About the Book:
Orphan. Slave. Drug dealer.
As a Demon-Owned human, in an Afterworld that literally has Hell and Heaven on Earth, I’m the lowest a being can be. My life is one of drudgery, degradation—and mortal danger. And that’s before I started dealing Angelescence. Unlike anything in existence, it’s a drug only I can produce, and everyone would kill for.
With decommission and execution closing in, I’m desperate to buy out my and my best friend’s Indentures. But upping my operations only gets me arrested, and my terrifying captor drags me to the Celestial Court—on a leash—to stand trial. My sentence?
Conscription to Celestial Academy.
As the most powerful nephilim in history, Godric is Heaven’s most ruthless soldier and assassin. And he’s been assigned with discovering the root of my unprecedented ability to capture Angel Essence.
We both hate our forced proximity—and each other. Especially since we’re seething with explosive emotions and cravings that neither of us ever thought to experience, and can’t possibly afford. Anything between us isn’t only forbidden, it’s disastrous. Potentially for all of existence.
But being embroiled in our passionate war becomes the least of our worries as he unearths even more terrible mysteries within me. Meanwhile, lethal trials loom at mid-term, and a devastating internal war as well as another Apocalypse are brewing…
…and I’m at the center of it all.
Are you a fan of Crescent City, The Mortal instruments and Zodiac Academy? Ever wished you found a book that merged their elements and magic?
Look no more! You have found your next book obsession!
One click now and dive into this binge-worthy, new-adult contemporary fantasy world, brimming with unforgettable characters, soul-searing enemies-to-lovers romance, agonizing slow-burn passion, edge-of-your-seat mystery and suspense—and apocalyptic stakes.
You will never want to leave.
The series is intended for mature readers 18 and above, for violence, language and explicit scenes.
Wen’s epic trials in the world of Celestials and Supernaturals continue in NULL, book 2 in the AFTERWORLD series.
My Thoughts:
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and here is my honest review.
I love reading fantasy fiction and the premise of this book drew me in. I liked the idea of supernaturals, angels, demons, magic all put together. The book started rather abruptly and it took me some time to understand what was happening. The setting of the book is a dystopian world that could do with a little more description, especially how this world came to be and the hierarchy of the people (both supernatural and human).
I did not easily connect with Wen, though I like that she was looking out for Sarah, her best friend and the one she considered family. I was not a huge fan of her snark nor did I enjoy reading about Godric as much as I would have liked. However, Lorcan, Jinny and some of the others more than made up for this.
The story did pick up about one-third in and started to get more interesting. This helped to read on and soon things started to make sense. Even though I was not a huge fan of Wen, I was interested in her story and origins. I wanted to know what would happen and the ending was a twist I didn’t see coming. I am looking forward to the next book in the series, NULL, and I hope that I get more answers to the background and characters.
About the Book:
She’s faking her way into the most exclusive social circles for revenge. But how long can her lies hold up? Seventeen-year-old Lydia Cornwallis has arrived on an exclusive Caribbean island populated only by the ultra-rich and their staff. The Harrington sisters rule the island, throwing lavish parties and treating everyone around them like toys for their amusement, and Lydia simply can’t wait to meet them. Because she’s not Lydia Cornwallis. And the Harringtons have hell to pay for what they’ve done. When a storm hits the island and all routes to the mainland are cut off, Lydia is given the perfect opportunity to exact her murderous revenge. With time running out and her identity about to be exposed, Lydia will need to draw on epic nerve, quicksilver adaptability, and sly cunning to carry out her deadly plans.
My Thoughts:
The story follows Lydia as she arrives on an island to spend time with an exclusively elite crowd. Little does anyone know that Lydia is not who she says she is and her main motive for all the lies is to take revenge on those responsible for her mother’s death. She has hatched a plan of revenge and she plans to execute the same.
The premise of the book was interesting enough for me to pick it up to read. However, I felt that the story was rushed and the suspense did not hold my attention as much as I had hoped. There was not enough of a development in the plot to ensure that the reader was invested in the plot or that they empathized with Lydia in any way.
Some parts of the story were good and this helped push the story along. However, the ending was also a bit of a let down and in the end, I felt that the purpose of Lydia’s plans and her need for revenge seemed childish and downright petty. This is a one time read for fans of YA mysteries and thrillers.
About the Book:
Set in 1960s California, this blockbuster debut is the hilarious, idiosyncratic and uplifting story of a female scientist whose career is constantly derailed by the idea that a woman’s place is in the home, only to find herself starring as the host of America’s most beloved TV cooking show. Elizabeth Zott is not your average woman. In fact Elizabeth Zott would be the first to point out that there is no such thing as an average woman. But it’s the 1960s and despite the fact that she is a scientist, her peers are very unscientific when it comes to equality. The only good thing to happen to her on the road to professional fulfillment is a run-in with her super-star colleague Calvin Evans (well, she stole his beakers.) The only man who ever treated her-and her ideas-as equal, Calvin is already a legend and Nobel nominee. He’s also awkward, kind and tenacious. Theirs is true chemistry. But as events are never as predictable as chemical reactions, three years later Elizabeth Zott is an unwed, single mother (did we mention it’s the early 60s??) and the star of America’s most beloved cooking show Supper at Six. Elizabeth’s singular approach to cooking (‘take one pint of H2O and add a pinch of sodium chloride’) and independent example are proving revolutionary. Because Elizabeth isn’t just teaching women how to cook, she’s teaching them how to change the status quo. Laugh-out-loud funny, shrewdly observant, and studded with a dazzling cast of supporting characters, Lessons in Chemistry is as original and vibrant as its protagonist.
My Thoughts:
Set in the 1960s, this is the story of Elizabeth Zott, a chemist by profession trying to navigate the world of research and study filled with men and very few women. This is one of the most original stories I have read about a woman in STEM and the difficulties faced to find her place and make a name.
All Elizabeth wanted to do was pursue her research. All the world wanted from her was to dress prettily and stay at home. Calvin Evans, already famous in the field and a Nobel nominee, was the only one who saw her for the brilliant chemist that she was. Calvin was drawn to her as much for her beauty as her mind seeing her as an equal from the moment they started talking.
Elizabeth Zott defied the odds and stood out, even when she ended up through various twists and turns as the host of a cooking show on afternoon TV with chemistry as the central focus. She teaches chemistry through cooking and through her dialogue, empowers women to see themselves as more than housewives.
This story is mixed with laughter, heartbreak and so many special moments that it draws the reader in right from the first page. The various supporting characters are wonderful and so well thought out that each of them have a very special part to play in taking this story forward. Elizabeth’s story would be wholly incomplete without Six-Thirty, her trusty dog, Harriet, her next door neighbour and even Walter Pine to name a few.
This is a wonderful story, written in a style that will keep the reader yearning for more, wanting to know what happens next and ensures that the reader is invested in the lives of the characters. Elizabeth is inspiring and refreshing as a protagonist and really made my fall in love with Lessons in Chemistry!
About the Book:
What would you do if things disappeared from your doorstep? Would you stand up to a King if you thought he was a crook? Have you ever wondered how your dog spent their free time? Meet Zoe the Fierce and her brand new BFFE Rita the Sane as they jump headlong into a world of mysteries. Along their adventures they add Alex the Brave to their enterprise. Little do they know though that Zoe’s dog Scruffy has a huuuuge secret! And it’s not just that his best friend is a M…! Are their cases dangerous? Do they solve them on time? What is Scruffy’s secret? And what on earth is a M…?
About the Author:
Mamathi Chari is a proactive humanist, storyteller and fact-seeker, a hugely popular and pioneering television host, actor and content producer from Tamil Nadu. She writes books for children and young adults under the name Maya Spark—the eternal child in her, living in a world of illusion.
My Thoughts:
The Making of Heroes: The Adventures of Zoe and Scruffy is truly a pleasure to read! I love reading children’s books, they’re usually fun and wonderful for light reading. This book has just the right amount of fun, adventure and small lessons weaved into the story.
I had the pleasure of meeting Mamathi Chari at the Bangalore LitFest. She is enthusiastic and full of life and this is reflected in her writing through her characters. Zoe is a delight to read about along with her friendship with Rita, her love for Scruffy and her budding investigative skills.
The story follows Zoe as she moves to a whole new country to live with her mother and focuses on how she settles down. She is observant and a huge fan of Nancy Drew which brings out her investigative skills, leading her to solve many small mysteries. The most delightful part of this story is indeed Scruffy and his secret! I cannot reveal what it is but I’m sure the little readers will be intrigued and will really enjoy this twist in the story.
Overall a truly enjoyable read, this book had me smiling throughout and I’m sure that children will enjoy it too! I am looking forward to picking up Book 2!
About the Book:
HASEA CHRONICLES BOOK IV
A world apart but united in their singular mission, the Guardians of Orion struggle for survival as they force their way across the brutal and unforgiving planet of Pandemonia.
Still tormented by the ever intensifying visions that plague his dreams, Alex is forced to endure his growing desperation and fear as his party continue their journey across the Dark Sea, led by the grizzled mercenary Zero and his band of misfits. At the same time, word of the Sorrowslayer spreads like wildfire across the world, shedding a final ray of light onto those who had already given up hope.
Meanwhile, Scarlett and her team of Guardians have found themselves caught in the clutches of the deranged Scorched Knight, Lilith. What she wants with them is unclear, but they know their only chance is escape…at whatever cost.
And hidden in the shadows something ancient stirs, waiting for everyone to play their part.
For the Rising is coming, and with it, the end of all things.
My Thoughts:
The Rising is Book 4 in the Chronicles of Hasea series and perhaps one of the darkest books in the series. The plot thickens in this book as Alex navigates the Dark Sea to find Gabriella and his father. The Guardians are forced to split up with Alex leading a few along with Zero and his band of misfits and Scarlet leading the rest.
The plot thickens in this book and pushes us towards a climax filled with sorrow and hope, betrayal and wonderment at the unexpected support received. Even though everything seems different in Pandemonia, so much is still relatable and the politics as well as woes of the residents are much the same as that on Earth.
I really like how the series started off quite simply in terms of the plot line but became darker and darker as the characters evolved and the plot thickened. It shows how much the author’s style of writing evolved in this journey with the characters. The reader follows the characters as they race against time, battling for survival. The story is fast-paced and intense with a few nail-biting moments that will keep the reader hooked and hoping for more.
The story ends on a high and of course paves the way for the final installment of the series. I truly loved this book, breezing through the series, through one book after the other and I am excited to read the last one. It is a bittersweet moment to realize that the series is almost at the end and I feel as though I have been through a lot with the characters, practically living a double life along-side them.
This series is a wonderful read in the fantasy fiction genre is definitely one of my favourite this year! Yes! I loved all the four books in the series and I cannot wait to know how the story concludes for everyone involved!
About the Book:
Renata is a determined woman: she’s left her abusive fiancé, Damien, moved back to her hometown, and is determined to be the writer she once was and that she’d promised her father she would be before he died. To accomplish this, she’s signed up for a writing conference out of town and gotten a new job at a local café with the friendly Fern, upbeat Caroline, and observant Chad, who welcome her into their friendship group.
Things become complicated, however, when Renata discovers that Chad returns her affection and they begin dating, even as she weaves in lies about her past. As their relationship develops, and she gets closer to finding the words that used to come so freely to her, Renata realizes she can’t continue to let Chad believe things that aren’t true, even if that means the end of their relationship. Despite her concerns, however, coming clean only creates a stronger bond between them.
But that bond will be tested when Damien returns unexpectedly, determined that Renata will leave Chad for him. Will Chad and Renata be able to weather the ways in which Damien’s appearance shakes the foundations of their life together? Or will echoes of Renata’s past irreparably damage their future?
My Thoughts:
I am grateful to NetGalley, Josha Publishing and author Katherine Turner for approving my request to read the eARC of this book.
Trigger warnings: physical and sexual violence in a domestic setting.
This is a story of survival, learning to love yourself and standing up for yourself. Renata has finally moved out of an abusive relationship and is determined to start over in the town where she grew up and has fond memories with her father. On her own, she is focused on trying to get back into the career she loved while finding a job to support herself. The people she meets along the way add to her journey of healing and provide an understanding and loving circle.
I fell in love with the characters, one by one, as they were introduced. This story is very character centric and the connections between the characters and their bonds drive this story forward. The story will take the reader on an emotional journey as we unravel everything Renata has dealt with, how the past is affecting her present, how she sees herself and how she works towards healing herself. Everything Renata has been through will resonate with the reader, but I believe that her journey after shows her strength and determination, proving that she is not a victim but a survivor.
This was indeed an emotional read for me, but I enjoyed every page and every moment spent with the characters. Caroline was a delight and I loved how she drew Renata out of her shell, supporting her but being quite candid in her opinions and advice. The best part of this story is the bond among the characters and the found family that Renata gains as a result. This is the best support she has and it helps to build her back up. Her second chance at love also adds to the story and is pivotal to helping her find herself. Chad is a wonderful character and indeed someone we would love to read about.
The style of writing ensures that the reader is hooked and invested in Renata’s journey. There is also a lot to learn from this journey and some messages for the reader that are delivered in a simple manner through the character interactions and journey. Overall I really enjoyed reading this book and the way in which it was written and strongly recommend it to all who enjoy a good romance read!
About the Book:
What if you came face to face with the king of the gods?
Phones stop working. Smartwatches die out. Arms start glowing with blue scars.
And training begins the very next day for Aman Chandra and ten other Souls of Samsara, who are kidnapped from modern-day India and transported to a hidden valley in the Himalayas. In this realm of magic, home to Hindu gods, immortal yogis and mythical beasts, the mission is clear for the Souls of Samsara: to learn the ancient art of yogic sorcery and prepare within one year for a treacherous journey not many can survive.
But why must they go on this journey? And how are the gods connected to it all?
Before they get any answers, the Souls of Samsara realize that there is a larger scheme at play. The king of the gods has passed a controversial order. And Aman must make a tough decision that will change not just his life but the fate of an entire nation . . .
My Thoughts:
Samsara: Enter the Valley of the Gods is currently one of the most talked about books. This is a well-written YA, mythological fiction that will draw the reader into a world unlike the one we know today. The author has created a whole new world around the gods where ten souls are brought to a valley hidden in the Himalayas and trained for one year to take on a very specific journey.
The story introduces us to a myriad of characters some of whom are very interesting. Initially, it took me some time to get into the story and to understand what was happening. However, as the story progressed, I was hooked. The writing is simple to follow and the world building was very well done. The author brought to us a world where children who live in the modern world today are brought to a hidden location where everything is different. They have no contact with the outside world, their phones and other modern technology do not work and the only thing they can do is follow instruction, learn and try to get along with one another.
The author handles these different characters very well and ensures to reveal each one’s past to us as the story progresses. We are not hit with a boatload of information right from the start, but there is a gradual progression and the reader is eased into the whole journey along with the characters. There is adventure, some action and a strong focus on character dynamics. Friendships are built and bonds are forged in this journey as they learn to work together.
While all this in play, Aman has the most interesting and startling revelation from the king of the gods himself and battles within himself to figure out what to do. His interactions and dynamics with the teachers as well as the other Souls of Samsara shaped the story and brought out different qualities in him and the others. What I enjoyed the most was the suspense regarding the final journey or task that they are preparing for. The author ensures to give us glimpses into the past as the story progresses and drops enough hints regarding this perilous journey to keep us reading on. The most unexpected twist comes in towards the end paving the way for the next book which I am absolutely looking forward to reading.
I strongly recommend this book for all those who enjoy YA fiction, fantasy and mythological fiction set against the backdrop of the Himalayas.
About the Book:
Before It Ends with Us, it started with Atlas. Colleen Hoover tells fan favorite Atlas’s side of the story and shares what comes next in this long-anticipated sequel to the “glorious and touching” (USA TODAY) #1 New York Times bestseller It Ends with Us.
Lily and her ex-husband, Ryle, have just settled into a civil coparenting rhythm when she suddenly bumps into her first love, Atlas, again. After nearly two years separated, she is elated that for once, time is on their side, and she immediately says yes when Atlas asks her on a date.
But her excitement is quickly hampered by the knowledge that, though they are no longer married, Ryle is still very much a part of her life—and Atlas Corrigan is the one man he will hate being in his ex-wife and daughter’s life.
Switching between the perspectives of Lily and Atlas, It Starts with Us picks up right where the epilogue for the “gripping, pulse-pounding” (Sarah Pekkanen, author of Perfect Neighbors) bestselling phenomenon It Ends with Us left off. Revealing more about Atlas’s past and following Lily as she embraces a second chance at true love while navigating a jealous ex-husband, it proves that “no one delivers an emotional read like Colleen Hoover” (Anna Todd, New York Times bestselling author).
My Thoughts:
I have recently become a fan of Collen Hoover’s books and style of writing. Her books always have a strong theme and plot that takes the reader on an emotional roller-coaster until the very end. I read It Starts with Us as a standalone, even though the author herself recommends that we read It Ends with Us first. I was pleasantly surprised to find that I could follow the story and fall in love with the characters just as easily in this book.
It Starts with Us pulled me in completely from the first page. I absolutely loved reading about Lily and Atlas, getting to know them through Atlas’ point of view and understanding them better through this story. A lot has happened in the first book which is referred to in this book as well since this one starts off where the first finished. This book seeks to provide closure to all fans of Lily and Atlas as we follow their journey and for those who were always shipping them, this book is indeed a treat!
“Imagine all the people you meet in your life. There are so many. They come in like waves, trickling in and out with the tide. Some waves are much bigger and make more of an impact than others. Sometimes the waves bring with them things from deep in the bottom of the sea and they leave those things tossed onto the shore. Imprints against the grains of sand that prove the waves had once been there, long after the tide recedes.”
This paragraph from the book is one of many that stayed with me and has such profound meaning. I would read this story all over again just to enjoy the journey along with the characters again. Even though I was introduced to them only in this book, all the characters played an important role in leading the story to conclusion.
I most definitely enjoyed this book and devoured it in a day. I highly recommend this book and the first one (which I will definitely get around to reading soon) for all fans of second chance romances and YA or new adult fiction.
About the Book:
Avery’s fortune, life, and loves are on the line in the game that everyone will be talking about.
To inherit billions, all Avery Kylie Grambs has to do is survive a few more weeks living in Hawthorne House. The paparazzi are dogging her every step. Financial pressures are building. Danger is a fact of life. And the only thing getting Avery through it all is the Hawthorne brothers. Her life is intertwined with theirs. She knows their secrets, and they know her.
But as the clock ticks down to the moment when Avery will become the richest teenager on the planet, trouble arrives in the form of a visitor who needs her help—and whose presence in Hawthorne House could change everything. It soon becomes clear that there is one last puzzle to solve, and Avery and the Hawthorne brothers are drawn into a dangerous game against an unknown and powerful player.
Secrets upon secrets. Riddles upon riddles. In this game, there are hearts and lives at stake—and there is nothing more Hawthorne than winning.
My Thoughts:
The Final Gambit is the final book in the Inheritance Games trilogy. I devoured this series, reading each book successively and when the third released, I was sure that I had to read it. In short, I absolutely loved the premise of the series, the characters and the entire plot.
This book picks up right where the second one ended. Avery is on the verge of inheriting a fortune and she still has a few more weeks of living with the Hawthorne brothers left. I love how the characters have grown over the books and the sense of belonging Avery feels among the brothers. Their acceptance of her and the bonds they share with her are also wonderful to read about and to be honest, it did not happen instantly. In this book, the author throws us a curve ball, because why not? 😀
There are a few new characters introduced and a plot twist that the readers just don’t see coming. It is definitely not that easy for Avery and it has not been since day 1. However, a lot of secrets come to light and many questions are clarified in this amazing conclusion to this series! The book draws you in just like the previous ones and it is UNPUTDOWNABLE!
It is worth the time spent reading and trust me, you will love getting to know the characters whether they are good, bad or fall into the grey area. It just doesn’t matter as they all play an important role in driving the plot forward as well as shaping each other. To understand one is to understand all of them! I highly recommend this series to everyone!
My Thoughts:
I am a huge huge huge fan of Shatrujeet Nath’s books and writing. Having read all his books based on Indian Mythology, I knew I had to read this book which was the first book he had written. A huge thank you to the Writersmelon team as well for providing a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
The Karachi Deception is an international espionage thriller filled with mystery and intrigue and a plot that is full of twists and turns. I loved reading this book and was hooked right from the beginning. In short, the story follows three commandos as they enter Pakistan to eliminate one of the most dreaded underworld dons. As they navigate their way, follow the plan established, they seem to meet roadblocks at every stage. With secrets being kept among the superiors, no clarity on whom to trust and too many parties in play, the reader is in for a roller coaster ride.
The story is fast paced and the characters are well thought out. I really appreciate how the author has handled all the various characters, there are so many of them and each one has an important role to play whether it is big or small. Every one of the characters contributes something which makes the plot stronger and the storyline believable. As our main protagonists set out to do the impossible task set out in front of them, we are giving a glimpse into the minds of the characters and how each one thinks. The reasons behind the decisions taken and how every web of lies has some ounce of truth in it is intriguing.
Overall I loved this book and am happy that my first read of 2023 was a 5 star read! I highly recommend this book to all!