July’s Reading Bliss: Books That Stole My Heart!
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Welcome to my July Reading Wrap-Up! This month has been a whirlwind of captivating stories, unputdownable books, and unforgettable literary adventures. As we dive into the reading month of July, I’m thrilled to share my bookish journey with you. From the books I read and reviewed to the latest features and experiences I explored, this wrap-up is packed with book reviews, ratings, and a whole lot of book love. Whether you’re catching up on my April reads or looking ahead to August, join me as we reflect on the pages that made this July reading experience truly special. Grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and let’s dive into the world of books that shaped my summer of 2024!
Monthly Stats:
Books Read: 17
Pages Read: 5,739
DNF’d: 2
Standalones:3
Series Started:7
Series Finished:2
Rereads: 2
What I Read!
Lunar New Year Love Story
by Gene Luen Yang and Leuyen Pham
I started the month with this graphic novel, as a “palette cleanser”. Lunar New Year Love Story was just meh, although I did quite like the art style.
That Time I Got Drunk and Saved a Demon
by Kimberly Lemming
This was perfection. A fantasy romcom with a Black woman lead! Sign me up, I’ll take the entire series, please! It was cute and cozy, spicy and funny. The perfect light-hearted read, just what I needed at the beginning of the month. It moved quickly, was full of action and the relationship between Cin and Fallon was EVERYTHING!
The Branded
by Jo Riccioni
“The Branded” starts off by thrusting readers into Nara’s world without much context, making it initially difficult to relate to the characters. However, as the story progresses, the reasons behind their situations are gradually revealed. Despite a slow start with repetitive themes and little to ignite interest in the first 50 pages, the narrative eventually picks up around page 60 with an unexpected twist.
“THROUGH PAIRING AND PROGENY TO PURPOSE”
Set in a world ravaged by the Brume virus, the story unfolds in a society divided between the infected “Branded” and the unblemished “Pure.” The Pure, living in the citadel, are treated as breeding assets to produce strong warriors. Nara, a pampered pure princess, evolves from a sheltered girl into a determined woman fighting for justice beyond the citadel walls.
“SHOW ME WHAT YOU’VE GOT, LITTLE SCOURGE.”
While the book successfully weaves a magical and foreshadowed tale, it also raises questions and leaves some plot points unexplained, which hopefully will be addressed in the sequel, “The Rising.” Despite its strengths, the story would benefit from a dual perspective, offering insights from both Nara and a branded character like Wrangler. The relationship between Nara and Wrangler also feels rushed, lacking the needed tension and development.
Check out my full review of Jo Riccioni’s The Branded: A Must-Read Book Review
The Invisible Library
by Genevieve Cogman
DNF
“The Invisible Library” by Genevieve Cogman captivates with its premise of immortal spy librarians navigating alternate realities. However, the execution falls short, leaving readers like me frustrated and ultimately unable to finish the book. The novel introduces intriguing elements like dragons and chaotic worlds but fails to integrate them cohesively into the plot. The writing, while abundant in description, lacks fluidity and emotional resonance. Its attempt to blend mature themes with a young adult style feels awkward, and the world-building lacks clarity and structure. Despite its potential, “The Invisible Library” struggles to engage, feeling more like a jumble of promising ideas than a polished narrative.
Check out my full review because I DNF’d The Invisible Library: Here’s What You Should Know
castle of the cursed
by Romina Garber
The House is Always Hungry… Castle of the Cursed transports readers into the eerie depths of la Sombra, an ancestral Spanish castle cloaked in secrets and shadows. Following a tragic attack that claims her parents’ lives, Estela grapples with survivor’s guilt and an unsettling suspicion that her family’s past holds the key to their deaths. Seeking refuge with her estranged aunt, Estela encounters Sebastián—a mysterious silver-eyed boy visible only to her. Unsure if he’s real or a figment of her fractured psyche, Estela reluctantly teams up with him, their investigation intertwining with a forbidden romance amidst the castle’s mysteries and the enigmatic town of Oscuro.
Romina Garber weaves a spellbinding narrative rich in gothic allure and supernatural intrigue. From its captivating prologue to the haunting “Raul’s Rule” interludes that punctuate the story, Castle of the Cursed grips readers with its atmospheric prose and relentless suspense. Themes of grief, resilience, and the quest for identity resonate deeply as Estela navigates the labyrinthine corridors of her ancestral home, uncovering secrets that threaten not only her newfound love but her very existence.
I received an ARC of Castle of the Cursed by bestselling author Romina Garber from Wednesday Books, and it sat on my shelf until its gripping allure drew me in. This book’s blend of gothic romance and family intrigue, coupled with its compelling characters and spine-chilling atmosphere, made it an instant favorite. I devoured it in one sitting, unable to resist its pull until the breathtaking conclusion left me yearning for more. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable journey into darkness and discovery.
Check out my full review Castle of the Cursed Review: Beyond the Castle Walls
The Knife and the Serpent
by Tim Pratt
The Knife and The Serpent marks my inaugural dive into space opera, and from the outset, it envelops you like a gravitational pull, whisking you into orbit around a universe of words. It’s akin to that exhilarating feeling of a maiden voyage into space, marveling at the vastness that surrounds you.
The narrative is intensely character-focused, especially through Glenn’s perspective, as if he’s recounting his adventures directly to you. Whether he’s in trouble or navigating catastrophically complicated situations, his viewpoint keeps you on your toes and often chuckling along.
Detailed and vividly descriptive, the story unfolds like a cinematic experience in your mind, with subtle foreshadowing that tantalizes without giving too much away. It’s a tale where mischief and mystery dance hand-in-hand, occasionally veering into what feels like rom-com territory. The witty banter, humorous moments, and budding romance against a backdrop of space and aliens create an unexpectedly charming atmosphere—yes, dare I say, even cute.
“That’s because of fuckery…”
However, my enthusiasm waned a bit past the midpoint. The story dips into a lull, particularly through Tamsin’s arc, which I found less engaging due to her unlikable nature. While Glenn’s chapters shine with energy and intrigue, Tamsin’s desire to portray a badass falls flat, akin to a novice cosplayer donning a villain’s guise that doesn’t quite fit.
As the plot threads converge midway, revealing secret connections among the characters, the narrative’s pace slows, dragging down the storyline’s momentum. Tamsin’s lack of convincing character development further detracts from the overall experience, contrasting sharply with Glenn’s growth and adaptability as he uncovers truths that challenge him.
Ultimately, The Knife and The Serpent left me wanting more. The promising buildup in the first half doesn’t quite deliver on its potential epicness, culminating in an ending that feels rushed and hastily wrapped up. With its brevity, a few extra pages could have rounded out the storyline more satisfactorily, leaving a more lasting impression.
“Listen to me this world isn’t the only world.”
Despite its shortcomings, The Knife and The Serpent remains a noteworthy addition to the space opera genre, offering glimpses of brilliance and a narrative style that engages and entertains, albeit with room for improvement.
A Court of Silver Flames
by Sarah J. Maas
Reread (5 stars)
I am a Nesta girlie. I buddy-read this with my best friend. She can’t stand Nesta while I completely resonate with her. If you haven’t read ACOTAR then you should, especially with the next book coming out soon! That’s all that is the review.
That Time I Got Drunk and Yeeted A Love Potion At a Werewolf
by Kimberly Lemming
I loved this even more than That Time I Got Drunk and Saved a Demon. This series scratches at an itch that I didn’t know was there. It upped the ante on fun and cozy. I can’t wait to read the final book!
Ripped Souls
by Sasha RC
DNF
I couldn’t go through 300 pages of the same thing being repeated 3 times in a 5 sentence span, over and over again. I wanted to love it, but the writing is terrible.
Midnight of Ashes
by Tessa Hale
Reread (5 stars)
This entire series is addictive. While I initially read it in one day I reread it in one day also. This is probably my favorite in the series. The story picks up right from the previous book’s cliffhanger, maintaining a nonstop pace of action, mystery, and relationship angst. The heroine’s journey through the dragon world, which she is just discovering, keeps the tension high. I enjoyed getting to know the diverse personalities of the heroes, each having a unique connection with the heroine, adding depth to this “why choose” romance. And the dragons were absolutely thrilling!
Toxic
by Nicole Blanchard
This book is packed with action, suspense, and romance, featuring Tessa, a strong and determined prison nurse, and Gracin, a dangerously handsome inmate. Their intense attraction and secret moments together are thrilling, set against a backdrop of increasing danger. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy steamy, tension-filled love stories, with well-developed characters and a gripping plot that will keep you hooked.
Dawn of Flames
by Tessa Hale
The final book in the Dragons of Ember Hollow series didn’t deliver everything I hoped for, but I think that is because I didn’t want it to end!! Picking up from Midnight of Ashes, Hayden finds herself in a tough spot as she and her mates work to strengthen their bonds and fend off various enemies. Two of her mates finally confront their inner demons, deepening their connection with Hayden. The love between Hayden and her men is palpable, with Easton’s heartbreaking backstory and Maddox’s finally coming to terms with what he wants and needs making them standout favorites.
Playing for Keeps
by Bree Hayden
I often don’t read sports romance novels. Not because I don’t like them but I am not often drawn to them (face it you can’t read everything). But, this year I want to expand a little more of my reading palette, reading things that I wouldn’t necessarily read. So, when author Bree Hayden sent me a message on Instagram asking me to read and review her latest novel Playing for Keeps I said yes. Simply for the reason previously mentioned and because the story felt like a good time.
Overall, Playing for Keeps is a captivating college sports romance that perfectly blends the thrill of football with the complexities of young love, making it a must-read for fans of sports romance books., You should definitely dive into this fresh release and experience the ups and downs of Piper and Adam’s journey, a story that will surely be a favorite read.
Check out my full review Top Reasons to Read Playing for Keeps by Bree Hayden
Once You’re Mine
by Morgan Bridges
I don’t know what it says about me that I love stalker romances but they hit EVERY SINGLE TIME! I DEVOURED this and am officially married to Hayden congratulate us in the comments!
now You’re Mine
by Morgan Bridges
After finishing Once You’re Mine I immediately went into Now You’re Mine. I will read anything Morgan writes from this point forward and forever more!
Shadows of the Crown
by Dakota Monroe
The first sentence intrigued me. “Maybe I should fuck him before I kill him…” At the point of picking up Shadows of the Crown, I had already finished two books. I thought I would give myself a break to scroll TikTok late into the night. But my mind kept returning to that sentence.
And, with this sentence, we start the book with action, Ariella is out on a job, and her dagger ends up with blood on the end of it lol. Ariella is feared in the realm, known as the Silver Wraith. Her parents died when she was young (her mother killed herself and her father was murdered by the king), she was then adopted by the Guild where she developed her skills, working as a hired assassin. Ariella’s sole motivation for living is to seek revenge on the king for what he did to her father and kill him.
Although the story also flowed nicely and had a great premise there were things severely lacking in Shadows of the Crown.
For instance, the world-building. It is almost nonexistent. One would probably deem this as a character-driven tale. But even with that categorization, there needs to be a well-marked foundation in world-building to help set the surroundings. Giving landmarks that are more specific than the broader scope of mountains. One of which Ariella ends up on and we knew nothing about prior. Ariella also spends time throughout the city proper because her hands itch for action but we just end up there no signifiers that bolster the story.
Check out my full review The Allure of Shadows of the Crown: Forbidden Magic and Hidden Hearts
Twisted Ink
by A.M. McCoy
Okay, this is straight porn. Is something wrong with that ABSOLUTELY NOT! Is it a masterpiece ALSO NO. But was it entertaining YES, YES IT WAS!!! Editing issues aside, don’t go into this thinking you are going to get a great plot because this isn’t the book for you but if you need something to get you going for a rose break then Twisted Ink ladies and gentlemen.
