In the Pages of My April Reading Wrap-UP: An Epic Recap
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In the ethereal realms of literature, April unfolded like a vast tome, its pages brimming with tales waiting to be explored. As the curtain drew on yet another chapter of the year, I immersed myself in many literary landscapes, each offering its unique tapestry of emotions, adventures, and revelations. Welcome, fellow book enthusiasts, to “In the Pages of My April Reading Wrap-Up: An Epic Recap,” where I invite you to join me on a journey through the enchanting realms I traversed last month.
From heart-pounding adventures to soul-stirring narratives, let’s unravel the tapestry of my April reading escapades together, discovering the hidden gems and cherished classics that adorned my bookish odyssey.
April Reading Wrap-Up Stats
Blood and Steel
“Blood and Steel” takes the top spot for favorite on my April Reading Wrap Up. I told the author Helen Scheuerer that I would read and review “Blood and Steel” for her after I saw a post mentioning needing to support indie authors. And I have to say that I am OBSESSED with the Legends of Thezmarr series.
Typically I don’t read books in a series back to back unless it just captivates me so much that I have to know what happens. And this did exactly that. I spent the 4 days reading 3 books and now I am DYING for book four so that I can finish and know of Thea and Wilder makes out. The story is so engrossing, the writing so rich and detailed (did I mention that I am obsessed with the story). It will be my entire personality all of May thank you very much!
Blood and Steel is available on KU (the entire series is available on KU). The final book in The Legends of Thezmarr series releases in June (book 4). This is the perfect time to start Blood and Steel. Then come back and let me know what you think! Are you obsessed as well?
A Rivalry of Hearts
I have a full review of “A Rivalry of Hearts” by Tessonja Odette.
A realm where love and rivalry collide, where hearts are tested and passions run high. Tessonja Odette’s latest novel, “A Rivalry of Hearts” beckons readers into a world where emotions swirl like a tempest brewing in the sky.
Romance author Edwina Danforth is from the human town of Bretton. When she gains popularity with the Fae, she embarks on a book tour (one she is two weeks late for) to sign books and meet her fans. Finally catching up to her publicist, Monty Phillips. Monty explains to Edwina that she has gained a tour mate just in case she missed any more stops.
Enter William Haywood, a fae rival to put in no uncertain terms that’s an arrogant douchebag! Well, at least that’s the way he opens. He is a poet who thinks of himself as supremely elegant while Edwina is penning scintillating tales that he considers “smut and drivel”. He’s incredibly cocky (and did I mention ARROGANT). And, despite the severely lacking personality, he is incredibly handsome. Edwina can’t overlook this piece of information no matter how much she wants to. It is no wonder that they end up being rival writers.
A Rivalry of Hearts releases June 12 but is available for preorder on Amazon and will be available on Kindle Unlimited on release day.
Daughter of No Worlds
“Daughter of No Worlds” by Carissa Broadbent. I picked this up after it sat on my shelves for a little over a year, and I have to say that it exceeded all of my expectations. If you are looking for something that will give you the same vibes at Aelin Ashryver Galathynius then you have to read “Daughter of No Worlds”. There will be a full review on my blog this week but here’s the gist.
Tisaanah is a former slave who scraped together enough gold to purchase her freedom. However, when negotiations with her master take a deadly turn, she’s forced to flee for her life. Seeking refuge, she journeys to Ara, where she becomes a member of the Order, a revered group of magic practitioners.
Driven by a desire to harness the latent magical abilities she’s possessed since childhood, Tisaanah is determined to undergo training within the Order. These powers, once merely a facet of her performance repertoire, now hold the key to her liberation.
Yet, Tisaanah’s aspirations extend beyond personal advancement. With the Order’s support, she intends to return to Threll and orchestrate the emancipation of her fellow slaves, wielding her newfound magic to dismantle the chains of oppression that bind them.
The writing is beautiful and captivating. Making it easy to immerse yourself in the world and experience everything that Tisaanah goes through. She is stubborn and determined just like Aelin. You won’t help but fall in love with her.
Eyes on Me
“Eyes on Me” by Sara Cate was a reread (5 stars). I adore the Salacious Players Club series. And while this one isn’t my favorite (I think that title holds for Give Me More) it is still a good time. I would say it is a book that I never saw myself reading but who are we kidding here?
This tale revolves around Garrett and his step-sister, Mia. Mia entered Garrett’s life at the tender age of 8, while he was already in his twenties. Despite not sharing a traditional upbringing, their interactions were often fraught with tension whenever they found themselves in the same room.
However, fate takes an unexpected turn when Garrett, seeking amusement by browsing through cam sites, stumbles upon a familiar face. None other than his 23-year-old step-sister, Mia, captivating viewers online.
Intrigued by this unexpected discovery, Garrett embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind this newfound attraction. Yet, he chooses to keep Mia in the dark about his knowledge of her clandestine activities. Leaving their dynamic shrouded in secrecy.
“Eyes on Me” has a nice balanced plot and lots of hot sex scenes. It is a wild rollercoaster ride and I am here for it. Mia and Garrett’s chemistry is off the charts. This book (and the entire SPC series) is a book to explore and step out of your comfort zone. It explores things like kinks and handles depression very well. I wish it dove a little deeper into Garrett’s depression but aside from that it is top-tier reading.
Eyes on Me is currently available on Kindle Unlimited. I would start with Praise if you haven’t read the series and then continue to Give Me More after you have read Eyes on Me. After you’ve read it come back to my April Reading Wrap Up post and let me know what you thought!
The Foxglove King
“The Foxglove King” delves into the life of Lore, a young woman who escaped from a cult and now lives in hiding. Her survival hinges on poison running, and her proficiency in Mortem. A lethal form of magic, ensuring her confinement within the city’s boundaries. However, Lore’s clandestine existence is disrupted when she is discovered by the enigmatic Presque Mort and enlisted by the Saint King to employ her magic in uncovering the mysterious deaths plaguing villages.
This inaugural installment of the trilogy exudes an enticing gothic atmosphere, satisfying the cravings of readers seeking dark, atmospheric storytelling. While the romance doesn’t take center stage. It offers a compelling allure, the intricate world-building occasionally leaves readers grappling for clarity amidst the myriad concepts introduced. Insight into the nuances of poison running, as well as the intricacies of stakes and politics, would have enriched the narrative.
Lore emerges as a formidable female protagonist, exuding confidence and strength in the face of adversity. Refreshingly devoid of the stereotypical “weak, frail, naive girl” tropes prevalent in romantic fantasy, she commands respect as a beacon of power and wisdom. Her journey is imbued with themes of abandonment and the quest for belonging, underscored by a poignant exploration of found family dynamics. As Lore navigates the treacherous waters of politics, one can’t help but hope that she remains unscathed by the machinations of power-hungry individuals. A full review coming soon.
Do You Want Me?
“Do You Want Me?” by Willow Winters is a prequel to the This Love Hurts series. This by far is my least favorite in this list of my April Reading Wrap Up. For me, prequels are supposed to engage you and set you up, peaking your interest to want to continue to the actual series. That just didn’t do it. Was it good? It wasn’t bad so there’s that. It just wasn’t enough to make me want to continue to the actual start of the series. Maybe this should have been within the first book as a backstory, or I should have read this after the first book. I do want to learn more about Marcus and the deal that he’s made so I guess that’s point 2. It received 3 stars.
“Do You Want Me?” is currently free to purchase on Kindle! Grab it now!
Ledge
“Ledge” has been beckoning from my TBR list ever since its captivating cover caught my eye. An admission, as I am unabashedly drawn to judging books by their covers. This debut fantasy, the first installment in the Glacian trilogy series, fulfills its promise with gusto. Brimming with a compelling premise and vibrant prose, “Ledge” fires on all cylinders.
At its helm is Dawsyn, a formidable protagonist reminiscent of a fairy-tale warrior akin to Kill Bill’s heroine. With a razor-sharp tongue and a penchant for action over deliberation, Dawsyn is a force to be reckoned with. Her axe often serves as the final word in disputes. Captured from her precarious perch on the ledge and thrust into the realm of the Glacians, she faces a stark choice: surrender her essence to the pool of Iskra or brave the treacherous hillside. Naturally, Dawsyn opts for flight, setting the stage for an enthralling saga of survival and self-discovery.
Narrated in third person close, the storytelling initially grapples with a sense of detachment. A veil I’m usually eager to cast aside. Yet, as the narrative unfolds, it sheds this initial reluctance, blossoming into a tale suffused with icy beauty and poignant reflection. While the pacing may initially feel sluggish, akin to the gradual thaw of a glacier, it eventually quickens, propelling readers forward with mounting anticipation.
Stacey Mcewan’s prose is a highlight, striking a delicate balance between vivid description and restrained elegance. Perfectly suited to the wintry world of “Ledge.” Moments of transcendence, such as Dawsyn’s encounters with the unfamiliar concepts of money and the boundless expanse of the ocean, breathe life into the narrative. Infusing it with a sense of wonder and discovery. While the world-building and character development could benefit from further depth, “Ledge” nonetheless captivates with its unique premise and tantalizing mysteries. Leaving readers eager for the next chapter in this frost-kissed odyssey.
Little Stranger
He loves you but will he fuck you in over your dying father’s body while he’s bleeding out all over the floor. Whew! “Little Stranger” by Leigh Rivers. This one also holds a spot for a favorite read on my list April Reading Wrap Up. For the novella slot. If you like Zade Meadows then you have to try Malachi Vize. He is Zade times 10. Honestly, he makes Zade look like a romantic!
“Little Stranger” is available on Kindle Unlimited
The Obsidian Tower
Finally on my April Reading Wrap-Up is “The Obsidian Tower” by Melissa Caruso. It was a surprise read for April. I have a full review of “The Obsidian Tower“ up on my blog that you can check out but here is the rundown for this book. The Obsidian Tower was a sparkling fantasy story. The story itself was intriguing and captivating. Filled with dangerous magic and darkness to keep you engrossed in the story. Was it my favorite of the month? No. But I did rate it 4 stars and it earned that ranking. With every page, you delved deeper into the world setting up the plot nicely for the upcoming books within the series.
Here’s a general plot summary. Ryx is the mage-marked granddaughter of the ruling elite Lady of Owls. Her life is poised for prominence and influence. However, fate had other plans for Ryx. While those in her familial line were gifted with life magic, Ryx’s magic is quite the opposite. Her “curse” siphons off the very structure that creates life, rendering her a pariah in a society that reveres those with magic. One night, chaos erupts as Ryx unwittingly kills a fellow ruler in self-defense. This accident unleashes calamity that no one especially Ryx sees coming.
