Stats

Total books read: 10

Physical books: 5

Audiobooks: 4

ebooks: 1

BOTM: 3

2025 releases: 4

This Princess Kills Monsters by Ry Herman (4 stars) – This was an unexpectedly really great and unique take on fairy tales, which is one of the very specific sub-genres I love. The characters are well-drawn and easy to root for; the protagonist is great; her relationship with her family members was so much fun to read about; both love interests were interesting in their own way. I don’t think it’s as popular as it should be; it’s a book that so many people are going to love. I’ll also be really interested to see more from this author!

Cobalt Red by Siddharth Kara (4 stars) – This was a very informative, investigative piece of nonfiction focusing on a deep dive into cobalt mining in the DRC. I learned a lot, particularly about the concept of “artisanal mining,” and how harmful the demand for rechargeable batteries has been for the people of the Congo. I think this is an important topic, and I’d definitely recommend checking this one out.

Bloom by Delilah S. Dawson (4 stars) – This was a short, unsettling Sapphic horror novel featuring a cottagecore romance and creeping unease. It’s a perfect book to pick up during the fall; well-written and an easily one-sitting read.

Ruthless Vows by Rebecca Ross (4 stars) – I feel like I’d have preferred this duology to be a standalone historical fantasy romance, but I still enjoyed reading about Iris and Roman, even though they were separated for the majority of the book. I’m glad I finished their story, and I think Rebecca Ross writes well–I’m just not sure that this book was actually necessary in its entirety.

White Tears, Brown Scars by Ruby Hamad (4 stars) – Another nonfiction I picked up this month and would recommend; this one focused on how harmful the actions of white women have been historically, and still are today, towards people of color, and the need for greater awareness and action.

Chlorine by Jade Song (4 stars) – Even though I gave this 4 stars, this was kind of a disappointment, as I had envisioned it as a clear 5-star read. I love both fabulism and mermaids, so this seemed like it would be a slam dunk–and it was good, just not as amazing as I’d built it up in my head. Sometimes my expectations are the problem!

The Risk by Elle Kennedy (4 stars) – This was my 3rd Elle Kennedy sports romance of 2025, and they continue to be really fun.

Looking for Group by Alexis Hall (3.5 stars) – I’ve been a fan of Alexis Hall for many years, and I did enjoy this contemporary gaming-focused romance, but it wasn’t as strong for me as many of his other works have been.

Room for Two by Lana Ferguson (3.5 stars) – This was my introduction to Lana Ferguson, and I have several of her books on my TBR. It was a cute contemporary romance novella; I liked it but didn’t love it. It hasn’t really made me any more or less eager to try her other books, and I probably will at some point.

How Freaking Romantic by Emily Harding (3 stars) – I was disappointed by this contemporary romance from one of the co-authors of the modern Jane Austen retellings that I love (Elizabeth of East Hampton, Emma of 83rd Street). I didn’t feel like the characters had enough depth, and I didn’t enjoy the romance very much. The protagonist seemed very immature and under-informed for a law student, and I just wish I’d liked this one more than I did.