Scan barcode
bellebookcorner's reviews
1233 reviews
A Game of Veils by Eva Chase
adventurous
dark
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.25
I don’t read many books with multiple love interest because I’d feel like I would prefer one over the others, but this book is an exception!
The combination of deadly trials, slow burn spicy romance, and court intrigue successfully hooked me from start to end.
I really enjoyed following Aurelia’s journey as she enters a set of brutal trials to win the hand of a malicious prince against other noble women in order to keep her people safe.
I admired her strength, determination and calculating mind as she passed each trial without breaking apart and staying true to her goal.
Her rage has been building from the start and I wasn’t surprised to see what she’d done in the last chapter!
One of my favorite elements from this story is the dynamic relationships between Aurelia and the three foster princes.
Each of the princes has a different type of relationship with Aurelia; one was sweet and tender, one was hot and flirty, the other can match Aurelia’s curious and intelligent mind.
It was interesting to see how they slowly grew close, transitioning from enemies to allies and finally as lovers as they couldn’t deny the attraction they felt for one another.
Overall, this is a fun and thrilling reverse harem romantasy!
I thoroughly enjoyed my time in this captivating world and looking forward to know what happens next after that HUGE CLIFF-HANGER at the end! I need book 2!
I would recommend this book to those who enjoyed:
✨ arranged marriage
✨ deadly trials
✨ enemies-to-lovers
✨ deadly trials
✨ enemies-to-lovers
✨ court intrigue
✨ reverse harem / why choose
✨ morally gray characters
✨ reverse harem / why choose
✨ morally gray characters
✨ disability rep
<i>I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Huge thank you to the author and publisher!</i>
⚠️ 𝐓𝐖: Profanity, murder, classism, emotional and physical abuse, violence, sexual content, sexual harassment, and death
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Sexual content, Murder, and Classism
Moderate: Physical abuse and Sexual harassment
Minor: Body shaming, Emotional abuse, Gore, and Blood
Gravewater Lake by Sonya Sargent, A M Strong
challenging
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
4.0
Gravewater Lake is a psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish!
When I thought I had figured out where this book is going, it completely surprised me with a twist!
Told in a dual timeline, the past and present timeline had me constantly guessing the connection of the two timelines.
The amnesia trope can be a hit or miss for me, but the authors executed it very well.
They expertly combine the amnesia trope with themes of isolation, memory, and trust, which heightens the eerie atmosphere.
Following Anna’s journey as she tries to regain her memories and piece together the truth of what happened to her was thoroughly enjoyable.
The short chapters kept me flipping the pages even after I promised myself ‘just one more chapter’.
The ending was wrapped up quite nicely, although it felt slightly too far-fetched. It left me guessing about the main character’s final choice.
Overall, Gravewater Lake is a page turner, thrilling and addictive, constantly making me guess the direction of the plot!
This is my first book by these authors, and it won’t be the last. I’ve heard great things about their other works, so I will definitely keep an eye out for future books after this one.
I received an advanced review copy through Netgalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Huge thank you to the author and publisher!
⚠️ 𝐓𝐖: murder, domestic violence, drug use, death, gaslighting
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Drug use, and Gaslighting
Moderate: Domestic abuse and Murder
Tell Me What You Did by Carter Wilson
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
I wasn’t expecting this book, and it was best to go into this one blind and just enjoy the plot as it unfolds.
I was hooked right from the start with the short chapters and engaging writing style.
Although I could guess where the plot was going, I couldn't put my Kindle down because I wanted to see what kind of ending this story would have.
This book is told in dual timeline: the present time of the live podcast that changes Poe’s life, and the events from the past leading up to the present.
I liked the script interview format from the present timeline, which felt like watching a live podcast without knowing what’s on the minds between Poe and her latest deranged client.
Poe, the podcast host, is an intriguing and complex character, making this story much more than a simple thriller—it’s thought-provoking too.
Not everything is black and white; there are many grey areas where the author explores important themes such as guilt, revenge, justice, and redemption. It had me pondering what I would do in Poe’s position.
Overall, this is a fun fast-paced, plot driven novel, and I enjoyed my time reading it, even though the last few chapters toward the ending dragged a bit.
I'm definitely willing to try another book by this author and will keep an eye out for one!
I received an advanced review copy through Netgalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Huge thank you to the author and publisher!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Blood, Stalking, and Murder
Moderate: Sexual assault, Torture, and Violence
Minor: Animal cruelty
The Night Is Defying by Chloe C. Peñaranda
I wasn’t sure about continuing this series at first, but this sequel changed everything.
It’s a lot more action-packed and emotional; it has all the elements I wished for more in the previous book.
The Night is Defying started right after the ending of the previous book, providing just enough information to jog my memory so I could keep up with the plot easily enough.
I love the dual timeline and dual POVs, which allowed me to discover more about the events in the past through different perspective of the two main characters, Nyte and Aestrea.
I really enjoyed seeing Aestrea’s journey as she battles to regain her memories and learn more about her powers. Not to mention, she also has to deal with a mischievous and tempting Nyte who always riled her up but always support her for who she is not for what she is.
It was impossible not to root for Nyte and Aestrea when it seems like fate always keeping them apart, yet they keep coming back for each other despite it all. Their love was tested with every obstacle, it was heart-wrenching but also admirable.
The last few chapters are so intense, I didn’t want to take my eyes off of my Kindle, afraid I’m gonna missed something.
All the chaos, betrayals and display of power in the final battle kept me on the edge of my seat!
Overall, this was an improvement to the previous book; more captivating with plot twists and significant character development.
Some parts are a little slow but that HUGE CLIFF-HANGER at the end just made me eager to pick up book 3 in this trilogy for more of Nyte and Aestrea. They deserved the happy ending they’ve fought so hard for!
I received an advanced review copy through Netgalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Huge thank you to the author and publisher!
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
inspiring
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
“I didn’t fall for you twice because I never stopped loving you.
Through everything that tried to separate us–forgotten memories, lost time–it’s always been you…Starlight.”
I wasn’t sure about continuing this series at first, but this sequel changed everything.
It’s a lot more action-packed and emotional; it has all the elements I wished for more in the previous book.
The Night is Defying started right after the ending of the previous book, providing just enough information to jog my memory so I could keep up with the plot easily enough.
I love the dual timeline and dual POVs, which allowed me to discover more about the events in the past through different perspective of the two main characters, Nyte and Aestrea.
I really enjoyed seeing Aestrea’s journey as she battles to regain her memories and learn more about her powers. Not to mention, she also has to deal with a mischievous and tempting Nyte who always riled her up but always support her for who she is not for what she is.
It was impossible not to root for Nyte and Aestrea when it seems like fate always keeping them apart, yet they keep coming back for each other despite it all. Their love was tested with every obstacle, it was heart-wrenching but also admirable.
The last few chapters are so intense, I didn’t want to take my eyes off of my Kindle, afraid I’m gonna missed something.
All the chaos, betrayals and display of power in the final battle kept me on the edge of my seat!
Overall, this was an improvement to the previous book; more captivating with plot twists and significant character development.
Some parts are a little slow but that HUGE CLIFF-HANGER at the end just made me eager to pick up book 3 in this trilogy for more of Nyte and Aestrea. They deserved the happy ending they’ve fought so hard for!
I received an advanced review copy through Netgalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Huge thank you to the author and publisher!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content and Violence
Moderate: Blood
Rise of the Ash Kingdom by Elizabeth R. Olson
adventurous
challenging
emotional
inspiring
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
I just discovered a hidden gem with this stunning debut novel!
While the storyline might be a tad predictable, the author’s descriptive writing style had me completely hooked.
I was glued to my Kindle, exploring this epic world filled with fantastical supernatural beings and intricate court politics.
The characters are both loveable and relatable, especially the main character, Briar.
I loved following Briar’s journey back to her world from a dying realm, as she battles her fears and insecurities, facing dangerous obstacles and betrayals along the way.
I loved following Briar’s journey back to her world from a dying realm, as she battles her fears and insecurities, facing dangerous obstacles and betrayals along the way.
The last few chapters are intense, with the truth finally revealed and a climactic battle against the villain. While some plot points are resolved, there are still a few unanswered questions that make me excited for the next book!
Overall, this book is such a page turner. I finished it in just 2 days—it was highly enjoyable and entertaining!
If you’re in the mood for a romantasy with dying lands, slow-burn romance, and reluctant heroes, then you'll love this one!!
Thank you to Book of Matches Media and the author for giving me an e-ARC of the book and for having me on this book tour. I’m leaving this review voluntarily!
⚠️ 𝐓𝐖: There are conversations that revolve around past domestic violence and defining sexual consent, though neither ever happen on the page.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Domestic abuse
Hello, Juliet by Samantha M Bailey
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
I’m not going to lie; this book is incredibly addicting!
Its short chapters and easy-to-read writing style had my eyes glued to my Kindle. I devoured this fast-paced story in just one day!
The story starts with a strong opening, told in dual timeline —the past and present—from our main character Ivy Westcott's perspective set against the glamorous yet dark backdrop of Hollywood.
It offers a glimpse into celebrity life, filled with dark secrets, glamour, and popularity.
Seeing things from Ivy’s POV, being a celebrity is not an easy job. Her lack of confidence doesn't help her case with the scandals and gossip. Additionally, Ivy doesn’t seem like a 32-year-old woman during the present timeline, which feels slightly odd.
However, after discovering the truth, everything finally makes sense, and I could understand Ivy’s character a little bit better. Her journey is complex and adds depth to the story.
The real culprit identity comes as a shocking reveal—I wasn’t expecting it at all!
The ending was wrapped up nicely at the end which I really appreciate, as most thriller books I read end tragically or have an 'open ending,' which can be quite frustrating.
Overall, this is an enjoyable and entertaining thriller. The mystery element kept me interested from start until the end.
If you like fast-paced thriller stories centred around entertainment industry with complex characters and dark secrets, then you can give this one a try.
Thank you to Thriller Book Lovers The Pulse, Netgalley, author and publisher for giving me an e-ARC of the book. I’m leaving this review voluntarily!
Its short chapters and easy-to-read writing style had my eyes glued to my Kindle. I devoured this fast-paced story in just one day!
The story starts with a strong opening, told in dual timeline —the past and present—from our main character Ivy Westcott's perspective set against the glamorous yet dark backdrop of Hollywood.
It offers a glimpse into celebrity life, filled with dark secrets, glamour, and popularity.
Seeing things from Ivy’s POV, being a celebrity is not an easy job. Her lack of confidence doesn't help her case with the scandals and gossip. Additionally, Ivy doesn’t seem like a 32-year-old woman during the present timeline, which feels slightly odd.
However, after discovering the truth, everything finally makes sense, and I could understand Ivy’s character a little bit better. Her journey is complex and adds depth to the story.
The real culprit identity comes as a shocking reveal—I wasn’t expecting it at all!
The ending was wrapped up nicely at the end which I really appreciate, as most thriller books I read end tragically or have an 'open ending,' which can be quite frustrating.
Overall, this is an enjoyable and entertaining thriller. The mystery element kept me interested from start until the end.
If you like fast-paced thriller stories centred around entertainment industry with complex characters and dark secrets, then you can give this one a try.
Thank you to Thriller Book Lovers The Pulse, Netgalley, author and publisher for giving me an e-ARC of the book. I’m leaving this review voluntarily!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Drug use, and Gaslighting
Moderate: Alcoholism
Iron & Embers by Helen Scheuerer
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
“Drevenor welcomes you with open arms. But beware the thorns of its embrace.”
Helen has done it again! Another masterpiece!
Set 5 years after the Legends of Thezmarr series, a new danger once again threatens the realm once more by targeting the royals.
It felt great to return to Thezmarr, reuniting with my favorite characters—especially the hilarious duo, Kipp and Cal, who never fail to liven up the story with their antics!
I’ve always admired Wren (FMC) from the previous series for her creativity and intelligence as an alchemist, a role that proved crucial in the last war.
In this book, I get an up-close look at just how dangerous and cunning Wren can be when she wants to.
This story is an emotional journey for Wren as she battles her grief, guilt and her need of revenge. But, she’s trying to find her true purpose again with the help of new friends and a certain lovely yet annoying Warsword!
“You look like you’re going to kiss me.”
“You look like you’d enjoy it.”
Now, let’s talk about the romance!
I adore the love-hate relationship between Wren and Torj—the bantering, flirting, and longing gazes create delicious tension.
I adore the love-hate relationship between Wren and Torj—the bantering, flirting, and longing gazes create delicious tension.
Their chemistry is off the charts! I love seeing them slowly open up to each other and explore their newfound feelings whenever they’re together.
“Go up in flames with me, Embers.”
The last few chapters are action-packed, keeping my eyes glued to my Kindle.
I didn’t want to miss a single badass moment from the alchemist and the Warswords fighting side by side.
However, I wasn’t expecting that CLIFF-HANGER to drop out of nowhere, and now I’m in misery, waiting for book two to find out what happens next!
Overall, this is a promising start for this new series!
The sizzling slow-burn romance, rich world-building, and thrilling action are perfectly balanced, making this book so addictive that putting it down is the last thing I want to do.
I’m really looking forward to the sequel, Thorns and Fire, coming out in July 2025!
(I hope July comes sooner...!!)
(I hope July comes sooner...!!)
I received an advanced review copy through Netgalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Huge thank you to the author and publisher!
⚠️ 𝐓𝐖: Death, torture, murder, kidnapping, grief, brief mention of medical trauma and medical content
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Torture, and Murder
Moderate: Kidnapping and Grief
Minor: Medical content and Medical trauma
Beautiful Ugly by Alice Feeney
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Alice Feeney is truly a master of plot twist; this book is no exception to that!
I was loss for words in the last 20% of the book; it was a big surprise to me and made me rethink everything I'd read from the beginning. Which one is the reality, which one is telling the truth, or is it all in this character mind the whole time ?
I knew from the start that our main character, Grady is not a 100% reliable narrator for this story due to his drinking habits and lack of sleep. I felt sympathetic towards him after losing his wife, whom he seemed to cherish and love so much.
HOWEVER, my mind started to wander with several theories about Grady after seeing his actions when he was living on this isolated island…
The author did a great job in crafting this creepy and remote setting with its unusual residents, which added to the tension and sense of isolation that can be felt throughout the book.
There’s only one thing that prevent me from fully enjoying this book—the pacing; some parts are slow and at times feel dragging.
Usually I prefer fast-paced thriller stories, so this felt a little too slow for me. Even though I admit the slow pace was needed to show the changes of Grady’s emotional and psychological state.
Overall, the ending really make up for all the slow build-up at the beginning.
The last chapter pique my interest, after knowing all the twists, I had this urge to reread the book again with a different perspective to look closer to the clues now that I know the truth and the secret message!
I received an advanced review copy through Netgalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Huge thank you to the author and publisher!
⚠️ 𝐓𝐖: emotional manipulation, psychological distress, violence, alcoholism, murder, sexual assault, child abuse, death, brief mention of Pedophilia and sexual content
I was loss for words in the last 20% of the book; it was a big surprise to me and made me rethink everything I'd read from the beginning. Which one is the reality, which one is telling the truth, or is it all in this character mind the whole time ?
I knew from the start that our main character, Grady is not a 100% reliable narrator for this story due to his drinking habits and lack of sleep. I felt sympathetic towards him after losing his wife, whom he seemed to cherish and love so much.
HOWEVER, my mind started to wander with several theories about Grady after seeing his actions when he was living on this isolated island…
The author did a great job in crafting this creepy and remote setting with its unusual residents, which added to the tension and sense of isolation that can be felt throughout the book.
There’s only one thing that prevent me from fully enjoying this book—the pacing; some parts are slow and at times feel dragging.
Usually I prefer fast-paced thriller stories, so this felt a little too slow for me. Even though I admit the slow pace was needed to show the changes of Grady’s emotional and psychological state.
Overall, the ending really make up for all the slow build-up at the beginning.
The last chapter pique my interest, after knowing all the twists, I had this urge to reread the book again with a different perspective to look closer to the clues now that I know the truth and the secret message!
I received an advanced review copy through Netgalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Huge thank you to the author and publisher!
⚠️ 𝐓𝐖: emotional manipulation, psychological distress, violence, alcoholism, murder, sexual assault, child abuse, death, brief mention of Pedophilia and sexual content
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child abuse, Death, and Sexual assault
Moderate: Child death and Murder
Minor: Alcoholism, Pedophilia, and Sexual content
Liar's Kingdom by Christine Calella
adventurous
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
An incredibly clever twist brings a refreshing take to a classic fairy tale!
This tale has a lot more darker elements like The Brothers Grimm's version, which might be sensitive to some readers. I highly suggest checking out the content warnings below before diving in.
I thoroughly enjoyed following Ell’s journey from the beginning to the end.
Watching her character grow after enduring so much grief, hatred and cruelty was truly inspiring. She emerged as the bigger person, learning an important lesson in forgiveness.
The friendships she forms with her maid and two other unexpected characters were one of my favorite parts from the story. Initially suspicious, these characters ultimately prove to be allies, adding depth to the story.
However, the romance element left much to be desired. It felt forced and rushed, appearing abruptly in the last few pages.
The story would have been just as strong without this last-minute addition.
Overall, this was fun and fast-paced read that concluded with a satisfying ending for both the human kingdom and the Fae kingdom.
The twists and turns kept me on the edge of my seat, and each unexpected event throughout the story took me by surprise until the final battle!
I would keep an eye out for more books by this author in the future.
Thank you to TBR and Beyond Tour, Netgalley, author and publisher for giving me an e-ARC of the book and for having me on this book tour. I’m leaving this review voluntarily!
⚠️ 𝐓𝐖: death, animal death, animal cruelty, physical abuse
This tale has a lot more darker elements like The Brothers Grimm's version, which might be sensitive to some readers. I highly suggest checking out the content warnings below before diving in.
I thoroughly enjoyed following Ell’s journey from the beginning to the end.
Watching her character grow after enduring so much grief, hatred and cruelty was truly inspiring. She emerged as the bigger person, learning an important lesson in forgiveness.
The friendships she forms with her maid and two other unexpected characters were one of my favorite parts from the story. Initially suspicious, these characters ultimately prove to be allies, adding depth to the story.
However, the romance element left much to be desired. It felt forced and rushed, appearing abruptly in the last few pages.
The story would have been just as strong without this last-minute addition.
Overall, this was fun and fast-paced read that concluded with a satisfying ending for both the human kingdom and the Fae kingdom.
The twists and turns kept me on the edge of my seat, and each unexpected event throughout the story took me by surprise until the final battle!
I would keep an eye out for more books by this author in the future.
Thank you to TBR and Beyond Tour, Netgalley, author and publisher for giving me an e-ARC of the book and for having me on this book tour. I’m leaving this review voluntarily!
⚠️ 𝐓𝐖: death, animal death, animal cruelty, physical abuse
Content Warnings
Graphic: Animal cruelty, Animal death, and Physical abuse
Moderate: Death of parent
Immortal by Sue Lynn Tan
5.0
“I was all of them…and I was more.”
Another stunning story from Sue Lynn Tan—she never disappoints!
Her beautiful, descriptive writing style captivates me from the beginning to the end!
The rich, magical world-building and loveable characters, combined with dangers lurking in every corner and long-buried secrets make this book unputdownable!
The story explores important themes such as self-discovery, resilience, love, and vengeance teaching us that not all matters are black and white.
I admire Liyen’s character. She’s brave, compassionate and her determination is unparalleled. Following her journey travelling to the Immortal realm and the Netherworld, facing dangers and uncovering the truth to free her people, is exhilarating.
“No matter where I am or who I become, my heart will always be yours.”
Zhangwei, the God of War starts cold and dismissive but reveals layers that make him a man worth going to heaven and hell for. He definitely finds his match in the stubborn and fiery Liyen.
The slow-burn enemies-to-lovers romance is delightful.
Their banter is charming, and the moment they finally give in to each other is worth the wait!
“Never doubt my heart. I have loved you since we met—as I will for the rest of our days.”
The last few chapters are mind-blowing, with unexpected twists and turns that really surprised me. The intense, action-packed battle scenes had my eyes glued to my Kindle.
The ending is beautifully wrapped up, a fitting conclusion to the story.
If you’re looking for a romantic fantasy inspired by Chinese mythology elements with swoon-worthy romance, strong family and friendship bond, action-packed scenes and magical creatures, look no further! Immortal is the book for you!
I received an advanced review copy through Netgalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Huge thank you to the author and publisher!
⚠️ 𝐓𝐖: violence, death, war, blood
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Violence, and War
Moderate: Blood
Minor: Sexual content