Book review: Book Lovers by Emily Henry

Book Lovers by Emily Henry
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

As I started this book, "Book Lovers," I had already highlighted three quotes in the prologue. I knew this was going to be as good a read as any. At first, the protagonist seemed like a sunshine-in-the-meadows kind of girl, but she quickly revealed herself to be the ice queen, and I was hooked.

Then there's the grump, who, of course, will eventually become the love interest. Like Nora, I always have to know beforehand how a book or movie ends. I don’t want to be surprised unnecessarily. I just read their confession scene in the bookshop, and it was such a wholesome piece of wrapping of all the promises.

For the first time, I felt there really were ENOUGH words. The final moment of confessions usually feels rushed or progresses to kisses too soon, but Emily Henry nailed it. It was as satisfying as the best burger I’ve ever had or the best cup of frothy coffee ever made. This book was enough. Enough to restore my faith in romances after two disappointing, book-tok hyped books.

The words, the catchy banter, the subtle love, the PG-13 level smut—it was all good. I have so many saved quotations from the book that I’ll share here. Emily Henry, you’ve truly delivered a satisfying romance.

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Book review: On Dublin Street by Samantha Young

On Dublin Street by Samantha Young
My rating: 1 of 5 stars

It’s my mistake for picking up a book with this kind of snippet. I don't know what I’m looking for, but I know I’m not looking for an Alpha-Douchebag hero like Braden. He’s arrogant, and not in a charming way but in an irritating one. Then he gives her the 'look'. What? That's all it takes, apparently.

The language of the book is sometimes "???" that kept me on edge as well. Then this guy, Braden. He completely disregards Joss' boundaries. His behavior is both annoying and abusive. How can anyone romanticize him?

In short, this book is not my cup of tea. I didn’t finish it. I stopped halfway, hoping to find a storyline somewhere. But I guess halfway is enough to decide I can’t do this. I think I'll go back to cute contemporaries for now.

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Book review: Beautiful Bastard by Christina Lauren

Beautiful Bastard by Christina Lauren
My rating: 1 of 5 stars

I went into "Beautiful Bastard" thinking it would be a hot and heavy romance with some good storylines. Boy, was I wrong. Instead, it turned out to be degrading porn without any real plot. I struggled to find any connection with the characters, and their interactions felt flat and meaningless.

I was really hoping for some steamy scenes mixed with a genuine romantic plot, but what I got was just a string of explicit encounters that didn't go anywhere. By the time I got halfway through the third chapter, I had to stop. It felt like a total waste of time and space.

Overall, "Beautiful Bastard" was a huge letdown for me, and I can't recommend it to anyone looking for a decent romance novel. This one gets 1 star from me.

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Book review: Better than the Movies by Lynn Painter

Better than the Movies by Lynn Painter
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

When I started reading this book, I immediately thought, "Oh yes, this girl is me." Liz is a rom-com movie buff waiting for her romantic hero, and her journey felt so relatable. Initially, I didn't want her to go for Michael, but soon it became clear that the trope was enemies to lovers with Wesley. Oh god, Wesley! He is funny, and so is Liz. My favorite laugh-out-loud moment was when Liz texted Michael from Wesley's phone about his hair. I couldn't stop laughing!

Wesley is so charming, and I'm falling for this guy just like Liz. But most of all, I connect with this hopeless romantic girl looking for the love she saw in movies. I was really hoping she'd pull her head out of her ass and see that Wesley is the one!

I found myself crying over the bond between Liz and Helena. Liz embracing the woman she thought was replacing the memories of her mom and finding a dependable friend in her is so touching. Helena reminds me of a practical and clear friend I have, yet she's soft and emotional.

This was a great book. It had everything: relatable characters, angst, confusion, and a happily ever after at the very end. Liz accepting Michael's promposal felt a bit stupid, and Wes making her go up to the piano room after that moment wasn't the best decision either. But this book made me cry, and that's always been a sign of a 5-star rating of the highest kind for me.

Long live romances with build-up and PG-13 content!

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