REVIEW for Suji Kim's UNDER THE OAK TREE, Volume two - novel

 

UNDER THE OAK TREE: VOLUME 2
Fantasy

  

AUTHOR:
Suji Kim

RELEASE DATE:
November 18, 2025

PUBLISHER:
Del Rey, Random House Worlds, Inklore

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9780593871225

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/authors/2300262/suji-kim/

 

 

Lady Maximilian “Maxi” Calypse – nee Croyso – has been flourishing in her new surroundings. She strives to be a good and competent Lady of the Castle for Riftan. Maxi works diligently to speak without a stutter and to practice her healing magic. However, an unexpected visit from Princess Agnes may undermine all her progress. Maxi even worries that the army of monsters plaguing the realm will take her husband on another campaign. Can Maxi’s magical ability be beneficial to Riftan? Or will his overprotectiveness strain their relationship?

Maxi has shown incredible growth in this installment. She is still timid. And her confidence in her abilities and herself wavers. But she is slowly learning to overcome those fears and her self-doubts. I admire her determination in standing up to Riftan. Maxi no longer wants to remain in the gilded cage he erected for her. She instead wants to be an equal, a helpmate to lessen the day-to-day burdens Riftan carries.

Sadly, I have not yet read the first volume of the novel. I have, however, read the first book of the comic. I remember loving the storyline and the characters involved. Wounded or tortured hero and heroines are my favorites. I like seeing such characters overcome their shortcomings and difficulties. And Maxi is doing just that. She is pushing past her limits.

The novel does delve more into Maxi’s point of view. Her insecurities. Her fears. Her determinations. I just wish the author switched to Riftan’s point of view.

I am now fully invested in this story, both the novel AND the web comic. I cannot wait for the next installments of both.

Review: Kerrigan Byrne's "A GRAVE GAMBIT"

 

A GRAVE GAMBIT
Historical Romance – Mystery Suspense

 

 

AUTHOR:
Kerrigan Byrne

RELEASE DATE:
August 26, 2025

PUBLISHER:
Oliver Heber Books

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
B0DV1QY4XT

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.kerriganbyrne.com/about

 

 

Miss Fiona Mahoney is London’s principal post-mortem sanitation specialist. She is no stranger to death or the darker side of life. When three dub-up corpses are found on wealthy doorsteps, Fiona is chosen to investigate. She poses as a lady’s maid to gain entry in the upper elite’s social scene. Fiona finds herself immersed in a dangerous conspiracy. She must decide which man will keep her safe as she navigates the deadly scheme in play. Aramis Night Horse, the Syndicate’s assassin and Fiona’s former lover? Or grim Inspector Grayson Croft of Scotland Yard?

Fiona has really grown into her own since the start of the series. She understands and acknowledges what her top priority should be. Her survival. Fiona knows to survive in the world she works in is a balancing act.

A GRAVE GAMBIT is the fourth book in Kerrigan Byrne’s historical-mystery series, FIONA MAHONEY MYSTERY. It is best to start from the beginning. The first book, THE BUSINESS OF BLOOD, introduces the setting and the characters involved. It also explains Fiona’s complicated relationship with the Syndicate, Night Horse and Croft.

I guess I am more on Team Croft than Team Night Horse. Either man is better for Fiona than Roth, aka the Hammer. Something about the man just repels me. I admit that I was bummed until I hit Chapter 15 and Croft made his appearance. I literally squeed in happiness. Croft is taciturn and gruff, but I like the way he interacts with Fiona.

Night Horse has that wounded/tortured aspect that I love. However, I feel he is too immersed in his grief to truly allow Fiona in. I simply cannot see him loving her the way she deserves. Plus, Night Horse is too entrenched in the Syndicate.

My review for Sofie Darling's "WIN ME, MY LORD"

 

WIN ME, MY LORD
Historical Romance

 

  

AUTHOR:
Sofie Darling

RELEASE DATE:
July 29, 2025

PUBLISHER:
Oliver Heber Books

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
B0DPVKPMGB

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://sofiedarling.com/

 

 

Lady Artemis Keating is the sister of a duke. After the death of her beloved horse, she starts an animal rescue and sanctuary Artemis hears rumors that Branwell, the man who abandoned her ten years ago, is staying with her neighbor. She becomes involved in a certain racehorse’s training, which involves being around Bran. Artemis notices he is not the same man she once remembered or loved. Will Artemis and Bran learn the truth about their past relationship? Can they forget the past to forge a new relationship?

Lord Branwell “Bran” Mallory is the brother of an impoverished earl and a war hero. An unfortunate accident has left him scarred mentally and physically. His godfather entices him with an offer Branwell cannot refuse. If he can train the nonagenarian’s horse to win a particular derby, Bran can keep the prize money. However, the training must involve Artemis. Branwell fears that she sees him as another wounded soul in need of fixing. Will a new career path open for Bran? And does that future involve Artemis?

Artemis can also be classified as the wounded/tortured type. Her scars are located within, especially the heart. First, dealing with her mother’s mental abuse dressed up as parental concern. Then losing her precious horse in the middle of an important race. I adore how the latter circumstances prompted her to open an animal sanctuary, no matter what they were. Artemis did not allow the loss to close her off helping other less fortunate animals in need.

I am generally blasé when it comes to second-chance romances. It is my least favorite trope (unfortunately for me, it seems to be a favorite of most authors). However, when it is coupled with a wounded/tortured hero type, I do not mind much. And Branwell did not disappoint me! I like how he is still trying to come to grips with his body’s limitations. Such things are not easy to accept and move on from, even two years from the fact. And I like how he openly acknowledges that his inability to ride horses all stems from the mind.

WIN ME, MY LORD is the fifth book in Sofie Darling’s historical romance series, ALL’S FAIR IN LOVE AND RACING. I recommend reading these books in chronological order to better understand the participants and the preparations leading to the Race of the Century. The entire series revolves around horse races set in Regency times. I started late (third book) but that did not hinder my ability to follow the plot’s flow. I still need to read the second book, THE DUCHESS GAMBLE.

I wonder if the author plans to write a sixth book. Yeah, I know the great race is done and the winner announced, but I really want Blaze Jagger to get his happily-ever-after. It would be interesting to see him paired up with either Saskia or Viveca, Gabriel and Tessa Siren’s sisters (hero from THE DUCHESS GAMBLE and the heroine from WAGER WITH A SIREN). I shall be keeping my fingers crossed…

Review for Janna MacGregor's "TWO RUINS MAKE A RIGHT"

 

TWO RUINS MAKE A RIGHT
Historical Romance

 

 

 

AUTHOR:
Janna MacGregor

RELEASE DATE:
July 22, 2025

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
B0FBSBLM82

RATING:
4

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

 

 

Nellwyn Whitton, the widowed Marchioness of Whitten, has always regretted jilting James Richardson. An accident strands her in the last place she wishes to be: at the man’s residence amid a house party. Things turn worse when her sister and James’ cousins are caught in a compromising position. Nell is determined to safeguard her sister’s future; even deny her the man she loves. Being around James again reminds Nellwyn of everything she has sacrificed. Will Nell tell James the real reason she jilted him eight years ago?  Or will she maintain her family’s dirty secret?

Mr. James Richardson is the nephew and heir presumptive to a dukedom. He is ready to remarry and give his young daughter the mother she desperately needs. The last person he expected to find at his house party is the very woman who jilted him eight years ago. When his cousin compromises her sister, James has no other choice but to spend time with Nell. He intends to help his cousin persuade Nellwyn to allow the lovers to wed. Can James forgive Nell for the decision she made eight years ago? Can two ruins make a right?

I do have a few reservations concerning Nell. It deals mostly with her late husband and his machinations at gaining her consent to marry. If I were in Nell’s shoes, I would have some lingering resentment towards the man, especially his taking advantage of my family’s dire situation. Instead, Nell played the martyr and accepted her lot. That just did not set well with me. What I like the most about Nellwyn is her selfless insistence on wanting to protect her sister. Yeah, she did go about it the wrong way, almost causing her sister to share her fate.

James’ unconditional love and devotion to his daughter is admirable and cute. One can tell that his entire world revolves around Valentina. I like that James is prepared to take a giant step to ensure that his daughter has a mother’s guidance. He even involved Valentina in the selection process. What I admire the most about James is his decision to help his cousin. Despite his tangled past with Nell, he set out to help his cousin gain her permission to marry Christa.

TWO RUINS MAKE A RIGHT is a standalone Regency romance. Originally, the story started out as a novella. The author has added a prologue and additional scenes to make it a full-length novel. I finished this book in one evening, staying up passed three am to boot (which I am paying for this morning) My nitpick concerning Nell’s late husband is the reason behind my 4-star rating.

Review for Deme Kingyobachi's "MY INSTRUCTOR WON'T YIELD"

 

MY INSTRUCTOR WON’T YIELD
BL, Slice of Life

 

 

AUTHOR:
Deme Kingyobachi

RELEASE DATE:
August 19, 2025

PUBLISHER:
Kodansha Comics

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9798888775059

RATING:
4.5

 

 

Chiba is a popular driving instructor, especially among the females. However, he has a strict rule of not dating his students. Chiba’s next student is the nervous, suit-wearing Yaotome. Yaotome is a manga artist. Despite his age, he has decided to get his driver’s license. Luck is with him when he is paired with Chiba. What secret is Yaotome keeping from Chiba? Have they met before? And will Yaotome manage to pass his driver’s test?

This is a cute one-shot. I finished it in one setting. Chiba and Yaotome (especially the latter) were so likeable! I like their opposite personalities. Chiba calm and friendly personality balances out Yaotome’s uncertain backwardness.

The mangaka could have made this a two-volume deal. Perhaps throw in a little more drama with Chiba’s ex. It felt that things got smoothed over between Chiba and Yaotome too easily.

Review for Christina Britton's "TO HEIST AND TO HOLD"

 TO HEIST AND TO HOLD

Historical Romance

 

AUTHOR:
Christina Britton

RELEASE DATE:
September 30, 2025

PUBLISHER:
Forever (Grand Central Publishing)

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781538769119

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
http://christinabritton.com/

 

 

Heloise Marlowe is a former blacksmith and fencing instructor. She uses her unique skills for The Wimpole Street Widows Society, a secret group of widows who help the less fortunate. Heloise accepts their latest case on behalf of her sister-in-law. She plans to seduce Dionysus’s owner, so she can secretly search within the gaming club’s inner sanctum. Heloise never anticipated growing close to Ethan or losing her heart to the man. Will she find what she is looking for in his club? Or will Heloise forfeit the mission?

Ethan Sinclaire is part-owner of a popular gaming club. He is haunted by the betrayal of his younger brother, who nearly destroyed Dionysus’ reputation.  When Ethan learns about the rumors involving his business, he starts secretly investigating the matter. He is not about to let anyone, least of all the woman sniffing around the place, to destroy all he has built. Will Ethan be able to trust Heloise with more than his heart? Or will she betray him like his brother did? And will Ethan find the culprit behind the dirty dealings?

It did not take me long to like and connect with Heloise. The whole blacksmith and former fencing instructor, professions that are not common for women. I love how Heloise fumbled in her seduction attempts with Ethan. It shows that she is not the type of woman who goes around seducing men or enticing them. What I adore the most about Heloise is how she selflessly helped her sister-in-law. She could have left the girl to fend for herself, to fix her own problems. Instead, Heloise suffered from a guilty conscience to honor her late husband’s last wish.

Oh boy! What can I say about Ethan! There is just something about the grouchy, closed-off hero types that really get to me. Add in that Ethan is haunted (or tortured) by the memory of his brother’s betrayal. Yum! What I love the most about Ethan is how he came from nothing. He had no rich family member giving him a helping hand. Ethan, along with his two brothers and two friends, built a successful empire from scratch.  Plus, he does not let the aristocracy intimidate him.

TO HEIST AND TO HOLD is the first book in Christina Britton’s newest historical romance series, WIMPOLE STREET WIDOWS SOCIETY. I admit, at first, I was a little uncertain about the series premises. The widow aspect is what threw me off. For some bizarre reason, I am not fond of reading about widowed heroines. I have yet to figure out why. Just an odd quirk of mine. It was the gaming club angle that interested me most. I have always been a sucker for stories that take place in such establishments. Which is kind of ironic since I do not care to gamble myself.

However, as I read, the characters grew on me. I like how the main couple, along with most of the side characters, are from the working class. It is a nice change-of-pace from the usual titled characters.

I wonder if the author plans to pair the widows up with Ethan’s three business partners. Teagan definitely! But the one who piqued my interest the most is Parsons. I kind of hope he will be paired with Iris. Something about their dynamic appeals to me. * fingers crossed*

My review of Jessica Scarlett's "TOWN OF SHADOWS"

 

TOWN OF SHADOWS
Victorian (England) Fantasy

 

 AUTHOR:

Jessica Scarlett

RELEASE DATE:
July 1, 2025

PUBLISHER:
Oliver Heber Book

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
B0D2TC17HB

RATING:
4

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.goodreads.com/jessicascarlett

 

 

Dorothy St. James cannot control her magic, so she keeps herself at home to avoid the authorities. When the Rook kidnaps her father, she wants to ask The Samaritan for help. The only person who seems to know the masked hero’s identity is Ashley Gardner. Dorothy strikes a bargain with him: If she can find and decipher his three clues, he will tell her who the Samaritan is. Can Dorothy win the dangerous game that Ashley set? Or will she discover far more than what she bargained for? And at what price?

Ashley Gardner uses his charismatic charm and magical abilities to get what he wants. He flits between polite society and the dark underworld, belonging to neither. Ashley fears that Dorothy could throw a wrench into all his schemes and plans. The clever chit insists that he reveal the Samaritan’s identity to her. Ashley knows the knowledge could put Dorothy’s life in jeopardy, along with his. Can Ashley keep Dorothy from winning his game? But at what expense?

I could not help but sympathize and empathize with Dorothy. Her inability to keep her gift from activating whenever someone used magic caused her to alienate herself. However, she did not spend all that time being idle or playing the damsel in distress. She instead helped her father with his scientific research. What I like the most is how Ashley gave Dorothy the impetus to step outside her comfort zone. She found herself doing things she ordinarily would not have before.

Ashley intrigues me! I am a sucker for the wounded/tortured types. Ashley fits the criteria perfectly. I feel the author barely scratched the surface with all that is troubling him. What I like the most is Ashley and Miles’ dynamics (or their bromance as some would call it). The two are opposites especially in behavior. They have also been through a lot together.

Miles easily became my favorite character! I simply adore his shyness around women. He fondly reminded me of an old role-playing character of mine – who suffered from the same affliction.

TOWN OF SHADOWS is the first book in Jessica Scarlett’s Victorian Fantasy series, SLANTED LONDON. I am new to this author’s works. The story’s synopsis is what drew me to request the book from Booksprout. The idea of a parallel universe set in a Victorian era yet intermeshed with magical elements. It intrigued me enough to take a chance on a new author and new series. In some ways, it reminds me of steampunk (one of my favorite genres) but without the mechanical jargon and technology.

The ending is what kept me from rating the story higher. I loved everything about the book until that point. It left me dissatisfied and disappointed. Others may like the twist. It just did not sit well with me.

I am leery about continuing with this series. Which is sad because half-way through I wanted the next book to center around Miles and Emme. Then there is Nicholas. The man gave off serious creeper (and eck) vibes.

Review for Heather Graham's "THE SWORD OF LIGHT"

 

THE SWORD OF LIGHT
Historical Romance

 

 

 

AUTHOR:
Heather Graham

RELEASE DATE:
October 14, 2025

PUBLISHER:
Harlequin Trade Publishing

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9780778387633

RATING:
2.5

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

 

 

Deidre, the daughter of a Ri, receives a mysterious sword amid a skirmish with Northmen invaders. She learns it is one of the Tuatha De Danann’s four sacred gifts that exist to protect their emerald isle. Kylin, the son of a Northman and Irish mother, comes to assist Deidre in the skirmish. The two warriors share a dream about a devastating battle yet to come. They set off to find the other sacred gifts while preparing their people for the upcoming invasion. Can Deidre and Kylin find the traitor among their people? And will they successfully thwart a greedy jarl from invading their beloved homeland?

THE SWORD OF LIGHT is a standalone novel by Heather Graham, also known under the alias of Shannon Drake. I am no stranger to this author’s works, both historical romances and romantic suspense. They do tend to be either a hit or a miss with me. Unfortunately, this one is a miss.

I could only read this book in short bursts to keep my mind from wandering and from growing bored. Which is sad because 1) I love stories about ancient Ireland and 2) I felt the story’s concept held such promise. I believe if the author broke it up into a four-book series with each book centering on a sacred gift, it would have been better. Perhaps include the reason and history behind each gift’s creation.

 It felt that Kylin and Deidre found the sacred gifts too swiftly to be believable. I would have loved it if the author had touched more of the Tuatha De Danann, more specifically the ones who visited Deidre and Kylin. The other problem I had with the story is with the dialogue. Some parts came off as stiff and disjointed, while other areas became repetitious.

Honestly, I could not stand Deidre. I understand she is supposed to be a fierce female warrior (someone like Xena or even Boudicca) – one who can stand her own against men. However, that is not the impression I got from her. From her demeanor to the way she interacted with people (and yes, the way she was written) it all felt forced, like telling rather than showing.

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!