booksdogsandcoffee's reviews
612 reviews

The Sins on Their Bones by Laura R. Samotin

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dark emotional tense slow-paced

3.0

The Sins On Their Bones intertwines Jewish folklore with the intricate politics of 19th century Russian courts. It chronicles a civil war where two husbands, now on opposing sides after one has seized power from the other. Samotin weaves a tale full of lust, love, power, and family. 
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The Phoenix Keeper by S.A. MacLean

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funny hopeful informative inspiring lighthearted relaxing medium-paced

4.0

Capturing the charm and warmth reminiscent of The Hobbit and Legends & Lattes, yet distinctly her own, Maclean crafts a breathtaking magical debut. Seamlessly blending a rich tapestry of fantastical creatures with a heartfelt love story and a tender exploration of mental well-being, she creates a truly enchanting world
Guava Flavored Lies by J.J. Arias

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fast-paced

4.0

Two households alike in dignity in fair Miami, where they wage a decades old feud over who is the original owner of family pastry recipes at their restaurants. A beautiful twist on the classic Romeo and Juliet making it Cuban and sapphic! I loved how Sylvia and Lauren both change and grow through the novel. And that you get to see them from high school into their 30’s. This was such a feel good book. 
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Two Twisted Crowns by Rachel Gillig

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adventurous challenging dark emotional funny mysterious medium-paced

5.0

Gillig pulled of what many can't. An absolutely superb and fantastic second book. Many sequels end up falling flat, but that is not the case with Two Twisted Crowns. 

This book brings together all the stories being told through One Dark Window. The story, the romances, the magic, is all so beautifully written. Not many sequels are better than the originals, but this, this one is. I can't recommend this duology enough and am so excited to see what is next from Gillig.
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The Stardust Grail by Yume Kitasei

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4.0

With interstellar travel in danger and an alien species on the brink of extinction maya hashimoto may be the galaxy's only hope. Now in hiding thanks to a job gone bad she is forced out of retirement to help find the Stardust Grail to help save them all. This is the first sci-fi book I have seen migraine representation in and as someone who suffers from migraines I appreciated it so much. The Stardust Grail has such a deep message about anti- colonization, our environment and connections to others. Kitasei’s sophomore novel was stunningly brilliant, historical and a wild ride. 
Thirsty by Jas Hammonds

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dark emotional hopeful informative fast-paced

4.5

Imagine the vibes of Euphoria intertwined with an exclusive college society for women of color. Blake, her girlfriend Ella, and her best friend Annetta are trying to navigate the challenges of pledging into this society, all while Blake struggles with her excessive drinking. Thirsty delves into themes of alcohol abuse, toxic relationships, family bonds, and the transition from high school to college. Alaska Jackson's narration is exceptional, truly bringing the story to life. This is a must-read book that everyone should pick up.

cw
alcohol
hazing
toxic relationship
gaslighting 
bullying
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Hunt on Dark Waters by Katee Robert

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adventurous dark funny fast-paced

3.5

Embark on a hot and thrilling D&D esc adventure where the dark fantasy of The Witcher collides with the swashbuckling excitement of Black Sails, set in a realm beyond imagination
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The 7-10 Split by Karmen Lee

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3.5

This sapphic bowling second chance romance was adorable. Grace and Ava’s friendship turned rivalry with a slow burn romance is perfect to watch. The tension was on point and I enjoyed the side characters as well. 
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Eternal Captive by Elle Mae

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Did not finish book. Stopped at 30%.
Plot didn’t make a lot of sense and seem extremely similar to her other novels.  
Gay the Pray Away by Natalie Naudus

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emotional hopeful sad tense fast-paced

4.0

An emotionally gripping journey of self discovery, liberation from a religious cult, and embracing your authentic identity. Naudus masterfully delivers a poignant debut that resonates long after the final page. 
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