I recently just finished Bound by Thorns by Delilah Synn. This was an easy 5-star read for me, and honestly, it felt even more special knowing it was written by my dear friend. There’s something so surreal and rewarding about seeing someone you know create an entire world like this, and it made the reading experience feel a lot more personal and meaningful.

What really stood out to me is that this book delivers on so many levels beyond just romance. The chemistry is definitely there, and it’s compelling, but it never feels like that’s the only thing carrying the plot of the story. There are real stakes, real danger, and real consequences, which made everything feel more intense and grounded. Characters aren’t protected from hardship, and that added an emotional weight that kept me fully invested the entire time. Some are not even protected from death….

I also loved how the story doesn’t shy away from darker elements. Some moments genuinely feel high-risk, where you’re not entirely sure how things are going to turn out, and that unpredictability made it hard to put down. It gives the romance more depth, too, because it’s developing in a world where things can and do go wrong.

The magic system and worldbuilding were another huge highlight during my experience reading it. Everything feels intentional and immersive, with just enough detail to draw you in without overwhelming you. You can tell there’s a bigger structure behind the world, and it makes you want to keep exploring it.

When I read books that contain natural elements as part of the plot, it feels forced and also feels like a consequence of the environment in which the story is set. I don’t know the process or the goal Synn had with it, but whenever I read a few parts, it actually felt like she cared for nature and how to save it. It kind of made me want to pursue a love for nature and its elements in a way that I can help save it.

Something I especially appreciated was how this book connects to the Hollowfolk from the previous novella. It adds this sense of continuity and expansion, like you’re stepping deeper into a world that already has history and layers. If you’ve read the novella, it makes the experience even richer, but it still stands strong on its own.

Overall, this book felt addictive, immersive, and emotionally engaging. It balances romance, plot, and fantasy in a way that feels natural and compelling, and it kept surprising me in the best ways.

I’m genuinely so proud of her, and I cannot wait for the next books in the series (which one is coming out by the end of this year!)

Read you soon,

— Bea 💌

“Bea Writes and Reads” — exploring the world through words: one story at a time.

Instagram: @beawritesandreads

YouTube: Bea Writes And Reads

Website: Bea Writes And Reads

Subscribe now

Photo by: Bea Barros.

I didn’t expect this book to be one I would do a review on because it is so tiny, and I found it at Dollar Tree of all places! However, after reading it in one sitting, I decided it was such a great book, and I had to share it with you guys!

Galatea by Madeline Miller is short. It almost feels like you’re inhaling it rather than reading it. But when you finish, it lingers in your memory, and you will have to sit with the story for a few days after you read it. That is why I am here, writing a review and telling you this is a five-star read.

This short story is a retelling of the Pygmalion myth, but told from Galatea’s perspective, and that shift changes everything. Because once you give the statue a voice, the story stops being romantic and starts turning into a terrifying tale, in which the illusion of devotion cracks, and the unsettling obsession comes to light.

This book makes us ask some harsh questions, such as:

What does it mean to be created by someone who believes he owns you?
What does it mean to be sculpted into perfection and then punished for having a mind?

Madeline Miller doesn’t raise her voice with drama to convince you this is a tragedy. She brings the importance of the story in a horrific, quiet, and controlled voice.

Galatea is observant and strategic. She is the opposite of a normal statue, since statues are observed and strategically sculpted. Galatea, though, is portrayed to have full consciousness of her life and the world surrounding her. She knows she is trapped in that room, which only nurses, doctors, and her husband can enter and “take care” of her. In reality, they are watching, observing, and managing her.

Museum trips were the first thing that came to my mind. We go as we please to watch the statues if we are really interested in their details, observe what or who is portrayed and how they are portrayed in the artwork, but then, we leave. We go back to our lives, and the statue stays there, admired and never free. Forever confined in a designated space where only artificial lights can reach.

Her journey is not told through action and movement, but through awareness. And that is one of the most scary things Miller could have come up with, since we (the readers) can feel the sensation of being trapped like Galatea does, and every page that turns, the claustrophobic feeling feels closing in more and more, until the very end where after holding our breath, we feel like we can breath again…when Galatea finds her freedom.

What I loved most was how this story exposes the extremely thin line between devotion and possession, of protection and control, and love and ownership. This line is where worlds collide, and depending on the remains after the explosion, they can be good or bad. You can be devoted or possessed, protected or controlled, loved or owned.

This duality is mostly shown by Galatea (the woman) being an object (metaphorically and literally) to her sculptor; however, the story takes a turn showing a strong and feminist side to her. Galatea is not meant to be an object in this story. She is fierce, intelligent, and a planner. She is quiet, but that doesn’t make her any less dangerous to the authoritarian man in her life.

This was the first book by Madeline Miller I have read, and it was a delight. Her voice and tone were just perfect for retellings and myths turned into books. I will definitely be picking up her other books in the future.

If you have thirty minutes in your day, I highly recommend picking up this book and enjoying this read.

Read you soon,

— Bea 💌
“Bea Writes and Reads” — exploring the world through words: one story at a time.

Instagram: @beawritesandreads

YouTube: Books Commentary By Bea

Website: Bea Writes And Reads

Subscribe now

Photo by: Bea Barros.

This ARC was a big 4-star read for me, and honestly? It ended up being way more of a vibe than I expected.

From the very beginning, Tony and Penny’s chemistry is instant, and not in the soft, flirty way… in the “I can’t stand you but I can’t stop looking at you” way, which by the way, is one of my favorites. The hate-love tension is so good that even other characters in the book could see it before they ever thought of each other like that. The story wasn’t pretending their energy was subtle. It wasn’t. Everyone knew.

And the premise??? Absolutely hilarious and surprising! I really thought this would be a coming-of-age (for young adults), but no! It was an unhinged but controlled love story.

The fact that Tony is basically like “Yes, I have a dead person on my closet,” and Penny is suddenly mixed up in it with him when they’ve literally JUST met, is such a chaotic setup, but it works so well. It’s ridiculous, it’s intense, and it makes the entire story feel like you’re strapped into a moving car going 90 mph and you’re just along for the ride.

One thing I really appreciated is that Tony’s story is deeper than what you assume in the first couple of chapters. At first, you’re like, okay, I know what kind of character this is going to be. But then the layers start showing up, and suddenly he feels way more human and complex than the “hot chaotic man” trope that is expected of him. His childhood wasn’t easy, but nothing compared to the things he started enduring later on in life.

Also, I don’t know why this stood out to me so much, but it did. This book has long chapters, and it had been a while since I read something like that. Weirdly, it added to the cinematic feel, because once a chapter started, it didn’t feel like you were stopping every few pages. It felt continuous, like cinematic scenes.

This book is SUCH a vibe. Reading it genuinely felt like watching a movie because of the pacing, the action, the dialogue, the internal thoughts… everything felt real-time and natural, like the story was unfolding in one long, chaotic chain of events. Every action led to the next. Every thought felt believable. Nothing felt overly written or under-explained.

Penny was also such a standout for me. I loved that she’s brave, smart, and quick on her feet, especially when things go wrong (which is… constantly). She doesn’t just panic or become helpless for the plot; she plans and moves toward a solution. She reacts. She thinks. And that made her so fun to root for.

And then there’s the romance.

Tony and Penny’s relationship evolution is honestly so sweet, and what I loved most is that it progresses so naturally, even while everything around them is a mess. It’s not forced. It’s not random. It’s not “we kissed once, so now we’re in love.” It’s slow enough to feel earned, but still intense enough to keep you invested.

Also, I need to talk about how sweet Tony is because oh my! The way he keeps bringing up the idea of their first date over and over again?? It’s adorable. It’s one of those little romance details that says so much and shows how much he cares about her and them.

And listen. My romantic brain also shipped Portia and Gio SO hard. Like, I was fully in my head writing fanfiction scenes while reading. I don’t make the rules…I do love a bodyguard romance, to be honest.

Overall, this book surprised me constantly. It was one of those reads where you think you know what direction it’s going in… and then it’s like nope, something else happens. It was not what I was expecting at all, but wow, it was so good. The ending felt earned and perfect.

If you want a romance that’s chaotic, fast-paced, funny, and cinematic, The Big Fix is absolutely worth picking up.

Read you soon,

— Bea 💌
“Bea Writes and Reads” — exploring the world through words: one story at a time.

Instagram: @beawritesandreads

YouTube: Books Commentary By Bea

Website: Bea Writes And Reads

Subscribe now

I just found another ARC that I had to rate 5 stars!

If you’re craving a paranormal romance that flexes cozy and magical with irresistible charm, Dealing With a Desperate Demon by Charlotte Stein delivered exactly what I hoped for… and then some. From the lore to the magic system to the big emotional pay-offs, this book was a five-star experience for me.

At its heart, this story blends a small-town, character-driven romance with a fantastical edge that feels both whimsical and deeply engaging. Nancy, a witch-adjacent bookseller trying to hide her magic and her heart, is the kind of protagonist I want to cheer for. Jack Jackson, part demon, part adorably awkward romantic, is the kind of hero you can’t help but root for, even when he’s fumbling through human courtship like a cosmic fish living out of water.

One of the most delightful parts of this book for me was the flirting and how beautifully misaligned it feels from each of their perspectives. There’s this constant sense of unrequited yearning, as both Nancy and Jack are convinced they’re the one feeling more, that the other surely couldn’t possibly feel the same way.

Meanwhile, as a reader, you can see so clearly that they are absolutely, hopelessly down bad for each other. That dramatic irony makes every interaction sparkle. Their banter and flirting become this careful, thrilling game of how far they can push things without crossing the line, even though crossing the line of their friendship is exactly what they both want.

Every lingering look, every loaded nickname, every moment of tension feels intentional and deliciously restrained. They flirt boldly enough to make your heart race, yet always pulling back at the last second.

This dynamic of push-and-pull creates such a cozy but emotionally charged atmosphere. It’s yearning without melodrama, playful without losing depth, and it makes the eventual emotional payoff feel incredibly earned (and it did!!).

Right from the start, the blend of romance and paranormal is cleverly crafted. You have demons, you have magic, you have pacts that feel weighty and consequential, but either way, the tone never brings the experience of reading it down.

The worldbuilding strikes a delightful balance: rich enough that I wanted more backstory, but still breezy enough to keep the pace moving. The demon lore and fated bonds with real stakes, hellish expectations vs. reluctant humanity, were intriguingly layered and a fresh twist on the usual paranormal tropes.

I loved how the magic system isn’t just window dressing. Nancy’s abilities and the larger metaphysical rules of this world influence not just the plot, but the heart of the story. The pacing lets mystery and humor build together until those “aha!” moments land with satisfying impact.

One of my favorite parts was watching Nancy gradually decode Jack’s vagueness and mysterious nicknames. What starts as confusion becomes all those quirks feel downright adorable rather than frustrating. That sweet unraveling of personality and intent was the cozy, emotionally resonant core of the book for me.

Jack himself is a gem: tough exterior, chaotic demon past, but beneath it all? Pure, earnest effort to become better and to be loved by the one he loves. That’s what gives this story its heart: it’s about understanding not just who someone is, but why they are the way they are.

Here are a few points I loved in the book, and I think we could learn a bit from:

Character Growth: Both Nancy and Jack evolve in believable, endearing ways. You feel every misstep and every small triumph.

Humor and Heart: The book genuinely made me smile, laugh, and swoon, because the cozy moments hit just as hard as the steamy ones.

Plot with Purpose: This isn’t just fluff. This story has a real emotional journey, which makes the stakes matter.

Magical World Enthusiasm: I loved how the lore unfolded organically, and how the magical elements weren’t just gimmicks but tied closely to the characters’ identities.

Dealing With a Desperate Demon is one of those reads that stays warm in your mind long after you finish. It’s cozy and adorable, yet thoughtful and emotionally resonant. Charlotte Stein struck the perfect harmony between whimsical fantasy and heartfelt romance.

Read you soon,

— Bea 💌
“Bea Writes and Reads” — exploring the world through words: one story at a time.

Instagram: @beawritesandreads

YouTube: Books Commentary By Bea

Website: Bea Writes And Reads

Subscribe now

Photo by: Bea Barros.

Today’s ARC review is for a 5-star read!

From the very first chapter, I knew All’s Fair in Love and Pickleball by Kate Spencer would get me head over heels. The opening reminded me of Second First Impressions by Sally Thorne, one of my favorite comfort romances, and this immediately set the tone for a warm, character-driven love story that I would totally fold for.

Bex and Niko are incredibly likable leads, and I really enjoyed learning their backstories and seeing how their pasts naturally brought them together. Their connection feels organic, and the way their individual journeys intersect makes their romance feel earned.

As someone who loves a good fake-dating trope, this book absolutely delivered! It especially did since both Bex and Niko are very aware of how attractive they find each other from the start.

One of my favorite aspects of the book was the presence of the elderly characters. Their nosy, slightly gossipy, and full-of-life personalities added so much heart to the story. They reminded me of my grandma and how vibrant she’s always been, which made those moments feel especially meaningful and charming.

I also loved the sports element, particularly how much the book leans into pickleball. Since my roommate and I started playing last year (we are very beginner by the way, super babies in the sport, but…), that detail made the story feel even more personal and fun.

By the time the final competition rolled around, everything felt perfectly built up, and Niko’s grand gesture during it, getting everyone (including himself!) to wear the shirt Bex made, completely warmed my heart.

Sweet, joyful, and full of charm, All’s Fair in Love and Pickleball is a romance that left me smiling from start to finish. An easy 5-star read for me, and a must-read if you love fake dating, community-driven romances, and heartfelt love stories that feel genuinely earned.

Read you soon,

— Bea 💌
“Bea Writes and Reads” — exploring the world through words: one story at a time.

Instagram: @beawritesandreads

YouTube: Books Commentary By Bea

Website: Bea Writes And Reads

Subscribe now

Photo credit: Bea Barros.

It is finally 2026, and to kick off this amazing year, I will begin with a book review! Hope you all are ready :)

Today’s book is this awesome ARC I received last year on NetGalley.

Pick Up by Nora Dahlia completely surprised me in the best way!

From the very first chapters, I was hooked. Not just by the story itself, but by how engaging and well-balanced the multiple POVs are (you read it right, MULTIPLE POVs). Each perspective adds something meaningful, making the emotional arcs feel layered rather than overwhelming.

One of my favorite aspects of the book is the way the parents’ pasts are quietly, beautifully connected. That shared history adds so much emotional weight to the present-day story and makes everything feel intentional. Nothing feels random once the reader understands that every relationship has roots, and that depth really elevates the novel.

Ethan and Sasha’s dynamic is especially fun and heartfelt. I loved that Ethan was already crushing hard on Sasha long before she even knew who he was. That unbalanced awareness adds a subtle tension that makes their interactions even sweeter. And to be honest? The fact that Sasha continues calling him “Demon Dad” even after falling for him is one of those small details that made me smile every time. That subtlety kept their relationship grounded and real for me.

The kids are another huge win. They’re not just background characters; they add humor, emotional stakes, and genuine depth to the story. They make the adults’ choices matter more, and they highlight the very real struggle of balancing love, work, and parenting. The work–love–life dilemma felt incredibly relatable (I would presume since I still don’t have kids) and well explored.

I also really appreciated how much attention Dahlia gives to the other spouses and adult characters. Their stories don’t feel flat or secondary. Those stories add richness to the world and show that love, growth, and struggle don’t exist in a vacuum.

The novel Pick Up is about self-discovery and finding love when you least expect it, but it’s also about breaking free from old habits and choosing a better future. I genuinely think this book works beautifully for both adults and young adults who may feel stuck, or even caught in cycles that no longer serve them. There’s something hopeful here, something encouraging about moving forward instead of living in the past.

And finally, can we talk about the epilogue? It was so cute. The way they say “I love you” felt incredibly natural. So natural that it reminded me of how my boyfriend and I say it to each other, which made it hit even harder on my emotions.

My final rating for this novel was an incredible 4 stars.

If you love heartfelt, thoughtful, and emotionally satisfying reads that blend romance, family, and growth in a way that truly lingers, this book is totally for you.

Read you soon,

— Bea 💌
“Bea Writes and Reads” — exploring the world through words: one story at a time.

Instagram: @beawritesandreads

YouTube: Books Commentary By Bea

Website: Bea Writes And Reads

Subscribe now

Photo by: Bea Barros.

I start this review by saying the same as in a few past ones and some future ones…This is a delayed ARC review, but…CAN YOU BELIEVE I WAS ACCEPTED TO ARC REVIEW THE NEWEST BOOK OF MY FAV AUTHOR?

Anyways…

Totally five stars.

From page one, Not Quite Dead Yet by Holly Jackson grabs you by the throat and refuses to let go. I immediately fell for Jet. She’s rude, blunt, chaotic, and raw, and that makes her so much more interesting than a “polite by-the-book” heroine. I was genuinely excited to see what she’d do next.

And OMG, the beginning. Jet gets hit on the head, ends up in a coma for days. The graphic description and gore were insane and I loved it. Already from the start, this book felt darker, scarier, more mature. Gore, mystery, horror vibes…and I was here for it.

My notes for this review were a bit messy, so I had to divide them into a few headers so you all can comprehend me.

My early suspects & theories

I don’t know if it’s obvious, but my first strong suspect was Sophia, the ex-best friend who’s now married to Jet’s brother. By page 63, when a ring camera catches her slipping in and out of the house thousands of times, alarm bells were going off. Something about her was too pushy, too hysterical. Not quite obviously “guilty,” but… that weird vibe of regret or guilt? Hard to explain as it’s twisted.

At the same time, I loved Jet’s dynamic with Billy. Sweet, funny, easy…Jet is clearly the leader of that duo, though. But then this insane thought struck me (around chapter 14)…What if Billy is the killer and he’s pretending to help Jet, just so that in the end she realizes she’s been trusting her murderer all along? Imagine how wrecking that would be.

But then, another crazy thought came to me…what about Billy’s dad? The overly nice family-friend cop who seems too “clean”? That kind of twist would mess with me in all the best ways.

By page 91, another theory edged up: Maybe Jet’s attack is connected to her sister’s death. It would tie things together so nastily that I almost want it to be true. (Cof Cof).

Meanwhile, there’s Andrew. Creepy, grumpy, possibly very drunk, but… I don’t buy him as the mastermind. He’s too messy for that kind of sophistication and murder preparation.

The pill plot, shady companies, and accidents

The salt-in-the–wrong-meds plot? INSANE. My mind was racing. Maybe Sophia switched pills to kill her father-in-law. Or maybe Luke would’ve been in on it too. What if he wanted to inherit the company and used Sophia’s devotion to make the swap look less obvious? Both theories sounded disturbingly possible.

Then there’s the whole missing-worker names from the construction company records… the convenient fire when Jet and Billy were inside. And in the town meeting, that cat person dropped that bomb about Jet’s mom having a secret she only told Emily aka the first dead daughter? Perfect level of chaos.

I also loved how Jackson writes Jet’s moments of confusion. For example, when she can’t remember words anymore and she has to describe what she means. As someone who speaks multiple languages and sometimes blanks out, I felt represented.

And about Luke… I was suspicious of him all along. Dodgy vibes, weird double standards, but I never thought he had the guts until I read some other big plots that I can’t spoil for you all.

How I found out the mystery

When I hit page 339, I was like: I FUCKING KNEW IT.

Last chapter? My new religion.

As a good reader and big fan, there were only a couple of hiccups for me in this book (but thank god most were before page 100, so it didn’t impact my reading overall):

• There were moments of repetition, some quotes or info felt reused, which made the pacing drag a little.

• I tried the audiobook… and the narrator was hard to swallow. Especially Billy’s narration…it just didn’t land right.

If you want a dark, twisty, brutal thriller with a heroine who doesn’t apologize for being messy, this is it. Not Quite Dead Yet is sharp, raw, brutal, twisted, and absolutely brilliant.

I love Jackson so much. And even with small flaws, this book deserves every one of those five stars.

Read you soon,

— Bea 💌
“Bea Writes and Reads” — exploring the world through words: one story at a time.

Instagram: @beawritesandreads

YouTube: Books Commentary By Bea

Website: Bea Writes And Reads

Subscribe now

Photo by: Bea Barros.

This was another amazing 5-star ARC that I was blessed with!

The beginning of Pomona Afton Can Solve a Murder by Bellamy Rose is pure chaos, but in the best way possible! It’s funny, fast-paced, and instantly sets the tone for the kind of dramatic, witty ride you’re about to read. From the very first chapters, I loved the overall vibe of the story because it had rich family drama, shady secrets, snarky friends, murder, and conversations that felt straight out of a Gossip Girl-meets-Schitt’s Creek crossover.

Pomona herself is a main girl energy character because of her sharpness, messiness, and a magnetic personality that fit the role of a high-society turns regular-people story.

The premise of this book hooked me right away: her rich grandmother dies, but not before changing her will to freeze all the family’s assets for a year in case her death was “unnatural”. Since she was in fact murdered, Pomona needs to find out who did it, or she and her family will lose everything forever.

It’s always fascinating how fiction portrays rich families: the moment something tragic happens, alliances crumble, and everyone becomes a rival. Rose captures that tension so well, and it makes the mystery even juicier.

I also loved Pomona and Gabriel’s dynamic. They start with serious enemies-type energy, but full of banter, tension, and chemistry that makes you angst to get to the end of the book and find out if they actually end up together. Watching them team up to solve the murder was such a highlight, especially as their partnership grows more genuine (and adorable) chapter by chapter.

Also, can we talk about the brownie thing? The fact that Gabriel went and got the licensing for her so she could sell them in the shop was so sweet! It’s those little gestures that make their relationship so satisfying.

The mystery itself is layered with so many great moments. I loved the plot twist of Pomona’s best friend moving and disappearing after she loses everything, which it immediately had me intrigued (though I didn’t buy for a second that she was the killer).

And the confrontation between Pomona and her mother? Great too. The tension, the emotion, and the way it all unravels, especially how Pomona figures out the truth about the murder weapon (SPOILER ALERT: her mother’s shoes!) through a butt dial. It was genius. The fact that the rest of the family already knew it while Pomona had to discover it on her own made it even more heartbreaking.

Speaking of heartbreak, the scene after Pomona and Gabriel find the checkbook completely got me. I could see both sides of the argument, which made it so emotionally heavy and well-written.

Then there’s the dinner scene with Jessica and Nicholas, in which I really appreciated that Pomona went alone. It gave her space to reconnect with her brother and sister-in-law, showing a softer, more grounded side of her character amid all the chaos and accusations.

And, alright, I have to mention one of the funniest running bits: Pomona’s absolute hatred for Queens. She genuinely acts like going there is worse than solving her grandmother’s murder, and I couldn’t stop laughing every time it came up.

The ending wrapped things up so perfectly, as the murder confrontation was intense and satisfying, and seeing Pomona and Gabe finally get together was the sweetest payoff. Their chemistry shines, and their relationship feels like a well-earned reward after everything they’ve been through.

I also loved seeing how Pomona completely turns her life around after everything. Starting her own education and food foundation and opening a bakery? Iconic rich-to-normal girl behavior. It’s the perfect full-circle moment for a character who started the story surrounded by wealth but ends it having built her own success.

Overall, Pomona Afton Can Solve a Murder is a funny, twisty, and heartfelt mystery filled with sharp humor, unexpected emotion, and a romance that sneaks up on you in the best way.

If you love chaotic beginnings, rich family drama, and a heroine who can bake her way through a murder mystery, this book needs to be on your TBR immediately.

Read you soon,

— Bea 💌
“Bea Writes and Reads” — exploring the world through words: one story at a time.

Instagram: @beawritesandreads

YouTube: Books Commentary By Bea

Website: Bea Writes And Reads

Subscribe now

I received this book as an ARC, and I must say…it is 100% a 5-star book!

If there’s one thing this author knows how to do, it’s write the kind of love story that makes you grin like an idiot one minute and clutch your heart the next. People Watching by Hannah Bonam-Young gave me exactly that: warmth, wit, and the kind of slow-burn connection that feels both swoony and real.

First off, can we talk about Milo, our MMC? I love how flirty and straightforward he is from the start. He doesn’t play games, he says what he means, and somehow every line hits that perfect balance between teasing and tender. His banter with Prue is chef’s kiss. I laughed, I blushed, and I highlighted way too many lines by this man who is probably going to join my book boyfriends list!

Also, the fact that he keeps referring to her as “Not Lucy” in his POV in the beginning? Hilarious. It’s cute, funny, and gives such insight into his thoughts without being overdone. Add in the fact that this book gives us back-to-back male POVs, and I was in heaven. That’s my jam, and Bonam-Young delivers it so well.

What I also loved is how Milo keeps finding little excuses to be close to Prue. Whether it’s helping her out or just teasing her into spending time together, those small moments build such a genuine connection between them.

There’s this adorable bit where he gets slightly pouty after learning that Prue’s family threw her a birthday party and she didn’t tell him. It’s such a small reaction, but it says so much about how much he already cares.

And maybe it’s because I’m reading this at 25 (Prue’s age), but I felt so connected to her. She’s relatable, grounded, and a little unsure of herself in ways that make her easy to root for.

I also love that this story doesn’t shy away from her inexperience. It makes every romantic scene more meaningful, more magical, like she’s discovering love for the first time, and we get to feel it with her.

There’s a “truth or dare” scene between them that’s absolute perfection. The tension, the honesty, the flirting, it’s the kind of moment that makes you forget everything else happening around you. And can we please talk about his nickname for her: “Killer”? It’s cute, it’s flirty, and it fits them so well.

One of my favorite scenes, though, has to be the tattoo moment. It’s this perfect blend of funny and intimate because it feels like an invisible string tying them together, both literally and emotionally. Bonam-Young has this knack for taking simple scenes and filling them with so much meaning.

Beyond their romance, I also adored how both Milo and Prue connect with each other’s families. It’s wholesome and makes their relationship feel rooted in something deeper than just chemistry. And when Milo says, “I don’t know how to love less and I don’t think I want to know,” my heart basically melted into a puddle. That is the kind of love I’ve always hoped for in life and rooted for in fiction.

The ending? Adorable. Hopeful. Everything I wanted. I totally believe these two will make it forever, which is after the epilogue ends.

People Watching is flirty, emotional, and brimming with heart. It’s for anyone who loves banter, slow-burn tension, a slightly pouty hero, and a love story that feels destined as if they were always meant to find each other, no matter what.

Read you soon,

— Bea 💌
“Bea Writes and Reads” — exploring the world through words: one story at a time.

Instagram: @beawritesandreads

YouTube: Books Commentary By Bea

Website: Bea Writes And Reads

Subscribe now

First of all, I just want to say I have been on a slump, and life has gotten so busy with school and work that it has been a long time since I’ve read books for fun and not for an assignment.

I’ll be honest, I was resistant (due to the happenings in the paragraph above) to start the ARC Ex Marks the Spot by Gloria Chao. But once I finally picked it up… I was completely swept away and finished it in a couple of days!

There’s something so comforting about reading a romance set in high school once you’re an adult (I’m 25, so it means that 10 years ago I was starting high school…). Maybe it’s the nostalgia, or the sweetness of those “first everything” feelings, but Gloria Chao captures it perfectly. The story is heartwarming, cute, and full of those little moments that make you smile like an idiot while reading.

I absolutely adored the friend group in this book! Their dynamic felt so real and full of life that it reminded me of those friendships that carry you through every awkward, chaotic, wonderful moment of high school. They tease each other, they bicker, but they also show up when it matters most. It never feels forced or “written in” just to fill space; it feels genuine, like people you might have actually known back then. They balance out Gemma’s chaos perfectly, adding warmth and humor to even the more emotional moments.

And the treasure hunt that brings Gemma and her ex together? Such a fun and clever plot device! It’s not just a cute premise, but the heartbeat of the story. Each clue forces Gemma to reflect on her past relationships, not just romantically, but personally, too. It’s like a mix between a scavenger hunt and an emotional growth journey, with every stop revealing something new about who she is and what she really wants.

Plus, it gives the book this light adventure vibe that keeps you turning the pages. I loved how it balanced out the emotional beats with moments of pure fun whenever the group was brought into the adventure. The banter, near-misses, surprises, and that nostalgic thrill of chasing clues with your friends.

But I have to admit… I kind of fell for the scrapped new love interest. He was just so adorable, charming, kind, and genuinely the kind of person you root for without meaning to. Half the time, I found myself wondering, “What if Gemma ended up with him instead?” (No hate to the endgame couple, of course, but still… I can’t help it!)

In the end, Ex Marks the Spot completely won me over. It’s the kind of story that makes you believe in second chances, in the magic of friendship, and in how love — in all its messy, unpredictable forms — can surprise you when you least expect it.

If you’re in the mood for something light, funny, and heartwarming, give this one a chance. I promise you will love it!

Read you soon,

Bea💓

Instagram: @beawritesandreads

Youtube: Books Commentary By Bea

Website: Bea Writes And Reads

Photo credit: Ash on Pinterest.

Flame of the Hollow by Delilah Synn was an absolutely fantastic debut read that I totally gave 5 stars!

This novella was short, fast-paced, and completely captivating from start to finish. I read it in one sitting because I just couldn’t put it down.

Before picking this up, I only really knew of the legend of Sleepy Hollow, the Headless Horseman, the spooky setting, and that eerie, haunting vibe. But I had never taken the time to really understand the full story behind the legend.

Once I realized this book was inspired by it, I decided to dig a little deeper so I could fully appreciate the world Delilah Synn was building. And let me just say, it was so worth it! Her take on this classic legend was absolutely excellent. The familiar enough gave me that nostalgic, creepy thrill, but in a fresh and unique way that kept me glued to the page.

I also loved how the story had just the right amount of spice sprinkled throughout. It added an extra layer of tension and heat between the characters without ever taking away from the main plot or the rich, haunting atmosphere. It was perfectly balanced and made the relationships feel real and compelling.

One of my favorite aspects of the book was Odette and her supernatural complications with her Swans, the White and the Black. This element really spoke to me on a personal level. As a former ballerina, I’ve always loved the story of Swan Lake, so seeing those themes woven into this dark, magical tale was such a special touch.

The Swans added a layer of complexity to Odette’s character, and I found myself fascinated by how they tied into her struggles and her power.

Overall, Flame of the Hollow was a thrilling, magical, and beautifully written novella that pulled me in from the very first page. It’s rare to find a debut that feels this polished and imaginative, and it left me completely eager for more.

Delilah Synn has so much talent, and I honestly can’t wait to see what she publishes next!

I’ll be first in line to read it!

Read you soon,

Bea💓

Instagram: @beawritesandreads

Youtube: Books Commentary By Bea

Website: Bea Writes And Reads

Photo by: Bea Barros.

I know it has been a long while, but life is not easy for anyone, and I have been doing a lot!

But here I am back with a new five-star review just for you guys!

What Happens in Amsterdam by Rachel Lynn Solomon is one of those rare contemporary romances that feels deeply real (at least it was for me). The story was full of imperfect yet fully realized characters complemented by their quirks, vulnerabilities, and growth.

Dani Dorfman is in her thirties and still figuring out what she wants to do with her life, and it already feels instantly relatable. After a messy office romance that gets her fired, she takes a leap of faith and applies for a job in Amsterdam, daydreaming of escape… and actually getting it.

It’s tough enough to start over in a new country (I would know!), but Dani's job fails and so does her whole living situation. All of this chaos happens before the actual messy but romantic part of the book, when Dani crashes her bike into her teenage first love, Wouter van Leeuwen, who once lived with her family as an exchange student.

That meet-cute reunion feels like fate is giving them the second chance they thought would never happen after he had to move back home from his exchange. This crash sets the stage for nostalgia and unmet expectations from both characters.

When Dani loses her job and Wouter finds out that to inherit his family’s house, he needs to marry, it almost sounds like destiny that they found each other. If they get married, he gets the house and she gets to stay in Amsterdam for longer (aka who doesn't love a little marriage of convenience as a trope, huh? I know I do!).

What I like about their marriage of convenience is that they both know that their repressed 17-year-old feelings are still simmering underneath the surface of their new and awkward relationship. I like how small moments bring out a lot of emotion and a little flashback into their past, and all they got to explore as lovers once so innocently and now more grown.

The portrayal of Amsterdam itself is dreamy and immersive, and it made me nostalgic for the few days I spent there when I was 15 years old. The tilted canal houses, bike rides through the city, visits to the Van Gogh Museum, learning Dutch, and even finding the best stroopwafel like a local were all things I had also once done with my mom.

What makes Dani so precious to me is how much she grows from the beginning of the book until the very last page. She’s living with a port-wine birthmark, asthma, anxiety, depression, and understandably overprotective parents, and all she wants is to break free. I love how much she battles and tries to make it in Amsterdam on her own, and I highly respect her for that.

As an immigrant studying in the U.S., I truly know the ins and outs of struggles and wanting to seem like everything is perfect when talking to my family back home. I get how much we have to grow to make it, and how much we sacrifice so that at the end of the day, our dreams can become true. The immigration thread added a layer of relatability that made me feel seen and understood.

The romance is tender, emotional, and occasionally steamy. Wouter isn’t perfect (duh, only Garrett Graham will forever be perfect for me), but his growing understanding of Dani, the clarity they build together, and how they confront past pain and misunderstanding are so cute.

The happy ending had me smiling long after the last page.

Anyway, what I want to say is, if you are looking for a quick and cute romance, this book is it! If you love flawed yet lovable protagonists, vibrant settings, and slow-burn emotional payoffs, this one’s a winner. Highly recommended!

Read you soon,

Bea💓

Instagram: @beawritesandreads

Youtube: Books Commentary By Bea

Website: Bea Writes And Reads

Photo by: Bea Barros.

Today we are talking about a book that was totally 5 stars and with everything I love…enemies, family drama, secret magic… and a romance that will steal your heart just like it did to mine.

Every once in a while, I pick up a romance book expecting one thing, maybe something light, fun, maybe a bit predictable, and find myself completely surprised by how layered and charming it turns out to be. Under Loch and Key by Lana Ferguson did exactly that.

At first glance, this feels like a classic contemporary enemies-to-lovers story: two people from feuding families in forced proximity, bickering at every turn, only to realize they aren’t so different after all, well…

The banter is excellent, the chemistry undeniable, and the tension is everything I look for in this trope. But what truly sets this book apart is the way Ferguson introduces an unexpected magical twist that blends so beautifully into the story that it feels completely natural. Almost as if it had been hiding beneath the surface of every enemies-to-lovers romance all along, just waiting to be discovered.

The magic here isn’t flashy or overwhelming; it’s subtle, atmospheric, and tied deeply to family, history, and heartbreak. It becomes a quiet but powerful thread running through the story, making the stakes feel higher, the conflicts sharper, and the romance even more captivating.

I loved how Ferguson treated this magical element with the same care and nuance she gave to her characters’ emotional journeys. It isn’t just there for decoration; it shapes the world, the families, and ultimately, the lovers themselves.

Speaking of the characters, I adored them. They’re messy, proud, flawed, and vulnerable in all the right ways. Watching them unravel each other’s defenses while still holding on to the history and pain of their family feud gave me serious Romeo and Juliet vibes (but, thankfully, with less tragedy and a lot more hope).

I also appreciated how the family dynamics weren’t just background noise; they played a crucial role in how the story unfolded, adding depth and complexity to every decision, every misunderstanding, every moment of tenderness that followed.

It’s not too rare to find books I think are perfect, but to find a romance that feels this well-rounded, where the world, the magic, the history, and the people all work together to create something so alive. This book reminded me that enemies-to-lovers works best when the tension isn’t just romantic but rooted in something bigger, something generational, something neither party can fully escape… until love finds a way to break the cycle.

If you love books where magic feels old and secretive, where family ties run deep (for better or worse), and where romance builds from tension into something soft and earnest, Under Loch and Key is worth your time. Full of heart, a little bit of magic, and a whole lot of charm.

Read you soon,

Bea💓

Instagram: @beawritesandreads

Youtube: Books Commentary By Bea

Website: Bea Writes And Reads

Photo by: Bea Barros.

I’m grateful I got a copy of The House Rules by Calvin Naraghi because it was one of those books I just devoured. I am so glad to say this was a 4 star read for me!

I wasn’t expecting to read it so quickly (even though I read between other thousands of books, but every time it felt like time was flying by), but something about it pulled me in from the first few pages, and not in a comforting way.

More like, what exactly is going on here, and why can’t I look away? (The vibe I love for my usual summer of horror and romance reading).

The whole vibe of this book is strange and unsettling in a good way. It feels like stepping into a haunted version of an elite party, where everything looks perfect on the surface but something is deeply wrong underneath. Something so wrong that even people’s smiles would terrify you if looked at very deeply.

Imagine escape rooms meet gothic horror meet The Great Gatsby, if Gatsby’s guests slowly went mad following rules they didn’t understand. That’s how this book feels.

And the house. The house is its character, and I know how much effort and drawing it took for Naraghi to create.

Every time a new room was revealed, I felt the same mix of dread and fascination that the characters did.

I don’t usually get claustrophobic reading, but this book made me feel like I couldn’t breathe sometimes, like the walls were closing in and I needed to figure out the next clue to get out.

The ending caught me off guard in the best way. There’s a twist involving Jamie and Lonnie that I thought was just so smart. Watching them fall into the same fate as their friend Hannah experienced a year before was very interesting, given how their time at the house ended.

I love it when horror stories feel like a cycle, and this one nailed that theme of inevitability.

Now, if I had to say why this wasn’t a five-star read for me, it would be one thing: I kind of wanted Hannah to be a full-on villain. Not because I didn’t like her arc (it was well done), but because part of me craved a character who was truly terrifying, not just because she was hurt and confused, but because she decided she had no options but to hurt others. Her redemption made sense, but it softened something I didn’t want softened. Maybe that’s on me.

Still, this book has stuck with me. The mood, the setting, the characters, the weirdness of it all is what I keep thinking about it.

I’m picking up the next one when it’s out because I need to know what happens after that last page…TALK ABOUT CLIFFHANGER!

Read you soon,

Bea💓

Instagram: @beawritesandreads

Youtube: Books Commentary By Bea

Website: Bea Writes And Reads

Photo by: Either Calvin or me or the stranger at the bookstore!

A few months ago, I won a Goodreads giveaway and I got a hardcover copy of Unlock the Dark by Sasa Hawk. I was hooked on the premise and so excited to finally get to it! I am happy to say it was a 4-star read!

This book is one of those rare fantasy novels that immediately pulls you into its world and doesn’t let go. Hawk delivers a beautifully imagined universe full of secrets, shadows, and a well-crafted magical system that feels both original and believable.

From the first chapters, I was hooked by the richness of the setting and the author’s ability to balance atmosphere with action and instigate my curiosity.

What stood out to me the most was the world-building. It’s immersive without being overwhelming. Every element feels purposeful, from the politics of the realm to the unspoken rules of its magical society. Hawk manages to build a dark, moody environment without losing momentum in the plot, and that’s not easy to do.

The magic system is another highlight for me. It’s intricate but well-explained, and I loved how it played into both the personal stakes for the characters and the larger tension in the world (and obviously the plot overall). It never felt like a crutch or afterthought since it was central to everything going on in the story.

As for the plot, it unfolds with twists that feel earned, not forced. There’s a strong sense of pacing throughout, with a balance of character development and high-stakes moments. I found myself genuinely caring about what would happen next, and more importantly, to whom it would happen. The characters are layered, and while I won’t spoil anything, I will say that I appreciated the emotional depth that came through, especially in the later chapters.

Why not five stars? I think there were a few moments where I wished for a little more internal reflection for me to be able to fully connect emotionally.

Sasa Hawk has a clear voice, strong command of storytelling, and a gift for building vivid, magical worlds. I’ll be keeping my eye on her future work. If you’re a fan of fantasy with rich lore, compelling stakes, and magic that matters, Unlock the Dark is worth your time, and it got my approval stamp haha.

Read you soon,

Bea💓

Instagram: @beawritesandreads

Youtube: Books Commentary By Bea

Website: Bea Writes And Reads

Photo by: Bea Barros.

Wild and Wrangled by Lyla Sage is everything I’ve been waiting for since the beginning of the series — and it delivered. It was an easy 5 stars.

Watching Cam and Dusty go from childhood sweethearts to friends to something deeply permanent was the kind of slow-burn, emotional ride that stays with you long after the last page.

I loved how the only person Cam opened the door to after being left at the altar was Dusty. That moment said so much about the depth of their bond, how safe and known he is to her, and how instinctive it was to let him in, even in her most painful moment.

And that flashback to when they first met? Completely heart-melting. Their first kiss as teenagers was just as sweet and tender, a memory that lingered in both of them for years.

Their chemistry has been obvious since book one, and I’ve been waiting for their story from the very start. The buildup, the tension, the quiet moments of longing — it was so clear they were always meant for each other.

Dusty flirting by asking for pens and pencils was such a charming, nostalgic detail — straight out of a high school hallway. And when he had someone paint Cam’s jersey number on his face at her first game? That was before they were even officially anything. The devotion was already there, quietly and fully.

In the present time, Dusty is the groundskeeper of the house Cam is renting, which makes everything even more charged — the proximity, the possibility, the inevitability.

And the reveal that Dusty actually bought the house for them YEARS AGO? That was one of the most emotional gut-punches in the best way.

The found family dynamic between Cam and Dusty’s family was a huge highlight for me. Those soft, emotional connections always get me, and this one was done beautifully. Watching her find a place with them — not just romantically, but as someone deeply loved and accepted — hit all the right notes.

And then there’s Dusty himself. He’s been so down bad for Cam forever. Even when they weren’t together, his feelings never wavered. He kept all the notes he wrote for her, learned to dance just for her as a teen, and calls her “angel” in a way that makes that simple nickname feel utterly precious. He’s that rare kind of romantic who pays attention and holds on to the little things.

The tattoos they get together — and the way they say they're permanent — was a perfect symbol of how far they’ve come and how deeply they choose each other now. That phrase comes back more than once, and every time it lands harder.

I hated the way Cam left Dusty when they were younger. It broke my heart and his. But the way they found their way back to each other, slowly and intentionally, made it worth the ache.

Dusty’s humor is another quiet strength — his comment about Cam being “fancy” for buying brand-name groceries had me laughing out loud. He’s the kind of man who balances sweetness and sincerity with subtle charm, and it shines especially in the way he’s there for Riley. Watching him step into the role of a step-father figure so naturally was incredibly moving. He didn’t just show up for Cam — he showed up for her daughter, too, and that sealed the deal for me.

The ending wrecked me — in the best way. When he gives her all the notes he kept, the love poured off the page. Dusty is now firmly my second favorite book boyfriend in this series (sorry, no one will top Luke Brooks), but he gave him a serious run for the title.

This book was heartfelt, romantic, nostalgic, and so deeply earned. A perfect small-town, childhood-sweetheart-to-lovers story that left me smiling, crying, and wanting to start it all over again.

Read you soon,

Bea💓

Instagram: @beawritesandreads

Youtube: Books Commentary By Bea

Website: Bea Writes And Reads

Photo by: Bea Barros.

This book was for sure a 5-star read!

From the first chapter, Give Me Butterflies by Jillian Meadows gave me that perfect blend of tension, humor, and heart that I crave in a romance. If you’re into miscommunication meets enemies-to-lovers with major Ali Hazelwood energy, buckle up—because this one delivers.

Let’s talk about Dr. Finn. The way he argues- flirts? HOT. Like, academic banter with heart-eyes levels of hot.

And the fact that he only bumped into Millie because he was curious (and okay, maybe a little jealous) about the guy she was gushing over, only to realize it was a book boyfriend? ICONIC behavior.

Their dynamic kicks off with a literal fender bender (on the exact day he’s on the committee for Millie’s promotion—because of course), and it spirals into this delightfully chaotic, tension-filled slow burn that had me giggling and kicking my feet, especially during Finn’s POVs. His inner dialogue is just chef’s kiss.

Also, the coffee gesture?? He remembered her favorite coffee shop and brought her a replacement because hers spilled when they bumped into each other. I melted. I'm a puddle. Goodbye.

Finn being a softie for his two little nieces (who he takes care of after his sister passed) completely shattered me, but in the best way. It’s not only adorable, it’s a powerful layer to his character and helps Millie see the gentler side behind all the sass.

And let’s not forget Lena, who deserves an award for basically orchestrating a pizza date for Finn, Millie, and the girls. Hilarious and wholesome. And when Millie falls (literally) and Finn catches her with a swoony “what am I going to do with you, Millie?”—I was feral.

One of my favorite scenes is when Millie sees her toxic ex and finally opens up to Finn about her past. He gets jealous and protective in the most satisfying way.

And during game night, when someone casually asks if Finn is her boyfriend, and she panics and blurts out that she has a date with someone else? Finn spirals, disappears to the kitchen, and has a mental breakdown. The fact that they both like each other but won’t say it? Comedy. Gold.

But when Finn finally asks her out, I melted all over again. That whole scene where they kind of accidentally confess feelings while pretending they’re not confessing?? Delicious.

Their email thread about a spider made me snort-laugh in public. It’s the kind of chemistry that sneaks into the quiet moments.

And when Finn gets sick, you bet Millie is there to take care of him.

Then he casually joins a FaceTime call with her mom and gets all soft, knowing Millie had mentioned him before for some reason? My heart stopped.

The man even steps down from her promotion committee so he can date her without a conflict of interest. CHIVALRY IS ALIVE.

Not to mention their first kiss happens as part of a “firsts” game dare, and it’s as sweet and swoony as it sounds.

I also adored that moment when Millie’s about to leave his house and Finn practically begs her to stay because he’s not ready to let her go. 🥹

Also, yes—Finn is jealous like 70% of the time and it’s hilarious, but he’s also so sincere and soft where it counts.

And when he takes his nieces to meet Millie’s family at the farm? Core memory unlocked.

Let’s talk plot twist: her terrible ex-boyfriend Kyle turns out to be the other candidate for the job Millie’s up for?! I screamed. I thought he was just there to stir up emotional chaos, not this.

And then there’s Finn’s mom, who turns out to be a lot. I found it powerful how the story compares her manipulative nature to Millie’s ex, showing how familiar emotional patterns can affect someone’s self-worth. It’s subtle but smartly done.

Finally, the I love yous? Absolute perfection.

The ending? Wholesome, romantic, funny—everything I wanted and more.

I’m obsessed with this couple, this story, and this author. I’m already counting down to whatever Jillian Meadows writes next. 💕

Read you soon,

Bea💓

Instagram: @beawritesandreads

Youtube: Books Commentary By Bea

Website: Bea Writes And Reads

Photo by: Bea Barros.

I feel like I have to start this blog post with an imperative PSA saying this was my first Stephen King book ever! And it was 5 stars!

As a Brazilian girl who’s never really been into baseball—even after living in the U.S. for years—I wasn’t sure what to expect from Blockade Billy. I’ve been to a few games, but I can’t say I’m a big fan of the sport.

Still, I picked up this book from the library, thinking Stephen King was just experimenting a little, maybe trying something new with a fictional profile of a forgotten baseball player. It seemed like a chill read.

But wow—this was not just a story about baseball!

What starts out feeling like a casual sports biography quickly turns into something much darker. Without giving too much away, let’s just say I was not expecting a twist involving murders.

King fooled me, and I loved that — perhaps this just happened because I am not in the circle of baseball news, otherwise I think I would’ve known what I was getting myself into.

The way the story builds up to the reveal is so smart and subtle, and it kept me hooked even though I don’t care much about the sport itself.

I also really enjoyed the style. It’s written like an interview, with this older guy (I forgot his name!) telling the story of William “Blockade Billy” Blakely — or supposedly him hehe.

That format made it feel super real, almost like I was listening to someone’s actual memories. Plus, the version I got from the library had a few illustrations, which made it even more fun to read.

The whole writing and style felt so much like journalistic books, and as a journalist…I loved it!

My first Stephen King book was not one of the most popular ones, but honestly? I’m impressed. It’s short, sharp, a little creepy, and unexpected. Five stars, hands down.

Read you soon,

Bea💓

Instagram: @beawritesandreads

Youtube: Books Commentary By Bea

Website: Bea Writes And Reads

Photo by: Bea Barros.

Rose Colored Glasses by Kit Oregon is a beautifully raw and deeply personal collection of poetry that left a lasting impression on me.

I loved this book—from the emotional vulnerability to the powerful themes woven throughout, it felt like every page had something that resonated with me on a personal level. As a fellow poet, I felt like Oregon’s feelings were very raw and transparent through the pages.

The poems vary in style and subject, which makes the experience feel rich and layered. There are tender and romantic pieces, introspective reflections, and thought-provoking commentary on politics, society, and norms. The range of voices and perspectives made the collection feel dynamic and alive.

Some of the poems do include sensitive themes, and the author includes trigger warnings for topics like sexual harassment. These pieces are handled with care and intention, contributing to the overall honesty of the book and poetry in general.

What stood out most were the quotes that linger long after reading—lines that feel like they’re speaking directly to you. This is the kind of book you’ll want to revisit, underline, and sit with. All of your emotions will creep on your skin while experiencing this book (yes, experiencing and now just reading it)

I’m really happy I had the opportunity to read the ARC. Rose Colored Glasses is bold, honest, and beautifully written—I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys poetry that speaks from the heart and isn’t afraid to challenge the world around it.

Read you soon,

Bea💓

Instagram: @beawritesandreads

Youtube: Books Commentary By Bea

Website: Bea Writes And Reads

Photo by: Kit Oregon.

I finally got around to reading The Meadowbrook Murders—an ARC I’d been meaning to pick up for ages—and I’m so glad I did. Life got in the way, but once I dove in, I was hooked. This book was a super 4-star read, and I recommend it if you like YA murder mystery books!

It was my first time reading anything by Jessica Goodman (I think), and she totally delivered a sharp, twisty mystery, soaked in tension, ambition, and just the right amount of campus chaos.

Right off the bat, I’m a sucker for any book that starts with one of the main characters (Amy in this case) waking up hungover and then stumbling into something tragic—and this one delivers that trope perfectly — is this even a trope? If not, I'm inventing it as a trope haha.

One of the main protagonists, Liz, is a young journalist at Meadowbrook College, and when two students are found murdered, Liz ends up rooming with Amy, one of the victims’ roommates. The plot takes off immediately.

The dynamic between them is full of suspicion and unspoken grief, which adds a lot to the atmosphere. Plus the whole distrust and suspicion.

As a journalist myself, I found Liz’s point of view particularly compelling. She’s torn between knowing the victims personally and wanting to chase the story. That tension—journalist first, friend second—feels so real. There’s something chilling but relatable about her desire to be the one to break the news, even when it’s so close to home.

I also adored the mention of Susan Orlean in the school newspaper. A+ detail. If you are a journalist too and know Susan Orlean, just hear me out…She is awesome! (Plus, I have a review of one of her books here on the blog…go check it out!)

The coach pulling strings so Joseph could visit Amy? Very suspicious. It had me side-eyeing him early on, and I kept wondering how far adults at this college were willing to go to protect certain students…or children.

Combine that with the police’s theory that the killer had close access, trust, and connection to the victims, and Liz immediately suspects Amy, which, honestly, makes total sense, but it would’ve been too obvious.

Liz’s journalistic instincts are sharp, and I loved following her as she pieced things together, did some good old-fashioned detective work at the station, and uncovered the truth about a certain suspicious car.

Speaking of suspects… Peter. Why is this guy everywhere?! He had me raising eyebrows every time he popped up. He’s sus, especially when he defends Amy at the vigil. Liz’s frustration with him giving her an exclusive, only to hand more info to other reporters, felt real and messy and very school newsroom.

One of the most fascinating parts of the book is how the students are planning another party, practically a repeat of the one on the night of the murders. It's interesting.

And when someone finally points the finger at Amy, the tension explodes. I appreciated that moment when Liz finally sees honesty and pain in Amy’s face—it made their dynamic richer and more complex, and it was a perfect setup for a future friendship.

As the story unfolds, we start to see that Sarah, one of the victims, may not have been as picture-perfect as she seemed. Those moments—memories, interviews, and whispered secrets—really fleshed her out as a character and gave the mystery more depth. It was applied to our other victim, Ryan. He seemed to have been a good guy in loads of aspects, but he was messy as well.

The twists toward the end are great. RJ getting cleared and then Joseph being arrested had me gasping. By 79%, I was sure it was Joseph—he looked so guilty—but something in me didn’t fully buy it (and I was right hehe). I enjoyed how everything pointed to him, even though the truth was more layered than mysterious proofs appearing out of nowhere, pointing at him.

When the killer is finally revealed, it makes sense and feels earned, though I do think the ending was a little rushed.

I would’ve liked a bit more space to sit with the resolution. And maybe, just maybe, it would've landed a little harder if the killer had been an adult. Still, I think Goodman made a solid choice, and the story as a whole was satisfying.

Overall, The Meadowbrook Murders is a tightly written, fast-paced mystery with a lot to say about ambition, loyalty, and the cost of truth. I’d super recommend it—especially to fellow journalism nerds like me who also love some fiction.

Read you soon,

Bea💓

Instagram: @beawritesandreads

Youtube: Books Commentary By Bea

Website: Bea Writes And Reads

Photo by: Bea Barros.