REVIEW: Moon Rising by Tui T. Sutherland

Summary


The War of Sandwing Succession is over and the Dragonets of Destiny have started a school so other dragons can learn about one another and old animosity might someday be overcome. But someone seems to be trying to cause trouble at the school – and commit murder. One Nightwing, Moon, has the legendary mindreading and prophecy gifts of her ancestors, so she’s getting clues about the culprit. But she’s afraid everyone will hate her if they find out what she can do.

Review


This is the graphic novel adaptation of the 6th novel in the Wings of Fire series. This kicks off my favorite arc of the series, and I was pleased with how this turned out. The artwork is gorgeous and does a great job with the story. But it’s still an adaptation of a larger story. This really whet my appetite to revisit the series again so I can enjoy the full experience.

Newcomers should probably start with book 1 to understand the references to the first arc, but I think this can stand alone. But to truly experience the story, I still think the full middle grade novel is the best bet. This graphic novel can be a great introduction for newcomers to the story, and it can also be a great visual experience for readers who already love the novel.

Rating: ♥♥♥♥*

*♥♥♥♥ – Great! Might re-read.

REVIEW: Not Your Ex’s Hexes by April Asher

[I received a free electronic review copy of this book from Netgalley and St. Martin’s Griffin in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. This book releases February 7th.]

Summary


At one time, Rose Maxwell was the Prima-apparent, training to take over from her grandmother one day. But when her sister Vi finally came into her magic (Not the Witch You Wed – ♥♥♥♥½), she became the heir. While Rose has been enjoying her freedom, she had been training to be Prima most of her life. And Rose is still trying to figure out what this means for her future.

When a well-intentioned animal rescue mission goes awry, Rose finds herself doing community service at the animal rescue which means working with the sexy – and grouchy – Damian Adams, a half-demon veterinarian. After a brief hook up weeks ago, Rose hasn’t been able to get Damian out of her head. But Rose is NOT looking for a relationship. And Damian is too infuriating to ever be a romantic possibility. So Rose is just going to clock her hours and then have nothing to do with the sexy vet ever again.

Review


This was fun! It took me a little longer to warm up to this than it did for book one, which I adored. (It was one of my top 10 reads in 2022.) Grumpy/Sunshine is not a trope I usually seek out, and the “half-demon” aspect of this put me on my guard. For me, there’s a line in the world of paranormal fantasy for what is harmless fun and what starts to push the horror/occultish side. But this remained on the fun side. I fell for Rose and Damian, and I really enjoy the world-building and community in this series.

The fantasy/paranormal elements here are secondary to the solid romantic story. He has history and is sure he can only share his bed, never his heart. She’s not looking for forever but finds it anyway in an unexpected place. The magical elements were icing on the cake – I love a magical setting!

Readers could start the series here – the story stands on its own. But you will want to pick up book 1 to get Vi’s story while we wait for book 3. And that will be a must-read for me. This book does some nice set up work for the next story – and I am here for it!

Grumpy/Sunshine fans, series fans, and paranormal romance fans should not miss this one! (Language, sex)

Rating: ♥♥♥♥*

*♥♥♥♥ = Great! Might re-read.