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Movie Monday: The Hating Game

Movie Monday: The Hating Game

Movie Mondays: On the occasional Monday, I will review a book series or novel that has been made into a movie. I will then answer the question that everyone asks: which is better, the movie or the book? Here is this edition’s offering:

Book Cover | Movie Poster
 

Book: The Hating Game by Sally Thorne (2016) | Movie: The Hating Game (2021)

Which did I read/see first? the BOOK

Author: Sally Thorne
Genre: Adult, Contemporary, Romance, Office Romance
Heat Rating: warm
Point of View: First Person, Single
Publication Dates: August 2016
Source & Format: Public Library–Audiobook

thoughts

I had had this book on my TBR for a long time but it wasn’t until I was on an extended road trip with a friend that I decided to pick this one up as an audiobook. The movie had just been released so it was fresh in my mind. I had actually hoped that the audiobook would be like listening to a rom-com and it seemed like a good book to binge for our day of driving.

We had such a blast listening to this! It was fun and funny but also had deeper moments between the two leads. I loved the banter between these two; they’re the definition of a “fine line between love and hate”.

Lucy is charming and quirky. I love that she says whatever is on her mind instead of playing games. Josh is the perfect counterpart with his many layers. Their chemistry is so palpable!

overall

It was a great read to binge on a road trip!

Rating: 5/5

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Were My Expectations Met?

Absolutely! I thought the movie really captured the spirit of the novel and did a fantastic job bringing the story to life. And that sexual tension between the leads was once again the highlight.

How Close is it to the Book?

Despite my best intentions, I didn’t get a chance to watch this movie until nearly a year after I read the book. So while I don’t remember some of the finer details, I do know that the main plot points are all there. I would have liked to watch more of their “hate” scenes for the comedy, but as I said before, the spirit of the movie was captured nicely with the few little bantering clips we got.

The one thing I did noticed they changed was one of Lucy’s plot-points with a co-worker. But I actually liked how the movie navigated that more than the book did.

Did I Like the Cast?

YES! I thought everyone was cast perfectly. I sometimes think Lucy Hale (Lucy) plays the same sort of roles but I really don’t know who else could have been Lucy. She was great with her humour and feistiness. And her chemistry with Austin Stowell (Joshua) was amazing.

Originally, Robbie Armell was supposed to be Joshua. I think he would have been great based on what I remember of him in The DUFF. But Austin did a great job being the frosty Joshua while conveying his true–yet subtle– feelings for Lucy. He can smolder.

thewinneris wintie

I really think you can’t go wrong with either version. The audiobook reads like a rom-com and the movie is charming and captures the book perfectly.

Do you agree? Leave a comment below!


Synopsis for The Hating Game (from Goodreads):

Nemesis (n.)
1) An opponent or rival whom a person cannot best or overcome;
2) A person’s undoing;
3) Joshua Templeman.
Lucy Hutton and Joshua Templeman hate each other. Not dislike. Not begrudgingly tolerate. Hate. And they have no problem displaying their feelings through a series of ritualistic passive aggressive maneuvers as they sit across from each other, executive assistants to co-CEOs of a publishing company. Lucy can’t understand Joshua’s joyless, uptight, meticulous approach to his job. Joshua is clearly baffled by Lucy’s overly bright clothes, quirkiness, and Pollyanna attitude.

Now up for the same promotion, their battle of wills has come to a head and Lucy refuses to back down when their latest game could cost her her dream job…But the tension between Lucy and Joshua has also reached its boiling point, and Lucy is discovering that maybe she doesn’t hate Joshua. And maybe, he doesn’t hate her either. Or maybe this is just another game.

Trailer:

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Series Review: The Fallen World by Laura Thalassa

Series Review: The Fallen World by Laura Thalassa

Series Review: Is this series worth your time? Does it get better as the novels progress? Or does it get worse? Find out below:

booksynopsis

Synopsis for The Queen of All That Dies (from Goodreads):

In the future, the world is at war.

For the last decade, King Lazuli of the Eastern Empire has systematically taken over the world. No one knows much about him other than a series of impossible facts: he cannot die, he has not aged since the conflict began, and he wants to rule the world.

All Serenity Freeman has known is bloodshed. War has taken away her mother, her home, her safety. As the future emissary of the Western United Nations, the last autonomous region of the globe, she is responsible for forging alliances where she can.

Surrender is on the horizon. The king can taste it; Serenity feels it deep within her bones. There is no other option. Now the two must come face to face. For Serenity, that means confronting the man who’s taken everything from her. For the king, it means meeting the one woman he can’t conquer. But when they meet, something happens. Cruelty finds redemption.

Only in war, everything comes with a price. Especially love.

breakdown

SERIESous’ Top Picks: Favourite Read of 2022
Series: The Fallen World
Author: Laura Thalassa
# of Books: 3 (Full Reading Order Here)
Book Order: Chronological
Complete?: Yes
Genre: New Adult, Post Apocalyptic, Romance, Science Fiction
Heat Rating: warm
Point of View: First Person, Alternating
Publication Dates: January 2015 – May 2016
Source & Format: Kindle Unlimited–eBook

thoughts

Why I Picked it Up / My Expectations:

When I resuscbribed to Kindle Unlimited during an Amazon Prime promotion, this was one of the series I downloaded first. It had been on my list for a while and I figured now was as good a time as any. Particularly because I was in a major reading funk and contemporary romances weren’t working for me. This sounded very different that what I was attempting to read and so I picked it up!

The Concept / The World:

The story is set years into the future after war has ravaged the earth and a sole ruler claims domain over everything. Reading this while global tensions around Ukraine and Russia were mounting really added to the impact of this setting for me. And I think it amplified the political plotline of this story as well.

The Plot:

One of the things I loved most about this series is that I never knew where the plot was going…in a good way! The plot was filled with twists and turns, unpredictable characters and never held back from violence or death.
The politics of this world were great! Everything slowly built from that first book and just keeps going right until the end. I loved that danger could be caused by something intellectual than just physical violence.

The Characters:

Serenity has grown up in a violent world knowing her life’s purpose is to save the world (or at the very least, her country). She kinda makes Katniss Everdeen look like a meek little girl. She’s so angsty and closed off from the world that it was super cool to watch her character evolve as life throws her numerous curve balls.

As for the King — I love a good bad guy. He is ruthless, more so than Serenity. Which makes their scenes together explode!

The Romance:

I think some people will struggle with the romance but I found that to be the most interesting aspect. It’s hate to love you in all its dark glory. You don’t know if you should root for it or cringe but the hopeless romantic in me was cautiously optimistic and loved every minute of it. I think it was the best aspect of the plot or at the very least, the ultimate hook.

Series Rating: 5/5

The Queen of All that Dies 5/5 | The Queen of Traitors 5/5 | The Queen of All that Lives 5/5

overall

I’ve never read anything like this. One of my all-time favourite dystopian/non-contemporary new adult reads EVER!

Read if You Like: hate to love you romances, political intrigue, science fiction
Avoid if You: dislike violence
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  • Queen of Blood by Jill Myles
  • Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi (Shatter Me #1)
  • The Wrath and the Dawn by Renee Ahdieh( The Wrath and the Dawn Series #1)

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Series Review: The Collector by Amelia Wilde

Series Review: The Collector by Amelia Wilde

Series Review: Is this series worth your time? Does it get better as the novels progress? Or does it get worse? Find out below:

booksynopsis

Synopsis for Dark Reign (from Goodreads):

Wealthy. Reclusive. Dangerous. Emerson LeBlanc doesn’t enter society much. He only ventures out in pursuit of new art for his collection. It starts with a haunting painting. Then he meets the artist…

Innocent Daphne Morelli is more exquisite than anything he’s ever seen. He becomes obsessed with her. It doesn’t matter that she’s a living, breathing person with her own hopes and dreams.

​​​​​​​She’ll be the perfect addition to his collection.

breakdown

SERIESous’ Top Picks: 2022 Fave
Series: The Collector Trilogy | Midnight Dynasty Series
Author: Amelia Wilde
# of Books: 3 (Full Reading Order Here)
Book Order: Chronological
Complete?: Yes
Genre: Adult, Contemporary, Romance, Dark, Erotica
Heat Rating: Hot (Kink: minor (#1,#3) & major (#2))
Point of View: First Person, Alternating
Publication Dates: November 2021 – March 2022
Source & Format: Kobo Plus–eBook

thoughts

Why I Picked it Up / My Expectations:

So I went into this book with mixed expectations. For one thing, I was really excited to read Daphne Morelli’s story. It’s alluded to in Secret Beast (Beast of Bishop’s Landing) and I have been curious about it ever since. HOWEVER, I did not enjoy the Beast of Bishop’s Landing Series which is also written by Amelia Wilde so I wasn’t sure what to expect with this novel but I went in with an open mind…

The Concept – Midnight Dynasty:

The Midnight Dynasty Universe is a collection of books (series and standalones) written by different authors but feature the characters from a collective world. They’re intended to be read in any order because each series focuses on two lead characters at a time, but there are some shared chronological events and character interactions throughout the universe that overlap in the different series.

The first book in this series, Dark Reign, basically takes place over the span of the entire Beast of Bishop’s Landing Series so I highly recommend that you read that series first if you are trying to read the Midnight Dynasty Universe novels in the chronological order of events and don’t want to have that series be spoiled for you.

The Plot:

There was something so addicting about this series! There’s this edge of danger and suspense that just keeps building and building as the story progresses that I found to be so captivating.

Add to it the character evolution and I was sucked right into this series! I love dark, unconventional romance novels and this really fit that bill to a T.

I also liked that it showed a softer side to the Morelli family and in particular, Leo Morelli who is the hero in The Beast of Bishop’s Landing. While I didn’t love that series, I appreciated the weaving of that story–and Daphne’s perspective of the events–into Dark Reign (#1).

The Characters:

Emerson is a character unlike any other I’ve encountered before. Sure, he has a lot of tendencies of alpha billionaire heroes with tragic pasts you’ve read before, but there is also this unique vulnerability to him that slowly gets revealed to the reader. I could totally see why Daphne would become enthralled by him.

Daphne is the perfect character to compliment and drive Emerson’s character development. But she also has great character development throughout this series. I was captivated by their respective stories.

The Romance:

This isn’t a conventional love story by any means but I’m a sucker for a good dark romance and this is definitely a great one! The connection these two share just blew me away.

Midnight Dynasty’s Reading Order:

I had found a suggested reading order on Redit but have made some recommendations based on my own readings. Here is the suggested order based on that post and my own readings:

Series Rating: 5/5

Dark Reign 5/5 | Sweet Mercy 4.5/5 | Last Resort 5/5

overall

One of my favourite installments in the Midnight Dynasty Universe so far! I think some people won’t like the darker, unconventional romance but fans of romantic suspense will enjoy.

Read if You Like: romantic suspense
Avoid if You: dislike unorthodox romances
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Single Sundays: Stone Cold by Winter Renshaw

Single Sundays: Stone Cold by Winter Renshaw

Single Sundays: While this blog may be focused on reviewing book series as a whole, we can’t forget about the good ole’ standalone novel! On Sundays, I will review a novel that is considered to be a standalone novel. Here is this week’s offering:

Synopsis for Stone Cold (from Goodreads):
The most humiliating moment of my life begins with an early morning message from my ex’s notoriously heartless best friend.

Jovie—

In no way does this mean my opinion of you has changed.

I’m reaching out because sometime in the middle of last night you tagged yourself in Jude and Stassi’s engagement photo.

I don’t care if you were drunk or it was unintentional. I suggest you remove it immediately since the wedding is in two months (which I’m sure you know since you were clearly FB stalking them). The damage is done, but no reason to make things more awkward.

You’re welcome.

Stone

I waste no time removing my accidental tag before the sharp-tongued novelist in me fires off a response to the man who harbored extreme and inexplicable hatred of me during the three years I dated his best friend in college.

Only I didn’t expect him to respond.

And nothing could have prepared me for what he would say …

… or for all the ways this gorgeous villain with cruel icy blues would become the biggest plot twist my life had ever known.

breakdown

SERIESous’ Top Picks: Favourite Author
Author: Winter Renshaw
Genre: Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Heat Rating: warm
Point of View: First Person, Alternating
Publication Date: May 2022
Source & Format: Author–eARC

thoughts

Why I Picked it Up / My Expectations:

I read anything Winter Renshaw puts out nowadays but I really went into this one blind. I didn’t even read the synopsis before I picked it up.

The Plot:

I loved the flashbacks interspersed with the present. It helped provide a fuller picture of the complex relationship between Jude, Jovie and Stone. It isn’t a love triangle by any means but it does show how relationships can be complicate when friends and feelings are involved.

There are plenty of twists to keep the drama going as well. Lots of kismet and serendipity moments that will tug on your heartstrings. I felt every emotion reading this book which is always a nice bonus in a romance novel!

The Characters:

This book reminded me in some ways of Something Borrowed by Emily Giffen only that the characters are WAYYYY more likeable. But they’re similar in the sense that friendships are the pillar of why the characters act the way they do and that assumptions are made to keep things status quo. It’s very interesting to watch unfold to say the least.

The Romance:

I immediately fell for the banter between Stone and Jovie. Their instant messages back and forth had me chuckling out loud. They just have this undeniable chemistry between them that makes you want them to be together — even if they seem to not see it at first. It’s got a slow burn, slightly forbidden vibe to it that was simply addicting to read.

My Rating: 5/5

overall

One of my favourite Winter Renshaw novels of late! I couldn’t put this romance down!

Read if You Like: kismet, second chances, forbidden romances
Avoid if You: want full blown erotica

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Single Sundays: Fauxmance by Cookie O’Gorman

Single Sundays: Fauxmance by Cookie O’Gorman

Single Sundays: While this blog may be focused on reviewing book series as a whole, we can’t forget about the good ole’ standalone novel! On Sundays, I will review a novel that is considered to be a standalone novel. Here is this week’s offering:

Synopsis for Fauxmance (from Goodreads):
Fauxmance (foh-mans): Term for a romantic relationship that is fake. Real feelings, like love, are strictly prohibited. See also: Why would anyone enter a fake relationship?

Eighteen-year-old Magnolia believes in true love.

Or she did.

When her boyfriend dumps her the day before her sister’s wedding, Maggie is devastated—but her broken heart is only part of the problem. Maggie is the maid of honor, and her sister insists: Every member of the bridal party must have an escort. No exceptions.

Thank goodness for Hayden Davenport.

Sarcastic, cocky, a surprisingly good listener and self-professed player, when Maggie gets stuck in an elevator with the handsome stranger, she thinks she’s found the perfect wedding date. Unfortunately, Hayden hates weddings. Like really hates them.

But one soul-shattering kiss changes everything.

Maggie needs a fake boyfriend. Hayden wants to prove he’s changed his playboy ways. Faking it should be easy. The hard part?

Remembering it’s all pretend and not falling in love for real.

This book features two opposites with sizzling chemistry, a sweet, hopeless romantic and a cynical bad boy who’ll steal your heart. Elevators, fake romance, and weddings, oh my! Get ready to swoon, laugh, and say ‘I do’ to this heartfelt YA romance.

breakdown

SERIESous’ Top Picks: Favourite Author
Author: Cookie O’Gorman
Genre: Young Adult/New Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Heat Rating: cool
Point of View: First Person, Single
Publication Date: April 28, 2022
Source & Format: Author–ARC

thoughts

Why I Picked it Up / My Expectations:

I’ve read all of Cookie O’Gorman’s books with the exception of one (and that one is just because it fell of my radar during a reading slump). She’s my go-to author for swoon worthy YA romance. And when I read that this book was going to be a fake romance (my favourite romance trope!) I was SUPER excited to start it!

The Plot:

I loved the fun plot line. I’ve read many fake romance novels but I enjoyed the “be my fake wedding date” scenario. There were also quite a few twists I didn’t see coming that had me going “oh, that’s a good spin!”.

If life didn’t get in my way, I would have read this in one sitting!

The Characters:

I think Hayden is my new book boyfriend. Cookie has a great talent for writing swoon worthy book boyfriends but also making them believable as well. It gives me hope that my Hayden is out there somewhere and is just as wonderful as the book version is.

Magnolia was a fantastic lead. I loved her confidence. She reminded me that being a strong heroine doesn’t mean that nothing ever bothers you or gets you down. It also means that you can show your vulnerability and I think Magnolia had a great balance of that.

The rest of the cast was a blast! I know I would definitely read more books about Hayden’s bandmates!

The Romance:

While the romance seems “quick” in the sense that the story only takes place over a couple of weeks, it was easy for me to see why these two would be drawn together. They definitely had an instant spark when they first meet and that just ignites anytime they share a scene together.

My Rating: 5/5

overall

With a sublime balance between romance and reality, this book is definitely one of my new favourite Cookie O’Gorman novels!

Read if You Like: fake relationship trope, sweet romances
Avoid if You: dislike contemporary romance novels

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Series Review: The Enemies by Piper Lawson

Series Review: The Enemies by Piper Lawson

Series Review: Is this series worth your time? Does it get better as the novels progress? Or does it get worse? Find out below:

booksynopsis

Synopsis for Beautiful Enemy (from Goodreads):

I sold my future to the man who ruined my past.

I had a plan:

Sign a contract and board a plane to Ibiza. The anonymous deal would salvage the smoldering wreckage of my life.

It would not involve billionaire Harrison King. AKA, the reason I need saving in the first place.

He’s as beautiful as he is cruel. A British business titan who’s practically royalty and makes a living getting what he wants.

The man flies private. Dates supermodels. But the crisp accent and cocky smirk don’t fool me. He’s a gentleman on the outside, a savage beneath. Dangerous, rough and brutal.

Because after my attempt to publicly stand up for those who needed it…

He destroyed my reputation.

Now, he’s come for the rest of me.

Except it’s not salvation he’s promising. It’s nights in Ibiza, under his roof, rules, his control.

I sold my soul to a man I hate. Now, he owns me.

I can’t back out. No matter what kind of punishment he has in store.

Harrison King knows my secrets…

But kings keep secrets too.

breakdown

SERIESous’ Top Picks: Favourite Author, Canadian Author
Series: The Enemies Trilogy

This series is a spin-off of sorts from the Rivals Series

Author: Piper Lawson
# of Books: 4 (Full Reading Order Here)
Book Order: Chronological Order
Complete?: Yes
Genre: Adult, Contemporary, Romance, Drama
Heat Rating: Toasty
Point of View: First Person, Alternating
Publication Dates: May to July 2022
Source & Format: Author–eARC

thoughts

Why I Picked it Up / My Expectations:

I’m a huge Piper Lawson fan and have been since she published her debut Schooled years ago. But I was super excited to start this series. We got a little glimpse of our leads interacting for the first time at the end of the Rivals Series (another great read BTW) and could not WAIT to see them come to life in their own trilogy! I love a good “in love with my enemy” story and this one looked extremely promising.

The Concept / The World:

You don’t see a lot of romance series anymore that follow the same set of leads for multiple books. I feel like it was a big trend around the Fifty Shades of Gray era; but eventually, romance series started to focus on a different set of leads for each book in a series. And while I would say that I tend to skew more towards the standalones for a romance lead, this series reminded me why having 3 whole books dedicated to one couple can be freaking fantastic!

By having a trilogy dedicated entirely to them, we are taking our time evolving their characters and the romance. And what a ride!

The Plot:

Everything about this trilogy’s plot felt fresh to me. I loved the slight suspense and mystery behind Harrison’s family’s past. It just gave the story an edge that had me eager to start the next chapter to see what happens next.
At the same time, Rae’s story is just as fascinating to read. She’s got her own thing going on which is great.
But the very best part: the masterful weaving of all the elements together. It just creates a well-balanced and utterly addicting story.

I find most romance trilogies that focus on a single couple often follow a similar formula for each book installment so they can be rather predictable. Not the case here. Honestly, I had no idea what to expect next and I loved that. I think I’ve read 95% of Piper Lawson’s titles and she still manages to make her series fresh every single time.

The Characters:

We have some great, complex characters here. I was truly impressed with the character growth here from both our leads. Both their individual growth and as a couple. It was great to see how far they’ve come from the independent, angry with the world people they were in the first book.

And boy, oh boy, do I hope we get some spin-off books or series about a few of the supporting characters we meet along the way!

The Romance:

I love the chemistry between these two! That (AMAZING) slow burning romance is what makes this series so addicting. It’s just so obvious to me how they fit together and how they challenge each other to be better people. Any time they share a scene together, I’m swooning or laughing or crying…they make me feel everything.

It’s crazy how invested I became in their story.

updates

–July 25, 2022– Book #4: Beautiful Salvation

Who wouldn’t want an extended epilogue featuring some of their favourite characters? This was the perfect cherry on top for this series! It had all the heart, great banter and communication plus lots of cameos from other characters we met throughout the series.

Series Rating: 5/5

Beautiful Enemy 5/5 | Beautiful Sins 5/5 | Beautiful Ruin 5/5 | Beautiful Salvation 4/5

overall

Honestly: I was in a super depressing reading funk when I started this series. But this series reminded me why I love to read. Piper Lawson knows just how to tease you and keep you coming back for more when it comes to her stories and this series is a prime example of her mastery at its finest!

Read if You Like: contemporary romances, romance trilogies
Avoid if You: dislike steamy reads; dislike angsty characters

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Single Sundays: Things I Wanted to Say (But Never Did) by Monica Murphy

Single Sundays: Things I Wanted to Say (But Never Did) by Monica Murphy

Single Sundays: While this blog may be focused on reviewing book series as a whole, we can’t forget about the good ole’ standalone novel! On Sundays, I will review a novel that is considered to be a standalone novel. Here is this week’s offering:

Synopsis for Things I Wanted to Say (But Never Did) (from Goodreads):
Whit Lancaster burst into my life like a storm. Dark and thunderous, furious and fierce. Cold, heartless and devastatingly beautiful, like the statues in our prep school gardens. The school with his family name on the sign. He can do no wrong here. This is his domain.

He’s a menace on campus. Adored and feared. Hated and respected. His taunting words carve into my skin, shredding me to ribbons. Yet his intense gaze scorches my blood, fills me with a longing I don’t understand.

When I stumble upon him one night alone, I find him broken. Bleeding. My instincts scream to leave and let him suffer, but I can’t. I sneak him into my room. Clean him up. Fall for his lies. Let him possess every single part of me until I’m the one left a gasping, broken mess.

When he leaves me alone in the dead of night, he takes my journal with him.

Now he knows all my secrets. My hate. My truth. And he promises to use my words against me. I’ll be ruined if my darkest secret gets out.

That’s when I strike a bargain with the devil.

I’ll let Whit Lancaster ruin me behind closed doors instead.

breakdown

SERIESous’ Top Picks: Favourite Author
Series:

There is a spinoff standalone A Million Kisses in Your Lifetime.

Author: Monica Murphy
Genre: Young Adult / New Adult, Contemporary, Romance, Erotica, Dark
Heat Rating: Smokin’ (extremely *spicy YA*) | (Kink: mild)
Point of View: First Person, Alternating
Publication Date: July 29, 2021
Source & Format: Author–eARC

thoughts

Why I Picked it Up / My Expectations:

This is the first standalone I’ve read from Monica Murphy in awhile. I’ve mostly been reading her series The Callahans and The College Years. But I knew that this was a particular passion project of hers and I love a good hate-to-love you romance so I was excited to start this.

The Concept:

I felt a little odd putting the genre type as “Erotica” in the same line as “Young Adult” but I feel like I need to include it so people know that they are expecting. This book is just plain steamy—and it would still be steamy even if the characters were older. There is a lot of sex and it is a long book so expect it to be pretty frequent. If reading about young adults having sex bothers you, don’t pick this up. I felt like this book was more reminiscent of Monica’s adult series The Fowler Sisters works than her YA/NA books in terms of sexual content.

The Plot:

I’ve attempted a few High School Bully Romances but this was the first one I really, really enjoyed. The angst, the passion, the chemistry — it’s all there and it is delicious. This is like a good teen soap opera if you ask me where you want the two leads to just get together already!

While some plot points were predictable, there are a few twists along the way to keep you interested. This book is super long page-count-wise but I never really got bored with it. Some of the plot points get a little lost I think at times (like the whole journal thing) but I think that’s because the story focuses more on the romance and passion. But I never really minded honestly, I was there for the romance.

The Characters:

Summer has to be the first heroine in this high-school-bully-romance trend that I’ve read who actually fights back and holds her ground. But she knows when to surrender and accepts that. I found she never waivered in her convictions and I really appreciated that. I struggled with some of her character background and how it was dealt with but I really did enjoy her character’s journey.

Whit: I think you love to hate him. We don’t get as many chapters from him which I think works to the story’s advantage. He’s a mysterious asshole but those brief glimpses we get inside his brain propel the story forward. He really does have the best character development of the two.

The Romance:

Like I said above, this is pretty steamy and not always in a vanilla way either. But I liked how we explored the submissive/dominate side of their relationship and seeing how that can evolve over time. A lot of the time in romances, those character traits are long established in one of our leads so it was an interesting dynamic seeing it blossom in both our leads and how they try to understand it.

I was really addicted to watching these two fall in love. They are the definition of forbidden romance, which makes it all the sweeter when they give in.

My Rating: 5/5

overall

If you are a fan of the high-school-bully romance and/or can accept the steamy sexual content, I think you’ll enjoy this. But if you struggle with sexual content in your YA/New Adult novels, look elsewhere. I’m hoping that there will be a spin-off at some point because I loved this world so much!

Read if You Like: steamy reads, forbidden romance
Avoid if You: dislike erotica

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Single Sundays: Me by Elton John

Single Sundays: Me by Elton John

Single Sundays: While this blog may be focused on reviewing book series as a whole, we can’t forget about the good ole’ standalone novel! On Sundays, I will review a novel that is considered to be a standalone novel. Here is this week’s offering:

Synopsis for Me (from Goodreads):

In his only official autobiography, music icon Elton John writes about his extraordinary life, which is also the subject of the film Rocketman.

Christened Reginald Dwight, he was a shy boy with Buddy Holly glasses who grew up in the London suburb of Pinner and dreamed of becoming a pop star. By the age of twenty-three, he was on his first tour of America, facing an astonished audience in his tight silver hotpants, bare legs and a T-shirt with ROCK AND ROLL emblazoned across it in sequins. Elton John had arrived and the music world would never be the same again.

His life has been full of drama, from the early rejection of his work with song-writing partner Bernie Taupin to spinning out of control as a chart-topping superstar; from half-heartedly trying to drown himself in his LA swimming pool to disco-dancing with the Queen; from friendships with John Lennon, Freddie Mercury and George Michael to setting up his AIDS Foundation. All the while, Elton was hiding a drug addiction that would grip him for over a decade.

In Me Elton also writes about getting clean and changing his life, about finding love with David Furnish and becoming a father.

breakdown

SERIESous’ Top Picks: 2020 Fav
Author: Elton John
Genre: Autobiography, Nonfiction
Heat Rating: N/A
Point of View: First Person, Single
Publication Date: October 15, 2019
Source & Format: Borrowed–Hardcover

thoughts

Why I Picked it Up / My Expectations:

Elton John is one of those timeless artists for me. I ADORE his music and it has always been on my bucket list to see him in concert.

When his film Rocketman was coming out, I told everyone at work about it. And one of my coworkers (who is also a fan) recommended I read his new autobiography, she lent me her copy and I dove right in.

The Concept:

When I watch autobiographical movies or movies based on historical events, I’m always fact checking everything immediately after I watch them. So finishing Rocketman was the perfect segway into this book.

Elton tells his story from when he was a wee boy, to his first big hit, to his struggles with success and all the way up into the present. In someways, it felt like the behind the scenes view of the movie with an extended epilogue.

The Writing:

I often struggle with autobiographical novels because they seem to be filled with endless ramblings of celebrity personal philosophies and I find that to be boring to read about. But not here!

This book just had a great flow to it. Elton explains everything so well, giving facts and adding his take on the events as they happened and reflecting on what they mean there. He has lived a fascinating life and it was amazing to learn more about the man himself and what was really happening behind the persona he played on stage.

Did it Impact My Life?

In a way, yes. It made me think about the costs of success and the struggles some people have had to face in their lives. It also just cemented the idea to me that Elton was a pioneer of his craft and one hell of a guy.

My Rating: 5/5

overall

This was an addicting read that I just couldn’t put down!

Read if You Like: autobiographies, Rocketman
Avoid if You: dislike nonfiction

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  • Home Work: A Memoir of My Hollywood Years by Julie Andrews

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Spin-Off Saturdays: Dirty Games Duet by Laurelin Paige

Spin-Off Saturdays: Dirty Games Duet by Laurelin Paige

Spin-off Saturdays: On Saturdays, I will review a series that is a spin-off series. It is recommended that you read the original series first in order to get the most out of the spin-off series. Here is this week’s offering:

Dirty Games Duet is a spin-off of the Dirty Duet

breakdown

SERIESous’ Top Picks: Favourite Author
Series: Dirty Games, Dirty Universe

This is a spinoff of the Dirty Duet Series.

Author: Laurelin Paige
# of Books: 2 (Full Reading Order Here) (Dirty Universe Reading Order)

There is a free prequel novella called Dirty Sexy Bastard

Book Order: Chronological
Complete?: Yes
Genre: Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Heat Rating: Hot
Point of View: First Person, Alternating
Publication Date: July 2018 – November 2018
Source & Format: Own–eBook

warning
WARNING: If you have not finished the original series, this review may have spoilers!

thoughts

My Expectations?

Ever since we were introduced to Weston and his arranged marriage predicament in Dirty Filthy Rich Men I was intrigued. All the little inklings about his relationship with Elizabeth had me super eager to get his story. So immediately after finishing that inaugural series, I dove into this one.

How Does It Compare To The Original?

Dirty Filthy Rich Men is a unique read. It’s a very dark contemporary romance and one that some people will struggle to get into if that isn’t their tastes. The Dirty Games Duet is much lighter in that regard.

Yes, these two have their baggage and burdens but their relationship isn’t as…twisted…as the previous one was. It’s much lighter and follows more of your typical “fake marriage to acheive something but oops, we fall in love” story.

Though if you know anything about Laurelin Paige, her books are never just anything books. There are a lot of layers to these characters and I found the situations they endure together to be refreshing as a frequent reader of contemporary romances.

Anything I Didn’t Like?

That I read them too fast? Seriously.

Reading Order for the Dirty Universe:

There is a full reading order on Paige’s website to guide you but you can definitely read each series on its own and in any order if one is not to your tastes.

If you want to read the books though in chronological order of events though, I would almost suggest:

  1. Dirty Filthy Rich Boys
  2. Dirty Sexy Bastard
  3. Dirty Filthy Rich Men & Dirty Sexy Player nearly simultaneously
  4. Dirty Filthy Rich Love
  5. Dirty Sexy Games

Series Rating: 5/5

[Dirty Sexy Bastard 5/5 ] | Dirty Sexy Player 5/5 | Dirty Sexy Games 5/5

overall

Fantastic chemistry with a refreshing contemporary plotline for a “fake” relationship trope story!

Read if You Like: fake marriages, strong heroines
Avoid if You: want erotica
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Synopsis for TITLE (from Goodreads):

 

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Series Review: Girl Meets Duke by Tessa Dare

Series Review: Girl Meets Duke by Tessa Dare

Series Review: Is this series worth your time? Does it get better as the novels progress? Or does it get worse? Find out below:

booksynopsis

Synopsis for The Duchess Deal (from Goodreads):

When girl meets Duke, their marriage breaks all the rules…

Since his return from war, the Duke of Ashbury’s to-do list has been short and anything but sweet: brooding, glowering, menacing London ne’er-do-wells by night. Now there’s a new item on the list. He needs an heir—which means he needs a wife. When Emma Gladstone, a vicar’s daughter turned seamstress, appears in his library wearing a wedding gown, he decides on the spot that she’ll do.

His terms are simple:
– They will be husband and wife by night only.
– No lights, no kissing.
– No questions about his battle scars.
– Last, and most importantly… Once she’s pregnant with his heir, they need never share a bed again.

But Emma is no pushover. She has a few rules of her own:
– They will have dinner together every evening.
– With conversation.
– And unlimited teasing.
– Last, and most importantly… Once she’s seen the man beneath the scars, he can’t stop her from falling in love…

breakdown

SERIESous’ Top Picks: Favourite Author
Series: Girl Meets Duke
Author: Tessa Dare
# of Books: 4 (Full Reading Order)
Book Order: Connected
Complete?: Book 4 to be released in February 2021
Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction, Romance
Heat Rating: Toasty
Point of View: Third Person, Alternating
Publication Dates: August 2017 – ongoing
Source & Format: Public Library–Audiobook

thoughts

Why I Picked it Up / My Expectations:

When I was in a historical romance phase, I discovered Tessa Dare and I’ve never looked back. Even though I don’t go out of my way to read much of the genre anymore (there are a few exceptions like Anna Harrington and Kelly Bowen), I make it a point to read anything Tessa Dare writes.

The Plot:

I’d read 14 other books by Tessa Dare by the time I started this series and you know what is shocking to me? That all her series and novels feel fresh and unique. Certainly, there are aspects to her novels that are her trademark–like the unconventional-to-society heroine or a scared hero or the way she can convey humour throughout–but I never truly feel like I’m reading a regurgitation of her previous novels or that they follow a set, formula.

I had a blast meeting all these new characters and watching all the hi-jinx they get into as they fall in love and challenge societal norms.

The Characters:

I immediately fell in love with ALL our leads in The Duchess Deal. When our heroine meets the future heroines in the series, I was so excited to see who was getting their story next that I definitely peeked at the synopsis for the rest of the series.

Everyone is just delightful. And I love how their individual struggles and growth are highlighted in their novels through the plot and romance.

The Romance:

The tension is so delicious in each novel! I couldn’t get enough of our couples–it made the books so addicting to read! But I really loved how the romances had a bit of a slow burn to them where they take their time to truly fall in love with the person and not just because they have insane physical chemistry.

My Audiobook Experience:

Humour doesn’t always come across in written novels for me–though that has never been a problem with Tessa’s novels–so audiobooks are a great way for me to get the humour because you hear the tone the author wants the dialogue to be delivered in. Now that I’ve started listening to her books in audio, I think that’s the only way I can enjoy them! They are just so easy and fun to listen to!

Series Rating: 5/5

The Duchess Deal 5/5 | The Governess Game 5/5 | The Wallflower Wager 4/5 | The Bride Bet TBD

overall

Honestly, this series reminded me why Tessa Dare has become an automatic must read author for me. She never fails to disappoint when it comes to characters, romance, plot and humour!

Read if You Like: historical fiction
Avoid if You: dislike historical fiction romances

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