Neen’s Bookish Ramblings

September Wrap up

October 2nd, 2022

September has been a hard month. A new job, and lots of sickness. I read five books, and have decided to stop beating myself up over falling 10 books behind on my yearly reading goal. Too many other things happening to worry about that. But the books I have read have been smashing fun.

I hope you Stay by Courtney Peppernell
A friend loaned me her paperback copy of this book and it couldn’t have come at a more perfect time.
I enjoyed this collection. I love the way the poems are broken into sections. I felt strong pulls to several of the poems which is always nice.
I got overwhelmed by the formatting. I fell into the mindset of novel reading several times with the larger blocks of text and then suddenly there is rhyming and it pulled me out of the message of the poem.
I enjoyed the change from first person to third person, even a few poems written in second person. It was a nice way to break up the book while giving it a gentle flowing feeling.
Perfect timing for me to read some more poetry, to help reset emotions and remind me to breathe.

Tangled Vows by Anna Stone
My first Anna Stone and my first BDSM.
I enjoyed many things about this book. The story was entertaining and the characters intriguing. I loved icy Yvonne, and I related to Ruby’s struggle to find herself again having been turned into a shell by her ex.
I listened to the audio version narrated by Lexy Rebe. I loved her drawl and especially loved Yvonne’s sexy voice. I wasn’t so fond of Ruby’s voice.
I want to say the book shocked me with the bdsm scenes, but not at all. Which might have a little more to do with me as the writing was exquisite and the scenes well done in all aspects.
I appreciated the angst and tension build up wasn’t drawn out and the resolution was extremely satisfying.
I like Anna Stones use of words and look forward to reading more of her books.

Strange Attractors by Ana K Wrenn
An amazingly beautiful and haunting look into dark academia and trauma.
Ana K Wrenn writes in the most poetic and beautiful way, her choice of words taking us into the twisted and tormented life and struggles of Dr Sonya Storey.
An ice queen and how she’s been made, and destroyed. A love interest who refuses to be silenced or used as a life saver. Unexpected amusement in the middle of chaos.
There are so many levels in this book I could easily see myself rereading and finding more depth within depth.
The scenery is delicious and the characters are so wonderfully flawed.

The Long Way to a Small Angry Planet by Becky Chambers
I really had to stop and think about how to discuss this book, how to review it. I don’t want to spoil it for anyone because everyone who likes sci-fi or well written characters and exciting adventures should absolutely read this book.
An ensemble cast of tunnellers who get a big arse paying job that will push them up in their goals and start allowing them to get on top of things.
But of course, nothing comes without a price, even if none of them expected the prices they paid.
The audio was narrated by Patricia Rodriguez and damn it if she didn’t do a truly fantastic job. So many different characters and voices and she absolutely nailed them.
The different races are fantastic and the characters are so well rounded and realistic. I was on every punch with them, every unexpected twist and turn.
I adored all the crew, and cannot wait to get to read more of this series.

The Little Morsel by Rachel Rener and Alora Carter
This is the most adorable one sitting fantasy story about a dragon and a girl who find an unlikely family in each other. Found family is one of my favourite tropes of all time. And this mixed with the beautiful writing and the fantastic humour had me smiling during the entire read.
I was blown away by how the authors handled the dark reality of little morsels life previously. Children’s books can handle such things, and it was handled perfectly here.
I think my favourite of Ferals names for the food deliveries was definitely tarts in carts, but there were so many great ones to choose from lol

CURRENT READS:

I’m in the middle of three amazing books at the moment. I can’t wait to finish and review them:
Purposefully Accidental by G Benson
Crush by S R Silcox
Nona the Ninth (The Locked Tomb #3) by Tamsyn Muir

Be Safe
Be Brave
Be Kind

Neen x
August’s Bookshelf

September 6th, 2022

August was the longest and shortest month wrapped up in to one. I finished working, started job hunting, wrote almost 30K on my WIP and turned 40 somewhere in there as well. Turned out, something had to give and it was my reading.

I read 7 books this month, but to be fair I’ve also been having a blast being on the beta reader teams of some amazing authors and can’t wait until their books are out so I can gush more whole heartedly about them.

But for now, on with the show … or the reviews!

The Heartbeat of a Million Dreams by Halo Scot
When I first started this book I was hooked. It starts strong and gripping and from there it doesn’t let up. The story is told in alternate first person points of view from our two protagonists, Slade and Koa. Their voices are so incredibly unique that I never for a moment had to flick back or check which point of view I was in at any given time. And when in each perspective I could feel and taste the pain and dust that surrounded them.
The beauty and poetry of Halo Scott’s words, most strongly through Slade’s POV, literally brought tears to my eyes and reminded me that I not only love stories, but I am in love with words. The descriptions of the world on Mars is tangible and real. I loved seeing the similarities and differences between the two different perspectives and how they saw the world they inhabited. One, the leader of the roses, lives in the soft whispering of the library, while the other the, hunted since birth, running, starving, surviving, sees the world differently with everything being too much as she ‘notice[s] everything with no filter, no reprieve.’
A sci-fi dystopian future of Earth versus Mars, of ‘normal’ versus fear of different. The dirty gritty feel of Mars as seen mostly through Slade’s eyes reminds me of Philip K Dick’s writing. If you haven’t read or don’t know of him you might have seen the iconic film Blade Runner which was based on his novel, Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep. This is definitely some of the gritty vibe I got from the Heartbeat if a million dreams and I am all here for it.
If you have guessed, I loved everything about reading The Heartbeat of a Million Dreams. Was it a quick fluffy read, oh gosh no. Was it intense and sometimes draining, oh yes. Was it worth it? Oh yes, a million dreams with.
It was fantastic. I recommend it for those who love the sci-fi dystopian genre. I also highly recommend it as an amazing insight into a neurodiverse world.

What a Tangled Web by Melissa Brayden
The third (last?) of the Tangle Valley series and I’m going to go all out and say What a Tangled Web is my favourite. I didn’t think it were possible after loving Gabriella being in the drivers seat but damn Madison and Clementine are my everything.
The writing was beautiful, and the humour and chuckles still prevalent but Clementines story hit so close to home on so many levels. I understood her self doubts and how her own identity was wrapped up in who and what her parents (specifically her father) are. There were so many oomph moments when it came to her coping mechanisms – the reading, the withdrawing. It made so much more sense to me, that moment in romance stories where it all falls apart more then many have in a long time.
I adored Madison in the other books, always the more calculated, the more practical of the main trio. Seeing her still remain true to herself but grow in such wonderful ways was a delight. I loved her directness and as always the other tangle valley stars were there to help her understand and work through what was happening when suddenly she began to emote, and then intentionally did. I hope she never changes her delivery of it.
I adored this series and love how all the threads from the previous books got a head tilt in the final of this one as well.
If you are looking happy, fluffy, beautifully written romance this is a perfect series.

Jon’s Downright Ridiculous Shooting Case by AJ Sherwood
Fun, quirky, and adorable. The main character Jon is a psychic in a world where there are.government departments and official standings in the police department.
Jon meets Donovan and a whole new world opens up to both of them. The writing was easy to read while still being fun and giving me many laugh out loud moments.
Some pretty detailed M/M sex scenes that while they did nothing for me I totally get they were well written and hot.
I love the characters, especially the Jon and Donovan’s families and the complicated relationships Jon has with them all.
Can’t wait to read more of Jon’s adventures as he scares the holy Hannah out of Donovan.

Up On The Roof by A.L Brooks – I had so much fun listening to this. The narration done by Justine Eyre was smashing and the writing was truly delightful.
I had actual laugh out loud moments and discovered listening to the last hour while doing grocery shopping made for a very interesting experience 🤣😂🤷‍♀️🤦‍♀️
The story is a fantastic slow burn enemies to lovers with characters who both had to face and overcome their own fears and previous baggage.
I adored Megan’s family, while also loving how realistically they are portrayed with the teasing and convenient ignoring but still showing the love behind their and wanted to shake Lena’s parents.
A.L Brooks does a brilliant job of representing a character with anxiety. I felt the self frustration within Lena so tangibly I found myself saying out loud OOMPH more than once. And I was so relieved that Megan wasn’t this perfectly always understanding character, ie she gets upset in her thoughts but works through them. This realism made me love everything just that little bit more.
The representation of bodies that aren’t ‘Hollywood’ beautiful was also such a breathe of fresh air, and the way the two come together is just adorable and wonderful.

Just a Touch Away by Jae –
Somehow this book makes me simultaneously want to run around screaming with excitement while also cuddling up on the couch, eating ice cream (I’ve consumed far too much this week but I’m sure Hannah approves) and hugging the stuffing out of a teddy bear.
This book is phenomenal. Jae has a remarkable way of deep diving into human nature with her books and these characters are no exception.
I laughed and squeed so hard while reading this book. From Winter’s sarcastic and dry humour, to Hannah’s enthusiastic openness (especially with doors she doesn’t knock on first), to the pop culture references … I’m looking at you Bound 😉
I adored the cameos of characters from several of Jae’s other books, which all helped to make this world so entirely real and believable.
But don’t get me wrong, during all the laughing and giggling, Jae takes us on a deep dive into our main characters. Winter is a remarkable ice queen with walls of self preservation from her family while Hannah is the amazingly open sunshine character (with a brilliant spine of steel) encouraged to truly be herself by her own family.
It is the most unlikely pairing of opposites attract and I am absolutely here for it.
I highly recommend this book. Now it’s time to go eat more ice cream.

Crossroads by Radclyffe –
Fantastic read. I loved the focus on midwifey and the inclusion of kids in this story. I love reading about people overcoming their pasts and discovering the strength they never believed they possessed. The two main characters are wonderful and flawed and human and real. I love Radclyffe’s way with words and how the story could make me smile even when it discussed such heartbreak and loss.

Sorry the reviews a little later then normal. Life is crazy but I’m back up on the hill and loving life.

Be Safe
Be Brave
Be Kind

xx
July’s Bookshelf

August 1st, 2022

Well July starting with a bang. I read so many incredible books this month, so let’s dive right in.

A Curious Woman by Jess Lea – Well damn! This book was everything I have been looking for in a cozy mystery. Brilliant Sapphic main characters, enough red herrings and filtering of information to keep me staying up until stupid o’clock, beautiful setting and description, and the Aussieness to tie it all together.
I LOVED this book so much. Laugh out loud moments that had perfect timing, real characters that were wonderful and flawed. I loved that the main character is a larger size but wonderful and beautiful and a confident individual in many areas of her life.
The balance within this book was perfect and I cannot wait to read more from this author.
Video Review: https://youtu.be/7u7ukedaGbM
Bonus Author Interview: https://youtu.be/aI3Vy4TwGi4

Never Too Late for Heroes by A.L Brooks – YES! Everything about this book is a hella yes! Multiple and amusing points of view, several romantic storylines, laugh out loud spit coffee over the book kind of banter, family dynamics in the good and the bad and writing that made me experience all the feels. I am in love with the ensemble cast but if push came to shove I’d have to say my favourite character is Reed. She made me laugh more than any other character, although I need more adventures with Agent Fox and, and, and all of them really. They all added to the brilliance of this book and I just simply adore A.L Brooks writing style. Highly recommend this book … and the audio which is done phenomenally by Abby Craden.
Video Review: https://youtu.be/BsbCuNciHrY

Kick Back by KJ – I read this book alternating between a goofy arse smile on my face, wanting to kick someone in the shins, and wondering how I am enjoying a sports book with this much sport detail in it. I struggled a little at the start, but again see comment about sports and infer what you can. Despite my antisportness, once I sunk my teeth in, there was no going back.
A few sections I got major A League of Their Own vibes which was both fabulous and mortifying when I thought about how we have not come nearly far enough since then. Ridiculously similar issues that Sophia and the other player have to face.
The writing has the trademark long flowy sentences and chuckle worthy internal thoughts and banter evident in all of KJ’s writing.
There is a damn fine and 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 sex scene, that is well worth the read in and of itself.
Cam is my new spirit animal. Two examples why:
1. “Will bears be chasing you?”
“No?”
“Then there is absolutely no need to be running,”
2. “Oh, please. It’s instant and the only resemblance it has to actual coffee is that it’s brown.”
*brushes hands of dust* my work here is done.
Video Review: https://youtu.be/uQvYISER4xU

Morrigan by Erik Schubach – The fourth book of the Worldship Files. Overall I enjoyed it. Up until now the series has focused on fantasy and sci-fi working side by side. I got far more of a versus vibe in this book, that morphed into a symbiosis sort of feeling. The story itself was good, with the Morrigan wrapping up nicely, while the overall story of the series is really kicking up a gear.
It’s good for anyone wanting to pick up or read the books out of order as relevant history of the world of Nith and the previous books is recapped, but having read them all in pretty small time frames it did feel a little painful having to hear it all again, but that is the way with more series I guess.
The humour remains spot on, though there was an anxious lack of historical music happening.
* ‘Nith, love please don’t try to flirt, you’re not very good at it and you’ve already won my heart.’
* I had questions but I knew now and probably never would be the right time to ask.
The writing hade a few moments of pulling me from the story, but the emotions and story were pretty awesome, especially as we learned more about Mother and the history of the Fae and creation of the Worldship.
Video Review: https://youtu.be/aT8DgOHGArI

Inked by Rachel Rener – Ok, when a book starts with the first chapter title being called Butt Cobras it’s a pretty good guess that I’m going to enjoy it. And did I ever. Inked is a F/M fantasy with a Jewish main character who is in love with her tattooist boss. Talia’s boss goes missing and a whole world, literally, opens up for her. It’s well written and the story is brilliant. the sexy inclusions are detailed and on point, and the humour had me chuckling often. The one time I thought my head might explode was explaining the types of blood, but when the information was required, a quick summary of what you need at the time was included without taking away from the flow of the story. It also helped having a nice little spreadsheet (I love a sexy spreadsheet) at the back for reference.
I adored the relationships between Talia and her mother. Amusing and relatable. I also loved how the author tied things up full circle in the end, except of course for the things that will get me reading the second book ASAP.
Video Review: https://youtu.be/teR3Fwxc-Ns

An Art to Love by Helena Harte – Lauren is forced to return to her small hometown when tragedy strikes her and her family. While mourning at the cemetery Lauren runs into an old school acquaintance, Jamie. Having known loss and tragedy herself, Jamie is the perfect shoulder for Lauren to lean on. But Jamie had always crushed on Lauren, all through school which was otherwise a nightmare for her.
A second chance story about friendship, love, and bravery. Themes of loss and overcoming the past are weaved beautifully through Harte’s wonderful way with words. The way grief and humour are balanced is magnificent.
I adored the small town vibes and the multitude of relatable characters. Family was a vital part of An Art to Love. The dynamics and differences of Lauren and Jamie’s relationships with their parents was wonderful and real. Jamie’s mum might just be my new favourite parental, she was so wonderful and her conversations with Jamie were often hilarious and poignant.
There were a few moments when oomph, the story brushed so close to home with the emotions and sense of isolation of being bullied for simply existing. I also may have screamed at a few parts (scaring the pets) when I wanted the characters to realise what they were doing before it exploded into disaster. But wow, what an ending that had me grinning ear to ear.
Overall, a wonderful read that I didn’t want to put down.
Video Review: https://youtu.be/PllXhl752j4

Two to Tangle by Melissa Brayden – This is book two in the Tangle Valley Romance series. You don’t have to have read the first one to enjoy it, but it does have small spoilers from the first book. I was SO excited to see that Gabriella was in the drivers seat for this book. She’s an amazing character who I fell in love with in book one. She’s a sunshine character with a feisty spit fire attitude when needed, and is so upfront and honest (most of the time), it’s divine.
I love Melissa Brayden’s writing. The poetic way she describes location, emotion, and events is *chefs kiss*
The story is wonderful and realistic, and the characters even more so. No one is perfect, everyone makes mistakes but that doesn’t mean they can’t be forgiven or grow. I LOVE this message. Relationships of all sorts are explored in this book – from friendships, friends with benefits, lovers, unrequited, and familial. They are all in-depth and dynamic.
On the steam level, lots of beautiful build up, but the sex scenes were minimal in detailed description but they were perfect for this book and it was a nice change to some of the steamier step by step sex scenes I’ve read in the past.
I really want to visit Tangle Valley. Very excited to read the third book.
Video Review: https://youtu.be/0wwqvQrBM4w

Never-Tied Nora by Cheyenne Blue – Fun and easy to read story set in London. The main characters are mid 20’s with Irish Catholic families feuding for generations. A sapphic Romeo and Juliet, but an actual romance and not a tragedy.
The writing is beautiful and the characters are great. Never tied Nora explores the ideas of family, and instant attraction that is something beyond lust.
Side characters are fantastic and in such a small word count (novella) Cheyenne Blue has created a tangible world populated by an array of dynamic and well rounded characters.
Can’t wait to read more of this series.
Video Review: https://youtu.be/5IiJgcXrDh8

Daughter of fire: The darkness Rising by Karen Frost – Book 2 in the destiny and darkness series. I enjoyed this book even more than the first. Partly because I knew going in that it was a YA book (my hate of being spoiled sometimes bites me in the butt) but also there was so much more action and intrigue. A lot of things that had been set up in the first book came to fruition in this book and it was glorious.
Loved the romantic subplots, the writing is just as marvellous and descriptive as book one. But oh my, the action and intrigue was far more prevalent and what an ending. I now have to find the third book and really looking forward to it.
Delving further into the world of magic and how affinities work and interact with each other had me smiling ear to ear and loving every second of it.
Video Review: https://youtu.be/1VYY36AUAlI

The Trip by Robin Alexander – This book and this audio are just everything. Abby Craden worked her magic on these characters and used the humour in the writing to maximum effect. I laughed so hard during this book I had to keep going backwards and relisten to parts because I laughed too hard and missed things.
This was my first Robin Alexander book and it is just the beginning of a bing. I love the writing, the characters, and most definitely the humour.
The trip is 2 weeks driving her grandma and great aunt (not by blood) around the country, what else could Jill ask for on a holiday.
Ellie and Anne are 70+ year olds with no shame, boundaries, or end to their curiosity and questions who set up Jill and Shay on this Ill conceived holidays. But Ellie (Jill’s grandma) has only brought them together, she’s done her part and now it’s time to sit back and ‘let lesbian nature run it’s course.’ 😂🤣
Jill and Shay are fantastic characters who seem opposites at the beginning but as layers are peeled back their chemistry is wonderful, brilliant, and based on real friendship and deeper compatibility.
I had to fan myself over Jill’s character, but I understood Shay on so many more levels. Robin Alexander does a brilliant job of showing that quiet does not equal weak or door mat.
I loved the descriptions and the scenery and how seamlessly and natural the story develops alongside relationships and characters.
Video Review: https://youtu.be/NTQzR_pJ1c4

Thanks for getting this far.
I loved being able to do video reviews on all ten books this month.

Be Safe
Be Brave
Be Kind

Neen x
JUNE’S BOOKSHELF (AKA PRIDE MONTH)

July 1st, 2022

NINE BOOKS OF JUNE (AKA PRIDE MONTH)

June started with a chest infection and a sick 5yo. It wasn’t the best way to kick off pride month but I still managed to get in a few sapphic reads 😀

Just for Show by Jae – I absolutely ADORED this Jae fake relationship slow burn romance. Both Claire and Lana are wonderful, complete characters with human flaws and even more complicated issues and emotions. They come with real baggage.
I love the development of their attraction and their seeing the world a little more through each other’s eyes while also accepting who each are without trying to force changes to them or make the other feel like less. I also love Jae’s inclusion of a ‘not hollywood perfect body’ in Lana, who remains confident and accepting (most of the time) of her ‘bigger’ body. I love Claire’s own attractions to Lana’s body type.
I listened to Angela Dawe narrate just for show and my gosh I love her skills. Simply amazing.

Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree – This is the cozy fantasy slow burn sapphic read I never knew I needed. With coffee. Lots and lots of coffee. Viv is an Orc sick of the Orc lifestyle so she moves to Thune to start a coffee shop. If you are looking for low angst everyday adventures of someone trying to make their way, change what they have always known and the beauty of found family all set in a near medieval fantasy village with all kinds of mythical creatures this is what you’ll find here. There are threads of tension as Viv struggles with perceptions and a secret that distracts her, but there’s so much good surrounding the threads I never felt anxious for the characters. Well perhaps once but that’s to be expected.
I love the coffee, oh I mean the characters as well. Viv is wonderful, although a little unaware and Naive at times which all leads to her being even more lovable. The found family she pulls in around her is wonderful and all are so unique and basically adorable, especially Tandri. But I absolutely want the Madrigal’s story.
I enjoyed the descriptions of this story and one scene specifically I wish was a painting I could hang on my wall. I could see it so clearly. I also loved Travis Baldree’s way with words. Some of my fave lines (that won’t spoil anything):
* it was like drinking the feeling of being peaceful. Being peaceful in your mind. Well, not if you have too much, then it’s something else.
* Tandri recovered some of the pieces of a smile.

Perks of Office by Liz Rain – I couldn’t put this book down. Once I got into it I was hooked, which is impressive for a Single POV, first person story. The Aussieness and humour had me laughing out loud, nodding like a bobble head, and feeling ridiculously seen. I could easily see myself running into these characters at any given time as I popped into Kmart on an errand run. In fact I’m sure I once worked with Haromi, and flatted with Jake in years gone by.
Emma is such a brilliant main character, a balance of human strengths and flaws and humour that made me (several times) spit coffee all over my iPad. I love how down to earth she is, her internal thoughts mirroring both my own and what I wish I was smart enough to think while also being her own worst enemy at times. Emma sums Bridget up in the best way
“Sometimes it’s like you’re a space alien with super extra-sensory powers, but everyday normal stuff is a mystery to you.”
Liz Rain’s writing style and voice is wonderful and the balance of emotion and humour made Perks of Office a warm snuggly delight to read.
* I also had the amazing pleasure of interviewing Liz about her debut … you can view it here)

Pillow Thoughts by Courtney Peppernell – There is so much I love about this book, about these words and thoughts and feelings.
But above it all, I love that it reminded me to stop and feel, to appreciate the moments and to have a little giggle or two along the way.
I’m really looking forward to sinking my teeth into more of Courtney Peppernell’s poetry.

Daughter of Fire: Conspiracy of the Dark by Karen Frost – This is a sapphic YA fantasy about Aeryn, a daughter of the ice crown. Her world is turned upside down and she finds herself leaving her home and discovering what it is to discover her power and the world outside her isolated village.
I really enjoyed the world building and the characters. I found myself wanting to get into the action faster at one or two places but had to remind myself the character is 16 and in a strange landscape carrying grief and fear with her.
I also enjoyed the thread of a possible love interest for Aeryn as she realises her friendship with Leesie isn’t like her friendships with other girls. Brilliant ending. Can’t wait to start book 2.

Cityships (Worldship Files #3) by Erik Schubach – Loving this series, a brilliant balance of sci fi and fantasy all rolled together on a worldship on its way to the Beta World after Earth gave its last breath. This is the third book and has got me loving the series to a whole new level. I adore the world building, the characters and the 80s and 90s ‘anthropological’ playlists. Claire Buchignani does a brilliant job of Knith’s dulcid tones and hilarious attitude, though I have listened to them at 1.2 speed because I’m much more used to faster narrators.
The humour in this book is magnificent and balanced brilliantly with the shocks and the action. It has contributed to my regular vernacular with such phrases as ‘space me naked’, ‘Mab’s tits’, and ‘Oberon’s balls’.
The diverse range of species and how they all interact and the socio-economic aspects fascinate me. Each book adds more to the mythos of the Fae which is a major feature as they are the reason the worldship exists in the first place. Fun and quick reads. I often wish the stories were longer but am enjoying the bite sized adventures. I think though, this book so far is my favourite in the series. And I’m just adoring the sapphic relationships Knith has had and is developing over this series.

The Guardian by Chisto Healy – This book feels like the introduction into a truly epic fantasy adventure and world. You know the war is far bigger than the battles Marista finds herself in the midst of during this book.
Marista is the Elven guardian to the last heir of a fallen people and her job just went from isolated to chaotic. She is thrown into one shit storm after the next, with just enough down time in between for Marista to pine over her long lost unrequited love and question her choices and next steps.
The writing has some truly magnificent moments and Chisto Healy has some truly wonderful turns of phrase.
* The battle cry was primal, universal, and it ripped from each and every one of them, even Marista.
* The only language spoken here was violence, the language of death and loss.
* Every time she found a reason to hope, something else signified the end of the road.
The darkness in the book was right up my alley, with sword fights, pirates pirating, and magic being used and abused.
The battles, oh my the battles were brilliant. Epic doesn’t even quite describe the magnitude. The ramp up of this book is so fantastic and brilliant and I am so excited about the next book in this series. I’m also a little exhausted from the energy and obstacles these characters are put through. A brilliant ride.

Path of War by David Green (I received an ARC of this book and can’t wait to get my hands on the paperback) – I’m not too scared to say I was nervous going in to this sequel. Why? Because I love In Solitude’s Shadow so much but Green doesn’t disappoint. In fact, from the first page I was pulled right back into Haltveldt and struggling with the aftermath of where we left off.
The continuation of the epic fantasy series ‘empire of ruin’, is filled with diverse and flawed characters. The build up between Calene and Brina is delicious and wonderful. Characters you almost understand even as you hate them. We see insights into the true twisted nature of fear and doubt and paranoia. There were a few scenes I literally turned my head from the page, so real I could smell the coppery blood and feel the torture and pain being implemented.
The battles and fights are brilliant as they mix magic with more traditional means, swords lots and lots of kick arse swording (what, it’s a word).
Overall I loved the story and the moments my jaw dropped and profanity spewed from my mouth.

Down to a Science by haley Cass – The first of the I Heart Sapphfic Pride collection and what a way to start it. Haley Cass has a beautiful way of pulling you into the world of her characters and whether or not you understand that world matters little as she unravels the humanity of Ellie and Mia. The layers of these characters are slowly revealed and exposed and the way science is used is beautiful. I felt my heart breaking for Ellie, and for two chapters I wondered if I might ever feel released from the pressure and pain in my chest again. I LOVED this book and the characters, the worlds we touched on and moved around in. Haley Cass your writing is divine.

9 books for June, all with Sapphic protagonists – I got a mix of fantasy, sci-fi, romance, and poetry. Pretty happy with that.

Be Safe
Be Brave
Be Kind

Neen x
I did a thing … and it was technological :-O

June 23rd, 2022

Last night I did a thing. Often I have ideas and then quickly talk myself out of them, especially if it’s a thing that I shy away from … especially praising myself in any way. *Gotta love that shitty self-esteem stuff* … BUT as my 40th birthday approaches and the last few years have seen many major things (both good and heartbreaking) happening in my life, I’ve really started to understand how short and special life itself is.

And, sometimes I even catch myself thinking how proud I am of how far I’ve come and wow, I might actually be good at something.

So the thing I did was set up a buymeacoffee page to help fund the time, equipment and books I review and fangirl about over on my YouTube channel Hyperactive Bookworm.

I did the technological thing, all by myself … *pats back enthusiastically* .. but then didn’t know how to test if it was all working.

A wonderful friend helped me test it. I agreed she was free to share the link if she wanted. I didn’t expect the huge words of praise for myself but it has certainly made my day … and made me brave enough to share it here.

If you are interested in helping me, I’d appreciate it, but there is no pressure. I love what I do and will endeavour to keep doing it

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/neencohenauthor
May Bookshelf wrap up

June 1st, 2022

12 books for May. Pretty darn good effort if I do say so myself. 10 of the books were Sapphic reads and all of them enjoyable, some more so than others.

Entangled by Melissa Brayden – I really enjoyed this book. I’ve never read a Melissa Brayden before and I really enjoyed her writing. The story is sweet and sad with some delicious spice thrown in to the mix. I enjoyed the enemies to lovers trope here because it wasn’t dragged out too much or filled with too much angst. I love the supporting cast. They are hilarious and wonderful. I mean how can you not love characters that use food in everyday speech. Love the movie and popcorn references to the MC’s romantic adventures and omg my favourite two lines in the book have got to be:
– ‘food and conflict pair well together’ Brenda-Anne
– Why did she overthink everything, which of course was an ironic topic to subsequently overthink leaving her in a neurotic cycle.
Look forward to reading more of this author.

The Impossible Girl by Lydia Kang – What a fantastic read. I truly enjoyed this. I wasn’t sure what I was getting into but it was a fun and interesting read with beautiful poetic writing that feels almost uniquely allowed in historical fiction.

Let Love Be Enough by Robyn Nyx – Wow! From the moment I dove into this book I fought against blinking. Let love be enough was the kind of ride you white knuckle on to while simultaneously loving every moment of, with some brilliant laugh out loud moments thrown in just to make the rise complete. Three points of view from three incredibly different women who have surprisingly similar overlaps in the human struggles they face.
Madison Ford – An award winning journalist not scared of going into the trenches to get her story.
Elodie Fontaine – most beautiful woman in the world actress with an ex-marine history
Therese Hunt – Ring leader of a nasty organ trafficking business.
Nyx investigates the human dynamics of independence, trust, brutality, and fear. Especially when one or more of these things have been broken for our characters in their pasts. I adore Nyx’s writing style. Her ability to balance beauty in her words while describing horror in the actions and thoughts of her characters is breathtaking.
A wild ride.

Breathe by Cari Hunter – Another brilliant combination of writing and story from Cari Hunter and smashing audio from Nicola Victoria Vincent. I really enjoyed the build up of the relationship between the two main characters. Yes, there was danger and the awesome adventures that Cari Hunter is known for. Crime and danger. But it felt like there was a little more focus on the relationship then some other stories and I enjoyed the slow build between Jemima and Rosie.

Without A Front: The Warrior’s Challenge by Fletcher DeLancey – Video review: https://youtu.be/Y566e7TaoZc) Stayed up until stupid o’clock to finish this book because how could I not. The last 100 pages were truly an addiction. Something I adore about speculative fiction is the ability for authors to truly examine human nature in ways that can relate to people in all different situations. Fletcher Delancey does this is such beautiful and amazing smoothness, she makes it look easy. I never thought I could love any of the books in this series as much as I do the first one, but damn have I been proven wrong. The writing is delicious and the mystery and intrigue is fantastic. Themes of family, loyalty, and pride are so strong in without a front: the warriors challenge and handled so fantastically. I was really happy to see Ekatya and even Lynn have some small cameos but Aldira and Salomen definitely kept me intrigued and falling in love with them both. The struggles of each of them accepting both the strengths and the weaknesses of the other is beautifully written with such depth and raw truth. I also adore so many of the minor characters and hope I get to see more of them in the books to come. The divine sex scenes, respectful treatment of trauma, loss, and pain balanced with flirty banter and laugh out loud moments are reasons I will go back again and again to read this book. As well as some of the most beautiful descriptions of a land I can only ever visit between the pages.

The Delicate Things We Make by Milena McKay – (Video review: https://youtu.be/FAV19JEWRCo) – A reclusive artist, a down on her luck journalist, and some minor characters to make you squeal with laughter, sob along with, and cheer on their moments of victory balancing the bad guys that encompass so much of the nasty side of humanity. But not even the injustice within the book can take away the beauty that is all encompassing. And I do so love a story where those bastards get their comeuppances in the end. Milena pulls you into Jamie’s world with such ease and poetic prose. And through Jamie’s eyes we see the beauty of the elegant icey woman with the haughty looks and acerbic tongue. I love how the mystery is a gentle thread throughout, and damn I was slightly stunned and then nodding with, oh it was absolutely foreshadowed as the darker edges of the mystery is peeled back and revealed.
I laughed and gasped. I will say, while listening to Abby Craden’s narrations are always delightful, the part of the Coitus Interruptus is not recommended to listen to while out in public. I had some wide eyes flashed in my direction at my sudden outburst and cussing. Big mention for the delightful minor characters who brought such depth to this book:
Luce – You gorgeous and hilarious creature (the dad jokes, oh yes the dad jokes) who is lovely and loyal and will not pull punches to save a friends feelings when they are in need of some harsh truths. Her speech about standing up. Damn, it was powerful and brilliant.
Olivia – Such acerbic hostility that all wonderfully stemmed from pain and loyalty, and a determination to protect and find truth.
Arabella – you crazy old broad. I just adore you and oh my, your speeches, one in particular 😉, had me laughing my arse off and fist pumping the air.

Three Ways to Ruin a Perfect Wedding by Chris Zett – What an adorable after the HEA short story for Heart Failure. Loved it.

Infested by C.M. Forest – Olivia wakes up in her own pool of vomit during a thunderstorm to find her husband absent and the electricity off. She goes in search of her missing husband and finds so much more than she planned. This modern gothic horror story made me cringe and even turn my head away from the words on the pages. It doesn’t shy away from any of the nasty things. And boy are there some hella nasty things going on in the New Leaf building. I did have an issue was a character’s situation a little too reflective of some negativity toward the transgender community in the current climate, but don’t believe this was the authors intention. Especially considering they are one of the most likeable characters in the book. Almost all the characters are unlikable even the main character, though she definitely redeemed herself by the end. I really enjoyed the modern day gothic horror vibes – the use of setting and weather played a brilliant part in building the anxiety and reflecting the characters own states of mind. I had major nostalgia of playing the resident evil computer games mixed with many moments reminiscent of the Aliens movies.

Firewyrm by Eric Schubach – A great continuation to the first in the series. I love the characters and the humour. I am freakin adopting the expressions and find myself saying ‘space me naked’ and other such charming things throughout the day.
The story of firewyms was good, interesting mystery, but I find myself more intrigued by the detailed information of the leviathan itself and revelations of characters. I love the hooks and things left unknown. Bring on book three.

The Tell Tale by Clare Ashton – (Video review: https://youtu.be/6s4nam4NbTQ) I could not stop listening to this book. Lucy Rayner did a fabulously sultry and wonderful job. The story itself. Oh my. Clare Ashton has outdone herself with this book. The descriptions and threads of mystery were delicious. I adored the characters, and even those I despised were so fleshed out and well rounded I couldn’t help but nod and purse my lips, having known them at some point in my life. The turns and twists in this book had my head spinning in all the right ways. I loved thinking a theory, and then having it blown out of the water, only to wonder was it really? I distinctly remember getting a very Sweeney Todd feel at some points, despite the apparently more enlightened time The Tell Tale is sent in. The representations of identities in The Tell Tale were absolutely incredible and I couldn’t help by feel for them all.
But with amazing lines like this:
– they both laughed, the kind that shifts you into the person you once were.
– Sophie’s past eerily walking through her present.
– There was nothing like being stripped back to childhood to make a person vulnerable.
How can you not love the language of this book.

One Last Stop by Casey McQuiston – (videos – Narrator love: https://youtu.be/PJcQSpWRKvI Review: https://youtu.be/hwA9kYABF8I) – There are so many things I love about this book. Themes of family and connection; blood and found. Ideas of fate and belonging. Banter and humour. The different representations of race, gender, and sexuality. Pop cultural references. And oh my let’s not forget the truly poetic language.
The author, Casey McQuiston also managed to weave a lot of queer history in without making me go cross eyed. Instead, I felt the real trauma that statistics and bland facts could never evoke.
I listened to this book narrated by the truly incredible Natalie Naudus. If you haven’t heard her narrate yet, prepare for a treat.
I wanted to list some of my favourite lines but I got swept up in the mystery of the story, of Jane’s existent and it’s unravelling that I forgot to stop and actually take note of many, but here are two that I did manage to capture before the pull was just too big
– Bella Swam eat your horny little Mormon heart out
– You and I come at subtlety from very different directions
Highly recommend this book. And then ending, oh my the ending.

Something in the Wine by Jae – Sweet, slow burn, coming out later in life romance. The characters were flawed and wonderful and I felt so broken for Annie with her family issues and how much they effected her confidence as a person.

I’m really looking forward to getting into some fantasy LGBTQIA books for pride month, even if every month is Pride filled 😉

Be Safe
Be Brave
Be Kind

Neen x
Writing pages, learning, and the tangential way I get to my point

May 25th, 2022

I don’t do pages everyday. And lately I’ve hardly done them at all. But I do love how I feel on the random mornings that I get the time and energy to do them.

My often excuse is the insomniac son I have … the reality is, I just get lazy or forgetful (despite the reminder that pops up every morning). Sometimes I fall back asleep on the couch and wait for the sun to actually rise before I get moving and usually by then it’s in a rush.

But, this morning I felt the energy and the motivation.

My scrawl at stupid am

So why am I blathering on about this? I’m so glad I asked.

While writing my pages this morning, l I realised something that has raised its head many times in the past but I’ve quickly pushed it down.

I love learning.

For many years I forgot just how much. I can remember when I was younger indulging in such amazing activities as reading encyclopaedias over the school holidays, collecting different dictionaries to see what words and meanings were changed in them, and how exciting it was to master new skills that were hard to learn.

But somewhere along the way I lost the love of learning. I could blame emotionally abusive ex’s, childhood trauma, a degree that made me feel more stupid than anything else but that hardly matters. What matters was that I couldn’t find that joy anymore. I hid away from things that were hard, terrified to show others that I didn’t already know this specific skill or hadn’t mastered that particular task. I was so scared that I would be seen as a moron for the learning process. Looking back, it makes me so sad for all the things I stopped myself enjoying.

But, it’s back. I’ve found it again, and we have happily reconciled.

It’s a very unexpected side effect of this writing journey and the amazing people I have found along this path. Some are on the sidelines cheering me on, passing me cups of water as I run this race of mine. Sure, sometimes I’m walking, sometimes skipping, and other times I’m sitting on a rock beside them catching my breath. Other times, these amazing people are there helping and teaching without judgement or expectation. They have returned to sit old rocks helping others get past the next hurdle.

I find myself learning new things constantly about writing. And not one of these things have been learnt alone or in a vacuum. Sometimes it’s from taking a class (I recently took a fantastic course on magic realism), sometimes it’s informal chats with fellow authors turned friends, other times it’s interviewing an author, or getting feedback, or reworking a manuscript with edits from alpha readers, publishers, or editors. I’ve even learnt while reading about someone else’s experiences, or reading another authors book they have bravely push out into the world. And I can’t even begin to numbe the amount of times I’ve realised something about my own method or WIP when helping out a fellow author asking for advice.

Learning is not something to be ashamed of and the process should be highlighted and celebrated just as much if not more than the end result.

I love finding this feeling again. And while I may bitch and moan about how long the editing process takes or how confused those craft books make me at times, I have never been so happy with my journey. I can’t wait to keep learning. And for the first time in such a long time, I’m looking forward to messing up and learning more from each mistake.

Be Safe
Be Brave
Be Kind

Neen
Book Review – Without a Front: The Warrior’s Challenge by Fletcher DeLancey

May 17th, 2022

Book three of the Chronicles of Alsea Series. This is a Sapphic Sci-Fi book with romance, action, and political intrigue with themes of family, loyalty, and trust woven through incredible description, dynamic characters and a brilliantly written adventure that will keep you guessing.

I adore Fletcher’s writing and her inclusivity and range of characters that I love and adore.

Did I miss Ekatya and Lynne, yes. Did I fist pump the air when they had some cameos, absolutely, have I also fallen in love with not just the main characters but also many of the minor characters of this book, by Fahla I certainly have.

I love the way this book turns tropes and characters on their head showing so effortlessly through an Alien race the beauty and dynamics of humanity. I really enjoyed the fight scenes and the sex scenes in this book. They kept me reading until stupid o’clock at night because I couldn’t stop, being pulled along by the emotions and progression of the story.

For a visual rant about my feelings you can click here to find my review on the Hyperactive Bookworm

Be Safe
Be Brave
Be Kind
Technoreject and other blunders

May 15th, 2022

So it turns out while trying to update my website and blog I inadvertently sent some frustrated blogs out. Do I feel bad, yeah a little bit, is it something I can change, nah, is part of me also giggling at my ineptitude, absolutely, is it also a bit of a taste of my personality, you betcha 🤦‍♀️

As for other blunders. I recently discovered when sending off my manuscript to my publisher I did not actually send through the latest version … instead I sent through a version that had a chapter that read [insert important scene here] … yeah it’s been a special kinda feeling.

So, after my sweary blogs, I did manage to change a few things, and make my site a little prettier but of course I feel like one of those memes of what you think it will look like and what it actually looks like would probably fit here.

Thanks for sticking around. And who knows what other facepalm moments I’ll get into in the near future.

Neen
April Bookshelf

May 1st, 2022

It’s been a rough month and for a while I wasn’t sure I would get many books read, but 10 isn’t too shabby. A little behind in my overall goals but that’s the way of the roundabout 😀

The video wrap up will be up shortly over at the Hyperactive Bookworm. Jump on over and subscribe to make sure you don’t miss out on all the monthly wrap ups, extended reviews, and author interviews throughout the month.

Leviathan by Erik Schubach – My first book by this author and damn I can’t wait to read more of the series. Brilliant sci-fi fantasy blend with elves and sprites on the world ship. A ship, in essence that is travelling to the new home world. I love so much about this book, from the use of 80s and 90s music, to the snark and humour, to the kick arse main character and a story line that while not entirely unique is set up in fantastically unique and brilliantly described ways.

Departure from the Script by Jae – If you’re after low angst, slow burn, SVU references, and brilliant chemistry look no further. I always know when I open a book of Jae’s I’m going to be swept alone with well rounded characters, beautiful writing and an interesting story. I adore Michelle and the family relationships both characters have. I also really enjoyed the less glitz and glamour Hollywood focus of this book. I can’t wait to read the rest of Jae’s Hollywood books.

Tumbledown by Cari Hunter – A brilliant sapphic crime and mystery story with action and brutality thrown in. It’s balanced masterfully with humour and down moments to let you breath, just not too much before something else drops and you are racing to figure it all out. This sequel to Desolation Point made it impossible to stop reading. Firstly, wwwhhhyyy? *sobs ugly* Had Sarah and Alex not been through enough?! And yet, I was so excited to see them again. The writing is spectacular, the characters brilliant, and the story gripping. I loved that it was a carry on from events of the first book. And that is made sense that these two would become embroiled once again in the cross hairs of a psycho. Cari Hunter, making me an insomniac since I picked up No Good Reason, the first of the dark peak series.

Shattered by Lee Winter – YES! I’m rereading it again. BUT this time I finally did a video review … you can watch it here.

Alias by Cari Hunter – BAM! What a start, and then it just gets better from there. The writing is fantastic and the action and story pulled me along with ease. I loved how there is so much going on in the story and the mystery that keeps unfoldIng and twisting. I really enjoyed the relationship between the main character and the ‘love interest’ and how it grew organically and as a second aspect to the main story.
Nicola Victoria Vincent is a brilliant narrator, very underrated. Would love to find more brilliant books narrated by her.

Sunshine by L.T. Emery – Loved the nasty grissly descriptions of the perils and dangers Cyra must face in her search for Sunshine. Lots of great lines and insults that made me laugh out loud between the gore.

No Strings by Lucy Bexley – I heard such amazing things about this book and I wanted to love it sick. If you like quirky eccentric character meets wound tight corporate tropes, laugh out loud moments and some fun kiddo scenes, this is a good read. I enjoyed Elsie’s character, I loved the relationship between her and Avery and how Jones’ first ideas of who Elsie was is questioned as you see how well rounded Elsie is as a human and how judged she has been because she doesn’t follow the more traditional life paths. The writing has some really beautiful and chest punching moments. And more than once I had the actual laugh out loud squeals. Gummy bears and fart attacks I’m looking at you. Elsie’s internal monologues and the way she thinks in Fangley is brilliant. One of my favourite things about the book is the twist on who is actually the workaholic (psst- it isn’t the business suit, rich, older woman this time). What I did also love about the book was the way mental health was treated, though at times I felt like I was told it more than shown it. For me it was sort of Jones’ saving grace. I did struggle with initially getting into this book. Jones’ reactions to Bentley to begin with really put her offside for me, but I mean that’s what character arcs are all about so I pushed through. She soon made up with the Bentley love but her character frustrated the hell out me more often then not. At times I got frustrated with the tendency and writing style to end a scene and then recap what wasn’t on the page in the next scene, it really pulled me out of being inside the characters heads. And there were some scenes I really would have loved to see play out in real time, like the roller skating. The relationships of the four main players were so wonderful and well developed. It was a little jarring the lack of relationship and development of other characters like Jones’ mum and all the ‘evil’ corporate males. I didn’t love No Strings sick, but I did enjoy the majority of the ride and I’m glad I read it. Also, besides Elsie my favourite character is Avery, closely followed by Benz. I would love to see more of both of these characters. Their stories would be epic.

Damage Control by Jae – I couldn’t resist diving into the second of the series :-). I love Jae’s writing, the characters and the build up, the slow burn romance. But boy oh boy was I ready for the characters to finally get it on when they did. I adored the adult respect each character gave the other in terms of their relationship with understanding each other’s point of view and position in situations without them having to be hit on the head repeatedly before they got it. I also adore Jae’s Easter eggs/cameos in her books. I love that so many of them are all in the same world. Beautifully written and a great story.

Chasing Dreams by A.L. Brooks – Before now I have only read one other A.L Brooks book and I loved it. But having read Chasing Dreams I’m definitely scurrying off to get her back catalogue sooner rather then later. There is so much I loved about this book so let me break down some of my favourite points and ramble a bit more about others.
– Amazing seamless and realistic safe sex. I have no idea how she did it but the author managed to incorporate a safe sex scene that was smooth and natural and still sexy while also managing another scene discussing characters last tests and checks in a way that is believable.
– Mature characters (mostly lol) who actually think before they dive in.
– Realistic and well rounded characters with their own unique personalities, lives and dreams seperate from each other. They both have pasts and lives, scars and fears that influence their decisions and reactions in the world.
– Side characters that I adore who are just as real as the main characters. Extra shout outs to Shannon, Katie, Ned, and Wayne.
– Writing that is beautiful and encompassing.
Yes, it’s true the story starts with an enemies to lovers trope but even that didn’t feel as pitted against each other as is often the case. Now don’t get me wrong, I love my fair share of the binary tropes – sunshine vs grumpy etc. but I truly adored that neither of the main characters were ‘perfect’ or ‘the bad one’. I loved that they were both wonderfully flawed and brilliant in such a human way. They are both on their own journeys of facing very real and painful pasts and fears, and they do this for themselves. Yes they find each other and it helps them face these things … they don’t NEED each other to sand down any rough edges. And if that hasn’t given you the desire to read it … damn, the sex scenes throughout the book are simply delicious. 😉

Breathless by Lianyu Tan – I have been umming and ahhing about reading Captive in the Underworld. I love the idea of twisting gods and turning them into Goddesses and examining the sapphic versions of old stories. But, I’ve never been known to be a fan of dark romance. Other dark genres yes, but not so much romance. Then I saw this short story that fits within the Captive in the Underworld book and I thought, hey let’s finally give dark romance a chance. I was right, the genre isn’t particularly for me but this story was mostly well written and intriguing. A few moments I found a bit confusing in the description but overall not a bad short read. So if dark romance is your cup of tea I recommend giving this one a try.

Be Safe
Be Brave
Be Kind

Neen x

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