

 AUTHOR:

Casey Griffon

RELEASE DATE:
April 24, 2025

PUBLISHER:
Charming Frog Publishing

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781990470332

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://books.caseygriffin.com/

 

SERIES: Yes, the second book in the author’s new paranormal-mystery series, CHARM ISLAND MYSTERY. It is best to start with the first book (ENGRAVE DANGER ) before delving into this one.

Violet Woods is a witch who has been dragging her feet on learning to use her abilities. She pushes her friend to open her own bakery business. Violet’s good intentions lands Alice into a heap of trouble: first fired then accused of arson and murder. She intends on proving her friend’s innocence and finding the true culprit. However, Violet needs to use her ability to see ghosts to achieve this. Will she finally consent to learn to use her witchy abilities? And what other secrets will Violet unearth during her investigation?

I like how Violet did not immediately accept being a witch or her abilities. It is taking her time to come to terms with it all, which is understandable and relatable. Anyone would be reluctant (and reeling) after being thrust into the supernatural world without any preparations. I also like how Alice’s trouble is the impetus Violet needs to learn how to use her abilities and accept them.

The death of Violet’s fiancé is still a mystery. However, she picks up clues here or there while investigating Alice’s case. Things have come alight that Violet did not know but now must come to grips with. I think once she gathers all the clues, it will give her and Nolan the closure they need to move forward.

My suspicions about what Max is changed in this book. The clues the author dropped pointed to something else. I cannot wait for the third book to see if my new hunch is correct. In my opinion, she is as reluctant to accept Violet as Violet is to accept her abilities. They are similar in their stubbornness.

REVIEW: Donna Grant "DARGON MARKED"

 

DRAGON MARKED
Fantasy Romance

 

 

AUTHOR:
Donna Grant

RELEASE DATE:
April 15, 2025

PUBLISHER:
DL Grant, LLC

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781958353462 

RATING:
2

AUTHOR LINK:
https://donnagrant.com/

 

SERIES: Yes, this book is the tenth in the DRAGON KING series – a spinoff from the author’s DARK KINGS books.

This series is also connected to her DARK SWORD, DARK WARRIORS, REAPER, ELVEN KINGDOM books. Same world/universe.

Merrill is the Dragon King of the Oranges. He has always been there for his dragon brethren when they were at their lowest. However, Merrill wants to face his emotional and mental demons on his own. He sees a kindred spirit in Katla. Will Merrill find the redemption he desperately seeks?

Katla is a druid who has been manipulated by the enemy for centuries. She strives for restoration of her past sins. Katla wants to find Villette – the villain who exploited her – and make her pay. She never expected to encounter someone like Merrill on her journey.

I rarely DNF a book. Normally, I can push myself to finish whatever I am reading. This time I could not.

Whenever I start a book, I always set a daily percentage reading goal (15 to 20%) for myself.  Sometimes I go over that, sometimes I barely make it. I could only make it to five to ten percent with this story before disinterest set in. I knew, after reaching fifty percent and still not into the book or characters, it was time to call it quits.

 The characters and plots are getting repetitious and stale to me, especially the heroines. I have noticed, for some time now, they all feel the same to me (personality wise, interests, etc), just with different appearances. They are starting to blur together.

Or perhaps I am getting burnt out on the entire series. It feels like the series has run its course. This can happen with long running series.

REVIEW: Sara Bennett's MY SECRET DUKE

 

MY SECRET DUKE
Historical Romance

 

 

AUTHOR:
Sara Bennett

RELEASE DATE:
April 01, 2025

PUBLISHER:
Forever (Grand Central Publishing)

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781538723838

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://sara-bennett.com/

 

SERIES: Yes, the second book in Sara Bennett’s historical romance series ROMANCING THE DUKES

 

Olivia Ashton’s family is no stranger to scandal. Even she has weathered her own. Olivia wants to improve her family’s future by marrying a wealthy gentleman. She knows that Ivo Fitzsimmons is the wrong man for her. However, Olivia cannot seem to stay away from him or resist his reckless wagers. When their paths continue to cross, she finds her resolve wavering. Can Olivia make the ultimate sacrifice for her family’s sake? Or will she find herself enmeshed in another scandal?

Ivo Fitzsimmons, Duke of Northam, pretends to be an insouciant nobleman to hide his smuggling activities. He needs to marry an heiress to keep his dukedom afloat. Ivo accidentally involves Olivia in a scandal. When he tries to make things right between them, she rejects his proposal and distances herself. Ivo realizes that Olivia is the only woman for him. Can Ivo convince Olivia to take a chance with him? Or will his smuggling business destroy any possibility between them?

I like how Ivo and Olivia have much in common. They both have the heavy weight of their families’ livelihood on their shoulders. There were moments when Olivia really annoyed me. I understand her desire to better her sisters’ lives and offer them a brighter future. However, even when her sisters absolved her from that, Olivia still believed she had to sacrifice herself for them.

Ivo pleasantly surprised me. At first, he is carefree and devil-may-care, accepting any wager or dare. However, Ivo starts to change after his and Olivia’s scandal. Her harsh words cause him to self-reflect and become aware of his flaws.

I recommend starting with DREAMING OF A DUKE LIKE YOU before starting this one. MY SECRET DUKE can stand alone. DDLY introduces the Ashton family along with touching on their dire circumstances. Gabriel and Vivienne, the couple from the first book, do play a supporting role in the story. It is good to see how their relationship progresses.

I do have a few nitpicks. Justina and Charles and Annette and Harold. I had hoped that both couples would eventually have their own books – there was potential there. Sadly, that does not seem to be the case. Their romances take place in the background. That realization is what dampened my enjoyment of the book.

Review: Jeffe Kennedy's Strange Familiar

 

STRANGE FAMILIAR
Dark fantasy romance

 

 

 

AUTHOR:
Jeffe Kennedy

RELEASE DATE:
March 31, 2025

PUBLISHER:
Brightlynx Publishing, Inc. 

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
B0DCT5MVD4

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.jeffekennedy.com/home

 

 

Wizard Alise (Elal) Phel decides to leave the Convocation Academy for a third time. She accompanies a weakened Archivist Cillian to the house of his birth, only to receive a chilly reception from his grandmother. Asked to leave, Alise returns to House Phel and finds her sister in labor. The happy event is destroyed by the arrival of Lord Elal, her and Nic’s father. Alise agrees to go back with him to save her niece from his evil machinations. Will Alise allow herself to be molded into the wizard that her father wants?

Wizard Cillian Harahel leaves the Academy in disgrace. He returns home on the verge of death due to magically carrying the hidden Phel archives. When Cillian wakes, he finds out that Alise left and without a word of goodbye. He agrees to his grandmother’s demands to remain, only so he can restore the archives without problems. However, Cillian unearths an old conspiracy that could upend their wizard/familiar world. Will Cillian be reunited with Alise? And at what costs for them both?

Alise disappointed me around the middle of the book. I can somewhat understand why she wavered. Alise had been psychologically stunted by her wizard father. Plus, inwardly, she always wanted his love and approval. I wish Alise would have harbored more cynicism and distrust towards her father and his new treatment of her.  What I admire the most about Alise is the sacrifice she made for her newborn niece. She gave up her freedom and happiness, so her niece would be free from Elal’s twistedness.

Cillian showed amazing growth in this book. He could have wallowed in despair and misery over his disgrace. Instead, Cillian threw himself whole-heartedly into the project he shared with Alise. He knew it was the only way he could help her at the time. What I adore the most is how Cillian’s presence helped Alise free herself from her father. He has always inspired strength in her when she needed it the most.

STRANGE FAMILIAR is the second installment of Jeffe Kennedy’s dark fantasy romance series, WARRIORS OF MAGIC. A continuation of her BONDS OF MAGIC and RENEGADES OF MAGIC books. It is best to read these series in chronological order, starting with DARK WIZARD. BONDS OF MAGIC introduce the author’s wizard/familiar world, the dynamics between them, and the many characters involved. Each trilogy continues with the on-going plot. The new series picks up where the last one ends with an all-new cast.


I am happy that Jadren (and Seliah) make an appearance in this story. They were mentioned in RELUCTANT WIZARD, which bummed me out. Their parts in the story are small. I feel Jadren’s snarky demeanor gave the story some much-needed levity to counteract the overall heavy situation. I wonder what role they, along with Nic and Gabriel, will play in the next installment!

Review: Thea Guanzon 's "TUSK LOVE"

 

TUSK LOVE
High Fantasy, Fantasy-Romance,
Critical Role

 

  

AUTHOR:
Thea Guanzon

RELEASE DATE:
July 01, 2025

PUBLISHER:
Random House Worlds

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9780593874264

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.theaguanzon.com/   https://critrole.com/

 

 

Guinevere is the daughter of down-on-their-luck merchants. She yearns for freedom and adventure, not the future her parents planned out.  When her caravan is attacked, Guinevere is rescued by a grumpy half-orc. Her journey is fraught with obstacles and enemies. Guinevere never anticipated falling for her sullen travel companion. What path would she choose? A vagabond life with Oskar? Or the privileged life Guinevere’s parents arranged?

Oskar is a blacksmith’s apprentice. He intends to visit his deceased mother’s clan in the north. However, Oskar encounters Guinevere when her caravan is set upon by bandits. The woman is sheltered, helpless, and annoying, yet Oskar agrees to escort her to her destination. Something about Guinevere awakens his soft and protective side. Oskar knows he has nothing to offer her. Can he walk away once they reach their journey’s end?

Guinevere is not the usual heroine type that I enjoy. In the beginning, she comes across as the typical, cliché damsel-in-distress – one who feels the need to please her parents. However, Guin starts to change as the story progresses. Her demeanor and personality remind me of an old role-playing character that I used to play years ago. Perhaps that is why I clicked with her so easily. And I also liked how her naivete and kindness charmed even the most hardened souls.

Orcs are not my favorite fantasy creatures. I have noticed a rise in their popularity in both anime and books (there is even an author who writes orc romances). Oskar grew on me. He behaves sullen and grumpy, but that is all an act to hide his cinnamon roll-y insides. What I adore the most about Oskar is his persistence in protecting Guinevere. He even put his vow of visiting his mother’s people on hold to help Guin on her journey. Oskar even got angry for her sake, especially after learning how her parents treat her.

TUSK LOVE is a standalone, romance fantasy set in the Critical Role world. Fans of Dungeons & Dragon type stories will enjoy this book. I am a fan of Vox Machina – thanks to the animation on Prime. When I noticed TUSK LOVE’s title matched the one Pike read in the show, I just HAD to read it too. It did not disappoint.

Tropes in the story: grumpy/sunshine,  opposites attract, forced proximity.

I would be interested to read more stories set in the Critical Role world. High fantasy (like D&D’s Forgotten Realms and Dragonlance) is one of my favorite genres. Romance is another. I have a difficult time finding fantasy-romance stories with this level of fantasy. Most of the ones I find center around The Fey or the commonly, overly used fantasy creatures.