Kristie Taulton

Icicle Inferno: A Chilling Spark in Beautiful Carnage

Revisado: 04-30-25

Beautiful Carnage, the first book in the Dark Empire (also referred to as The Boys of Sinners Bay) series, is a dark, mafia-themed, enemies-to-lovers romance that delivers a potent mix of grit, spice, and emotional whiplash. Written by the bestselling duo Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti, this standalone novel follows Sloan Calabresi, a mafia princess, and Rocco Romero, the vengeful son of a rival crime family. When Rocco kidnaps Sloan on her wedding day to settle a blood debt, their hate-fueled dynamic ignites a slow-burn romance packed with tension, violence, and surprising heart.
The story kicks off with a bang: Rocco, driven by the murder of his brother, crashes Sloan’s arranged marriage to exact revenge on her family. Instead of killing her father as planned, he steals Sloan, setting the stage for a captive-captor relationship laced with Romeo-and-Juliet vibes—minus the tragic ending, but with plenty of bloodshed. The authors lean hard into mafia romance tropes—kidnapping, forced proximity, and a possessive alpha male—but elevate them with sharp writing and complex characters. Sloan is no damsel; she’s fiery, resilient, and matches Rocco’s intensity, refusing to be broken despite her circumstances. Rocco, meanwhile, is a deliciously flawed anti-hero—savage, brooding, and unapologetically brutal, yet softened by his growing obsession with Sloan.
What sets Beautiful Carnage apart is its balance of dark and light. The violence is unflinching, and the steamy scenes (including a memorable icicle moment that’s equal parts wild and polarizing) are explicit and intense, earning the book’s 3/5 spice rating. Yet, there’s wit and humor woven in, often through side characters like Sloan’s feisty Pomeranian, Coco, or Rocco’s brothers, especially Frankie, who steals scenes with his dark-yet-innocent charm. The slow-burn romance is a highlight, with palpable chemistry that builds through hate, mistrust, and reluctant attraction. Readers who love tension will revel in the push-and-pull,

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My poor broken heart

Revisado: 03-25-25

The story follows Wren Embervale, an alchemist-turned-assassin driven by a relentless thirst for revenge after losing loved ones in a past war. When a mysterious form of dark magic threatens the midrealms, Wren is thrust out of the shadows and into the ancient alchemy academy of Drevenor, where she must conquer the deadly Gauntlet to secure her place and find a cure. Assigned to protect her is Torj Elderbrock, a silver-haired war hero with a deep-seated grudge against her—thanks to Wren’s past assassination of his previous charge. Their enemies-to-lovers dynamic is the beating heart of this book, and Scheuerer masterfully builds the tension between them with every sharp exchange, lingering glance, and reluctant moment of vulnerability.

Scheuerer’s prose flows effortlessly, painting a world that feels both expansive and intimate, and her ability to weave romance and action together is nothing short of impressive.
But then came the ending—and oh, how it unraveled my enjoyment. Without diving into spoilers, I’ll say it felt like a gut punch, not in the satisfying, “I need the next book now” way, but in a frustrating, “Why would you do this to me?” way. After investing so much in Wren and Torj’s relationship and the stakes of their mission, the conclusion felt abrupt and unnecessarily cruel, undermining the emotional payoff I’d been craving. It left me more annoyed than eager, which is a shame because everything leading up to it was so beautifully done.
Overall, Iron & Embers is a stellar romantasy that shines with its compelling characters, electric romance, and immersive world—making it a must-read for fans of the genre. I’d give it a solid 4.5 stars for the sheer enjoyment it brought me, but that ending knocks it down to a 4 for me. If you’re someone who can handle a cliffhanger that stings, you’ll likely adore this book as much as I did—until those final pages. I’m still crossing my fingers that the sequel, Thorns & Fire, will mend my broken heart when it releases later this year.

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A Captivating Blend of Fantasy and Heart: Reviewing Rebel Witch

Revisado: 02-25-25

Kristen Ciccarelli delivers an enchanting and immersive story in Rebel Witch, weaving together rich world-building, compelling characters, and an emotional love story.

The world is beautifully crafted, full of intricate lore and vivid details that make it easy to get lost in. The characters are equally well-developed, especially the protagonist, whose journey of growth and self-discovery is both inspiring and heartfelt. The romance is a true highlight—deep, emotional, and full of undeniable chemistry. Rather than relying on cliché attraction, Ciccarelli builds a relationship that feels authentic, with love that strengthens through challenges.

Beyond the romance, Rebel Witch explores themes of resilience, identity, and fighting for what truly matters. With engaging pacing, unexpected twists, and a satisfying conclusion, this book is a must-read for fantasy and romance fans alike.

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Great book/ terrible narrator

Revisado: 02-22-25

Great book but the narrator sounded like a robot. I still think it’s worth reading but I wouldn’t recommend listening.

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A World of Magic and Twists Promised in Fire

Revisado: 02-20-25

Jasmine Walt’s Promised in Fire is a captivating fantasy romance filled with magic, prophecy, and slow-burning passion. The story follows Adara, a young woman with a mysterious past who has spent her life in hiding—until fate thrusts her into a world of power, danger, and an undeniable destiny. As she navigates this new reality, she finds herself drawn to the formidable and enigmatic Max, a man who challenges her in more ways than one.

The world-building in this novel is immersive, blending rich mythology, elemental magic, and divine influence to create a setting that feels both epic and intimate. Adara is a strong yet vulnerable heroine, making her journey of self-discovery and empowerment deeply compelling. Einar, the brooding yet protective MMC, provides the perfect balance of tension and chemistry, making their relationship one of the novel’s standout elements.

Walt does a fantastic job balancing action, intrigue, and romance. The plot moves at a steady pace with well-placed twists and revelations, keeping the reader engaged. Some sections lean a bit heavily on exposition, but overall, the momentum remains strong.

For fans of fantasy romance featuring a destined heroine, a powerful love interest, and an intricately woven magical world, Promised in Fire is a must-read.

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From Selfishness to Sovereignty: Scarlett’s Hard-Won Growth in Lady of Shadows

Revisado: 02-01-25

Melissa K. Roehrich’s Lady of Shadows is an intriguing fantasy novel filled with political intrigue, magic, and romance, but at its core, it is a story of personal growth. The protagonist, Scarlett, undergoes a significant transformation over the course of the book—though not without frustrating detours along the way.

Scarlett begins the novel as immature and self-absorbed, often making choices that prioritize her own desires over the well-being of those around her. She is torn between two men, seemingly unable—or unwilling—to make a decision, leading them both on in a way that feels selfish rather than truly conflicted. Her romantic entanglements are a reflection of her broader struggles: she wants power and control but hesitates to take true responsibility for the consequences of her actions.

Throughout much of the story, Scarlett’s leadership is questionable. She demands authority but lacks the wisdom to wield it effectively. She is reactive rather than proactive, often making impulsive decisions that put herself and others at risk. Her selfishness isn’t just in love but in her reluctance to fully commit to the responsibilities that come with her role. Readers may find themselves frustrated with her choices, but this frustration serves a purpose—it highlights just how much she needs to grow.

That growth does eventually happen, albeit slowly. Through trials, betrayals, and losses, Scarlett is forced to mature. She begins to understand that leadership isn’t about power alone; it’s about sacrifice, wisdom, and putting others before herself. By the end of the novel, she finally takes ownership of her role—not just as a ruler, but as a person who understands the weight of her decisions. It’s a hard-won transformation, and while she still has flaws, there’s a clear sense that she is on a better path.

Ultimately, Lady of Shadows delivers a compelling character arc for Scarlett, even if it requires patience to watch her reach her potential. Her journey from selfishness to responsibility is satisfying, making the book’s latter half far stronger than its beginning. Readers who enjoy flawed heroines with room for growth will appreciate her evolution, even if they find themselves exasperated with her along the way.

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A Heart-Stirring Tale of Love, Redemption, and Resilience

Revisado: 01-28-25

Rebecca Yarros delivers another emotionally charged and beautifully crafted story with Onyx Storm. From the very first page, the novel pulls you into a whirlwind of passion, suspense, and heartache. The characters are complex and relatable, each carrying their own burdens while navigating love and redemption. Yarros has an incredible talent for weaving deep emotional connections between her characters, making you feel every triumph and heartbreak as if it were your own.

Her writing is vivid and cinematic, painting scenes that leap off the page and straight into your imagination. The balance between romance and tension is impeccable, keeping you hooked until the very last word. Onyx Storm isn’t just a story—it’s an experience that will linger with you long after you’ve turned the final page.

Perfect for fans of contemporary romance with depth, heart, and a touch of edge, this book cements Rebecca Yarros as a masterful storyteller. Highly recommended!

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A Spellbinding Tale of Love, Magic, and Redemption

Revisado: 01-19-25

“White Horse Black Nights” by Evie Marceau, narrated by Phillipa Miller and Walker Williams, is a captivating dark fantasy romance that masterfully intertwines elements of classic tales like Snow White and Lady Godiva. 

The story introduces us to Sabine Darrow, a young woman endowed with the unique ability to communicate with animals—a gift marking her as “godkissed.” After being confined for twelve years, Sabine is sold as a bride to the formidable high lord, Rian Valvere. Her journey to his domain requires her to travel unclothed on horseback for 21 days, accompanied by the enigmatic huntsman, Basten “Wolf” Bowborn, whose heightened senses and complex persona add depth to the narrative. 

The novel excels in its rich world-building, painting the kingdom of Astagnon as a realm filled with ancient magic, political intrigue, and reawakening creatures. The chemistry between Sabine and Wolf is palpable, evolving from initial animosity to a profound, forbidden attraction that keeps readers engaged. Their dynamic is further enriched by well-crafted dialogue and a slow-burning romance that feels both authentic and enthralling. 

Narrators Phillipa Miller and Walker Williams deliver stellar performances, bringing the characters to life with emotive and nuanced portrayals that enhance the listening experience. Their narration adds an extra layer of immersion, making the audiobook a compelling choice for fans of the genre. 

Overall, “White Horse Black Nights” is a beautifully written tale that seamlessly blends fantasy and romance. It’s a must-read for enthusiasts of dark, enemies-to-lovers stories, offering a journey that’s both unforgettable and deeply satisfying.

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Magical Adventure

Revisado: 01-18-25

House of Pounding Hearts” is the second installment in Olivia Wildenstein’s “Kingdom of Crows” series, continuing the enthralling journey of Fallon, whose life has been upended since freeing the crows. Now held in the Sky Kingdom by Lorcan, the enigmatic Crow King, Fallon grapples with her new reality and the complex emotions it evokes. 

Wildenstein masterfully expands the series’ universe, introducing readers to the Sky Kingdom and its inhabitants, while revisiting familiar locales like Tarelexo and Monteluce. The narrative delves deeper into the intricate dynamics between characters, particularly the evolving relationship between Fallon and Lorcan. Their interactions are marked by tension, banter, and undeniable chemistry, culminating in moments that are both steamy and heartfelt. 

Fallon’s character development is central to the story. Transitioning from the naive tavern girl of the first book, she becomes more assertive and, at times, impulsive. While some readers may find her stubbornness challenging, others will appreciate her journey toward self-awareness and empowerment. 

The plot is rich with unexpected twists, political intrigue, and a blend of supernatural elements, including shifters, fae, and witches. Wildenstein balances action with emotional depth, ensuring readers remain invested in the characters’ fates. The book concludes with a cliffhanger that leaves readers eager for the next installment. 

In summary, “House of Pounding Hearts” is a captivating fantasy romance that skillfully combines adventure, emotion, and sensuality. It’s a must-read for fans of the genre seeking a story that resonates long after the final page.

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Feathers, Flights, and Fabulous Fun!

Revisado: 01-15-25

Reading House of Beating Wings by Olivia Wildenstein was like stepping into a world where feathers aren’t just for pillow fights but for full-blown political intrigue, magical mayhem, and the occasional heart-fluttering romance. Wildenstein’s ability to craft a tale of winged drama in the Kingdom of Crows series had me hooked faster than a crow to a shiny trinket.

The characters? Let’s just say they’re as layered as a mille-feuille pastry—deliciously complex with the perfect dash of sass and emotional depth. And the plot twists? I did not see them coming, but neither did half the characters, so I felt in good company.

With humor, heartbreak, and enough action to make me seriously consider wing-training, this book is a soaring success. If you love fantasy worlds with sharp talons and even sharper wit, House of Beating Wings will have you flying through the pages—just be careful not to ruffle your feathers when Wildenstein drops yet another jaw-dropping revelation.

5/5 wings, and I can’t wait to dive back into this bird-brained brilliance!

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