bellebookcorner's reviews
1214 reviews

On Wings of Blood by Briar Boleyn

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adventurous challenging dark 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

5.0

Intriguing storyline with an easy-to-read writing style, epic world-building, sizzling enemies-to-lovers romance and beautiful friendship, all set against the backdrops of dangers lurking in every corner of this universe makes this book so hard to put down! 
 
Medra is a fierce, determined and curious girl who found herself in a strange world and betrothed to a vampire prince. 
 I really enjoyed following her story as she navigates through this new world – seeing how she tried to survive and made friendships with Florence and Naveen. 
 
Blake is a mysterious, cruel and arrogant guy, although he also has a soft side which we see more of from his POV. 
I liked seeing Medra and Blake’s attraction grows into something more as we delved deeper into the story. However, his possessiveness towards Medra can be slightly alarming. 
After that last chapter, I’m curious to see how their relationship will progress in the next book. 
 
There were lots of twists and turns near the ending, as betrayals and dark secrets starts to come out one by one. 
I’m hoping we’ll get to explore more of the world building and also get to know more about the dragons and their rider’s history in the next book. 
 
Overall, this was an entertaining and addicting dark academia romantasy! 
I was hooked right from the start and I’m looking forward to read the sequel coming out very soon! 
 
I wasn’t aware that this was a spin-off series to the Blood of a Fae series, but don’t worry I enjoyed reading this book without any problem and I’m sure you will too. 
If you want to know more of the land where Medra comes from, then you can check out the Blood of a Fae series.  
 
I received an advanced review copy through, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Huge thank you to the author and publisher!<
 
⚠️ 𝐓𝐖: Full list of trigger warnings can be found in the book. 
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Dosa Malaikat by Keigo Higashino

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challenging dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Kasus misteri pembunuhan yang mengejutkan, nyaris sempurna… 
 
Gaya penulisan yang mudah dibaca dan alur cerita yang menarik membuatku melahap halaman demi halaman 
Pembaca diajak untuk menginvestigasi satu kasus pembunuhan ‘mustahil’ ini mengungakp setiap petunjuk Bersama para detektif dalam pencarian mereka akan kebenaran. 
 
Ketika para detektif sepertinya menemui jalan buntu, salah satu dari mereka akhirnya meminta bantuan Prof. Yukawa. 
Hal-hal menjadi lebih menarik saat dia bergabung dalam penyelidikan. 
Pemikiran kritisnya dan pengamatan yang mendetail Prof. Yukawa memang tidak tertandingi! 
 
Sebenarnya, aku cukup yakin kalau tebakanku tentang siapa pelakunya benar, tetapi yang tidak kebayang itu adalah gimana kejahatan itu dilakukan. 
Aku punya teori-teori sendiri saat membaca buku ini, tetapi semuanya salah! 
Pengungkapan besar di akhir, ketika Profesor Yukawa menjelaskan bagaimana hal itu dilakukan, benar-benar mengejutkan! 
 
Secara keseluruhan, Dosa Malaikat menunjukkan keterampilan penulis dalam menyusun misteri pembunuhan yang ditulis dengan baik dan menarik! 
 
Highly recommended buat kalian yang menikmati kasus pembunuhan yang tampaknya mustahil (seperti misteri ruang terkunci) dengan keterampilan investigasi yang brilian, dan tentu saja, tikungan dan kejutan yang tak terduga! 
 
⚠️ Peringatan: Pembunuhan, perselingkuhan, kematian, kehamilan, infertilitas, bunuh diri, kesedihan 
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Malice - Catatan Pembunuhan Sang Novelis by Keigo Higashino

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challenging dark mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Malice mampu mengejutkanku dengan plot twist yang tidak terduga! 
 
Buku ini jauh dari sekadar novel misteri pembunuhan sederhana. 
Menemukan pelakunya bisa dibilang cukup mudah; tantangannya adalah mencari tahu motif kejahatannya, yang membuat cerita ini tidak seperti cerita detektif misteri pada umumnya. 
Aku semakin tertarik dengan buku ini, terutama ketika pelaku menolak untuk mengaku, yang membuat Detektif Kaga harus menemukan alasan sebenarnya sendiri. 
 
Tapi harus diakui, membaca dari sudut pandang Detektif Kaga cukup menantang. 
Di bab terakhir, ketika kebenaran terungkap, aku harus membaca beberapa baris berulang kali untuk memahami apa yang dia bicarakan karena cara berpikirnya yang begitu kompleks dan rinci. 
 
Malice mengeksplorasi beberapa tema yang memicu pemikiran, seperti kecemburuan, bullying, dan pentingnya berpikir kritis seperti yang dilakukan Detektif Kaga. 
 
Meskipun temponya kadang-kadang bisa lambat di beberapa bagian, Malice adalah novel misteri yang ditulis dengan baik dengan alur cerita yang menarik dan karakter yang kompleks dengan kepribadian yang rumit. 
 
⚠️ 𝐓𝐖: Bullying, pembunuhan, kematian hewan, pemerkosaan, kekerasan seksual, sekilas menyebut perselingkuhan, kecelakaan mobil, bunuh diri 
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My Feral Romance by Tessonja Odette

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emotional funny hopeful lighthearted 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

5.0

“Even if you don’t love me back, you’re enough as my friend, and I want to keep you in any form.” 
 
Highly recommended for those who loves: 
✨️ Friends-to-lovers
✨️ He Falls First
 ✨️ Forced Proximity
 ✨️ Touch Him and You Die 
 
Intriguing storyline, beautiful writing style, well-paced, and loveable characters make this book so hard to put down! 
I was glad to see familiar characters like Briony and Thorne make an appearance as well as new adorable character like Araminta, whom I adore! 
 
I’m loving the chemistry between Monty and Daphne. They’re not perfect, but their flaw makes me love them even more as I get to know them throughout the story. 
I love their banter, which shows how comfortable they are with each other without having to pretend and just be free to be themselves. 
My favorite part would be the moment where they finally open up to each other about their deepest fear and raw feelings. 
 
As you can tell from the title, the romance is feral, messy and a bit rough so if you like spicy romance then you won’t be disappointed with Monty and Daphne! 
 
I read this book along with the audio version I got from Netgalley. Both narrators did a great job in delivering this story! 
However, I noticed there’s one chapter missing from the audio version when I was reading the book. 
 
Overall, My Feral Romance is an incredible read and definitely going into my favorite list of books in 2024! 
The bonus epilogue at the end was the perfect preview for the next book. I can’t wait to get my hands on that book next year! 
 
I received an advanced audiobook copy through Netgalley and the e-arc from the author through Book of Matches Media Tour, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
 
⚠️ 𝐓𝐖: adult situations, explicit language, fantasy drug use, childhood trauma, descriptive on page sex scenes (medium spice), sexual activity in public spaces (without an audience), violence, blood, illegal fighting sport and mild gore. 
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My Perfect Husband by Georgina Cross

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challenging dark mysterious tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

If you’re looking for a quick and engaging psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat, then pick up this book! 
 
The great writing style, fast pace, and intriguing characters make this book hard to put down! 
I was hooked right from the start and eager to uncover the truth of what happened that night 12 years ago. 
I thoroughly enjoyed the dual timeline, which provides insight into the events leading up to Ellie’s disappearance and the present-day investigation. 
 
There’s a couple of red herrings, making it challenging to figure out the truth before the big reveal at the end. 
 
However, I must say the way this book ends wasn’t to my liking; I was expecting more but the book concluded rather abruptly. 
 
Overall, it’s an entertaining, enjoyable and gripping story to read! 
 The world-building is vivid, making me feel like I’m walking down the street in New Orleans, and the unexpected twists kept me engrossed throughout the story. 
I’m looking forward to read more books by this author in the future! 
 
I received an advanced review copy through Netgalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Huge thank you to the author and publisher!
A Cruel Thirst by Angela Montoya

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adventurous emotional funny mysterious 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

4.75

“Because if he could see her, see the truest and most private parts of her, and love her still, then that love was something worth facing a thousand monsters for.”
 
If you’re looking for an enemies-to-lovers story between a vampire and a vampire hunter, look no 
further—this book is for you! 
 
The plot was well-paced and well-written; I was hooked right from the start until the end following Carolina and Lalo tackled the vampire issue. 
The characters are loveable and I especially enjoyed the funny teasing between the siblings, which really enlivened the story! 
 
Carolina is a badass character whom I admire and love. She’s a fierce fighter and lover, often quite reckless and prideful, and finally she meets her match in Lalo—the sweetest and sometimes awkward guy who always riles her up but also becomes one of the few people who can comfort, understand and support her. 
 
I loved the chemistry between the two of them. It was delightful to see their banter and slight flirting! 
I was rooting for them the entire time and curious to see how or whether they would get their happy ending while saving mankind from vampires. 
 
Overall, this was a very enjoyable and entertaining YA vampire romance that comes with a satisfying ending! 
I’m definitely keeping an eye out for more books by this author in the future! 
 
Thank you to Hear Our Voices 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: Grief, animal death, blood, gore, violence 
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You're Dead To Me by Amy Christine Parker

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dark funny mysterious sad tense fast-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

4.0

I devoured this book in just one day! 
The easy-to-read writing style, loveable characters, and short chapters build great suspense throughout the story, making it easy to get lost in. 
 
I was hooked right from the start by the mystery and paranormal element involving Ruby’s ghost from the future, who keeps showing up as a time bomb for a dark future awaiting her. 
I have to admit, the ghost appearances were quite creepy and vividly described. 
I wished this phenomenon was explained further; I would’ve love to know why it’s happening to her in the first place. 
 
I liked seeing Ruby's character develop in this story and realizing her actions as the person behind the Reputationkiller account by outing others' secrets is not the right way to do justice. 
I also love the friendship of Ruby with her other two friends, Anton and Xavier. 
They showed strong friendship by having each other’s backs, even in dangerous situations while investigating. 
 
Despite having to suspend my disbelief because some events might seem a bit too far-fetched, I thoroughly enjoyed following Ruby and the gang as they uncovered the truth. 
One unexpected twist near the ending really surprised me! 
However, I kinda wish the last few chapters weren’t so rushed despite being wrapped up nicely in the last chapter. 
 
Overall, this is a fun fast-paced YA thriller with a dash of romance. Such a page turner! 
Highly recommended for teenagers, and I’m definitely 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!
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The Jasad Heir by Sara Hashem

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adventurous emotional slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

I have mixed feelings toward this book. 
 
The Egyptian elements give a unique vibe to this fantasy world-building since I don’t see often in a fantasy books. 
I also enjoyed following Sylvia’s journey — learning about her pasts and how it influences her thoughts and actions throughout the story.  
 
However, a few aspects prevented me from fully enjoying this book. 
The uneven pacing was one of those aspects, with some parts feeling dragged out, while the action-packed were reserved near the end.  
The magic system confused me; I had a hard time trying to understand how the magic works. 
I’m also not a huge fan of the long chapters which made this storyline felt longer than necessary. 
 
As for the romance, I enjoyed the banter between the two main characters, Arin and Sylvia. 
I actually prefer slow burn romance in a book, but this one was a bit too slow for my taste. It felt like a subplot. 
But, I’m still curious to see how their relationship evolves after the events of the last chapter. 
 
The Jasad Heir is a debut novel with a unique world-building, and it has the potential to be a good book. 
However, some aspects like the romance and the long chapters were not my preference, and I’m hoping the sequel will be better. 
 
If you like the sound of Egyptian inspired fantasy with thick political intrigue, a bit of enemies-to-lovers romance and a character with hidden identity then this one might be a new favorite of yours. 
 
I received an advanced review copy through Netgalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Huge thank you to the author and publisher!
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The Broken Places by Mia Sheridan

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challenging dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

If you think a police procedural thriller with a dash of spicy romance sounds interesting, then this one might be for you. 
However, I highly suggest to check out the trigger warnings below before diving into this one! 
 
I was intrigued the first few chapters; it wasn’t just a simple ‘whodunit’ murder mystery. 
The story also covers some deep, heavy, thought-provoking topics, offering an eye-opening view of the two different sides of San Fransisco. 
 
The storyline was well-written, and the mystery and romance were well-balanced. 
The mystery kept me interested from the beginning until the end, racking my brains with theories upon theories to guess the twist at the end. 
 
I really enjoyed the investigation regarding the suspicious new drugs with Inspector Lennon and FBI Agent Ambrose. They make a good team, and I also liked getting to know their history as they slowly got closer to each other. 
 
Overall, The Broken Places was a captivating and emotional read, it explores about trauma, love, loss, grief, and second chances. 
This is not my first book by Mia Sheridan and it won’t be the last. I’m looking forward to reading more books by this author in the future! 
 
I received an advanced review copy through Netgalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Huge thank you to the author and publisher!
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Thieves' Gambit by Kayvion Lewis

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adventurous challenging 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

4.25

“If you fall in love someday, whoever they are, make sure it’s with someone you can be your whole self with. 
It’s dangerous to love half of a person.”
 
It took me a while to get hooked into the story, but my eyes were glued to my Kindle once I got to the part where the FMC, Ross Quest, entered a cutthroat competition to claim the prize – saving her mother. 
 
There are three phases in the competition, my personal favorite is the second phase, which includes longer schemes and forces the competitors to work together to succeed. 
Despite needing to suspend my disbelief here with teenagers planning such a complicated heist, I found it fun and thrilling to see how they strategize to stay ahead of the game, execute their plans, and improvise when things go awry. 
 
Ross has trust issues, which lead her to make questionable decisions throughout the story that at times felt slightly frustrating. But, deep down, she always craved a life like a normal teenage girl. 
I’m glad to see her slowly step out of her comfort zone with making new friends and rekindling her friendship with Noelia. 
I can’t say the same for the romance though as I didn’t feel the spark between Devroe and Ross, despite Devroe being a mysterious charming character. 
 
The last few chapters were quite intense as the stakes gets higher for the remaining competitors. Mind-blowing twists lead to a huge cliffhanger at the end! 
I'm excited to see what will happen next in the final book of this duology. 
 
Overall, Thieve’s Gambit is such a page turner! 
Highly recommend picking up this YA Thriller if you love: 
✨️ Heist Competition 
✨️ Rivals-to-Lovers 
✨️ Scheming                                                     
✨️ Betrayals and Alliances 
✨️ Shocking Plot Twists 
✨️ Diverse Characters 
 
I received an advanced review copy through Netgalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Huge thank you to the author and publisher!
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