REVIEW: HEIR OF FURY BY JINA S. BAZZAR // CLOSING THE FOSCH FILES

Title: Heir of Fury
Author:  Jina S. Bazzar
Series: The Roxanne Fosch Files, book 3
Genre: Paranormal, Sci-Fi, [Young-Adult]
Heat Rating: Cool
Format: Ebook
Published: April 29th 2020 by Shadow City
Source: I received an eARC of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
My Rating:

Blurb (from Goodreads):

Three years has passed since Roxanne left. She’s obeyed and fulfilled Remo’s every wish.His latest command, however, will send her back to Earth. Aware her presence Earth-side is furthering Remo’s plans, Roxanne delves into an impossible chase against time, the preternatural community, and herself.But she might already be too late, and Roxanne experiences firsthand that when desperate people are pressed against a rock, they’re willing to commit just about anything. 

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Okay, so… I loved this trilogy. I really did but somehow I was underwhelmed by the conclusion.

We see the consequences of the decisions made by Roxanne in book 2 that led to her present condition. She has become more ruthless and although she is unable to take direct action against Remo, her only goal is to stop him somehow from destroying everyone she loves alongside her world.

This book had a whole lot of action and impending doom kept me on my toes!

However, the pace was a problem for me in this book. I felt it was too slow-paced for almost entirely the book except for the last part of the book. Most of the information was necessary for understanding a lot of aspects of how the world functions in this trilogy. The thing is, it felt like too much info-dumpy in some cases which kinda made me lose interest. I think it was one of the reasons it took me some time to finish the book. Also, I felt that the whole book was a bit stretched and the ending too soon.

Despite this, kudos to world-building! I definitely loved how the author intricately built up these two different worlds.

Roxanna with her new powers is unstoppable, she tries her level best to save her near and dear. Zantry, Mwara and Vicky, I loved each and every one of them. And my heart broke for the characters who did not make it till the end.

Overall, this book was a fun read despite the hindrances and worth a read!

Recommend it?

Yes.

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I guess not many people remember moi. I do hope everybody is doing okay and staying safe?

But… do tell me what books have you been reading in the lockdown?

Review: Good Girl by Piper Lawson // A bit of a let down

Title: Good Girl
Author: Piper Lawson
Series: Wicked, book 1
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, [New-Adult]
Heat Rating: Cool
Page Count & Format: 200 pages, Ebook
Published: October 16th 2018
Source: I received an eARC of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
My Rating: 

Blurb (from Goodreads):

I’m a good girl. Jax Jamieson is a legend.

The day I wrote my first computer program… he launched his third platinum album.
The night I drank my first beer… he spent in jail.
The day he tried to get me fired… I ended up on his tour.

I’m a college junior with my whole future ahead of me. And he’s the vice I’d give it all up for.

Haley and Jax’s story continues in Bad Girl and concludes in Wicked Girl! A new adult romance series from bestselling author Piper Lawson. If you like nerds, hot rock stars, friends-to-lovers, enemies-to-lovers, pet skunks, home reno shows, flip phones or existentialism? You’ll love WICKED. 

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Soooo… the thing is, I usually end up head over heels with Piper’s characters. Not only are the sassy but they have a realistic and hardcore edge to them. But this book kinda fell down from that level of expectation. I felt that this book had nothing new. The surprising element was missing which was a big let down.

In Good Girl, we get to see a rockstar romance. Jax is one of the most popular rockstars, and Haley is one of his massive fangirls. She is out of the world happy when she bangs an internship at the record label company and is sent to tour with her favourite rockstar as tech support. Although I did not warm up to Jax the moment I met her, Haley was someone to root for. I have to say one thing, the female characters are the best parts of Piper’s novels. You just cannot help but root for them.

Haley’s initial facade of Jax dissolves quite early because of his behaviour but she slowly gets a glimpse of the man behind the facade. The chemistry between the characters is palpable as the plot proceeds, however, it was not as explosive or eh…. you know what I am trying to say! Anyway, the mystery part of this novel was what kept me intrigued. I enjoyed the plot and I am definitely up for knowing more!

Overall, Good Girl was an okhay read. The plot felt too common, however, the characters saved the day along with the mysterious twist. I enjoyed the writing and the plot was steady throughout the book although some parts did feel a bit choppy. But I am still interested to know what new turn this story takes.

Recommend it?

Yes.

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So guys, what did you think about this book? Have you read it yet? What is your favourite book from Piper? 

Review: Nocturne by Heather McKenzie || Slightly Bland and Repetitive

Title: Nocturne
Author: Heather McKenzie
Series: The Nightmusic Trilogy, book 2
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, Suspense, [Young-Adult]
Heat Rating: Slightly warm
Page Count and Format: 415 pages, Ebook
Expected Publication: March 20th, 2018 by Clean Teen Publishing
Source: I received an eARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
My Rating:

Blurb (from Goodreads):

I am hunted.
A pawn in a vicious game.
The only way I can protect the ones I love…
…is to disappear.

Finally free of her father, Kaya has the one thing that keeps her heart beating—Luke.

Blissfully content in his arms, everything seems perfect…until their world is shattered by a deadly invasion. When an old ally comes to the rescue, Kaya wants none of it. She is devastated to learn the identity of her attacker, and that she must do something truly heartbreaking if she wants to save the ones she loves. Sacrificing everything and sinking into bottomless sorrow, Kaya finds solace in an unlikely friend—one who shows her a different kind of love and helps her discover an inner strength she never thought possible.

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The first book in this trilogy, Serenade was a pretty awesome and engaging read. Compared to that, the 2nd book felt slightly bland and repetitive. But I have to say one thing, the covers of this trilogy are really unique and beautiful!

Kaya is still on the run from her father who is only after her fortune. After an incident, she truly understands that she poses a threat to anyone near her, so she decides to bail alone. But surrounded by enemies on all sides, will she be able to hide or will she be betrayed?

A lot of stuff happened in the first book, Kaya learned the truth about herself and why she was held captive by her father and why he is after her. She ends up getting kidnapped by Luke but along the way ends up falling for her captor. I felt this book was more of a kind of filler because other than the introduction of few new characters, this book only contained running and hiding and it was devoid of any interesting surprises. But seriously, Kaya definitely has the most shittest parents in the whole universe!

One of the things that surprised me was, I actually started liking Oliver. His actions disgusted me in book 1 but after knowing the real reason behind it, he slowly started warming up to me. But… but I felt Kaya’s character was a kind of irritating this book! And on top of that, Thomas. What even!! She miraculously gets rescued after bailing on Luke and ends on a farm where she manages to get a job there and ultimately one of the guys there fall for her. Why is that everybody end up falling in love with the main heroine? I would have rather enjoyed it more if it was a purely platonic relationship. It would definitely have been more meaningful.

On the other hand, one of the new characters Marlene was absolutely my favourite. Born with a hideous birthmark on her face, she mostly stays away from crowds but a beautiful bond develops between her and Kaya. I loved the fact that Kaya stood up for her on more than one occasion! But the most awesome thing about this book was the bromance between Luke and Oliver! I didn’t even guess that anything slightly normal was possible between these two because they were always at each other’s throats. This was definitely a delightful surprise.

Overall, Nocturn was an okay read. The plot felt a little repetitive and this book could have been a little less lengthy in my opinion. The action and stuff were there but I wanted more of it but nonetheless, I enjoyed those particular parts.But the way things ended, I am definitely interested to know what happens next to our characters!

Recommend it?

Yes.

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So guys, what do you think about this book? Is it on your tbr?

Review: We Are Okay by Nina LaCour || Where I felt only Okaysh…

Title: We Are Okay
Author: Nina LaCour
Standalone
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, LGBTQ, [Young-Adult]
Heat Rating: Cool
Page Count and Format: 240 pages, Ebook
Published: February 14th, 2017 by Dutton Books for Young Readers
Source: Purchased
My Rating:

Blurb (from Goodreads):

You go through life thinking there’s so much you need…

Until you leave with only your phone, your wallet, and a picture of your mother.

Marin hasn’t spoken to anyone from her old life since the day she left everything behind. No one knows the truth about those final weeks. Not even her best friend, Mabel. But even thousands of miles away from the California coast, at college in New York, Marin still feels the pull of the life and tragedy she’s tried to outrun. Now, months later, alone in an emptied dorm for winter break, Marin waits. Mabel is coming to visit, and Marin will be forced to face everything that’s been left unsaid and finally confront the loneliness that has made a home in her heart.

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First of all, the cover is beeeeeautiful!

Second of all, I have no idea how to write a review for this book.

But imma gonna try.

Marin hasn’t spoken to anybody since her grandfather passed away. She is angry at the world, angry at herself, she hasn’t even spoken to her best friend Mabel who had sent her endless messages. When Mabel finally comes for a visit during the holidays, would Marin be finally able to open up and move forward?

That’s basically it.

This book didn’t have any solid plot, it was basically character-centric. Marin isolated herself from the world after her only companion since childhood, her grandfather passed away. This book mainly dealt with grief and how every individual handles it differently. But a certain fact about the grandfather part was a bit confusing… (if anybody knows please tell me what that was. -_-) Anyways, I wish there was some kind of plot development because the whole thing kind of stayed at once place throughout the whole book.

“The trouble with denial is that when the truth comes, you aren’t ready.”

This book was diverse. Marin is a lesbian and in the course of time, we get to know that Mabel is a bisexual. The two had a lot of history together since they were best friends since childhood. I would have enjoyed if there were more interactions instead of inner monologues. But this book was kind of peaceful? I don’t know exactly how to convey this feeling but I felt at peace after finishing this one.

“I was okay just a moment ago. I will learn how to be okay again.”

I enjoyed the flashback parts of this book where the actual romance takes place and I definitely loved the friendship between Mabel and Marin. Even without communication and a past history, some things never change. Although Marin had a hard time confronting her present, she finally did open up her heart, slowly.

“I learn that I am a tiny piece of a miraculous world.”

Overall, We Are Okay was a different kind of read. This book is not for everybody, especially because of the writing style which may not suit everyone’s taste. The pacing was slow due to which I felt bored at sometimes.But I am glad I could make it to the end!

Recommend it?

Yes.

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Sooo guys, what do you think about this book? Have you read it yet? How was the experience for you??

Duology Review: The Crown’s Game & The Crown’s Fate || Where the Crown lost its Fate in my Heart

Title: The Crown’s Game and The Crown’s Fate
Author: Evelyn Skye
Series: The Crown’s Game duology
Genre: Fantasy, Romance, [Young-Adult]
Heat Rating: Cool
Page Count and Format: 416 and 427 pages respectively, Paperback
Published: May 17th, 2016 and May 16th, 2017 by Balzer + Bray respectively
Source: Purchased
My Rating:

Blurb (from Goodreads):

The Crown’s Game:

Vika Andreyeva can summon the snow and turn ash into gold. Nikolai Karimov can see through walls and conjure bridges out of thin air.

They are enchanters—the only two in Russia—and with the Ottoman Empire and the Kazakhs threatening, the tsar needs a powerful enchanter by his side. And so he initiates the Crown’s Game, an ancient duel of magical skill. The victor becomes the Imperial Enchanter and the tsar’s most respected adviser. The defeated is sentenced to death.

Raised on tiny Ovchinin Island her whole life, Vika is eager for the chance to show off her talent in the grand capital of Saint Petersburg. But can she kill another enchanter—even when his magic calls to her like nothing else ever has?

For Nikolai, an orphan, the Crown’s Game is the chance of a lifetime. But his deadly opponent is a force to be reckoned with—beautiful, whip-smart, imaginative—and he can’t stop thinking about her.

And when Pasha, Nikolai’s best friend and heir to the throne, also starts to fall for the mysterious enchantress, Nikolai must defeat the girl they both love . . . or be killed himself.

As long-buried secrets emerge, threatening the future of the empire, it becomes dangerously clear . . . the Crown’s Game is not one to lose.

The Crown’s Fate:

Magic is growing, shadows are rising, and the throne is at stake…

Russia is on the brink of great change. Pasha’s coronation approaches, and Vika is now the Imperial Enchanter, but the role she once coveted may be more difficult—and dangerous—than she ever expected.

Pasha is grappling with his own problems—his legitimacy is in doubt, the girl he loves loathes him, and he believes his best friend is dead. When a challenger to the throne emerges—and with the magic in Russia growing rapidly—Pasha must do whatever it takes to keep his position and protect his kingdom.

For Nikolai, the ending of the Crown’s Game stung deeply. Although he just managed to escape death, Nikolai remains alone, a shadow hidden in a not-quite-real world of his own creation. But when he’s given a second chance at life—tied to a dark price—Nikolai must decide just how far he’s willing to go to return to the world.

With revolution on the rise, dangerous new magic rearing up, and a tsardom up for the taking, Vika, Nikolai, and Pasha must fight—or face the destruction of not only their world but also themselves.

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As much as I love the beautiful colour combination of this book, I am disappointed to say that it didn’t live up to my expectations. I did have high hopes for this duology although the premise was unique but it still failed to make an impression.

When Vika is finally called for the role of an Enchanter, she learns there is another one in Russia, Nikolai and she has to fight him. Whoever stays alive until the very end, becomes the Tsar’s Enchanter. But when feelings come into the way, things become complicated and Pasha who is the heir to the tsardom best friend life falls into a dilemma because one is the girl he is falling for and the other is his best friend.

Soooo, the plot was kinda like the mini-hunger games except with only 2 participants and it involved actual magic! We are introduced to the two enchanters Vika and Nikolai, both whose characters I enjoyed individually. But can someone tell me when did the romance happen? Yes, they felt a certain kind of kinship because they both shared a magic which was a burden at that current point but other than how did the love happen, they didn’t even get to spend much time together as they had to plan for the next attack against each other. The romance was a big downfall in this book.

The book takes place in Russia, a different kind of Russia where magic still exists but other than some of the town descriptions, I found the world building very lacking. There was a lot of scopes but it didn’t live up to that point.Though I did enjoy the magic, it was pretty intriguing but I wanted mooore!! The plot twist at the end of book 1 was a little surprising due to which I wanted to continue book 2. But I thought it was going to creepy and stuff! It was but I didn’t feel the chill in my bones.

No, I am not being over-dramatic. Or I might be. It’s just in my DNA!
(Haha… yeah I couldn’t stop without a reference!!)

The pacing of both the books felt a little slow but book 2 was a bit more. The fact surrounding Nikolai didn’t hold much mystery and oh well… Also, unfortunately, Pasha wasn’t an interesting character either. And there wasn’t much character development in book 2 either but I’m glad at least he could hold down the fort. He mostly acted like a puppet like his sister told him to do and he was just, I don’t know he was not a memorable character. He was still okay until book 1 but his decision betrayed me but after that how much he repented didn’t matter much to me.

Overall, The Crown’s Game dulogy was an okay read, I wanted more of the magic stuff. It was there but I needed mooooore of it!! The writing flowed smoothly. And overall it was still engaging enough for me to finish the duology. Although most of the stuff had let me down, I’m still glad I gave it a try.

Recommend it?

Yes.

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Sooo guys, what do you think about this duology? Have you finished it or are you still halfway? How was the experience for you??

Review: Fade to Us by Julia Day || Where the Moments Faded Away into Nothingness

Title: Fade to Us
Author: Julia Day
Standalone
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, [Young-Adult]
Heat Rating: Cool
Page Count and Format: 320 pages, Ebook
Published: February 6th, 2018 by Wednesday Books
Source: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
My Rating: 

Blurb:

Julia Day’s Fade to Us is a story about found families, the bond of sisterhood, and the agony and awe of first love.

Brooke’s summer is going to be EPIC— having fun with her friends and a job that lets her buy a car. Then her new stepfather announces his daughter is moving in. Brooke has always longed for a sibling, so she’s excited about spending more time with her stepsister. But she worries, too. Natalie has Asperger’s–and Brooke’s not sure how to be the big sister that Natalie needs.

After Natalie joins a musical theatre program, Brooke sacrifices her job to volunteer for the backstage crew. She’s mostly there for Natalie, but Brooke soon discovers how much she enjoys being part of the show. Especially sweet is the chance to work closely with charming and fascinating Micah–the production’s stage manager. If only he wasn’t Natalie’s mentor…

When her summer comes to an end, will Brooke finally have the family she so desperately wants–and the love she’s only dreamed about?

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This book was somewhat okay. It’s kinda actually between 2.5 and 3 stars. I loved Day’s The Possibility of Somewhere, so I wanted to read this one too. Unfortunately, it didn’t manage to meet my expectations.

Brooke had her whole summer planned out, working as much as possible so that she can finally buy her own car. But when her step-sister Natalie who suffers from Asperger’s Syndrome comes to stay with them for the summer. And when Natalie ends up getting a role in a play, her plans take another route. She decides to stay with her sister in the rehearsals so that she can come to the rescue her sister whenever needs her and there she also meets Micah whom she develops feelings for.

Sooo, I didn’t know what I was going into but I’m glad I learned about Asperger’s Syndrome. I felt that this book had a lot of potentials but it fell flat for me. This book is essentially character-centric and that’s what saved it from completely drowning. One of the things that I loved this book was how caring Brooke was towards her step-sister, Natalie. Although she unintentionally hurt Brooke a number of times but I loved the fact that she was protective of her and stood up for her whenever anyone badmouthed her, even to her best friend (who was really shitty btw). But it was a little weird that she never spoke her mind even when the lines crossed.

The thing that I did not like about the book was the romance. It was out of nowhere and a little insta-e. I understand they met during the rehearsals and Brooke also started working as an assistant there but I felt there was no chemistry between her and Micah. Not at all. It kinda felt forced. I would have loved if this book solely focused on Brooke and Natalie’s relationship and the growing bond between them. I wanted to see more of it. That simply would have been enough but oh well.

Also, I wanted to see more of their family together. It was clear that Brooke did not have the same kind of relationship with her step-father like Natalie and although it came to a conclusion, I felt it was rushed as well.

Aaaand as per following the cliched norm, Brooke makes the most foolish decision in the last part of this book before realising her mistake. Brooke felt like a mature character and this part kinda seemed out of her character because there were other ways to deal with that particular matter.

Overall, Fade to Us was an okay read. I liked the characters but this book didn’t leave much of an impression on me. I just wish a few things were executed in a different manner. Anyway, the writing was smooth and the pace was even throughout the book. I really hope I enjoy her next book!!

Recommend it?

Maybe.

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Soo guys have you read this?? Is it on your tbr? Have you read any other book by this author?

Review: The Lost Savior by Siobhan Davis || Where the Romance was Lost On Me

Title: The Lost Savior
Author: Siobhan Davis
Series: Alinthia, book 1
Genre: Fantasy, Science-fiction, Romance, Reverse Harem, [Young-Adult]
Heat Rating: Warm
Page Count and Format: 344 pages, Ebook
Published: February 1st, 2018
Source: I received an eARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
My Rating: 

Blurb (from Goodreads):

They came from another world to protect her. Now it’s her destiny to save them…
Tori King is a normal senior in high school. Head over heels in love with her childhood sweetheart, she is busy making plans for college when a chance encounter with an alien bounty hunter turns her world upside down. Now, she’s experiencing terrifying changes and developing supernatural abilities that leave her questioning her entire existence.

Then the arrival of four hot new guys at school has everyone talking—especially when they become fixated on Tori, following her wherever she goes. She can’t shake them off, and as they grow closer, she finds herself drawn to all four of them in ways she cannot explain.

When they finally reveal their true identity, and why they’re here for her, she discovers everything she thought she knew about herself is a lie.

Because there is nothing normal about Tori King.

And she’s about to discover exactly how underrated normal is.

[From a USA Today, bestselling author comes a captivating new alien reverse harem series that is intended for readers aged seventeen and older. This is upper YA/NA crossover which gets steamier as the series develops. This book ends on a cliffhanger and cannot be read as a standalone.]

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Ooookay. so I was very much excited to read a new science-fiction series by Siobhan because her last sci-fi series The Saven series is my absolute favourite!!! I definitely enjoyed this book but, to be honest, I don’t think this is my cup of tea.

Tori is leading the perfect life a teenager is supposed to, she has a loving boyfriend, amazing best friends and caring parents. But everything crash lands when Sadie is attacked by a freak and then four mysterious boys turn up in her school and they don’t seem to leave Tori alone. When she is finally confronted with the truth, Tori is left to make the biggest decision of her life that might cost everyone she ever loved.

Sooo, the plot was definitely interesting. Tori (I keep writing Sadie!!!!) has planned her life out with her boyfriend Jensen but she discovers a whole new side of herself when she and her friends are attacked by someone who did not seem to be quite human. And when the four mysterious boys turn up, she can’t deny the pull towards all of them. Their first appearance was a little Twilightish… not that I minded but anyway Sadie kept discovering she had more powers than she could imagine. That super-power part was amazing!

I think the main problem I faced with this book was the romance. Most of you who already know me here know that I rarely enjoy love triangles and this was more than I could handle and this was just the beginning. I did not feel comfortable reading reverse harem (One Draupadi was enough for me). 😦 I liked her relationship with Jensen after the boys turned it definitely turned sour and Tori was forced to keep it that way to ensure his safety since she understands that one attack wasn’t the last one.

I also felt that Tori was a little too perfect making her almost a one-dimensional character. I expected the truth to sink in slowly since she had a lot on her plate but Tori was too adaptable. I also noticed these with the other characters as well, everyone was just kinda perfect and that usually isn’t the case in real life, especially in high school. I just wanted more character growth though I am sure we are going to get that and the amazing world building (believe me, her world-building are super-awesome!!) in the next book. Among the boys, I think I liked Beckett the most, he’s the nerdy and shy guy. But the others came off as too dominant, especially Dane. Anyway, I most definitely loved the action sequences of this book.

Overall, The Lost Savior was a good read but not my cup of tea. I think people who enjoy reverse harem would absolutely love this book but it was the main reason I couldn’t connect with the characters much. The pacing was even and the writing flowed smoothly. For now, I am not sure if I want to give the next book a try or not. 😦

Recommend it?

Yes (if you enjoy reverse harem or don’t mind it.)

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So guys, what do you think about this book? Do you want to give this one a try? Have you read any book by this author?

K-Drama Reviews: Suspicious Partner & Healer || Ji Chang-Wook edition!

Show Name: Suspicious Partner
Episodes: 40 (half an hour episodes)
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, Law&Order, [Adult]
Director: Park Sun-Ho
Cast:  Ji Chang-Wook, Nam Ji-Hyun, Choi Tae-Joon, Nara, Jang Hyuk-Jin etc.
My Rating: 

Blurb:

Noh Ji Wook is a unique prosecutor. He is handsome, hard-headed and intelligent who strives hard to be successful. He is the perfect example of what a prosecutor should be. Later, he becomes a lawyer.
Eun Bong Hee is a prosecutor trainee. Once a former taekwondo instructor, she trained to become a lawyer. She is confident and strong, but naive. She is assigned to work under Ji Wook.
They work together on a mysterious case involving a sly psychopath murderer. As they’re working as a team, they develop affection between them.

Seriousfreakingly, why are the blurbs like this? It makes me want to laugh and cry at the same time. -_-

Soooo this review is looong dew. I don’t clearly remember every single detail since watched it months ago but I remember absolutely loving it!! I actually enjoyed it more than the Healer which was my first Ji Chang-Wook drama.

This boyo is absolutely worth watching. *insert winky face*

This drama was a treat to watch. Eun Bong Hee (Nam Ji-Hyun) is a prosecutor trainee when she accidentally becomes a murder suspect because her ex-boyfriend was found murdered in her house when she was not in. Noh Ji Wook (Ji Chang-Wook) is also a prosecutor but he later gives it up and becomes a lawyer to prove Eun Bong Hee’s innocence when he slowly gets to know her. Will he be able to save her or the actual killer will get away scot-free?

First of all, this drama was so freaking interesting and it kept me on the edge the entire time. The irony was the if the killer knew a particular truth about Eun Bong Hee, none of these would have happened but when he gets to know it’s already too late and he commits more crime in order to hide the other. This is how it happens kiddos. 😦

Eun Bong Hee and Noh Ji Wook’s fates clashed once before they were actually introduced to each other. They started off on the wrong foot but c’mon Eun Bong Hee was too adorable to resist. Like seriously, she was so effing cute. Despite her being framed and all the negativity thrown towards her, she tried to stay as positive as possible. The small things that she did slowly unintentionally won over Noh Ji Wook’s stubborn heart who had shut off her heart due to a previous betrayal.

Okay, but the most, like the most awesome thing about the drama was finding the truth about the killer. Seriously, it was so freaking intriguing!! There were bread crumbs everywhere leading to the real truth but the killer was just too damn smart in hiding his trails. I mean he was always there in front but due to no proof, their hands were tight. I loved the way the story panned out and the court trials were damn interesting to watch. I never thought I would say this but I am actually loving lawery drama stuff!! I love romance okay, like loooooove it but when the plot’s this interesting nothing else matters though I have to say the chemistry between them was swee-eet and the romance evolved slowly.

The only thing I didn’t like about this drama was the sudden twist just before the end which was not necessary at all. I mean it didn’t even connect with the main storyline but I think it’s a common trope in K-dramas to somehow link the past. I do not like it. Why is it even necessary? And Eun Bong Hee made the foolish decision ever but I was glaaaad when everything finally found its right place. Phew.

Overall, Suspicious Partner was an awesome, heart-pounding watch with adorable romance. The second lead a.k.a. Ji Eun-Hyuk (Choi Tae-Joon) and Cha Yoo-Jung (Nara) was surprisingly fun to watch because and see how things evolved as Choi Tae-Joon being the ex-girlfriend in the equation. But it was actually handled pretty well. But my most favourite character was Officer Bang (Jang Hyuk-Jin) who assisted Noh Ji Wook in his cases. He was pretty damn hilarious!! Actually, whenever the small group of 5 came together to have a meeting, it was so fun to watch! The pace was well maintained and I loved how it was executed except that small itsy-bitsy weird past stuff.

Recommend it?

Yes!!

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Show Name: Healer
Episodes: 20
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, Thriller, [Adult]
Director: Lee Jung-Sub, Kim Jin-Woo
Cast: Ji Chang-Wook, Park Min-Young, Yoo Ji-Tae, Kim Mi-Kyung, Oh Gwang-Rok
My Rating:

Blurb:

Seo Jung Hoo is so-called “errand boy”. For a relevant price, he may complete any task, only if it’s not connected with murder. Under Healer’s mask, he had run foul of some organizations that now strive to catch him, however, no one knows who he really is. He can count on older woman’s help, genius hacker responsible for the technical part of their job. One of his tasks is closely connected to one girl, Chae Yeong Shin, second-rate tabloid reporter. She starts to have an interest about Healer when he tries to get close to her, which results in the discovery of their common past.

Everybody loooooves this drama. Almost 99.9%, I also did but I don’t know I just didn’t enjoy it as much as I hoped I would because of all the rave reviews.

Seo Jung Hoo (Ji Chang-Wook) works under the name of Healer, he takes the kind of job which an ordinary person would refuse to do, except when it comes to murder. When he gets a case to protect Chae Yeong Shin (Park Min-Young), he disguises himself as a reporter and becomes a fellow colleague. Chae Yeong Shin who has already heard about Healer becomes more interested to find out who he is after he saves her a couple of time. But things start to become messy when the Elder enters the scenario and the past comes to haunt them back.

Okaaaay, so I don’t exactly remember this one much as well, not more than the former. But I do remember the past flashback thingy very much confused me very much. Anyways, Seo Jung Hoo lives a secluded life and works with an unknown Hacker who gives him the job and she is the only one he could trust. Apart from another messenger nobody knows his identity. Chae Yeong Shin (who was soooo adorable) was actually quite similar to him in this aspect because she suffered from an incident which scarred her forever, so her only friend was her father (who was very very awesome I must say) and his assistant. Both their characters equally balanced each other and I loved that fact.

But as much as I loved the romance, the starting of that love didn’t feel quite real enough for me. As it slowly proceeded, their relationship developed but I felt the romance was suddenly thrown in my face, maybe I felt this because of Jung’s double identity, dunno. But that was only in the romantic aspect, other than that he executed his dual disguise personality very perfectly. (Don’t hit me, guys. Even virtually. I am smol being.) But everything after that was soooo cute!! I loved those two together!

I looooved the action sequences, there were definitely my favourite moments and the ajumma hacker was quite awesome as well. The plot slowly ties up all the clues together and also about Chae Yeong Shin’s past but I was getting confused about the group of 5 friends of the past and the present circumstances. After the villain a.k.a the Elder is revealed, things started becoming clear but I wish the antagonist was a little more dynamic. Yes, he did effing bad things but he didn’t give away the scary villain aura.

Overall, Healer was an interesting watch but I was didn’t feel connected to the plot. I didn’t have any major issues with this drama except the ones I mentioned, it’s just that I felt something was missing. On the other hand, the cast was phenomenal and did an outstanding job of executing their character. As I earlier said, I do not like the past syndrome thingy but I could have forgiven that if there was an emotional reunion. I mean, why didn’t that happen!! Anyway, the ending was quite fun and I enjoyed how everything was wrapped up.

(Again, do not hit this smol child.)

Recommend it?

Yes

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Sooo guys, have you watched these yet? Which one is your favourite?? Is it on your to-watch list??

Review: The Way Back to Us by Jamie Howard // Where I was not much pleased with the way

Title: The Way Back to Us
Author: Jamie Howard
Series: Love Unplugged, book 3 [Can be read as a standalone]
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, [New-Adult]
Heat Rating: Warm
Page Count and Format: 230, Ebook
Published: December 12th, 2017 by St. Martin’s Swerve
Source: I received an eARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
My Rating:

Blurb (from Goodreads):

Gavin MacCormack found the one. He fell in love. Hard. Until one night he ran out for some ice cream and came back to an empty dorm room, closets bare and nothing but a quick hand-written note saying, I’m sorry. Those two words taught Gavin the meaning of heartbreak. A feeling he never wants to encounter again. And as the lead singer of a Grammy award-winning band he’s had plenty of opportunities for casual, no-strings fun, which is just the way he likes it.

Dani Winters has had more names than birthdays. On the run with her father for nearly as long as she can remember, she’s lived her life by three rules—always plan for the worst, maintain a low profile at all costs, and never let anyone get too close. Except she broke that last rule once and her heart has never forgiven her.

One chance encounter changes everything. Seeing Dani resurrects feelings in Gavin he thought were long buried, and this time he’s not letting her disappear without getting some answers. But Dani’s life is the definition of complicated and she’s playing with fire by letting Gavin back in. When the time comes to run again, Dani needs to decide if a life without love is worth living, or if it’s time to stop running and fight.

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I hoped this book would be more enjoyable than book 2 which was the first book I read by this author. That’s why I decided to give this try. But unfortunately, that didn’t happen. I mean, it had its moments and the romance was the saving grace of this book.

For Gavin, Dani Winters was the one for him. But one day without any goodbye she disappears from his life leaving him shattered. After years, they come face to face with each other and realises their feelings for each other are still buried within. But Dani is still running from her demons. This might be their last chance to build something together or let go forever.

The thing is, the plot was waaay too common. I have read a number of books where the heroine is facing some extreme danger yet some simple communication would uncomplicate the matter but she decides to stay silent throughout the whole book until the end where a solution magically appears. *sighs* This plot has been overused so many times, it simply has lost its charm.

Though I have to say I didn’t see the plot twist coming just before it got revealed. But everything was too anti-climactic. I mean, it the story was following a certain pace but I felt the ending was too rushed and everything just happened all at once. It just didn’t make much sense to leave it like that, it would definitely have been better if some more explanations would have been given for the reason it happened and why it happened. I really wanted the backstory.

Anyway, the characters were the ones who did not let me put the book down. Gavin never got over Dani, for him she was everything and after she suddenly disappeared from his life, he stopped believing in love. A cliche, I know. Though I felt bad for the guy. He never gave up. Dani was a mysterious woman but everything could have been solved as a team but she chose to run away instead. But there were moments which made everything perfectly clear how much she still cared for him. The chemistry between them was electric but I wished there was more plot development.

Overall, The Way Back to Us was an okay read. Although the plot was cliched, I enjoyed the characters and the romance. The writing was smooth and easy to read.

Recommend it?

Maybe.

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Sooooo guys, have you read this book? If yes, how was your experience? Or is it in your tbr??

Review: Noteworthy by Riley Redgate // Where the Notes somewhat touched my Heart

Title: Noteworthy
Author: Riley Redgate
Standalone
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, LGBTQ, [Young-Adult]
Heat Rating: Warm
Page Count and Format: 336, Ebook
Published: May 2nd, 2017 by Amulet Books
Source: Purchased
My Rating:

Blurb (from Goodreads):

It’s the start of Jordan Sun’s junior year at the Kensington-Blaine Boarding School for the Performing Arts. Unfortunately, she’s an Alto 2, which—in the musical theatre world—is sort of like being a vulture in the wild: She has a spot in the ecosystem, but nobody’s falling over themselves to express their appreciation. So it’s no surprise when she gets shut out of the fall musical for the third year straight.

Then the school gets a mass email: A spot has opened up in the Sharpshooters, Kensington’s elite a cappella octet. Worshiped … revered … all male. Desperate to prove herself, Jordan auditions in her most convincing drag, and it turns out that Jordan Sun, Tenor 1, is exactly what the Sharps are looking for.

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Sooooo, yes I am that 1% of the population on this galaxy who didn’t enjoy this book as much as I thought I would. I have mostly read rave reviews of this book but this book just did not click with me. It’s the classic case of it’s me, not you I guess. Like, I do not completely dislike this book but there are simply stuff that I found lacking. 😦

Anyhoooo, this is going to be a smol list post review!

When Jordan’s parents decide to pull her out of her school due to the lack of funds and her not getting on any show due to her different voice, she asks for one last chance. And that chance comes in the form of a group known as Sharpshooters. But here’s the catch. It’s an all boy band. The fun begins when she auditions in the disguise of a male and gets into the band!

What I Enjoyed:

• The gender bender aspect. This kind of plot is always fun to read about although it was a bit cliched (Or maybe I’ve simply watched too many K-Dramas like this!). A woman dressing up like a man in order to pursue her passion. The thrill of hiding, despite everything trudging through to achieve one’s dream, I really loved this aspect in this book.

“Sometimes, good intentions couldn’t do a thing except make you feel less alone, and sometimes that was enough.”

• It was diverse. Our main protagonist Jordan is a bisexual Chinese-American girl who slowly discovers her sexuality throughout the book.

• The characters. Each one of them was unique, I enjoyed the Sharpshooters as a whole, they were fun as well as serious about their music. I especially enjoyed Issac and Jordan’s friendship.

“Life’s not a Greek tragedy.’
After a long second, I shrugged. ‘I mean, if you didn’t sleep with your mom by mistake, that’s fine, but don’t go around acting all superior to the rest of us.”

• It was humorous. This book definitely had its funny moments and I found myself laughing out loud during those particular scenes.

What I didn’t Enjoy:

• It was boring at times. Sometimes I felt that the plot was moving nowhere. It was the same stuff all over again.

• The romance. Although it’s an M/F romance, I wanted more depth in the relationship between the two characters which we didn’t get to see much. More development, more feelings and stuff ya know…

“It’s too simple to hate the people who have doorways where you have walls”

• We didn’t get enough of Trav. Why Oh Why?? I didn’t exactly dislike the guy, no far from that, I actually thought he was going to be the main lead since he was brooding intense guy and he was the first one to capture my attention. Anyway, I wanted to know more about him, his backstory, what happened in the future but unfortunately, I didn’t get that. I wanted that soooo badly!! 😦

Overall, Noteworthy was a good read, it just didn’t leave any long-lasting impression on me. I just couldn’t connect with it but it’s definitely a book worth giving a try. I do not regret reading this book by any means, Jordan was a beautiful character and I loved her journey of how she discovers and accepts herself. The writing was smooth and the pace was even throughout the book.

Recommend it?

Yes.

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Sooooo guys, have you read this book? If yes, how was your experience? Or is it in your tbr??