Author: Rese

I started two other books, which I ended up tossing back on my TBR, before I found this little treasure. For some weird reason, I just couldn’t get into a book, pulled in all sorts of directions by distractions, until I grabbed an Ali Hazelwood book because, honestly, you just can’t go wrong with her fun stories. Her books are such a blast; they’re packed with awesome banter and good vibes that really lift me up. Not in Love totally hit all the right notes. The witty banter had me cracking up, the unexpected love story made my heart do a little happy dance, and let’s not forget Tiny – the cutest dog ever who brought so much extra charm to the story. Who can resist a furry friend as a sidekick, right? It was such a fun read, totally immersing me in the characters’ feelings and wild adventures. I absolutely loved Eli and Rue’s love story, cheering for them the whole way through, and now I’m super excited for the follow-up books featuring the other colorful characters in their world, just dying to see how their stories shake out and connect in such cool ways.

BOOK 123 OF 2025📚

NOT IN LOVE

By: Ali Hazelwood

STAR RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

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First, let me express that I dove into this book with no preconceived notions. All I knew was that Keri Lake crafted it, and her writing captivates my soul. And, can we talk about the cover? It’s absolutely mesmerizing! Yes, I’m judging a book by its cover, and I don’t care who knows it! I didn’t even glance at the summary because I crave the thrill of surprise. I plunged in with a clean slate, just the way I adore beginning a new literary adventure. From the very start, I felt echoes of Phantom of the Opera. I can’t quite explain it, but perhaps it was the mysterious MMC with his scarred face, the reclusive nature, and a fondness for the piano that sent my imagination spiraling. It’s truly enchanting! The story unfolds beautifully, revealing two individuals who have endured profound traumas, transforming them into something extraordinary. Through their bond, they find solace, learning to trust and love each other fiercely. I found every page brimming with intrigue and suspense, woven with the perfect amount of romance. Keri Lake never fails to deliver magic!

BOOK 122 OF 2025📚

MASTER OF SALT & BONE

By: Keri Lake

STAR RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

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Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall is an absolute masterpiece that captivated me from the very first line: “The farmer is dead, he is dead and all anyone wants to know is who killed him.” The suspense builds, and you won’t uncover the truth until nearly 80% into the tale, leading you on an exhilarating journey filled with unexpected twists about the murderer. This book masterfully weaves through time, deepening the narrative and allowing readers to intimately connect with the characters and their intricate relationships. It powerfully illustrates how a single decision can ripple through lives, showcasing the weight of regret and the struggle to appreciate what is right in front of us. When faced with a chance at redemption, the question lingers: will you seize it, or will you let the past remain behind and forge ahead? This is truly a thought-provoking work that will linger in my mind for a long time to come—a definitive must-read!

BOOK 121 OF 2025📚

BROKEN COUNTRY

By: Clare Leslie Hall

STAR RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

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First off, this book should have kicked off the series—seriously, how did that oversight happen? In Knot So Lucky, you meet the irresistible men who play a pivotal role in Tangled in Tinsel as Samantha’s steamy boyfriends. Yes, it’s a reverse harem, and trust me, you want to dive into this one first. Trilina Pucci knows exactly how to write a scandalous tale that’ll make your heart race. The men are drop-dead gorgeous, the kind who worship their woman both in and out of the sheets—if you catch my drift. Trilina excels at crafting unforgettable characters, and the witty exchanges between Samantha and Eleanor are downright side-splitting. I docked a star for a bit too much smut; maybe I hit my limit? Don’t get me wrong, I adore a good steamy scene, just in moderation. I crave more plot alongside the heat. Regardless, it was one heck of a ride!

BOOK 120 OF 2025📚

TANGLED IN TINSEL

By: Trilina Pucci

STAR RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

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After devouring Trilina Pucci last book, I was swept away by an irresistible urge to dive headfirst into her second masterpiece, Three Ways to Mend a Broken Heart. While it’s not a direct continuation—each story stands brilliantly on its own—the beloved characters return to the forefront, setting my heart ablaze with anticipation. This dazzling tale centers on Millie, Eleanor’s best friend, alongside the charming duo, TJ and Nate. It’s utterly mesmerizing! Bursting with laughter and sizzling chemistry, it captures the true spirit of a perfect rom-com. And yes, it does feature a tantalizing touch of smut, but believe me, it only enriches the narrative rather than diverting attention from it.

BOOK 119 OF 2025📚

THREE WAYS TO MEND A BROKEN HEART

By: Trilina Pucci

STAR RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

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I craved a seriously intense mind reset after the last book, and Knot So Lucky by Trilina Pucci hit the spot perfectly. Once again, @tierney.reads nailed it with her recommendation. This rom-com is dripping with enough smut to make your heart race. Seriously, the playful banter between Eleanor and Crew had me in stitches. And the tweedles? What more can I say? It’s an absolutely delectable read that leaves you wanting more.

BOOK 118 OF 2025📚

KNOT SO LUCKY

By: Trilina Pucci

STAR RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

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Never have I wished for a story to conclude as fervently as I did with A Curse Curved in Bone by Danielle L. Jensen. At times, it felt like pure torture reading it, yet my determination to finish was unshakeable. I fully understood what I was diving into; several friends had forewarned me, but curiosity compelled me to experience it for myself. I awarded it 3 stars for its exquisite writing, the captivating world-building, and that plot twist that blindsided me—I genuinely believed it held the potential for a 5-star rating. But then there was Freya. Ugh! She drained every last drop of enjoyment from the narrative. It wasn’t until the final 20 to 25 percent that she finally redeemed herself, but by then, trust was a distant memory. Hadn’t she led me astray before? If I had the chance to go back, would I willingly embark on this series again? Absolutely! It was worth every moment of anguish. And before anyone criticizes me, let me clarify: I adore strong female characters; it was just her pettiness, rudeness, hatred, righteousness, and condescending attitude that felt like relentless overkill.

BOOK 117 OF 2025📚

A CURSE CARVED IN BONE

By: Danielle L. Jensen

STAR RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

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Let me start by express that this is a remarkable book! Danielle L. Jensen is undeniably one of my all-time favorite authors. The world-building is exquisite, with captivating Nordic elements that truly transport you. Yet, the main female character utterly drained my enjoyment of the entire story. I’m accustomed to encountering unlikable characters, often villains that add complexity, but I’ve never experienced such disdain for a protagonist. Her negativity, hatred, rudeness, and condescension were overwhelming—where’s the spark of positivity? It’s heartbreaking that she overshadowed the book, especially since my hopes were soaring to love it. The only thing keeping me from abandoning the series is Bjorn and my lingering hope that Freya will somehow redeem herself. Here’s to wishing for that redemption!

BOOK 116 OF 2025📚

A FATE INKED IN BLOOD

By: Danielle L. Jensen

STAR RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

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I couldn’t resist the urge to dive into this series and rate it after experiencing its brilliance! First and foremost, how have I only just discovered this gem? Someone has been keeping this treasure from me! Sadie Kincaid is nothing short of a literary mastermind. The Broken Bloodlines Series is an exquisite tapestry of storytelling. Set in an enthralling academic backdrop, it weaves together the enchanting realms of witches, werewolves, vampires, and yes, even dragons! It’s a reverse harem narrative where the main male characters shower the female lead with kindness right from the start. Expect a whirlwind of love, passion, and heart-pounding adventure, capped off with a mind-blowing plot twist that will leave you gasping! The emotional rollercoaster, particularly in the gripping third book, Bound in Blood, is utterly captivating. While reading the short prequel, Born in Blood, isn’t essential, I indulged in it at the end and treasured the glimpse it gave into Axl’s backstory. I wholeheartedly recommend this series!

BOOK 115 OF 2025📚

BORN IN BLOOD

By: Sadie Kincaid

STAR RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

#2025readingchallenge #goodreads #readingwithrese