August 2024 Reading Wrap-Up: My Top Picks and Hidden Gems
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Welcome to my August 2024 reading wrap-up! As we head into the final stretch of the year, I’m excited to share my favorite books from this month and reflect on my reading journey so far. This August, I dived into a diverse list of reads, from thrilling series to captivating standalones, each adding something unique to my Goodreads page. With a mix of new releases and some beloved titles from last year, my current reading list has been full of surprises and gems.
In this wrap-up, I’ll be reviewing each book, noting their average ratings, and highlighting which ones stood out among the many reads I explored. Whether you’re seeking inspiration for your next read or just curious about my monthly book reviews, join me as I look back at the past month’s literary adventures and what’s still to come for the year in reading.
Let the Reading Wrap-Up Begin…
Let’s start with my reading stats:
Total Books Read: 19
Total Pages Read: 7224
Formats:
- Physical: 2
- Ebook: 15
- Audio:4
Genres:
- Fantasy: 5
- Horror: 3
- Romance: 8
- Historical Fiction: 1
- Literary: 1
- ARCs: 3
- Rereads: 3
The Hunger of the Gods by John Gwynne
4 stars
“Real courage is to feel fear, but to stand and face it, not run from it.”
I have realized that the best way for me to digest the dense epic world that John Gwynne creates is via audio. Reading this way relieved some of the hang-ups that I had reading The Shadow of the Gods. The plotline starts immediately where The Shadow of the Gods ended. Recapping the first book in such a genius way that I wish all sequel books did. The Hunger of the Gods was an action-packed, God-filled epic adventure. There were long-dead Gods thrown back into life and a snotty-nosed man whose nose I think has finally stopped running (IFKYK). The final book in the Bloodsworn trilogy, The Fury of the Gods is one of my most anticipated reads of 2024, and releases in October.
Belladonna by Adalyn Grace
3.5 stars
“Your name is no curse, Little Bird. I just like the taste of it”
Without giving spoilers Belladonna was fabulous. It had a dark and eerie gothic vibe with a hint of romance. The mystery of course was the shining focus of Belladonna with the person whodunnit not even crossing my mind! But, some somethings didn’t quite satisfy the itch (hints the rating). Although Belladonna is a series this first book is fully contained and could be read as a standalone (as I imagine all of the books in this series will be).
Twisted Lace by A.M. McCoy
3 stars
“I knew you had a Daddy kink, I just knew it.”
Twisted Lace is a conundrum for me when it comes to rating and how I feel. I loved getting Lex’s story and seeing her open up. The writing was better than in the first book, Twisted Ink, but Twisted Lace still had editing issues that kept pulling me out of the story. Aside from that, and the mid-book breakup I had a really good time reading it.
Devourer of Men by Nikki St. Crowe
5 stars (Reread)
I am so obsessed with Devourer of Men and I am HEARTBROKEN that I have to wait for book two to be released. I read this in May and have been thinking about this since the last sentence. This time I opted to read it on audio via Everand! I loved the audio even more than reading it physically.
“He’s serious now, his voice deep and raspy. “You get six words. More. Harder. Stop. Slower. God. Fuck.”
In Devourer of Men, Roc and Hook set out on an electrifying quest across Everland to find the woman they both once loved. As they travel together, their past enmity gives way to intense chemistry, ignited by their close quarters and mutual attraction. Their journey attracts the attention of the Queen of Everland, leading to an unexpected and spicy encounter at her court. The book is a captivating blend of danger, romance, and tension, with Roc as a compelling villain-turned-love-interest. The chemistry between Roc and Hook is palpable, with their banter adding to the story’s allure. The ending leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the Devourer duet, already craving more of this tantalizing series.
Threshold by Murphy St. John
4 stars
“IT’S NOT EVERY DAY YOU HAVE TO PONDER ETERNITY.”
As someone who enjoys horror but doesn’t often read it, I’m always on the lookout for eerie reads that fit perfectly into my fall TBR. Threshold by Murphy St. John exceeded my expectations with its chilling premise and intense, character-driven narrative. Set in a sinister purgatory, the story follows Malcolm and six others as they face dark trials to determine their fate—either return to life or face eternal damnation. The pacing is smooth and gripping, with vivid imagery and a haunting atmosphere that keeps you on edge. While the world-building is minimal, it adds to the story’s allure, though I wished for more detail in certain parts. Despite a few minor issues with writing and unanswered questions, Threshold is a must-read for horror fans, offering a dark and thrilling journey that blurs the line between the living and the dead.
Don’t forget to check out my full review Threshold: Into the Abyss and Haunting Your Nightmares
Heathens by Alta Hensley
4 stars
Heathens Hollow by Alta Hensley is a dark romance brimming with gothic vibes and intense themes. The story revolves around Storee Brooks, whose father’s murder leaves her under the guardianship of his best friend, the enigmatic and irresistibly handsome Locke Hartwell. Despite the forbidden nature of their connection, Storee’s fierce independence and determination set the stage for a provocative romance.
“maybe a part of me was happy that he didn’t just let me go. Maybe I wanted a man to fight for me so I didn’t have to always be the fighter.”
Locke, a wealthy and brooding figure with stalker tendencies, is committed to protecting Storee at any cost. Their relationship is fraught with primal attraction and dark undertones, making the forbidden nature of their romance all the more tantalizing. With themes of age gaps, stalker dynamics, and gothic allure, the book offers a captivating blend of danger and desire, featuring rich, atmospheric settings and unforgettable character chemistry.
Leather and Lark by Brynne Weaver
4.5 stars
“Geallaim duit a bheith i mo fhear céile dílis duit, fad a mhairimid le chéile,”
Like most people on this floating rock, I read Butcher and Blackbird and was OBSESSED with it. You can read my full review. So getting to read Leather and Lark was a given. I love Leather and Lark but not as much as I loved Butcher and Blackbird. This book centers on a high-stakes fake marriage of convenience where the stakes are life or death. Two morally grey characters who despise each other are forced into marriage, creating plenty of tension.
While it shares the same universe and formula as Butcher & Blackbird, this story is more character-driven and lacks the playful murder games of its predecessor, making it feel a bit less thrilling. However, there’s still plenty of gore, serial killer chaos, and some well-executed spicy scenes, which fans of Brynne Weaver will appreciate despite the toned-down excitement. I can’t wait for the final book! What can I say, I am a sucker for killers in love.
Manacled by SenLinYu
5 stars (Reread)
“Once upon a time… there had been a girl who fought. Who believes that books and cleverness and friendship and bravery could overcome all things.
But now – that girl was gone.
She’d been all but killed during the war.”
This month Manacled was a reread for me. And, while I still LOVED IT. It didn’t hit as hard as the first go-round. In a corner of my mind, I feel like there is a bonus scene I read initially that I can’t find now. Nevertheless, I love Dramoine. Manacled is a deeply moving and intense dark story that explores the devastating psychological effects of war, trauma, and loss. The characters endure unimaginable hardships, and the phenomenal writing immerses you fully into their world, making you feel their grief and pain. It’s easy to get lost in the narrative, with its emotional depth leaving readers—especially empathetic ones—feeling raw and shaken long after finishing. While heartbreaking, there is a Happily Ever After (HEA), though it’s a far cry from a traditional fairytale ending, offering the best resolution possible given the circumstances.
King of Wrath by Ana Huang
3 stars
“Per te aspetterei per sempre, amore mio.”
I don’t have much to say about King of Wrath. Except, I love a man who GROVELS when he knows he has fucked up! And Dante is that guy! Dante realizing his mistake and manning up to correct it does something to me. And the spice, that limo scene whew! Beyond that, the book was just meh!
An Academy for Liars by Alexis Henderson
5 stars
An Academy for Liars by Alexis Henderson is a haunting and dark tale that follows Lennon, a mentally struggling woman who hits rock bottom after catching her fiancé cheating with her best friend at their engagement party. On the verge of a breakdown, she discovers Drayton College, a mysterious place that offers her a chance to reclaim her life. But once she arrives, things take a sinister turn, and Lennon is thrust into a world of darkness, supernatural tension, and a creeping sense of wrongness.
“DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR NAME?”
As the story progresses, Lennon’s character transforms, uncovering hidden depths of power and magic she never realized she had. Themes of mental health, identity, and transformation are woven throughout, symbolized by the recurring image of moths representing change. The pacing and character development keep readers hooked, and the forbidden teacher-student relationship adds an intriguing secondary layer. Questions about identity and the repeated line “Do you still have your name?” haunt the narrative, leaving lingering uncertainty.
This atmospheric story blends horror and suspense with themes of power and corruption, making An Academy for Liars a gripping read.
Check out my full review of the Dangerous Games and Deadly Secrets: An Academy for Liars Review
The Veiled Kingdom by Holly Renee
3 stars
After discovering The Veiled Kingdom by Holly Renee on Instagram, I quickly became obsessed, recommending it to everyone I encountered. The book’s plot—a lost princess, a hidden city, and an enemies-to-lovers romance—initially drew me in. Though the story captured my attention with its fast pace, allowing me to read it in one sitting, it also left much to be desired.
“Who did that to you?” His voice lacked every bit of his control.”
As I delved deeper, I noticed significant issues. The world-building was sparse, with the fae identity of the characters only vaguely implied until late in the story. The narrative had numerous plot holes, including a critical but underdeveloped point about Nyra’s powers.
The romance between Nyra and Dacre didn’t fit the true enemies-to-lovers trope; Dacre was enamored with Nyra from the start, which undermined the tension. Additionally, Dacre, despite being part of a rebellion, didn’t fit the “morally grey” character archetype often associated with the genre.
“I have been starved, Nyra. Until you.”
While the book was enjoyable enough to keep me eagerly awaiting the sequel, The Veiled Kingdom ultimately fell short of its potential. I’m hopeful the next installment, The Hunted Heir, will address some of these shortcomings.
Check out my full review of The Veiled Kingdom: Exploring Love and Loyalty in Holly Renee’s Saga
The Hunted Heir by Holly Renee
3 stars
The Hunted Heir picks up right where The Veiled Kingdom left off, with Verena on the run from both her father and the rebellion. The tension in this installment is intense, with a near-thriller feel, making it even more engaging than the first book. However, while some plot holes from the first book are addressed, many remain unresolved, likely due to another cliffhanger ending.
“The gods made you for me. carved you from the stars themselves until I could no love bear to gaze up at the sky without longing for you.”
Dacre’s character takes a disappointing turn, shifting from a dominant figure in the first book to a more submissive and less impressive role. Additionally, both The Veiled Kingdom and The Hunted Heir feel like they could have been combined into a single, more substantial novel, as both are relatively short for a romantasy series.
The lack of world-building continues to be an issue in The Hunted Heir, with the magic system still largely unexplained. This, combined with the novella-length pages, leaves the series feeling underdeveloped.
“Because I had never wanted to protect someone as badly as I wanted to protect her.”
Despite these frustrations, the series remains entertaining, though it falls short of expectations. With the third book, The Rivaled Crown, not releasing until spring 2025, there’s a hope that it will finally deliver the depth and resolution that the first two books lacked.
Rule of Three by Misti Wilds
4 stars
I love reverse harems, and this story is an absolute standout and one of the reader’s favorites of the year. Blending captivating characters, smut, and emotional depth. The plot, pacing, and tone are perfectly balanced, but the characters truly steal the show.
“You are not convenient. You’re INconvenient. You are temptress sent to ruin me.”
Valentina, the FMC, shines with her journey of self-empowerment. As a mafia princess defying expectations, she navigates questions of agency and destiny, making her resilience and growth the heart of the story.
Andrei, the possessive mafia boss, embodies the “my wife” trope with intensity, while Mikhail brings wit with an unhinged edge, and Ezra, the broody bodyguard, surprises with softness under his tough exterior.
“And you didn’t lick the seat? Wasteful!”
Together, these characters offer more than typical archetypes, creating a fresh and engaging dynamic. Their playful jealousy and chemistry elevate the romance, while the smut is steamy yet balanced with emotional moments. With a well-paced plot and a mystery to keep readers hooked, this book delivers an unforgettable, fun reading experience.
Reign of Four by Mist Wilds
In this thrilling sequel to Rule of Three, Valentina is determined to claim her rightful power and future, refusing to be just a pawn in anyone’s game. She won’t simply give herself up for marriage; instead, she plans to seize the throne and take control of her destiny, with her men—Mikhail, Ezra, and Andrei—by her side. After a tense cliffhanger, the story picks up seamlessly as her men rush to rescue her from Liam, proving their unwavering love and loyalty.
Though initially hesitant about Valentina’s quest for power, they eventually support her, recognizing that she is made for them as much as they are for her. Together, they help her embrace her full potential as both soft and powerful. The dynamic between Valentina and her men highlights how they complement and empower her.
The romance in this book is as fiery as ever, with steamy scenes that leave readers needing to cool off. Even in the midst of combat, the chemistry between the characters is electric, making this a captivating, spicy, and action-packed read.
Mayhem in Disguise by Anika Savoy
4 stars
Having enjoyed Anika Savoy’s first book in the Ungilded series, The Ghost in Her, I was eager to dive into Mayhem in Disguise. Initially, I was concerned that the sequel might not live up to the charm of its predecessor. The start felt flat compared to the gothic whimsy of book one, leading me to think it might fall short.
“MY MOHEGAN GODDESS”
However, Mayhem in Disguise eventually reveals its beauty. While it does have its shortcomings—such as an overemphasis on the protagonist’s Mohegan heritage and a quick-to-develop romance that felt too Insta-Love for my taste—there are many strengths. The writing remains captivating, with vivid descriptions that immerse you in the setting and a well-crafted plot. Anika’s unique voice and foreshadowing keep the story engaging, and the character development adds depth.
“TO MATANOTO! MAY HE ROT IN HELL!”
The book’s strong sense of place and emotional pull make it an engaging read, perfect for fall. Despite some flaws, it successfully blends eerie elements with thrilling tension, making it a memorable follow-up to The Ghost in Her.
Check out my full review on Why You Won’t Put Down Mayhem in Disguise
Subspace by Stuart Stromin
3 stars
Through no fault of its own, I have come to realize (with the help of Subspace) that I do not like short stories. If you do like short stories then you should check out Subspace. Each story is
Titled with the theme of that particular story (the hat is about a hat, the dress about a dress, etc.) each one of the short stories gives you just enough to want more.
It Was a Riot by Daniel Hall
4 stars
It Was a Riot is a novel that leaves you both overwhelmed and searching for the right words to describe its impact. Initially, the book feels like a memoir, with Eddy recounting his life story, but this structure makes it difficult to grasp the overall narrative. The early chapters are heavy on exposition, focusing on Eddy’s troubled childhood without much progression. The story could have benefitted from a flashback structure, keeping the court case as a central anchor to create a stronger emotional connection to Eddy.
“I close my eyes as the tears pour.”
Despite these pacing issues, the novel delves deeply into Eddy’s struggle for his father’s approval and the painful dynamics within his family. Hall’s writing is powerful, raw, and honest, bringing depth to the story, especially as it explores Eddy’s journey within the LGBTQ community in the 70s. The book also touches on the devastating impact of AIDS on the gay community, offering a perspective that resonates with courage and heartbreak.
” That day, I was reborn. I no longer cared about my father’s approval, and I never would again.”
By the end, Eddy feels like a friend whose story stays with you long after the last page. It Was a Riot is a poignant, emotionally charged read that’s perfect for Pride Month, reminiscent of the sacrifices made by figures like Marsha P. Johnson. Make sure to have tissues handy for this heart-wrenching journey.
Check out my full review It Was a Riot: Tears in the Chaos Unpacking the Heart of the Story
Wicked King by Sienna Cross
3 stars
Wicked King by Sienna Cross is a dark, mafia romance filled with tension, passion, and power plays. The story follows Marco King, a brutal yet captivating ruler, and his arranged marriage, which is initially a cold, calculated move to secure his empire. However, beneath the surface, a sizzling temptation between the couple can’t be ignored.
“I want it all with you,” he whispers against my lips.”
The fourth book in the Kings of Temptation series, it works as a standalone, though the author references previous events from earlier books. The slow-burn romance between Jia and Marco builds gradually, with Jia’s resistance being both frustrating and drawn out. While Marco’s character develops well from a playboy to a doting husband, Jia’s growth feels stagnant, which affects the story’s pacing. Despite this, the plot is strong, balancing tension, action, and romance with witty dialogue and sizzling chemistry.
“I must have done something right in this life to have been rewarded with a wife whose pussy tastes like heaven.”
While Wicked King isn’t groundbreaking, it offers a satisfying ending and leaves readers craving more from the couple’s story. It’s a solid finale to the series, though not quite top-tier.
Check out this full review
Check out this full review Is Wicked King by Sienna Cross the Next Dark Fantasy Obsession?
Castle of Nevers and Nightmares by Lana Pecherczyk
5 stars (Reread)
Castle of Nevers and Nightmares follows Willow Nightstalk, a woman driven by revenge against the Six, a group of Dark Fae Guardians she blames for ruining her life. Willow, a petty thief, embarks on a mission to kill them after being cursed by the faerie queen Titania, who mirrors Willow’s inner darkness in her cursed appearance. Her journey takes her to the Court of Dreams, where she enters a tournament, hoping to solve her problems.
“IF THIS ALL TURNS TO RUIN, AND ALL WE’RE LEFT WITH IS THE PLEASURE OF YOUR COMPANY FOR THIS SINGLE HEARTBEAT IN TIME, I WILL CONSIDER MYSELF FORTUNATE.”
The Six operate under a hive mentality, controlled by Titania, and are unknowingly bound to her. Willow’s quest to kill them leads her to uncover deeper secrets, including the existence of a seventh member. Along the way, the story delivers a complex enemies-to-lovers romance, as Willow’s interactions with Fox, one of the Six, evolve into a slow-burn connection.
The book is praised for its immersive world-building, particularly the division between Avorlorna (the Court of Dreams) and Nocturna (the Court of Nightmares), along with its inventive magic system involving “manabeez,” which powers the world. The romance is a “why choose” scenario, though not fully realized in this first installment, with the promise of more in book two.
“YOU ARE A NATURAL-BORN QUEEN, WITH OR WITHOUT MAGIC, WITH OR WITHOUT A HIVE.”
The story is emotionally heavy, blending dark fantasy, political intrigue, and slow-burn romance, all leading up to a cliffhanger. Readers are left eager for the next book, drawn in by the well-developed plot, intense characters, and Willow’s powerful character arc. Castle of Nevers and Nightmares is a must-read for fantasy romance fans who enjoy morally grey characters and intricate world-building.
Check out my full review In Love with the Fae Devils: A Review of ‘Castle of Nevers and Nightmares’
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