♡ Moon Is BookMarked ♡

Thank you to Netgalley the Publisher, of Andrews McMeel Publishing, and the author Bex Ollberton for providing and allowing me to review this book. Which, I'm giving my honest and sincere review.

"Lavender Clouds" by Bex Ollerton is a moving collection of autobiographical comics that explores mental health and the struggle to make a difference while battling inner turmoil. The artwork is breathtaking, filled with vibrant colors and intricate details. 

Through personal stories, Ollerton candidly depicts the emotional weight of living with mental health challenges. Despite the heaviness of the subject, there's a hopeful undertone that shines through. In essence, "Lavender Clouds" is a poignant reminder of resilience and the healing potential of self-expression through art.

Thank you to Netgalley the Publisher, of Dreamscape Media, and the author Katie Kennedy for providing and allowing me to review this Audio-ARC. Which, I'm giving my honest and sincere review.

"Hearts on Thin Ice" by Katie Kennedy is a delightful romantic novel that captured my heart from the very beginning. The story follows the journey of Nick Sorensen, a pro hockey player who is trying to get back on the ice after a devastating plane crash that took the lives of his best friends. Nick is physically ready to play, but mentally, he struggles to find his way and move on from the tragedy that haunts him.

What I loved most about this book is the way that Kennedy brings the characters to life. Nick is a complex and brooding character, whose struggles and vulnerabilities make him incredibly endearing. I found myself rooting for him from the start, hoping that he would find the strength to overcome his inner demons and find love and happiness once again. His interactions with Alyssa, the up-and-coming interior designer he hires to decorate his apartment, are both infuriating and heartwarming. Alyssa is a strong and independent woman who is determined to prove herself in her career and create a home for herself. The dynamic between Nick and Alyssa is electric, and I loved watching their relationship unfold throughout the book.

One of the things that stood out to me about this book is the way it explores important themes such as mental health, belonging, and finding one's place in the world. Kennedy handles these topics with sensitivity and grace, weaving them seamlessly into the story. As someone who has struggled with my own mental health, I appreciated the way the author portrayed Nick's journey towards healing and self-acceptance. It resonated with me on a personal level and made me feel seen and understood.

The romance in this book is swoon-worthy and had me grinning from ear to ear. Nick and Alyssa's banter and chemistry leap off the page, and I found myself eagerly turning the pages to see how their story would unfold. The tension and slow-burn romance between them kept me on the edge of my seat, and I was left feeling satisfied and fulfilled by the end.

Overall, "Hearts on Thin Ice" is a charming and heartwarming sports romance that tugs at the heartstrings and leaves a lasting impression. The well-developed characters, engaging plot, and poignant themes make it a must-read for fans of the genre. Katie Kennedy has crafted a beautiful love story that will stay with me long after I have finished reading it. I cannot recommend this book enough and will be eagerly anticipating more from this talented author in the future.

When I picked up "You Are Mine" by Vera Turner, I knew I was diving into a dark, twisted world, but I was not fully prepared for the gripping and intense experience that awaited me. This novella, labeled as a pitch-black stalker romance, takes you on a rollercoaster ride through obsession, manipulation, and a disturbing quest for control.

Summary: The story centers around Holly, affectionately yet tauntingly referred to as "my little Onion" by her stalker. In a desperate attempt to escape his clutches, Holly leaves her city apartment for a desolate town, hoping the isolation will offer her some protection. However, her stalker is determined and cunning, viewing Holly's move not as a setback but as a challenge to be overcome. The narrative is driven by his chilling steps to reclaim her: eliminating her boyfriend, punishing her for fleeing, and ultimately planning to keep her forever.

From the very beginning, I was hooked by the chilling premise. The idea that Holly's attempt at freedom would only lead her deeper into the stalker's control was both horrifying and fascinating. The stalker's perspective, presented in an eerily calm and methodical manner, added layers of psychological depth to the story. His obsession with Holly is unsettling, yet Vera Turner’s writing is so compelling that I couldn’t look away.

Review: "You Are Mine" is not for the faint of heart. The story is as dark as it gets, diving into themes of control, obsession, and psychological manipulation. Turner masterfully builds tension, making every step of the stalker's plan feel inevitable yet shocking. The rural setting, where Holly's screams would go unheard, adds to the sense of isolation and helplessness.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the book is the dynamic between Holly and her stalker. Holly is portrayed as resourceful and resilient, yet her strength is continuously tested by the relentless pursuit of her captor. This interplay keeps the reader on edge, rooting for Holly while simultaneously dreading what will come next.

The novella's pacing is brisk, which works well for the intensity of the plot. Each chapter leaves you wanting more, making it difficult to put the book down. Despite its dark themes, the story does promise a happily ever after (HEA), which provides a sliver of hope amidst the darkness. However, it's important to heed the trigger warnings, as the book delves into disturbing and potentially distressing territory.

Conclusion: Reading "You Are Mine" by Vera Turner was a harrowing yet enthralling experience. It's a novella that pulls no punches, immersing the reader in a world where freedom is fickle, and control is the ultimate goal. If you’re a fan of dark romance and psychological thrillers, this book will undoubtedly captivate you. Just be prepared for a story that challenges your comfort zone and lingers in your mind long after you’ve turned the last page.

Thank you to Netgalley the Publisher, of Crane and Leeu Press, and the author Jeanné Olivier for providing and allowing me to review this book. Which, I'm giving my honest and sincere review.

"The Girl in my Dreams" by Jeanne Olivier had me completely engrossed from the get-go. As someone who loves a good blend of romance and suspense, this book hit all the right notes for me.
From the moment Oliver, the up-and-coming rock star, meets Nina at the club, I could feel the sparks flying off the page. But then, the unexpected happens—a car crash leaves Oliver injured and Nina in a coma. Talk about a plot twist!
As Oliver grapples with his recovery, his vivid dreams of Nina add an intriguing layer of mystery to the story. I found myself eagerly turning the pages, desperate to uncover the secrets lurking within their shared dreams.
What really grabbed my attention was the way Olivier skillfully built tension and suspense throughout the book. With each chapter, I was on the edge of my seat, wondering what would happen next and how Oliver and Nina's story would unfold.
But it wasn't just the suspense that kept me hooked—the romance between Oliver and Nina was incredibly compelling. Despite the obstacles they faced, their connection felt genuine and heartfelt, making me root for them every step of the way.
And let's talk about those plot twists! Just when I thought I had everything figured out, Olivier threw in another curveball that left me reeling. The revelations about Oliver and Nina's shared dreams had me questioning everything I thought I knew about their relationship.

Overall, "The Girl in my Dreams" is a rollercoaster of emotions—a gripping love story with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing. If you're a fan of romance and suspense, this book is an absolute must-read. Trust me, you won't be able to put it down!