Beach Read | Book Review

About The Book
Augustus Everett, a literary fiction author, and January Andrews, a romance writer, are polar opposites. They end up as neighbors in beach houses, both struggling with writer’s block. To shake things up, they make a deal: Augustus will write a happy story, and January will attempt a serious novel. As they explore each other’s worlds, they vow not to fall in love—though that might be inevitable.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/3YOSmOa

My Rating


I’d heard so much about ‘Beach Read’ by Emily Henry before picking it up, and it’s easy to see why it’s one of her most popular books. I initially thought it was an enemies-to-lovers story, but it’s more of an opposites-attract situation, which was a pleasant surprise.

What really caught me off guard was the depth of the main character, January. I went into the book expecting a light and fluffy rom-com, but her struggles added an unexpected heaviness to the story. These layers made her character much more relatable and interesting to follow.

The interactions between January and Augustus, the male lead, were a highlight for me. Their chemistry felt genuine, not just driven by witty banter, which made their connection feel authentic. Their agreement to write books in each other’s genres was a fun twist, and I loved their research outings together. You could feel their attraction build gradually, rather than being an instant connection, which made it even more satisfying.

I appreciated how the characters learned to open up to each other while still dealing with their personal issues independently. This gave their relationship a healthy dynamic, avoiding the trap of a rebound or grief-driven romance. I also liked how they pushed each other out of their comfort zones, not just in their writing but in their personal growth.

“People were complicated. They weren’t math problems; they were collections of feelings and decisions and dumb luck.”

The only part that left me conflicted was how January’s issues with her dad were resolved. While I didn’t dislike the direction it took, I wasn’t a fan of it either. That said, I understand it was a complicated and messy situation, so I get that it isn’t something that can be easily resolved. However, it didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment of the story.

The writing was fantastic, and I’m realizing that I might just be an Emily Henry fan. While her style isn’t necessarily groundbreaking, it’s impressive to learn that she didn’t even consider herself a romance writer when she wrote this book. Knowing she primarily wrote young adult books before this showcases just how talented she is.

Overall, I can see why this book gets so much hype, and for once, I actually agree with it. I know—shocker! If you’re looking for a fun romance that still touches on deeper topics, this is a great pick. It’s the perfect beach read—pun intended—that you can easily devour in a day. Also, if I had to rate this book on a spice scale, I would say it’s probably a 2 out of 5, so the sexy scenes aren’t that intense.

In the comments, let me know if you’ve read this book or if it’s on your TBR. Don’t forget to share this post with other book lovers. And if you enjoy bookish content, click the follow button so you never miss a post!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Daughter Of The Siren Queen | Book Review

About The Book
Alosa has recovered all three pieces of a legendary treasure map and holds the pirates who captured her as prisoners. First mate Riden, still attractive and loyal, is now under her orders. Vordan, the villain, will soon face her father’s justice. However, Vordan reveals a secret about her father, leading Alosa and her crew into a deadly race against the Pirate King. Confident in her abilities, Alosa is determined to recover the treasure first as the daughter of the Siren Queen.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/4dxfMM1

My Rating


I am confused about my feelings regarding this book. I enjoyed the writing and the story as a whole, but I didn’t love the main protagonist, Alosa, as much as I did in the first book. I had such high hopes for this book, as I liked the first one a lot. However, there was something about the way Alosa was portrayed in this book that didn’t work for me.

Alosa felt more heartless somehow, but I do feel like she was probably as fierce in the first book, and it just didn’t bother me as much. She came across as morally grey, and a bit of a hypocrite. She would call others out for being cruel and having agendas, but I can’t help but feel she’s the pot calling the kettle black. She felt so enraged, but I do understand that her upbringing and backstory have a lot to do with her personality and actions.

Besides her character flaws, the romance wasn’t as compelling this time around. I wanted to feel the same connection between Alosa and her love interest, Riden, that I did in the first book. Sadly, it wasn’t there. Still, this could just be due to my distaste for Alosa, and not a fault of the story, because I did really like Riden as a love interest.

“I braved the ocean for you. Will you brave land for your queen?”

Despite my issues with Alosa’s character, I did find the plot fairly interesting, and Tricia Levenseller’s books are very easy to get through. They aren’t too complex, and are very fast-paced. I find that she has a wonderful storytelling ability that helps immerse you in the story and characters. But I did find that once I put the book down, I would forget where I was in the story, so it isn’t a book that left a lasting impression on me.

Overall, the ending was nicely done, and I did come to tolerate Alosa’s character. There were some sad moments, but I don’t feel like I connected enough with all the characters to actually care for them. Still, it was a good conclusion, and it read like the final book in a duology. I believe that is what the author had originally intended before turning this into a trilogy.

In the comments, let me know if you enjoy pirate or siren stories. The audiobook can be read on Everand. If you are interested in the service, use my link (click here) to get a free trial. Don’t forget to like and share this post with other book lovers. If you enjoy book reviews, give my blog a follow before you go.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

2024 Mid Year Calm Down | Book Tag

Hi Friends,
I recently did the “Mid-Year Book Freakout” book tag, which is a very popular tag that circulates in the book community every year around this time. However, I noticed that a new mid-year book tag has been created, and it focuses on peacefulness. So, I thought it might be fun to try this tag as well. The tag was created by Leandra The TBR Zero on YouTube.



Honestly, this year has brought me the most amazing bookish friends and community. Although I’ve been part of the book community for years, this is the first time I’ve truly felt integrated into it. It’s made my heart so happy.



‘Anne of Green Gables: A Graphic Novel,’ adapted by Mariah Marsden and illustrated by Brenna Thummler, was such a pleasant, easy read. The beautiful illustrations made the book stand out, and I can now understand why it is considered a classic.
Related Post: Anne Of Green Gables | Book Review



I’d choose ‘How To Plot A Payback’ by Melissa Ferguson, an ARC I was fortunate to receive via NetGalley. This refreshing and clean workplace romance was a pleasant surprise—I enjoyed it much more than I expected.
Related Post: How To Plot A Payback | Book Review



The Naturals‘ by Jennifer Lynn Barnes really energized me. The plot is incredibly engaging, and the book is such a fast read.



I’m choosing Chloe Gong because I finally finished her ‘These Violent Delights’ duology. I had forgotten how good her writing is and can’t wait to read more of her work.
Related Post: These Violent Delights | Book Review



I read ‘Flawless’ by Elsie Silver, a cowboy romance—definitely not a genre I usually pick up. I’m still unsure about this series, but I’m excited to explore the Elsie Silver fandom and see what all the hype is about.
Related Post: Flawless | Book Review



I’ve discovered that I’m really into magical realism and am fully embracing my romantasy era. Those are the two biggest changes I’ve noticed in my reading habits this year.



I want to stop starting multiple books at once. I used to be the type of reader who would finish one book before starting another, but now I’m juggling about five books at the same time. This is a habit I’m eager to break.



I’m not aware of any upcoming bookish events as I’m not attending any. However, I’m very excited about ‘Nothing Like the Movies‘ by Lynn Painter, the sequel to ‘Better Than the Movies,’ which is coming out later this year. I’m envious of those who have received ARCs of the book.
Related Post: Better Than the Movies | Book Review


I prefer to keep personal goals private, but related to books, I’m aiming to visit new bookstores and shop at more indie bookshops.


That’s it for my answers to this fun new tag! I’d love to hear from fellow bloggers—feel free to leave your answers in the comments below. And don’t forget to show my blog some love by following it.

Until the Next Chapter,
Bunny

The Unmaking Of June Farrow | Book Review

About The Book
In Jasper, North Carolina, June Farrow, haunted by her family’s curse and her mother’s mysterious disappearance, starts experiencing strange visions and a mysterious door. Determined to end the curse, she discovers cryptic clues after her grandmother’s death, leading her to the door she thought was a hallucination. Crossing the threshold, June embarks on a journey that changes her past and future, uncovers her town’s secrets, and entangles her in an epic love story.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/3WK9EdB

My Rating


From the get-go, this novel had me hooked with its fast-paced storytelling and intriguing mix of magical realism and mystery. It’s not often you come across a book that combines these elements so seamlessly, but this one does it brilliantly. If you’re a fan of Hallmark’s “The Way Home,” you’ll definitely get similar vibes from this book.

From the start, this novel grabbed my attention with its fast-paced story and interesting mix of magical realism and mystery. It’s rare to find a book that blends these elements so well, but this one nails it. If you like Hallmark’s “The Way Home,” you’ll definitely get those vibes from this book.

What pulled me in was the character-driven plot. We follow June Farrow, who’s dealing with her grandmother’s recent passing while trying to solve the mystery of her mother’s disappearance. Plus, there’s a weird illness affecting her family that makes her question her sanity. It might sound like a lot, but the story flows really well and never feels messy or overwhelming.

June Farrow is such a relatable character. She’s dealing with a lot of stress and uncertainty, yet she stays composed and focused. Personally, I can’t imagine staying as calm as she does, especially when faced with traveling to the past and uncovering hidden family secrets. Her journey through these crazy events is both inspiring and engaging, keeping me hooked from beginning to end.

“The curse on the Farrows had broken the natural laws of the world, and with it had come so much suffering. But in this, there’d been the most unexpected of gifts.”

One of the things I loved most about this book is its originality. It’s hard to find a story that feels so fresh and unique, especially in the magical realism and time travel genres. This novel keeps you guessing with twists and turns you won’t see coming. It’s a total original, and I couldn’t get enough of the fascinating elements throughout the story.

The writing style is another highlight. It’s beautifully written without being too fancy or slow. The prose flows smoothly, making it easy to get lost in the story. Each chapter moves the narrative forward, ensuring there are no dull moments. This makes it perfect for those who might find other literary fiction books a bit too slow-paced.

My only complaint about the book was the ending, which was a bit confusing to me. However, I think it’s hard to create a satisfying conclusion when the story deals with time travel. I struggled to understand how it all came together and the reasoning behind the Farrow family’s secret ability. Still, that might be more of a me problem than an issue with the story.

Overall, this is a fantastic read that I couldn’t put down. It’s a story that will stick with me for years, thanks to its well-developed characters, imaginative plot, and beautiful writing. If you’re looking for a book that’s both gripping and original, I highly recommend giving this one a try. It’s definitely worth your time.

I’d love to hear your thoughts if you’ve read this book, so please share in the comments! By liking and sharing this post, you’re helping my blog grow and reach more readers. Don’t forget to follow the blog to stay updated on all my bookish content!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Anne Of Green Gables | Book Review

About The Book
L.M. Montgomery’s classic is reimagined in a whimsically-illustrated graphic novel. Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert adopt 11-year-old Anne Shirley, who brings delightful trouble to Green Gables. With her flame-red hair and unstoppable imagination, Anne’s misadventures bring romance and excitement to everyone she meets. Anne’s story transforms everyday moments into extraordinary experiences for her friends, including Diana Barry, Mrs. Lynde, and Gilbert Blythe.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/3WfI8TY

My Rating


Before reading the graphic novel, I had never read the original ‘Anne of Green Gables’ story by Lucy Maud Montgomery. However, I knew my mother loved one of the TV show adaptations. As I started the book, I had no idea about the plot, except that it followed a young girl named Anne and that Green Gables was her home.

I chose the graphic novel version by Mariah Marsden because it seemed like an easier read and the artwork is amazing. The story follows orphan Anne, who is fostered by a brother and sister. Surprisingly, I learned that her guardians were siblings, as I had always assumed Anne lived with her grandparents.

“Its strange to love a place like you would a person, but I do!”

I loved how the brother and sister, despite originally intending to foster a boy, fell in love with Anne and her bold personality. She truly completed their little family. The book’s wholesome and fun narrative makes it easy to see why people consider it a classic.

Overall, the ending was both sad and sweet, leaving a lasting impression on me. I found it to be a quick and cute fun story that both kids and adults would like. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and am now excited to watch some of the adaptations to see how they compare.

In the comments, let me know if you have read ‘Anne of Green Gables’ or seen any of the adaptations. Don’t forget to hit the follow button before you leave so you never miss a post.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Asking For A Friend | Book Review

About The Book
Juliana Zhao, confident in her expertise on love and her chance to win the Asian Americans in Business Competition, is forced to team up with her frenemy, Garrett Tsai, after her partner drops her. As they clash over their dating advice column, Juliana starts questioning her priorities and the sacrifices she’s made. With the competition intensifying, she must decide if winning is worth it.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/3y90Apd

My Rating


*I want to thank the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book. However, please know that my reviews are 100% honest and reflect my own thoughts.*

This is an interesting book to explain because it is so much more than a romance and even a love advice column as the synopsis suggests. That isn’t a bad thing, but there are many layers to the story. It dives deep into the complexities of family expectations, personal growth, and the cultural pressures faced by its characters. To me, this multi-faceted approach makes the book stand out in the crowded YA genre.

The main protagonist, Julianna, is always trying to live up to her mother’s high expectations and standards. She tries not to make waves like her older, disowned sister Bella, or her younger sister Hattie, who isn’t shy about questioning their mother. Her goal is to win the Asian Americans in Business Competition started by her deceased father, get into an Ivy League school, and become a success. This relentless pursuit of perfection adds a lot of tension and depth to her character.

I loved how Julianna’s thoughts and plans evolved throughout the book. Her character development was remarkable. Her relationship with Garrett, her former childhood friend, was especially touching because they both understood each other, despite their different struggles. Their reconnection felt genuine, and you could see them growing from friends into something more.

“I wanted the days when I didn’t even know what it was to think of the future.”

This book really focuses on Taiwanese culture and the type of pressure that, I assume, many Asian children have put on them. However, it was nice that the author showcased that not all Asian families hold their children to such high standards and let them make their own choices without judgment. This gave a clearer and more detailed view of cultural expectations.

The writing in this book was a pleasant surprise because, for a YA novel, it didn’t feel too juvenile. In my opinion, the story was well thought out, and there were no moments when the characters seemed immature. The reasoning behind Julianna and Garrett’s falling out was very realistic and understandable, which I appreciated.

Overall, I was surprised by the heavier and sadder parts of the plot. I expected the book to focus more on the advice column, but it turned out to be about following your own advice and figuring out what you want from life. I think many teens, especially those in the Asian community, can relate to this story. I also love a story with an epilogue, and this one wrapped things up nicely.

In the comments, let me know if this book is on your TBR and whether you think you give good advice. Don’t forget to like and share this post with others. As always, please hit the follow button before you go.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Flawless | Book Review

About The Book
The rules were simple: keep my hands off my agent’s daughter and stay out of trouble. Now, I’m stuck with her as my “full-time supervision” to clean up my image after a scandal. But Summer isn’t just a babysitter—she sees the real me and doesn’t run away. She insists on boundaries to protect her heart and my reputation, but I’m determined to steal her heart anyway.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/3SirK3I

My Rating


This is the first book in the Chestnut Springs series, an adult romance series of interconnected standalone novels. The series is also a favorite among KU readers. I believe all the books are set in the same small town and are cowboy romances. In this one, we get Summer and Rhett’s love story. With all the hype surrounding these books, I was expecting more.

I’m not exactly sure how to classify the tropes for this book, so we’ll go with workplace romance and good girl/bad boy. Rhett, a successful bull rider, is having a PR crisis, and Summer, his agent’s daughter, is essentially tasked with babysitting him for a few weeks.

Summer is a daddy’s girl who doesn’t love her job but feels like she owes it to her father to work for him. She has a complicated relationship with her stepmother and half-sister, while Rhett is close to his brothers, nephew and dad. It was awesome to watch him interact with his family because of how close they all were.

“You wear the hat, you ride the cowboy.”

Unfortunately, unlike many people, I wasn’t a fan of the storyline in this book or the couple. Summer was decent enough, but I felt like her romance with Rhett was very insta-lovey. Rhett wasn’t my favorite male protagonist because he could be self-centered at times. He would do everything he wanted under the pretense that he was doing it in the best interest of the people he loved.

I’ve learned that I’m not into the “touch her and you die” type of masculinity, which was definitely the kind of relationship Summer and Rhett had. Also, the smutty scenes in this book were very cringey. I don’t know what the author was thinking with some of her phrasing, and as someone who enjoys spice, these scenes were, to put it nicely, poorly written. However, I will say that the book is probably a 3.5 out of 5 on the spice scale, and the sexual scenes are very detailed.

Overall, this book wasn’t something I truly enjoyed. But Elsie Silver does have a great writing style, spicy scenes aside. I found the book to be extremely bingeable, and with this book introducing you to the main characters from the other books, I am very excited to read their stories. I am particularly interested in learning more about Winter, who is Summer’s half-sister. Although I don’t think this book is anything special, I will be continuing the series.

In the comments, let me know if the books get better as the series goes on. Don’t forget to like and share this post with other readers. Before you go, give the blog a follow so that I know you enjoy this type of content.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

The Last Time I Lied | Book Review

About The Book
Fifteen years after her friends vanished at Camp Nightingale, Emma, now an artist still haunted by their disappearance, is invited back to the camp as an instructor. Despite her fears, she returns to the camp, finding it eerily unchanged except for a new security camera outside her former cabin. As she uncovers clues about her friends’ disappearance, Emma risks everything for the truth, facing potentially deadly consequences.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/3SgRAVR

My Rating


‘The Last Time I Lied’ by Riley Sager is a book that had me hooked right from the start. The plot instantly kicks off and grabs your attention. We follow our main character, Emma, who is haunted by an event that took place fifteen years ago at Camp Nightingale. Her three older cabin mates went missing, but Emma has some secrets of her own—things she still feels guilty about today.

The plot revolves not only around the mystery of what happened to Emma’s three cabin mates but also Emma’s mission to gain answers and closure when the owner of the camp invites her back to be the art teacher for the camp’s reopening. I wouldn’t say that Emma is an unreliable narrator, but she was a teenager when all of this took place, so her memory isn’t the best.

One of my biggest problems with the book—and probably the only issue I had with it—was Emma’s character. I felt as if she still acted like she was 13. She wasn’t a very savvy protagonist. Also, the fact that she still had somewhat of a crush on Theo, the camp owner’s son, years later was a little weird. But nothing like your first crush who you accused of murder, right?

“Everything is a game, Em. Whether you know it or not. Which means that sometimes a lie is more than just a lie. Sometimes it’s the only way to win.”

The summertime vibes were definitely on point in this book, and it really gave me that chilling summer mystery feel. For me, it was more of a mystery than a thriller. It definitely isn’t a book that’s going to keep you up at night, but I did enjoy the dual timeline where we get chapters of the past, seeing Emma’s relationships with her cabin mates, especially Vivian, who is the alpha female of the group.

The thing that I think Riley Sager does best is shocking twists. Most of the time, I feel like their books are going to be four stars, but by the end chapter, I am left completely shocked and have to add an extra half star. They write these mysteries where I have no clue where the story is going, and I don’t even try to guess.

Overall, this was such a fun summer mystery thriller that I think a lot of readers will enjoy. I can safely say that Riley Sager has not only become one of my favorite authors, but they are now an auto-buy author for me. I will absolutely read any book they release.

In the comments, let me know if you have read any books by Riley Sager. If you are a fan of mystery, thriller, or horror books, hit the follow button so that you never miss a post.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Weather Girl | Book Review

About The Book
TV meteorologist Ari Abrams and sports reporter Russell Barringer team up to reunite their divorced bosses. As their plan unfolds, unexpected chemistry develops between them, forcing Ari to confront whether Russell can truly accept all parts of her.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/4ckeLqz

My Rating


As someone who’s been weather-obsessed since I was a teen, a romance about a TV meteorologist sounded perfect for me. However, this book wasn’t quite what I expected. The story moved slower than I anticipated, and it dealt with heavier topics than your typical romantic comedy.

The main character, Ari, is shy and had a tough childhood. She has clinical depression but tries to hide it with a super sunny and optimistic attitude, which is both sweet and heartbreaking. Watching her handle her inner struggles while keeping up her cheerful front gave her character more depth, which I really appreciated.

The romance in the book revolves around Ari, the meteorologist, and Russell, the sports reporter. It kicks off with them plotting to “Parent Trap” their bosses to fix their toxic workplace. Even though the setup was unique, it was obvious from the start that Ari and Russell liked each other. Their mutual attraction was clear, making it a bit frustrating but also relatable that they didn’t see each other’s feelings right away.

“Weather connects us. A shared experience, even when we aren’t in the same place.”

The romance between Ari and Russell was super cute. Their personal struggles made the main conflict feel very real. I liked Solomon’s writing style, but the plot and romance weren’t anything special. The story was predictable but still enjoyable—it just didn’t stick with me like some other romance novels.

What really stood out in the book was how it handled depression. Solomon did a great job showing what living with depression is like and how it’s always present. The raw, heartfelt conversations between Ari and her mom about depression were especially moving and added a lot of emotional depth to the story.

Overall, this is a nice, easy romance read. The plot might be a bit bland for some, but it’s fun and touching. There are a few spicy moments, so it’s not entirely closed-door, but nothing too intense. I’m glad I read it, though I don’t think it will stick with me long term.

Let me know in the comments what your favorite type of weather is! I’m a snow day kind of girl—there’s nothing better than cozying up with a cup of hot coffee and a good book while the snow falls. And before you leave, hit the follow button so you never miss a post!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Happy Place | Book Review

About The Book
Harriet and Wyn, once the perfect couple, now navigate their unspoken breakup during their annual Maine getaway with friends. They pretend everything’s fine as they share a cottage soon to be sold, concealing their lingering desire for each other. Amid cheese, wine, and coastal air, they play the role of ‘happy couple’ to spare their friends’ feelings. Can they maintain the facade for a final week among those who know them best?
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/4eHcmHV

My Rating


I dove into this book with high expectations. Despite hearing mixed reviews, I had a feeling I’d love it—and I did. This is surprising since second chance romances usually aren’t my thing, but this one hooked me completely. Honestly, I don’t know what it was about this story but I was wholeheartedly invested in it.

The story centers on Harriet and Wyn, college sweethearts who broke off their engagement six months ago. They’re forced to pretend they’re still together on a trip with their college friends. What follows is a love story that’s both romantic and heartbreaking, and it had me in tears more than once.

But the romance is just one part of this amazing book. It also explores themes of friendship and growing up. We see a close-knit group of friends who, instead of growing apart, are simply growing up. As they transition out of their twenties and start new chapters in their lives, each one faces the future while striving to maintain the strong friendships and family they have built.

“Love means constantly saying you’re sorry, and then doing better.”

The book shows that friendships don’t have to disappear but can change as life changes. Harriet always talks about her “Happy Place,” this little cottage in Maine where the book takes place. But as her character develops throughout the book, she realizes that happiness isn’t a place—it’s the people you’re with.

The characters, especially Harriet and Wyn, felt so real. Their relationship issues were portrayed authentically, and I could feel their heartache. Harriet’s complicated feelings about love, influenced by her family, made their story even more touching. Wyn’s struggles with depression were crucial to their relationship story. I loved how the author emphasized that love doesn’t have to be perfect because flawed love and people are the most precious.

Overall, this book truly resonated with me. It might not appeal to everyone, especially if you’re in your teens or early twenties, but as someone in my thirties, it really struck a chord. It helped me appreciate my own relationships more and kept me engaged until the final page. This is how you nail a second chance romance. Just a heads-up: you might need some tissues handy while you’re reading it.

If you’ve read this book, let me know what you think in the comments. Don’t forget to like and share this post, and follow the blog so you never miss an update!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny