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elegantfantasy_blogs's reviews
1478 reviews
If You Love Me by Helena Hunting
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
relaxing
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.0
I’ve spent the past three years obsessing over her, and suddenly she’s here, in my world.
This was such an easy and enjoyable second chance romance! The chemistry between Roman & Lexi was undeniable and the hockey aspect of the plot was also strong. The tension about their encounter years ago was palpable and it was entertaining to see the push and pull because it was evident how much they wanted each other. Lexi was strong but also vulnerable and I liked how Roman was always there for her and provided her the much needed comfort. And the family dynamics with Callie, Fee & Aurora made the book even more compelling! Lexi, and especially Roman's bond with each of them was adorable! Overall, the book had me hooked from the very beginning and I couldn't put it down until I finished it! The pacing was perfect with just the right amount of drama and some really striking side characters. Can't wait to continue the series because I'm excited for the next book! 👀
I received an ARC in exchange of an honest review
This was such an easy and enjoyable second chance romance! The chemistry between Roman & Lexi was undeniable and the hockey aspect of the plot was also strong. The tension about their encounter years ago was palpable and it was entertaining to see the push and pull because it was evident how much they wanted each other. Lexi was strong but also vulnerable and I liked how Roman was always there for her and provided her the much needed comfort. And the family dynamics with Callie, Fee & Aurora made the book even more compelling! Lexi, and especially Roman's bond with each of them was adorable! Overall, the book had me hooked from the very beginning and I couldn't put it down until I finished it! The pacing was perfect with just the right amount of drama and some really striking side characters. Can't wait to continue the series because I'm excited for the next book! 👀
I received an ARC in exchange of an honest review
Wild Side by Elsie Silver
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
mysterious
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
5.0
I’ve faced off in my fair share of brawls, and something tells me Tabitha Garrison would be the fight of my life if I ever decided to go toe-to-toe with her.
This book was EVERYTHING! And the electric chemistry between Rhys & Tabby had me hooked! What I loved the most was how Tabby & Rhys both dealt with the whole situation about Milo so maturely even if they had their differences. I liked how both of them loved him so much. Each of their feelings were portrayed well and it just made me feel more connected with them, especially Rhys. He deserved the absolute best and to see him slowly bonding with the guys and Tabby's family was heartwarming! All the side characters (whether it be Ford, Millie, Cora, Skylar, West, Bash or the rest) added such a layer of dynamic energy to the story and their presence was like a perfect layer of balance. The book also dealt with the topic of grief and Elsie did a good job with illustrating all the emotions that come with loss. Overall, I loved this book and had a great time reading it. Rhys & Tabby's story completely swept me off my feet and I couldn't stop swooning at their passionate moments! This series has everything- love stories that will pull your heartstrings and some unforgettable main characters! The ending was amazing but it has left me longing for more and I'm glad that there's going to be another book in this series because I can't wait to read about THAT couple (IYKYK)!!! 👀
I received an ARC in exchange of an honest review
This book was EVERYTHING! And the electric chemistry between Rhys & Tabby had me hooked! What I loved the most was how Tabby & Rhys both dealt with the whole situation about Milo so maturely even if they had their differences. I liked how both of them loved him so much. Each of their feelings were portrayed well and it just made me feel more connected with them, especially Rhys. He deserved the absolute best and to see him slowly bonding with the guys and Tabby's family was heartwarming! All the side characters (whether it be Ford, Millie, Cora, Skylar, West, Bash or the rest) added such a layer of dynamic energy to the story and their presence was like a perfect layer of balance. The book also dealt with the topic of grief and Elsie did a good job with illustrating all the emotions that come with loss. Overall, I loved this book and had a great time reading it. Rhys & Tabby's story completely swept me off my feet and I couldn't stop swooning at their passionate moments! This series has everything- love stories that will pull your heartstrings and some unforgettable main characters! The ending was amazing but it has left me longing for more and I'm glad that there's going to be another book in this series because I can't wait to read about THAT couple (IYKYK)!!! 👀
I received an ARC in exchange of an honest review
A Devious Arrangement by J. Wilder
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.75
"I’m going to figure her out one way or another, and when I do, I’ll make her mine."
This was such an entertaining and quick read! Bash & Stasia had incredible chemistry and I loved how obsessed and possessive he was for her! It took one encounter for him to be sure that she's the one for him and I liked how he chased her and protected her over every turn. Stasia was impulsive but not stupid and I could sympathize with her. Bash's family was amazing and it was nice to see all of them again! Overall, this was quite an engaging read but I felt like everything happened way too fast towards the end and Stasia made a few questionable choices which was kind of annoying. But the epilogue was really well written and the whole book was unputdownable, so I'll give it 3.75 stars!
This was such an entertaining and quick read! Bash & Stasia had incredible chemistry and I loved how obsessed and possessive he was for her! It took one encounter for him to be sure that she's the one for him and I liked how he chased her and protected her over every turn. Stasia was impulsive but not stupid and I could sympathize with her. Bash's family was amazing and it was nice to see all of them again! Overall, this was quite an engaging read but I felt like everything happened way too fast towards the end and Stasia made a few questionable choices which was kind of annoying. But the epilogue was really well written and the whole book was unputdownable, so I'll give it 3.75 stars!
By the Letter by Julia Wolf
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
relaxing
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
5.0
It was incredible to think a few months ago, I’d thought her face was forgettable. Nothing about her was forgettable.
I just loved this book so much! In the beginning, I couldn't figure out Shira and thought that Romeo was unnecessarily rude and dismissive but as I discovered more about them, my opinion drastically changed and I liked how the author portrayed a different side of both of them going forward. Shira was so adorable and I found myself relating a lot with her. She deserved the absolute best and while Roman may have misunderstood her in the beginning, I liked how he took care of her and could understand her better after spending time with her. I loved the chemistry between them and the plot also had emotional depth. Roman's character development was also very touching and his brothers and Shira's friends added to the mix was like a cherry on top. Each of them had their own distinct personalities and I liked Ben the most! Overall, this book was enjoyable and delivered an engaging romance with some steamy moments and good character growth. Highly recommended if you're in the mood for an accidental pregnancy with a MMC who's a bit rude but then turns tender and caring after seeing the FMC in a new light!
I received an ARC in exchange of an honest review
I just loved this book so much! In the beginning, I couldn't figure out Shira and thought that Romeo was unnecessarily rude and dismissive but as I discovered more about them, my opinion drastically changed and I liked how the author portrayed a different side of both of them going forward. Shira was so adorable and I found myself relating a lot with her. She deserved the absolute best and while Roman may have misunderstood her in the beginning, I liked how he took care of her and could understand her better after spending time with her. I loved the chemistry between them and the plot also had emotional depth. Roman's character development was also very touching and his brothers and Shira's friends added to the mix was like a cherry on top. Each of them had their own distinct personalities and I liked Ben the most! Overall, this book was enjoyable and delivered an engaging romance with some steamy moments and good character growth. Highly recommended if you're in the mood for an accidental pregnancy with a MMC who's a bit rude but then turns tender and caring after seeing the FMC in a new light!
I received an ARC in exchange of an honest review
When We Burn by Kristen Proby
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.0
“I should not be flirting with a dad when I’m at work,” I whisper to him, making him grin. “I disagree, as long as I’m the dad. Otherwise, you’re in big trouble, kitten.”
I was incredibly excited to start Dani & Bridger's story and it had everything that I expected! Dani mixed so well with his family and her bond with Birdie was so adorable! Bridger was a determined man and knew exactly what he wanted. I liked how he didn't waste any time in letting Dani know how much he wished for them to be together and I really enjoyed the story! Sure, it was predictable but I couldn't put it down and all the side characters were amazing! Especially Bridger's family. Can't wait to continue this series because I'm definitely excited for the next book!
I received an ARC in exchange of an honest review
I was incredibly excited to start Dani & Bridger's story and it had everything that I expected! Dani mixed so well with his family and her bond with Birdie was so adorable! Bridger was a determined man and knew exactly what he wanted. I liked how he didn't waste any time in letting Dani know how much he wished for them to be together and I really enjoyed the story! Sure, it was predictable but I couldn't put it down and all the side characters were amazing! Especially Bridger's family. Can't wait to continue this series because I'm definitely excited for the next book!
I received an ARC in exchange of an honest review
Lucky Shot by K. Bromberg
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
“You make it so frustratingly hard for someone to love you. It’s fucking maddening.”
What can I say? Whitney & Hardy's story was freaking amazing! Their first interaction was filled with so much tension and the chemistry between them was so intense! I loved the way Whitney knocked down Hardy's ego and how he eventually realised that she was worth it all. I liked how he chased her and didn't give up even when she drew up her walls. Their stories were both similar in a way and I liked how they essentially healed each other. The plot was well executed but I just wished to see more of the academy's children interacting with both of them. There were a few scenes with the kids but I think it wasn't enough, especially because Hardy had been sent there to interact with the kids. But everything else was great and the book was really enjoyable. I read it in just one sitting and the epilogue was wholesome! Can't wait to see what comes next from the author!
What can I say? Whitney & Hardy's story was freaking amazing! Their first interaction was filled with so much tension and the chemistry between them was so intense! I loved the way Whitney knocked down Hardy's ego and how he eventually realised that she was worth it all. I liked how he chased her and didn't give up even when she drew up her walls. Their stories were both similar in a way and I liked how they essentially healed each other. The plot was well executed but I just wished to see more of the academy's children interacting with both of them. There were a few scenes with the kids but I think it wasn't enough, especially because Hardy had been sent there to interact with the kids. But everything else was great and the book was really enjoyable. I read it in just one sitting and the epilogue was wholesome! Can't wait to see what comes next from the author!
Slap Shot by Chelsea Curto
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
relaxing
medium-paced
2.5
This is the first book I've read by the author and I liked how the guys on the team were so close like a family and how their girls made an effort to include Madeline in their own group too. Hudson was a total green flag and the way he learnt sign language in order to communicate with Lucy, provided Madeline a safe space and was so patient and respectful with her was heartwarming. But I just didn't feel the chemistry between them at times, tbh. The plot was incredibly boring and the writing was also kind of off putting. Because of it, I felt like skimming through some parts, ngl. I get that this book was a "slow-burn" but the pacing was way too slow and nothing much happened in the plot for it to drag on this much. All the characters were way too perfect which was unrealistic. Sure, Hudson losing his mom and Madeline talking about being in a male dominated field and her struggles with her ex and uncertainty about marriage and another baby was mentioned but it wasn't explored and because of that, the plot lacked depth. I was very excited to read this book as it sounded so good based on the blurb, but frankly speaking, the execution was poor. So my rating for this is 2.5 stars.
Scorned Obsession by Victoria Paige
dark
emotional
funny
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
2.5
The book wasn't bad but not as good as I expected it to be either. I've read some books from the series before but it was so difficult for me to keep track of all the side characters. Bianca's family and Sloane were the only likeable side characters, the rest were all very annoying and useless. The plot was chaotic and all over the place but I liked how obsessed Sandro was with Bianca and it was evident that they loved each other very much despite the circumstances that they were thrown in. But that was the only good part about the book tbh. The pace was slow and after 60% I felt like the book was dragged on unnecessarily. Also the last half was quite predictable and the main conflict about Sandro deciding whether he wanted to be the boss or not was so confusing. So while I liked Sandro & Bianaca's chemistry, I was expecting something more from the plot but unfortunately, the book didn't live up to my expectations. So overall, I'll give it 2.5 stars.
Beg, Borrow, or Steal by Sarah Adams
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.0
Emily: You've seen a woman's body. Mine is no different.
He pauses, a thick crease forming between his brows.
Jack: Emily, you are the difference. I'm realizing that.
Emily & Jack were just the cutest! I think they're my favorite couple from the series! I loved how relatable and familiar Emily's character felt and I also loved how Jack equally matched her energy when it came to throwing jabs at each other. Their rivalry was so entertaining and their cute moments were as adorable! The side characters too were really impressive and I liked how they included Jack in their group once they realised that Emily felt something deeper for him. James & Madison's story has me intrigued and I can't wait to continue this series! Overall, this was an enjoyable read and it definitely lived up to my expectations, considering this was one of my most anticipated reads of 2025. It's just that, I think the end was a bit abrupt and the epilogue should've been more detailed but everything else was great!
He pauses, a thick crease forming between his brows.
Jack: Emily, you are the difference. I'm realizing that.
Emily & Jack were just the cutest! I think they're my favorite couple from the series! I loved how relatable and familiar Emily's character felt and I also loved how Jack equally matched her energy when it came to throwing jabs at each other. Their rivalry was so entertaining and their cute moments were as adorable! The side characters too were really impressive and I liked how they included Jack in their group once they realised that Emily felt something deeper for him. James & Madison's story has me intrigued and I can't wait to continue this series! Overall, this was an enjoyable read and it definitely lived up to my expectations, considering this was one of my most anticipated reads of 2025. It's just that, I think the end was a bit abrupt and the epilogue should've been more detailed but everything else was great!
How to Con a Crime Boss by Cynthia Eden
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.0
“You are an absolute ray of sunshine.” He stared straight into her eyes. “And I am grateful every day for the moment we met.”
This was an okay read. I was very invested in the beginning and I liked how Harley was so bold and forward. Seth was a good guy and it seemed like he downplayed his strength. The plot was interesting but it dragged on a lot and each time I felt like I got some answers, something new was revealed which was confusing tbh. Also, I wished that there was some more development between Seth & Harley because I felt like they barely knew each other. The insta-love was really disappointing. So, compared to the previous book in the series, this one was kind of average.
This was an okay read. I was very invested in the beginning and I liked how Harley was so bold and forward. Seth was a good guy and it seemed like he downplayed his strength. The plot was interesting but it dragged on a lot and each time I felt like I got some answers, something new was revealed which was confusing tbh. Also, I wished that there was some more development between Seth & Harley because I felt like they barely knew each other. The insta-love was really disappointing. So, compared to the previous book in the series, this one was kind of average.