Tara-Lee

Heart of Stone by JM Paquette was such an interesting book. I read a rockstar romance earlier this year so assumed I knew what I was in for l, but this book combined the coolness of touring and rock star life with the uniqueness of fae magic/lore and a slow burn (almost) why choose romance. The FMC Margot Tanner is an orphan. She is alap the stage manager of the rock band Stone Dragons, made up of her cousin and the other orphans taken in by her Aunt. She is agonized by the rock star lifestyle led by the lead singer/guitarist Ash Stonewall, who she has had a crush on since she was 15. That’s when the romantasy kicks in and she discovers she is a fae, while making out with a stranger (Tobin Fetch) and having her wings emerge. Turns out Tobin is much more than simply “the other guy” in the romance, he is Ash’s estranged brother who may have another agenda - beyond obsessing over Margot. Of course as soon as he shows up Ash becomes interested too. And if you thought that a love triangle wasn’t complicated (or fun) enough, there is the added intrigue of hidden identities, hidden motives and fae politics! I spent most of the book agonizingly thinking “Okay, but WHO am I supposed to pick?!” I genuinely liked both love interests and was divided about who Margot should end up with: Ash or Tobin. The book was awesome. Am excited to read book 2. If you do pick it up, be sure to check out the Hearts of Stone soundtrack (inspired by the book and “preformed” by the Stone Dragons) created by Black Hallow Choir and available on most streaming services. It was so cool to listen to while reading. So if you like: Rock stars + fae + hidden powers + complicated chemistry then check out this Romantasy!

Origins of a Queen by Kat Miranda was a great read. Left me wanting more, can’t wait to read book2! It has a unique take on the supernatural world and how it would function. The novel has classic paranormal ingredients, but placed into a larger supernatural kingdom. The kingdom’s history is fraught with conflict that has combined both werewolf and vampire societal structures, leaving the werewolves subservient to the vampires. All of the characters are intriguing! Selena the FMC was given to the royal court as an abandoned werewolf infant (past unknown) and has served them loyaly since the age of five. She has worked hard to achieve her position as the head of the Prince’s household. She is very reluctant to give up all she has worked so hard for,even though she has the opportunity to be with her forbidden fated mate. Her journey is as much about discovering her identity and worth as it is about the romance. I especially like the addition of her wolf having a distinct personality rather than simply being an extension of the shif. Lupa talks to Selena when not shifted. Lula has a fun personality and often differing opinions of her own. Dorian was mysterious, full of secrets and a sexy romantic interest. The romance is fun. Mixing elements of Romeo and Juliet (masquerade ball and forbidden love) with Cinderella (she is not supposed to be at the ball, runs a away and he searches for her) adds to the building tension of she knows but does he. It is a slow burn but has very satisfying spice. I especially loved that the minor characters are just as interesting to get to know as the main characters. Zoey brings confidence, sass, and “sister” like support. Jasper is funny and sly (in a supportive, sweet way). Can’t looked at what book two involves but I hope I see more of these two. All in all a satisfy g read that left me with loads of questions and wanting to read book two (thank goodness it’s already out!). So if you love unique world building +

Origins by GM Parrillo A unique story that I didn’t know I needed to read: the dark origin story for a badass female superhero. Scarlett’s grandmother is not only the Vecchio family mob boss, she is also a wolf shifter. This family’s dark legacy is passed onto Scarlet whose fated path is announced at her birth by a paw print birthmark. When tragedy strikes she becomes a red hood wearing, wolf-shifting, revenge seeking vigilante who turns superhero “the Scarlet Cowl.” Although not my usual romantasy this modern day fantasy does end with hints of a pretty steamy love interest. Can’t wait to see what happens next! If you enjoy stories with: snarky banter, mafia wars, lycan curses, twisted fairy tale elements, superheroes, and a strong female character who grows into hers own power, than this one is for you.

Legend of Mist and Blade: Arthurian-Inspired Portal Romantasy by AM Ross One of my favourite things about this book is that the main characters are older adults who have actually lived full lives already. They’ve had careers, romantic histories, and baggage by the time they find themselves exploring magic, adventure, and romance together. And honestly, I loved that. Give me more romantasy with older main characters (like me)! Besides, you gotta love an FMC (Gwen) who starts the book by saving the Knights of the Round Table—including Odin, her dream man and lifelong crush—from Fae attackers. Gwen, a small-town police officer, and her canine unit partner, Saxon, are thrust into an Arthurian world where she must fulfill her family’s centuries-old legacy. She’s the reluctant chosen one, and now she has to figure out her mystical powers while helping save Avalon from Mordred, the tyrannical ruler of the Fae. I really liked Gwen as a heroine. She’s capable, straightforward, and very much a “well, apparently I have to save the magical world now” kind of woman. Her relationship with Orin develops gradually, with plenty of yearning and emotional tension rather than insta love. Gwen’s take-charge personality plays really well against Orin’s more broody and guarded nature, and I enjoyed watching their relationship develop. And the audiobook deserves a shout-out! Kate Clover and Jarman Day did a phenomenal job. Kate really brought Gwen’s personality and strength to life, while Jarman absolutely nailed Orin’s broody, guarded vibe. Their narration added so much to the chemistry and emotional tension between the characters. If you enjoy Arthurian-inspired romantasy, portal fantasy, older main characters, reluctant chosen ones, Fae, slow-burn romance, magical adventures, war and lots of yearning, definitely give this one a try!

City of Poison and Shadows by AX Clarke is filled with flirty banter, snark and a cast of adorable, morally grey men and women: villains who mostly kill “the bad guys”. My fav character is Violet, a woman who volunteers with children but has a ramrod spine. She stutters when she is talking to hot men/woman (Bi), but tells off police detectives and villains alike. Reads dark romances, has sworn off dating and is her own superhero (saving herself by beating up muggers on the nightly). In the end she is way more than she seems! It is her origins story (IYKYK). I also adore that the love interest Aus is a supervillain who stays up all night with a kid dying of cancer, taking funny selfies and making ice/glass sculptures for her. His sister Eva describes his dream girl and it turns out it’s an exact description of Violet. He also loves Violet unconditionally: the good, the evil, and the average parts of her. It is a dark romance (on the light side), so expect some dark romance tropes, but makes fun of Violet’s love of dark romances. It takes place in a Northern Ontario (Canadian) city, so loved the references to all things Canadian!

Maledix by Hannah Calver has taken some time to read, to process, to absorb! I kept having to put it down out of fear I would rush through it and it would be over too quickly. This dark romance is intense, all consuming and exhilarating. The world building is intense, the characters electric and the spice is steamy. There is also some twisting of paranormal mythology that is incredibly fascinating. Luckily book 2 is in production so we won’t have to wait long to see what happens. If you like dark fantasy romance with gothic vibes, powerful chemistry, and a healthy amount of emotional damage, this one is worth checking out. 🖤 dark fantasy romance 🔥 demon king energy ⚔️ high stakes magic 🖤 dangerous devotion ✨ haunting worldbuilding ❤️ fierce heroine 👑 powerful chemistry 🌙 shadowy secrets

I am so excited to review S.Pedigo’s book Cosplay and Consequence (ARC). It has quickly become one of my favs. It is a “cosy” read, which like a fuzzy comfort sweater will be brought out again and again to soothe the frazzled nerves. It is heartwarming, sweet, funny, fun and incredibly HOT! The indie author S.Pedigo is infamous on tik tok as the hilarious and dry witted bagman (has a bag on his head). This same sense of humour is weaved throughout the book with its witty banter and nods to geek culture such as D&D, cosplay, comic con (à la The Big Bang Theory). Although these would definitely be enjoyed by self proclaimed geeks, the book is written in a way that is relevant to those of us who enjoy geek culture but are not fully immersed in it. It is set in an imperfect world with flawed characters who love themselves and their family (found & by blood) passionately and without reservation. The woman are strong, independent and self assured while the men are kind, supportive, and considerate. It is through the coming together of all the characters that the happy endings are achievable. The love story is reminiscent of one of those really great 80/90’s romcoms (think: 16 Candles, Bridget Jones’ Diary, 10 Things I Hate About You…). It starts off with a one night stand and mistaken identity. The two main characters are surprised by their developing feelings for each other and it is clear that they appreciation each other’s flaws, foibles and fabulousness. Based on his socials, the author would like you to know that the book is closed door (most of the spicy stuff is not explicitly stated), but this is not a problem as it is full of smexual tension and what is shared is steamy enough to not disappointed. And like any good geek culture phenom, justice is served: evil guys (who use and abuse others) get their just desserts and little guys (who carry the story) get rewarded. They say good authors write the books they want to read. I don’t need to write it, here it

Heart of Stone by JM Paquette was such an interesting book. I read a rockstar romance earlier this year so assumed I knew what I was in for l, but this book combined the coolness of touring and rock star life with the uniqueness of fae magic/lore and a slow burn (almost) why choose romance. The FMC Margot Tanner is an orphan. She is alap the stage manager of the rock band Stone Dragons, made up of her cousin and the other orphans taken in by her Aunt. She is agonized by the rock star lifestyle led by the lead singer/guitarist Ash Stonewall, who she has had a crush on since she was 15. That’s when the romantasy kicks in and she discovers she is a fae, while making out with a stranger (Tobin Fetch) and having her wings emerge. Turns out Tobin is much more than simply “the other guy” in the romance, he is Ash’s estranged brother who may have another agenda - beyond obsessing over Margot. Of course as soon as he shows up Ash becomes interested too. And if you thought that a love triangle wasn’t complicated (or fun) enough, there is the added intrigue of hidden identities, hidden motives and fae politics! I spent most of the book agonizingly thinking “Okay, but WHO am I supposed to pick?!” I genuinely liked both love interests and was divided about who Margot should end up with: Ash or Tobin. The book was awesome. Am excited to read book 2. If you do pick it up, be sure to check out the Hearts of Stone soundtrack (inspired by the book and “preformed” by the Stone Dragons) created by Black Hallow Choir and available on most streaming services. It was so cool to listen to while reading. So if you like: Rock stars + fae + hidden powers + complicated chemistry then check out this Romantasy!

Origins of a Queen by Kat Miranda was a great read. Left me wanting more, can’t wait to read book2! It has a unique take on the supernatural world and how it would function. The novel has classic paranormal ingredients, but placed into a larger supernatural kingdom. The kingdom’s history is fraught with conflict that has combined both werewolf and vampire societal structures, leaving the werewolves subservient to the vampires. All of the characters are intriguing! Selena the FMC was given to the royal court as an abandoned werewolf infant (past unknown) and has served them loyaly since the age of five. She has worked hard to achieve her position as the head of the Prince’s household. She is very reluctant to give up all she has worked so hard for,even though she has the opportunity to be with her forbidden fated mate. Her journey is as much about discovering her identity and worth as it is about the romance. I especially like the addition of her wolf having a distinct personality rather than simply being an extension of the shif. Lupa talks to Selena when not shifted. Lula has a fun personality and often differing opinions of her own. Dorian was mysterious, full of secrets and a sexy romantic interest. The romance is fun. Mixing elements of Romeo and Juliet (masquerade ball and forbidden love) with Cinderella (she is not supposed to be at the ball, runs a away and he searches for her) adds to the building tension of she knows but does he. It is a slow burn but has very satisfying spice. I especially loved that the minor characters are just as interesting to get to know as the main characters. Zoey brings confidence, sass, and “sister” like support. Jasper is funny and sly (in a supportive, sweet way). Can’t looked at what book two involves but I hope I see more of these two. All in all a satisfy g read that left me with loads of questions and wanting to read book two (thank goodness it’s already out!). So if you love unique world building +

Origins by GM Parrillo A unique story that I didn’t know I needed to read: the dark origin story for a badass female superhero. Scarlett’s grandmother is not only the Vecchio family mob boss, she is also a wolf shifter. This family’s dark legacy is passed onto Scarlet whose fated path is announced at her birth by a paw print birthmark. When tragedy strikes she becomes a red hood wearing, wolf-shifting, revenge seeking vigilante who turns superhero “the Scarlet Cowl.” Although not my usual romantasy this modern day fantasy does end with hints of a pretty steamy love interest. Can’t wait to see what happens next! If you enjoy stories with: snarky banter, mafia wars, lycan curses, twisted fairy tale elements, superheroes, and a strong female character who grows into hers own power, than this one is for you.

Legend of Mist and Blade: Arthurian-Inspired Portal Romantasy by AM Ross One of my favourite things about this book is that the main characters are older adults who have actually lived full lives already. They’ve had careers, romantic histories, and baggage by the time they find themselves exploring magic, adventure, and romance together. And honestly, I loved that. Give me more romantasy with older main characters (like me)! Besides, you gotta love an FMC (Gwen) who starts the book by saving the Knights of the Round Table—including Odin, her dream man and lifelong crush—from Fae attackers. Gwen, a small-town police officer, and her canine unit partner, Saxon, are thrust into an Arthurian world where she must fulfill her family’s centuries-old legacy. She’s the reluctant chosen one, and now she has to figure out her mystical powers while helping save Avalon from Mordred, the tyrannical ruler of the Fae. I really liked Gwen as a heroine. She’s capable, straightforward, and very much a “well, apparently I have to save the magical world now” kind of woman. Her relationship with Orin develops gradually, with plenty of yearning and emotional tension rather than insta love. Gwen’s take-charge personality plays really well against Orin’s more broody and guarded nature, and I enjoyed watching their relationship develop. And the audiobook deserves a shout-out! Kate Clover and Jarman Day did a phenomenal job. Kate really brought Gwen’s personality and strength to life, while Jarman absolutely nailed Orin’s broody, guarded vibe. Their narration added so much to the chemistry and emotional tension between the characters. If you enjoy Arthurian-inspired romantasy, portal fantasy, older main characters, reluctant chosen ones, Fae, slow-burn romance, magical adventures, war and lots of yearning, definitely give this one a try!

City of Poison and Shadows by AX Clarke is filled with flirty banter, snark and a cast of adorable, morally grey men and women: villains who mostly kill “the bad guys”. My fav character is Violet, a woman who volunteers with children but has a ramrod spine. She stutters when she is talking to hot men/woman (Bi), but tells off police detectives and villains alike. Reads dark romances, has sworn off dating and is her own superhero (saving herself by beating up muggers on the nightly). In the end she is way more than she seems! It is her origins story (IYKYK). I also adore that the love interest Aus is a supervillain who stays up all night with a kid dying of cancer, taking funny selfies and making ice/glass sculptures for her. His sister Eva describes his dream girl and it turns out it’s an exact description of Violet. He also loves Violet unconditionally: the good, the evil, and the average parts of her. It is a dark romance (on the light side), so expect some dark romance tropes, but makes fun of Violet’s love of dark romances. It takes place in a Northern Ontario (Canadian) city, so loved the references to all things Canadian!

Maledix by Hannah Calver has taken some time to read, to process, to absorb! I kept having to put it down out of fear I would rush through it and it would be over too quickly. This dark romance is intense, all consuming and exhilarating. The world building is intense, the characters electric and the spice is steamy. There is also some twisting of paranormal mythology that is incredibly fascinating. Luckily book 2 is in production so we won’t have to wait long to see what happens. If you like dark fantasy romance with gothic vibes, powerful chemistry, and a healthy amount of emotional damage, this one is worth checking out. 🖤 dark fantasy romance 🔥 demon king energy ⚔️ high stakes magic 🖤 dangerous devotion ✨ haunting worldbuilding ❤️ fierce heroine 👑 powerful chemistry 🌙 shadowy secrets

I am so excited to review S.Pedigo’s book Cosplay and Consequence (ARC). It has quickly become one of my favs. It is a “cosy” read, which like a fuzzy comfort sweater will be brought out again and again to soothe the frazzled nerves. It is heartwarming, sweet, funny, fun and incredibly HOT! The indie author S.Pedigo is infamous on tik tok as the hilarious and dry witted bagman (has a bag on his head). This same sense of humour is weaved throughout the book with its witty banter and nods to geek culture such as D&D, cosplay, comic con (à la The Big Bang Theory). Although these would definitely be enjoyed by self proclaimed geeks, the book is written in a way that is relevant to those of us who enjoy geek culture but are not fully immersed in it. It is set in an imperfect world with flawed characters who love themselves and their family (found & by blood) passionately and without reservation. The woman are strong, independent and self assured while the men are kind, supportive, and considerate. It is through the coming together of all the characters that the happy endings are achievable. The love story is reminiscent of one of those really great 80/90’s romcoms (think: 16 Candles, Bridget Jones’ Diary, 10 Things I Hate About You…). It starts off with a one night stand and mistaken identity. The two main characters are surprised by their developing feelings for each other and it is clear that they appreciation each other’s flaws, foibles and fabulousness. Based on his socials, the author would like you to know that the book is closed door (most of the spicy stuff is not explicitly stated), but this is not a problem as it is full of smexual tension and what is shared is steamy enough to not disappointed. And like any good geek culture phenom, justice is served: evil guys (who use and abuse others) get their just desserts and little guys (who carry the story) get rewarded. They say good authors write the books they want to read. I don’t need to write it, here it