Monday, 14 July 2025

July Release:Rose in Chains Audiobook

If you’re searching for your next immersive listen, Rose in Chains by Julie Soto deserves a spot on your summer audiobook playlist. I recently finished the audiobook and rated it four stars for its gripping blend of dark fantasy, romance, and political intrigue.


The story follows Briony Rosewood, a princess whose world is shattered when her kingdom falls to the dark forces of Bomard. With her people facing servitude or worse, Briony is stripped of her magic and freedom, then auctioned to the highest bidder—Toven Hearst, a member of the very family responsible for her kingdom’s downfall. What unfolds is a tense, enemies-to-lovers dynamic set against a backdrop of loss, survival, and the slim hope of rebellion.


Julie Soto’s writing shines in audio format, with the narration bringing Briony’s emotional journey and the lush, dangerous world to life. The audiobook’s pacing is brisk, balancing heart-pounding moments with quieter scenes of reflection and resilience. The chemistry between Briony and Toven is palpable, and the story’s twists kept me invested throughout.


While some plot elements tread familiar ground for the genre, Soto’s nuanced characters and the audiobook’s atmospheric delivery elevate the experience. If you love romantic fantasy with high stakes and complex relationships, Rose in Chains is a solid addition to your summer listening lineup. Add it to your playlist and prepare to be swept into a world where hope and courage bloom even in the darkest days.

I received an advanced copy of this book to received an advance copy of this book to review. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read it. All opinions are my own.


July Audiobook Recommendation: Lore of the Tides


Lore of the Tides swept me away with its gripping sense of urgency as the characters raced to uncover the lost tombs. The quest pulses with intensity, each chapter raising the stakes and making it impossible to put the book down. What truly sets this story apart are the tangled emotions—love and betrayal twist together, forcing the characters (and the reader) to question where loyalty truly lies. The journey toward trusting one’s own inner power is beautifully woven throughout, adding depth and resonance.

The pacing starts off measured, allowing you to settle into the world, but soon accelerates, building momentum until the final, breathtaking pages. There’s a fair amount of spice—enough to add heat and tension, but never so much that it overshadows the heart of the narrative. "Lore of the Tides" balances adventure, romance, and self-discovery in a way that feels both thrilling and meaningful. Highly recommended for anyone who loves stories where every choice matters and every emotion is earned.

Released July 8,2025.

Friday, 11 July 2025

Recommended Book Released in July.


As a passionate bibliophile, I am thrilled to share my thoughts on Dragon Forged, the highly anticipated 10th installment in Donna Grant’s acclaimed Dragon Kings series, released on July 8, 2025. This novel is a must-add to your summer TBR list.

Dragon Forged delivers a captivating blend of magic, suspense, and romance that fans of the series have come to love. The story centers on Hector, a powerful Dragon King, and Emilia, a determined seer whose visions drive her to prevent an impending war. Their journey takes readers to Highvale, a secret sanctuary for those with magic, where danger and betrayal lurk. Emilia’s fierce determination to save Hector and confront new and old enemies brings depth and emotional intensity to the narrative.

Donna Grant masterfully balances rich world-building with fast-paced action and complex characters. Even if you are new to the series, the author provides enough backstory and context to dive in without feeling lost. The chemistry between Hector and Emilia is electric, and the twists kept me guessing until the very end.

What stands out most is how Dragon Forged expands the Dragon Kings universe by introducing new locations and characters while maintaining the series’ signature blend of passion and peril. The novel’s dramatic tension and heartfelt moments earned it a well-deserved 5-star rating from me.

For readers seeking a thrilling fantasy romance with dragons, magic, and high stakes, Dragon Forged is an unmissable addition to your summer reading lineup. Don’t miss out on this fiery and unforgettable tale from Donna Grant’s Dragon Kings series.

(I was provided an advance copy from the publisher in order to do this review. All opinions are my own.)

Monday, 20 January 2025

Reading Journals

A reading journal is a fantastic tool for book lovers to track their reading, reflect on stories, and organize their literary goals. Inspired by creators like Jashi Corrin, Erin Smith, AmyPlans, and Planning with Bumble, here’s a guide to setting up and using your own reading journal.

Choosing Your Journal
Top brands for reading journals include:
Leuchtturm1917: Known for its dot grid pages and pre-printed index, perfect for organizing.
Archer & Olive:Ideal for creative spreads with thick, no-bleed pages.
-Moleskin: A classic option with various sizes and styles.
Hemlock and Oak: a Canadian company with a strong focus on sustainability.

Recommended Pens
Sharpie Pen: Affordable and great for clean lines.
Tombow Dual Brush Pens: Perfect for adding color and calligraphy.
Micron Fineliners:: Excellent for detailed writing and doodles.

Setting Up Your Journal
1. Title Page: Create a personalized cover page with calligraphy, stickers, or doodles.
2. Index: Reserve the first few pages for an index to easily locate entries.
3. Books Read List: Include a simple numbered list of books read throughout the year.
4. TBR (To Be Read) List: Dedicate a section to books you plan to read, perhaps inspired by Goodreads’ curated lists.

 Layouts to Include
- One Book Per Page: Write detailed reviews, favorite quotes, and ratings.
- Monthly Recap: Track books read each month with a star rating system or mini-reviews.
- Reading Challenges: Create spreads for challenges like “52 Books in a Year” or genre-specific goal.
- Favorite Quotes Section: Dedicate pages to memorable quotes from your reads.

Creative Touches
For inspiration, check out creators like Jashi Corrin and Planning with Bumble who use vibrant colors, washi tape, and stickers to enhance their journals. Minimalists might prefer Erin Smith’s clean layouts or AmyPlans’ practical designs.

Using Your Journal
Update your journal regularly by logging your reading progress and reflecting on each book. You can add thoughts on characters, plot twists, or even predictions as you read. At the end of the year, review your journal to celebrate your literary journey.

A reading journal is not just a tracker—it’s a creative outlet and a personal archive of your reading adventures!