Author: Bunny

Spark Of The Everflame | Book Review

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About The Book
Healer Diem Bellator dreams of escaping her village, ruled by tyrannical god-offspring. Her mother’s disappearance reveals a dangerous secret, thrusting Diem into a world of royalty. She’s caught in her mother’s mysteries and a civil war. The king’s heir watches Diem closely, while rebels seek her alliance. Diem must navigate love, power, and politics to protect her family and humanity.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/4lTsVnN

My Rating

This book went from indie publishing to a traditional publishing deal thanks to its BookTok fame. The story centers on Diem Bellator in a realm ruled by the children of Gods. Despite being a skilled healer who always follows the rules, her family’s life has been disrupted since her mother’s disappearance. In the book, Diem finds out her mom had secrets, and some could be about her. This book has magic, adventure, and a slow-burn romance.

I loved every character, even the ones I didn’t like, because they were all important to the story. But I loved Diem the most! She was a powerful female character, but showed she had soft moments and insecurities. Another thing I loved was her amazing relationship with her brother and how brave she was, always helping others, even if it was dangerous.

The romance in this book is another story altogether! I wouldn’t call this a love triangle, even with two romantic interests, because Diem’s chemistry with one is obvious, and I’m rooting for them. I haven’t read a truly great enemies-to-lovers/he falls first story in a long time, but this one was amazing! Normally I don’t like slow burn romances, but this one worked great.

“It’s not the worst thing to break a little every now and then. It builds character.”

The book was so immersive, I loved it from start to finish. Even though the ending was kinda predictable, it was still shocking and sets up the next book perfectly. My only problem was that the world was a little hard to grasp at first. I needed to reread the first few chapters a couple of times to fully understand the universe. Don’t worry though, as the book progresses and we discover more about the Gods and the world, it becomes easier to understand.

Overall, I gave this a solid five-star rating! I loved that book and will definitely recommend it to others. If you like fantasy books with some romance, give this one a try! If you aren’t a fan of spicy books, you’ll be relieved to know this one is pretty clean. I wouldn’t say that it’s a closed-door romance, but more like a cracked-door romance.

Let me know in the comments if you’ve read this book. However, please avoid any spoilers in your comments. Like and share this post so others see it! Join my mailing list before you go so you don’t miss out on new posts!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

What Lies In The Woods | Book Review

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About The Book
As children, Naomi, Cassidy, and Olivia believed in magic. Then one summer, Naomi suffered a brutal attack but survived. She and her friends identified the attacker, leading to the capture and prosecution of a serial killer. But the girls are hiding something. Years later, all grown up, Naomi must confront the truth about what happened in the woods.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/42c2XE4

My Rating

My expectations were sky-high for this book because of the rave reviews and the author’s popularity in the mystery/thriller genre, leading me to anticipate a five-star read. Though the synopsis included many elements I usually enjoy, I almost gave up on the book, which is disappointing.

Naomi, the story’s protagonist, survived a brutal attack over twenty years ago while exploring the woods with her two best friends. Now, years later and with her assailant dead, Naomi doubts her own memories. The story felt like a true crime vibe, reminding me of similar incidents I’ve heard about over the years (i.e. the Slender Man stabbing).

The mystery is kinda cliché, a past secret revealed years later. I’m not complaining, but common plots need twists, otherwise they’re predictable. And, sadly, it was as predictable as could be. I saw the ending coming a mile away, so the book was a bit of a letdown.

“Nothing good comes from digging up old trouble.”

Since I’ve read a ton of mystery/thriller books, it’s pretty hard to surprise me, so I’m not usually bummed when I figure out the ending. But, honestly, this book was boring. Though it pains me to admit, I had to push myself to finish. I found the first 75% of the book to be slow and uninteresting. I’m a sucker for unreliable narrators, but this book’s writing just didn’t grab me.

Overall, I thought the story was weak, the characters blah, and the ending disappointing. If you’re into mysteries/thrillers like me, skip this book. Honestly, I don’t get the hype, and I wouldn’t suggest it. Despite this, I may give the author another opportunity in the future.

Do you think this book is as good as everyone says? Comment below! Don’t forget to like and share this post! Sign up for my mailing list (in the sidebar) so you don’t miss new posts!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Business Casual | Book Review

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About The Book
Nova doesn’t want love, especially not with Charlie. But despite her resistance, she’s drawn to him. So, Nova proposes a one-night stand to stop their distracting attraction. That night changes everything, making it impossible to avoid each other. Especially since Charlie wants to prove their chemistry goes beyond a single hookup.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/3EmywBQ

My Rating

I hadn’t been a huge fan of the Lovelight Farms series, so I went into the last book with some apprehension. It’s a series of love stories, all in the same small town, but each book happens in a different season. However, characters from the previous books appear in this story.

This story centers around Charlie and Nova. Charlie is Stella’s half-brother, and Stella owns Lovelight Farms. Nova is Beckett’s younger sister, and Beckett is a farmhand at Lovelight Farms. In the books, we really get to know Charlie well. He’s portrayed as this fun-loving, always-positive New York businessman.

Nova had, at most, a minor role in the rest of the books. I wondered why the author picked her as the female lead, but I liked her character, nonetheless. It was fun learning about her, since we knew rather little about her background or her true personality. I also liked that she was a tattoo artist, it’s a profession I’m fascinated by. It was fun getting to know a new character, and seeing more of ones I already knew. I just want to say, their romance was adorable.

“She looks like she could eat me alive. I fucking love it.”

Their relationship started out light and fun, but their connection was obvious from the beginning. I loved watching them change and grow throughout the story. I thought the character development in this book was superb. Plus, it totally showed how scary and tough it is to fall for someone, and to trust them completely.

My favorite thing about the book? Charlie! I loved how the story showed him figuring out what he wanted out of life. He seemed so lost and without a sense of belonging, which made me feel sorry for him. It’s a romance, but it’s so much more than that. It’s about family, too! One important theme is that there are people who love you, even if you’re not aware of it, because home is not only a place but also the individuals with whom you choose to spend your life.

Overall, the only thing I didn’t like about the book was the writing style. It didn’t grab me as much as I wish it did. It was okay, but I didn’t get super hooked. Also, to me, the spicy scenes were just okay, but I can see why some people would consider them steamy. Still, I loved Nova and Charlie together, and the story was, overall, great!

Comment below if you’ve checked out any of the Lovelight Farms books. Liking and sharing this post helps my blog a ton! You can also help it grow by signing up for my mailing list.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Killer Instinct | Book Review

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About The Book
Cassie Hobbes and her friends are part of The Naturals, an elite FBI teen program. Investigation of a copycat serial killer, mirroring Dean’s imprisoned father, becomes the Naturals’ next case. The team faces dark truths and deadly games. They need to beat a clever copycat to survive.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/3XLzcHw

My Rating

If you like young adult mysteries, you’ve probably heard of Jennifer Lynn Barnes’s ‘The Naturals’ series. I was so excited to start the second book after finishing the first one. Though not disappointing, the plot of this book lacked a certain something. The teen FBI team of Cassie, Michael, Lia, Dean, and Sloane are back in this book, though now with stricter supervision following the first book’s events.

This time, the storyline centers on Dean’s character. Cassie’s still the main character, but Dean’s way more important in this book. But I gotta say, I really didn’t like Cassie in this book. Compared to the first book, she was less likable and compelling.

I didn’t find this mystery as captivating as the first book. While I stayed interested the whole time, it felt a bit too predictable. I know it’s hard to make each YA mystery book unique, but this one was too much like the first one. They even had similar endings. Still, the characters developed more, particularly Dean; his background’s really interesting.

“It’s not the bad memories that tear a person apart. It’s the good ones.”

The romantic love triangle subplot is resolved in this book. The outcome was disappointingly unsurprising. I kinda wished the author went a different way, but that’s just me. I get why they went with the obvious choice, but I was hoping for something unexpected.

Overall, I can’t wait to see what happens next; the characters and fast-paced plots keep me coming back. Although, I’ll lower my expectations a bit for the next book, but I’m still excited to see where the series is headed and what’s next for these characters.

Drop a comment if you love YA mystery books. Feel free to share this post with other bookworms and give it a like! Want to make me smile? Join my mailing list before you go.

Until The Next Chapter,

Bunny

Coachella 2025 | Book Recommedations

- Bunny Leave a comment

Hi Friends,
If you’re a music fan like me, you know Coachella 2025 starts April 11th! Sadly, I won’t be there, and I suspect other readers like me won’t either. However, I thought I’d share some books where music plays a major role in honor of the event. This list includes both books I’ve read and books on my to-read list.

Buy The Book

Olivia’s been through a lot of heartbreaks, but this time she’s decided no more crushes. Her ideal escape? A weekend of music, art, and friendship at Farmland Festival, free from drama. Toni’s starting college soon and is nervous about the future, hoping the festival will help her feel closer to her dad, who passed away. Upon meeting, the two girls decide that joining forces is their best bet for a great weekend. With the music playing, maybe Olivia and Toni will discover all they really need is each other.
Related Post: You Should See Me In A Crown | Book Review

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Saturday, the wildly popular boy band, includes eighteen-year-olds Ruben Montez and Zach Knight. The pressure of keeping his sexuality secret weighs heavily on Ruben, leading him to open up to Zach, despite their public image as teen idols. Throughout their European tour, their friendship grows into more. The more their relationship develops, the more they long to live openly. But, revealing their true selves could mean losing everything, forcing them to question whether love is worth the risk.
Related Post: If This Gets Out | Book Review

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Following a difficult family history, country music’s Annie Mathers has avoided the spotlight and romantic entanglements. Clay Coolidge, a troubled superstar, faces being dropped by his label unless he convinces her to join his summer tour. Charmed by Clay, Annie agrees, and they quickly become a fan favorite both on and off stage. Worried about repeating her parents’ mistakes, Annie doubts the future of their relationship. However, Clay’s vulnerability and struggles make leaving difficult for her. The question is whether love and music can heal their broken hearts.
Related Post: You’d Be Mine | Book Review

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In the late 1960s Los Angeles, Daisy, a young woman, pursues her dream of singing at the Whisky a Go Go, sneaking into clubs along the way. Sex and drugs may be part of the backdrop, but her real passion is rock and roll. The pressures of sudden fame and becoming a father unexpectedly are weighing heavily on Billy Dunne, the lead singer of The Six. Seeing the potential for a legendary collaboration, the producer wants to pair Daisy and Billy. A whirlwind of music, fame, and unforgettable moments follow, transforming the band into legends.
Related Post: Daisy Jones And The Six | Book Review

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Alix Summerlin, a college senior, anticipates a weekend filled with music and fun at the Garlic Groove Music Festival with her friends. Yet, a deadly secret is concealed within the small town of Allium Valley. People at the festival are vanishing, and a mysterious stranger, Kade, warns Alix to escape before it’s too late. To survive the monstrous attack on their town, Alix forges an uneasy alliance with her ex, Logan, and the intriguing Kade. Secrets are emerging, danger is imminent, and Alix must choose who to trust, and quickly.

These books should help with that Coachella FOMO. Let me know in the comments whether or not you’re going to Coachella this year. Also, if you know any other books about music or festivals, let me know! To stay updated on all my bookish content, sign up for my mailing list.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

The Labyrinth Of Lost And Found | Book Review

- Bunny Leave a comment

About The Book
Eleven-year-old Benjamiah prefers science and logic over magic. Then a magic doll pulls him into another world. The realm is filled with mysterious magi and a Minotaur. Benjamiah joins Elizabella to solve her brother’s disappearance. The journey is dangerous, and soon they must escape the labyrinth or risk being lost forever.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/4je4fE8

My Rating

I found this story imaginative and amazing. I’m not usually a fan of middle-grade books, but this one was awesome. The characters, plot, and world were all fantastic. There’s so much to this story, it’s hard to even explain. The book’s about Benjamiah Creek, a young boy who ends up in the magical land of Wreathenwold. He’s soon off on a wild, crazy adventure across the land with Elizabeth, who’s determined to find her brother, no matter what.

The characters Benjamiah and Elizabeth were likeable and well-developed. While their youth showed throughout the story, they never seemed immature. They were determined and strong, formed an incredible friendship. I adored seeing their relationship deepen as they embarked on a crazy adventure together.

I’m being completely serious when I say this plot was intense. Throughout the entire book, I found myself emotionally invested in the two characters. I really wanted things to go well for them, but sometimes it felt like they were always unlucky. I got so emotional listening to the audiobook that I had to pause it. Didn’t see that coming!

“Love is the very highest form of courage.”

The ending was so good; I wanted more! That author did an amazing job of creating this magical world. It wasn’t a perfect ending, but it answered a lot, particularly how Benjamiah wound up in Wreathenwold.

Overall, I absolutely loved this book! But, it might not be for younger readers. I’m an adult, and I still found parts of the story confusing because of its complexity. I would classify it as more of an upper middle-grade book. Though it’s long for a middle-grade novel, I’m still deeply invested in this series. I am so excited to read the sequel and discover what new adventure awaits these characters.

Do you have this book on your TBR? Let me know in the comments! Show your support by liking and sharing this post. Check out the audiobook on Everand! My link (click here) gets you a free trial. Don’t forget to sign up for my mailing list to help support my blog!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

One Year At Ellsmere | Book Review

- Bunny Leave a comment

About The Book
Winning a scholarship to the esteemed Ellsmere Academy, studious thirteen-year-old Juniper anticipates a perfect academic environment. However, life at Ellsmere is less than perfect; she’s considered a “special project,” the school’s queen bee is trying to sabotage her, and there are rumors of a mythical beast living nearby.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/4i851Si

My Rating

This graphic novel was way better than I expected, especially since I didn’t know anything about it. Set in a boarding school, it follows Jun, a scholarship student, as she adapts to her new environment. The story really centers on Jun and her sweet and supportive roommate Cassie; their friendship is the best part.

This story explores bullying, empathy, and the value of real friends. Jun’s experiences at Elsmere Academy highlight the importance of being true to yourself and confronting bullies, which I think can really appeal to younger readers.

“I’m here to learn, not make friends.”

I finished it quickly, but it could’ve used more depth. Although beautiful, the artwork wasn’t unique or particularly memorable compared to other graphic novels I’ve read. Still, it has a satisfying ending that wraps everything up cleverly.

Overall, while well-written, the story’s themes and style may resonate most with middle-grade readers. A few personal preferences aside, it effectively conveys a heartwarming tale of courage and friendship. While this book wasn’t for me, I enjoyed reading it, and I think my younger self would have loved the plot.

Please like and comment on this post if you enjoy my book reviews. Subscribe to the blog’s mailing list (in the sidebar) to be alerted of new posts.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Starling House | Book Review

- Bunny Leave a comment

About The Book
Starling House has captivated Opal since childhood. The chance to work there and create a brighter future for her brother was an offer she couldn’t decline. The closer Opal gets to Arthur, the owner of the house, the more she uncovers about Starling House’s dark history and her hometown’s hidden secrets.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/446rZ8S

My Rating

I expected this book to be a gripping gothic magical paranormal tale. Unfortunately, the book was quite slow and not engaging. The book description sounded great, but the story itself was boring. The book’s about Opal and her years-long obsession with the mysterious Starling House and what’s hidden inside.

Opal’s character, and the book’s slow pace, were my biggest problems. I wasn’t interested in her numerous family and personal issues. It was supposed to be a creepy Gothic story, but it only sort of was.

I would say that my issue isn’t fully with the book, but with the plot not meeting my expectations. I thought it would be more of a fantasy, but it wasn’t. However, the book did have some good points, such as Opal’s bond with her brother.

“I figure dreams are like stray cats, which go away if I quit feeding them.”

The romance in this book felt forced, and out of place. I didn’t see a spark between Opal and Arthur. I would have liked it better without the romance, which is saying something, because I usually love romance stories.

Overall, the last five chapters were the best part. That’s when things really got interesting. I didn’t think Starling House’s backstory would be so intense and dark. That being said, I still wasn’t a fan of the story, but everyone’s different. If the book sounded at all interesting to you, then give it a read.

If you have read anything else by this author that you think I might like, please let me know. The audiobook for this title can be found on Everand, if you’re interested. My link (click here) will give you a free trial of the service. Your email signup is a huge help in getting my blog seen and growing, so please sign up!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

April 2025 | Indie Book Releases

- Bunny 1 Comment

Hi Friends,
Let’s discuss some indie April book releases! I’m passionate about indie books because not enough people talk about the awesome self-published books out there. But don’t worry, I’ve got this! Get ready to find some new indie books to add to your TBR. I’m so hyped for these indie April releases!

Awakening by J. Ross (April 1st)
The Northern Kingdom sought to destroy Rydell, and Adanya sacrificed herself to stop them. Her spell was meant to put her in a coma for months, but she awakens seventy years later to find her kingdom gone. The betrayer who doomed her now rules with dangerous magic, and she must join forces with the descendants of those she once loved. To defeat him, Adanya must unlock her own power—and find the courage to face someone who once meant everything to her.

The ABCs of You & Me by Megan McSpadden (April 1st)
Sophie Hore is eager for a fresh start as a school social worker, but her first day takes an unexpected turn when she runs into Foster, her childhood crush and best friend’s brother. Foster loves his job as an educational assistant, but seeing Sophie again stirs long-buried feelings. When Sophie needs a date for an alumni event, Foster agrees on the condition that she pretends to be his girlfriend at a barbecue to dodge his matchmaking friends. Their deal quickly spirals into a series of creative “friend dates” through the alphabet, blurring the lines between pretend and reality.

A Taste For Lies by LC Whitehouse (April 8th)
The best lies are mostly true, and Alora knows the Guild’s Ten Rules of Spy Craft better than anyone. But when she is caught by the terrifying yet alluring beast prince, he surprises her by recruiting her for an impossible heist to steal from his own father, the king. As their dangerous mission unfolds, forbidden attraction ignites and blurs the lines between allies and enemies. Now, Alora must decide if she can trust the beast prince or if his promises are just beautifully crafted lies.

Cuddle Like You Mean It by Shea West (April 8th)
Staley is great at her job, and with her dad’s medical bills piling up, she takes every cuddle client she can. Realizing she’s one class short of her degree only adds to her stress, and she definitely doesn’t have time for a charming TA. Theo, a quiet poet and reluctant TA, keeps his confidence hidden behind sonnet critiques and a secret side job. But when a hungover Theo accidentally books Staley for a cuddle session, their connection deepens, forcing them to decide if their story deserves another stanza or should remain unwritten.

If Love Could Kill by Riva Frye (April 22nd)
Gwen thought she’d escaped her dark past when she started a new life in the Carolinas, but danger was never far behind. When she meets Cole, a widowed father, they share an undeniable connection, but both carry hidden secrets. As their relationship grows, Gwen uncovers shocking truths about Cole’s past that shatter everything she believed. Now, she must untangle a web of lies and betrayal before it’s too late.

Everything You Are by Brittney Lauren (April 24th)
Abby, tired of failed relationships, finds herself in a tough situation with nowhere to turn until her reclusive neighbor, Kaiser, unexpectedly comes to her rescue. She’s torn between accepting his kindness and questioning if her growing feelings are one-sided. Kaiser, who despises chaos, can’t help but step in when Abby’s in trouble, even though he’s spent years keeping his distance. As they grow closer, both struggle with their feelings, wondering if they can overcome their barriers and find something real together.

Drop some indie book recs in the comments! Show your support by liking and sharing this post. Sign up for my mailing list so you don’t miss new posts!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

April 2025 | To Be Read

- Bunny Leave a comment

Hi Friends,
Today’s post is my April TBR! March was a great reading month for me, and I’m back on track with my reading goal. I chose 8 reading prompts for April to push myself to read tons of books. I’ve got a good mix of books for my April TBR, and I’m finally going to read some that I’ve been avoiding!

Buy The Book: You, With A View by Jessica Joyce

Buy The Book: Half A Soul by Olivia Atwater

Buy The Book: Apprentice To The Villain by Hannah Nicole Maehrer

Buy The Book: Binding 13 by Chloe Walsh

Buy The Book: The Mystery Writer by Sulari Gentill

Buy The Book: The House In The Pines by Ana Reyes

Buy The Book: Heartless Hunter by Kristen Ciccarelli

Buy The Book: Beg, Borrow, or Steal by Sarah Adams
Related Post: When In Rome | Book Review

So that’s what I’m reading in April! Let me know in the comments if you’ve read any of these books. I would love to know your spoiler free thoughts. Stay up-to-date on all my new posts by signing up for my email list!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny