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Bittersweet Breadcrumbs
Doria James never meant to stumble into Vespertine Books, a hidden gem of a bookshop, and she certainly never meant to leave with a volume of fantasy romance stories. But, after meeting the shop’s handsome owner, Miles Oak, she does just that. Soon she’s returning for more than just books. She’s returning for the mystery that is Miles.
Every book he lends her seems to draw her closer to him, but as strange things begin to happen, Doria discovers a darkness hanging over the cozy space she has come to adore, as well as the man chained to it.
Interweaving several fantasy romance short stories, Bittersweet Breadcrumbs is a tantalizing tale that will ensure you never look at bedtime stories the same again.
Every book he lends her seems to draw her closer to him, but as strange things begin to happen, Doria discovers a darkness hanging over the cozy space she has come to adore, as well as the man chained to it.
Interweaving several fantasy romance short stories, Bittersweet Breadcrumbs is a tantalizing tale that will ensure you never look at bedtime stories the same again.
156 pages, Paperback
Published October 1, 2023
3 people are currently reading
83 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
October 14, 2023
I absolutely loved the plot for this book and the way separate short stories were inserted into the book itself. I loved the way the two main characters bonded over books, even if their preferences don’t mesh. Doria was a little too enthusiastic in her hate for all things romance and fantasy, but ended up realizing that she had been too judgmental. I can’t wait to continue this story with the next book coming out later this year!
Doria has had a bad stretch of time. A man convinced her to move to a small town and not follow her dreams, broke up with her, and left her with nothing to her name. So, yeah. She’s a bit jaded. After a terrible shift at the restaurant where she works, she dodges into a bookshop she had never noticed before to get out of the pouring rain. As she peruses the horror section, she meets the devastatingly handsome owner, Miles. After a disagreement over reading preferences (the man reads romance and fantasy!) they compromise that she will read a short story of his choosing, if only to come back and tell him how much she hates it the next day. But the door to the shop isn’t there every time Doria goes to visit. What is happening, life isn’t a witchy romance!
Doria has had a bad stretch of time. A man convinced her to move to a small town and not follow her dreams, broke up with her, and left her with nothing to her name. So, yeah. She’s a bit jaded. After a terrible shift at the restaurant where she works, she dodges into a bookshop she had never noticed before to get out of the pouring rain. As she peruses the horror section, she meets the devastatingly handsome owner, Miles. After a disagreement over reading preferences (the man reads romance and fantasy!) they compromise that she will read a short story of his choosing, if only to come back and tell him how much she hates it the next day. But the door to the shop isn’t there every time Doria goes to visit. What is happening, life isn’t a witchy romance!
September 14, 2023
This book stole my heart! I saw so much of myself in Doria who by accident stops into a “new” bookshop and finds Miles working inside who challenges and delights Doria into expanding not just her reading world but her whole way of seeing the world. With this private bookclub of two, Miles and Doria’s story drew me and held me captive until the end. I will not give the full quote -- no spoilers here -- but how can you read a book with a line like this “Remember,” Doria whispered against Miles’ lips, “I will be back each day until…. You are not alone in this fight anymore.” SIGHH. Be Still My Heart! This pair are just so amazing that I didn’t want this book to end and you can be sure that I will be back for Book Two when it is released! BECAUSE THIS CLIFFHANGER LEFT ME SCREAMING AT THE BOOK in the best way 😉 and checking out the last page to see when the next book is due out.
The design of this book is very original. I loved how I not only got to ‘see’ the covers of the books through Doria’s eyes, but also that I actually got to read the books with her. I was with her as she sat down and made up her mind about them based on the cover and Miles’ comments, then again hear her thoughts based on where in the book’s the storyline she was and follow her running interspersed commentary that reflected so many thoughts that all reader’s have; finally, when she and Miles discuss the books, I am right there with them. What a wonderfully intimate design for a book about books. This was a great idea and the writing of each book within Bittersweet Breadcrumbs has its own voice. What a novel and refreshingly creative idea!
If you are looking for a book that is romantic, cute, and funny mixed in with a healthy dose of fantasy, then you can’t find a better book than this one. My only complaint is that I didn’t want it to end. The writing is riveting because Rye does such a great job of keeping it just on the line of not overwriting or overexplaining a scene but still giving me just enough that I have a clear picture of what is happening without underwriting and leaving me wanting. The dialogue is real and complex with hints and teases that drew me in and kept me fully enthralled. The romance has just enough steam to make me interested and the perfect amount of sweet to leave me sighing. If you love books about books and romance that just hits ever beat, then I cannot suggest a better book for a wonderful weekend read.
The design of this book is very original. I loved how I not only got to ‘see’ the covers of the books through Doria’s eyes, but also that I actually got to read the books with her. I was with her as she sat down and made up her mind about them based on the cover and Miles’ comments, then again hear her thoughts based on where in the book’s the storyline she was and follow her running interspersed commentary that reflected so many thoughts that all reader’s have; finally, when she and Miles discuss the books, I am right there with them. What a wonderfully intimate design for a book about books. This was a great idea and the writing of each book within Bittersweet Breadcrumbs has its own voice. What a novel and refreshingly creative idea!
If you are looking for a book that is romantic, cute, and funny mixed in with a healthy dose of fantasy, then you can’t find a better book than this one. My only complaint is that I didn’t want it to end. The writing is riveting because Rye does such a great job of keeping it just on the line of not overwriting or overexplaining a scene but still giving me just enough that I have a clear picture of what is happening without underwriting and leaving me wanting. The dialogue is real and complex with hints and teases that drew me in and kept me fully enthralled. The romance has just enough steam to make me interested and the perfect amount of sweet to leave me sighing. If you love books about books and romance that just hits ever beat, then I cannot suggest a better book for a wonderful weekend read.
October 14, 2023
Genre: Low Fantasy/Romantasy
POV: single, third person
Spice: 3/5
KU: Yes!
My Rating: 3.75/5
I have mixed feelings here.
I have to admit that I almost DNF'd this one in the beginning. For me, it's incredibly important to connect to the fmc, or at the very least not hate her. But oh my word, I couldn't stand her. She's not just prickly, she's a straight up jerk. It's a good thing the mmc is a patient guy with lots of time on his hands, cause I would not have put up with her and would have thrown her back out in the rain.
Thankfully, I really enjoyed the short stories featured within this story. They really saved this read for me. Romantasy is my drug and those were my fix. I will say, I was glad to see that towards the end, the fmc admits to actually liking the stories and warms up significantly to the mmc. It just takes a while, and she has to drag down a whole genre of books and their readers first, but I did start rooting for her towards the end. I hope she's learned her lesson!
Really this book serves as an introduction. I wasn't expecting this to be the start of a series and end on a lil cliffhanger. It seemed to stop just as it was really kicking into gear. I'll definitely be picking up book two to see what happens!
📚 old bookstores
📚 prickly fmc
📚 quick read
📚 short stories
📚 book club members (w benefits)
Thank you to the author for gifting me an ARC!
POV: single, third person
Spice: 3/5
KU: Yes!
My Rating: 3.75/5
I have mixed feelings here.
I have to admit that I almost DNF'd this one in the beginning. For me, it's incredibly important to connect to the fmc, or at the very least not hate her. But oh my word, I couldn't stand her. She's not just prickly, she's a straight up jerk. It's a good thing the mmc is a patient guy with lots of time on his hands, cause I would not have put up with her and would have thrown her back out in the rain.
Thankfully, I really enjoyed the short stories featured within this story. They really saved this read for me. Romantasy is my drug and those were my fix. I will say, I was glad to see that towards the end, the fmc admits to actually liking the stories and warms up significantly to the mmc. It just takes a while, and she has to drag down a whole genre of books and their readers first, but I did start rooting for her towards the end. I hope she's learned her lesson!
Really this book serves as an introduction. I wasn't expecting this to be the start of a series and end on a lil cliffhanger. It seemed to stop just as it was really kicking into gear. I'll definitely be picking up book two to see what happens!
📚 old bookstores
📚 prickly fmc
📚 quick read
📚 short stories
📚 book club members (w benefits)
Thank you to the author for gifting me an ARC!
August 31, 2023
This book was the perfect blend of sweet and steamy! It actually felt like several books within one. You get to read along romantic and spicy stories that the MMC, Miles, shares with the FMC, Doria.
Miles is such an appealing guy and I totally get why Doria was so intrigued and interested (*wink, wink).
The banter they shared over the stories Miles picked out for Doria to read was adorable and really moved their relationship along. Doria was such a skeptic about romance at times, and I loved that we see him pursue her and try to break through her walls.
At one point Doria says "No real man could ever compare to the ones we find in books."
And isn't that why many of us read romance?
Doria says "It's better not to get your hopes up."
I was rooting for the HEA and Miles proving her wrong! Would highly recommend to all romance genre lovers, especially of light fantasy and rom com. Thanks to the author for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Miles is such an appealing guy and I totally get why Doria was so intrigued and interested (*wink, wink).
The banter they shared over the stories Miles picked out for Doria to read was adorable and really moved their relationship along. Doria was such a skeptic about romance at times, and I loved that we see him pursue her and try to break through her walls.
At one point Doria says "No real man could ever compare to the ones we find in books."
And isn't that why many of us read romance?
Doria says "It's better not to get your hopes up."
I was rooting for the HEA and Miles proving her wrong! Would highly recommend to all romance genre lovers, especially of light fantasy and rom com. Thanks to the author for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
September 30, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I really liked Doria's character. She's a bit pessimistic about life after quitting school to move to a small town with her boyfriend, who subsequently dumps her two months later. On a tough day, she stumbles into a bookshop run by Miles. He convinces her to read a book of short stories that's outside of her comfort zone and to come back to discuss it with him. We get to read along the stories through Doria's perspective. I really enjoyed that premise. As Miles shares more recommendations for Doria, she starts to realize that maybe they're not so bad after all. Miles also helps change her mind about men as well. Super cute, cozy book to get lost in. I don't want to spoil anything, but I think you get the gist. It really hooked me from the beginning, and I was very interested in seeing where the story was going. I think it's worth a go if you enjoy cute, spicy romances with a twist.
October 3, 2023
Received an ARC for an honest review-
The idea behind this book was absolutely amazing. Unfortunately for me this one didn’t work for me. I can see how others loved it however.
I couldn’t connect with the FMC and found her pov hard to get through.
I did not like how she bashed the two genres I love. I feel like her dislike could have been displayed better than solid hatred for the romance and fantasy romance genre. Now if you weren’t a romance or fantasy reader her comment’s probably wouldn’t be a big deal but for those of us who do get judged by these same misconceptions constantly and always have to defend the love for the genres it was pretty disheartening and made it hard to like her.
The story inside the story she was reading was interesting to read through and I really enjoyed that we actually got to read the story the main character was reading. It was a unique twist that isn’t often included. Her reaction however after reading it was worse than expected.
Overall the idea sounded so amazing and I wanted to love this one but I couldn’t find her like able enough to finish reading.
The idea behind this book was absolutely amazing. Unfortunately for me this one didn’t work for me. I can see how others loved it however.
I couldn’t connect with the FMC and found her pov hard to get through.
I did not like how she bashed the two genres I love. I feel like her dislike could have been displayed better than solid hatred for the romance and fantasy romance genre. Now if you weren’t a romance or fantasy reader her comment’s probably wouldn’t be a big deal but for those of us who do get judged by these same misconceptions constantly and always have to defend the love for the genres it was pretty disheartening and made it hard to like her.
The story inside the story she was reading was interesting to read through and I really enjoyed that we actually got to read the story the main character was reading. It was a unique twist that isn’t often included. Her reaction however after reading it was worse than expected.
Overall the idea sounded so amazing and I wanted to love this one but I couldn’t find her like able enough to finish reading.
September 16, 2023
This book was super cute and entertaining with a little bit of spice, love story, full of magic, secrets ect….a lot of readers could relate to Doria she loves to read one specific Genre “horror” and sticks to it she hates loves stories until she meets this sexy bookshop owner and her gets her to read love fantasy stories and makes her come back to tell him how she liked it….a great way to get her to come back and see her again.
This book has a few of the stories that Doria was reading so you get the experience of reading it with her and I definitely loved that, I loved the secrets of the bookstore as well as the spicy scene with Doria and Miles and I definitely can’t wait to see how the rest of the story continues.
This book leaves you on a nice cliffhanger but the author is working super hard on releasing book 2.
So Be in the lookout Book 1 comes out October 3rd 2023
This book has a few of the stories that Doria was reading so you get the experience of reading it with her and I definitely loved that, I loved the secrets of the bookstore as well as the spicy scene with Doria and Miles and I definitely can’t wait to see how the rest of the story continues.
This book leaves you on a nice cliffhanger but the author is working super hard on releasing book 2.
So Be in the lookout Book 1 comes out October 3rd 2023
September 19, 2023
“The words of the past can teach us valuable lessons for the present”
Are you looking for a book that’s unlike anything you’ve ever read? What about one that has magic, suspense, and book lovers? Bittersweet Breadcrumbs by Aster Rye is a fast-paced bingeable read that will have readers hooked from the beginning!
Instead of focusing solely on one relationship, between Doria and Miles, Bittersweet Breadcrumbs includes three incredible fairytale retellings. Readers will feel connected to the story because as Doria reads the books Miles recommends, we also get a chance to read them as well.
Bittersweet Breadcrumbs has amazing revelations, suspenseful plot twists, and just the perfect amount of romance. Readers will definitely be in awe of the last few chapters. The cliffhanger was the perfect way to end this book and get readers excited for the continuation of Doria and Miles’ story.
Are you looking for a book that’s unlike anything you’ve ever read? What about one that has magic, suspense, and book lovers? Bittersweet Breadcrumbs by Aster Rye is a fast-paced bingeable read that will have readers hooked from the beginning!
Instead of focusing solely on one relationship, between Doria and Miles, Bittersweet Breadcrumbs includes three incredible fairytale retellings. Readers will feel connected to the story because as Doria reads the books Miles recommends, we also get a chance to read them as well.
Bittersweet Breadcrumbs has amazing revelations, suspenseful plot twists, and just the perfect amount of romance. Readers will definitely be in awe of the last few chapters. The cliffhanger was the perfect way to end this book and get readers excited for the continuation of Doria and Miles’ story.
August 31, 2023
Wow i totally fell in love with this book!
The book is about Doria. After a hard day at work, its raining on her way home. She decides to stop at a bookstore she never seen before. There she meets Miles the mysterious shop owner. After an "incident " they make a deal forcing Doria to read a different genre than her usual, and making her come back to the store to discuss the book with Miles.
Wow this book! It drew me in from the first page. So well written and i enjoyed every moment of it! This is totally a 5⭐️ read for me. And i would recommend checking it out!
The book is about Doria. After a hard day at work, its raining on her way home. She decides to stop at a bookstore she never seen before. There she meets Miles the mysterious shop owner. After an "incident " they make a deal forcing Doria to read a different genre than her usual, and making her come back to the store to discuss the book with Miles.
Wow this book! It drew me in from the first page. So well written and i enjoyed every moment of it! This is totally a 5⭐️ read for me. And i would recommend checking it out!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 4, 2023
Aster Rye hit this one out of the ballpark for me. I’d give Bittersweet Breadcrumbs the max amount of stars. I can not wait for her next book.
The only reason it took so long to read this book is that I had a stroke . I couldn’t put this book down.
Doria James walks into Vespertine Books just to kill time and look at some books until she meets the owner Miles Oak. Miles puts Doria on a journey of discovery that is only found in fairytales and fables. Does Doria figure out the unique nature of the bookstore and the stories within?
Come and sit for a bit with Bittersweet Breadcrumbs and you’ll take an adventure. I love, love, love this book.
The only reason it took so long to read this book is that I had a stroke . I couldn’t put this book down.
Doria James walks into Vespertine Books just to kill time and look at some books until she meets the owner Miles Oak. Miles puts Doria on a journey of discovery that is only found in fairytales and fables. Does Doria figure out the unique nature of the bookstore and the stories within?
Come and sit for a bit with Bittersweet Breadcrumbs and you’ll take an adventure. I love, love, love this book.
November 1, 2023
I received an early reviewer copy of this book through Librarything. At the author's request, I am posting my review on Goodreads as well.
This is the first book I've ever read that contained stories you read that are within the story itself. This unusual plot worked well for me and I'm looking forward to reading the second book of the duology. I liked the characters and their personalities. The only negative aspect was the very common cliffhanger ending, which was a letdown after the inventiveness of the storyline.
This is the first book I've ever read that contained stories you read that are within the story itself. This unusual plot worked well for me and I'm looking forward to reading the second book of the duology. I liked the characters and their personalities. The only negative aspect was the very common cliffhanger ending, which was a letdown after the inventiveness of the storyline.
September 6, 2023
Why did this book have to end?!? The build up of the story to end on that cliff hanger is going to have me haunted for days.
I loved that the FMC, Doria, is a lover of books that doesn’t conform to the norm of romantic love story’s. The line that resonates is “the men in real life will never live up to the expectations we have from books”.
The mini stories in the book that her and Miles share, I wouldn’t mind reading!
I’m looking forward to the next book!
I loved that the FMC, Doria, is a lover of books that doesn’t conform to the norm of romantic love story’s. The line that resonates is “the men in real life will never live up to the expectations we have from books”.
The mini stories in the book that her and Miles share, I wouldn’t mind reading!
I’m looking forward to the next book!
August 31, 2023
This was such a cute romantic read. I loved that we got to read what Miles shared with Doria. Like he was wooing her through the books he shared. I wish more men were interested in romantic stories and more open in discussing them! Nice touch with the fantasy elements too, but nothing too deep. It was perfect. Very tasteful romance with a light, rom com feel.
September 5, 2023
I read this book in one sitting. The chemistry between Miles and Doria was so well written, it was hard to put the book down. The FMC’s perspectives on the fairytale retellings sprinkled throughout the book were so original and unique, they made the story flow effortlessly. I am new to this author and the cliffhanger at the end of the book has me anxiously awaiting Vespertine Dreams in December!
May 1, 2024
I got this book for free, I love filling gaps in with short stories. I couldn’t put this down once I started it. I am pleasantly surprised at how much I loved this little story and I am so excited to move on to the next. Mystery, magic, and interesting short stories all shoved into an already short story and I loved it.
May 13, 2024
Let me set the scene…
Stuff your kindle day 2024
Read the premise of this book and sounded cool
Downloaded book
Didn’t have any books on my TBR available at the library
Looks amongst my Stuff Your Kindle stash
Stumbled upon this gem
Decided I’d give it a whirl
Hooked me right off the rip
Read it in one day
Ends on a cliffhanger
Takes out credit card
Buys book 2
Starts book 2
That is all
Ok…one more thing…it was the exact kind of book I needed and was looking for at this moment in time…loved it
Ok now that’s all…
Stuff your kindle day 2024
Read the premise of this book and sounded cool
Downloaded book
Didn’t have any books on my TBR available at the library
Looks amongst my Stuff Your Kindle stash
Stumbled upon this gem
Decided I’d give it a whirl
Hooked me right off the rip
Read it in one day
Ends on a cliffhanger
Takes out credit card
Buys book 2
Starts book 2
That is all
Ok…one more thing…it was the exact kind of book I needed and was looking for at this moment in time…loved it
Ok now that’s all…
September 24, 2023
Oh my god! I did not expect to live this book as much as I did! And that cliffhanger ending!!! I need the next book like now 😂😂
I absolutely adore Miles. And I really enjoyed watching Doria learn to appreciate books that she originally absolutely hated as well as seeing their relationship grow!
I absolutely adore Miles. And I really enjoyed watching Doria learn to appreciate books that she originally absolutely hated as well as seeing their relationship grow!
November 26, 2023
I loved this! Isn’t it every girls dream to meet a Miles while shopping for books? There were funny elements mixed in with the romance which I enjoyed. This is a cute little book that’s perfect for a relaxing read!
October 3, 2023
Cozy. All wrapped up this book was cozy. It felt like sitting in an old leather chair on a rainy day. I honestly did not know what it was going to be like, but I was pleasantly surprised.
You follow the main character, Doria, as she rediscovers herself through stories chosen by a mysterious and handsome bookstore owner, Miles. Slowly her icy heart and bitter outlook shift as she reads romantasy stories of lust and love.
But as she draws closer to this mysterious man she begins to realize that things are not as they seem. They have secrets between them, but are undoubtedly tethered by fate.
Interwoven into Doria and Miles’ dialogue are romantasy short stories, excerpts from the books Miles recommends. This gave the book a whimsical feel, although I did find myself itching to be back in the main story at times.
It’s a quick read, only ~150 pages and is perfect for those who enjoy romantasy, opposites attract, fairytale retellings, secret identity, and mild spice!
Thank you so much to Aster Rye and team for gifting me with an ARC of this fun read! My words are my own and my my review is my honest opinion.
You follow the main character, Doria, as she rediscovers herself through stories chosen by a mysterious and handsome bookstore owner, Miles. Slowly her icy heart and bitter outlook shift as she reads romantasy stories of lust and love.
But as she draws closer to this mysterious man she begins to realize that things are not as they seem. They have secrets between them, but are undoubtedly tethered by fate.
Interwoven into Doria and Miles’ dialogue are romantasy short stories, excerpts from the books Miles recommends. This gave the book a whimsical feel, although I did find myself itching to be back in the main story at times.
It’s a quick read, only ~150 pages and is perfect for those who enjoy romantasy, opposites attract, fairytale retellings, secret identity, and mild spice!
Thank you so much to Aster Rye and team for gifting me with an ARC of this fun read! My words are my own and my my review is my honest opinion.
August 21, 2024
This is my best read of 2024 so far. So so so sweet, a great romance pallet cleanser
September 25, 2023
I’ll preface this with saying that I very much identify with Doria in that I am not one to like romance or spice-heavy books. And that is not to say that those books aren’t good, just that it’s not usually my cup of tea. Maybe this book did to me what Miles did to Doria and led me to finding something to really love in this story.
What drew me to request the ARC was the mystery behind the fantastical bookshop and that was certainly tantalizing and well-crafted. I enjoy that intrigue surrounding Miles’s situation and cannot wait to find out more about him in the second book. The author also crafted several incredible romantasy short stories based on fairytales that Doria is reading. These transport you to worlds within worlds and build up the romance and tension between Doria and Miles.
There’s just a tiny bit of spice and a lot of sexual tension, but even more interesting story on the shop, Miles, and some interesting side characters.
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy to read in exchange for an honest review!
What drew me to request the ARC was the mystery behind the fantastical bookshop and that was certainly tantalizing and well-crafted. I enjoy that intrigue surrounding Miles’s situation and cannot wait to find out more about him in the second book. The author also crafted several incredible romantasy short stories based on fairytales that Doria is reading. These transport you to worlds within worlds and build up the romance and tension between Doria and Miles.
There’s just a tiny bit of spice and a lot of sexual tension, but even more interesting story on the shop, Miles, and some interesting side characters.
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy to read in exchange for an honest review!
October 14, 2023
3.8/5🌟
🌶️
Thank you to Book Funnel and @lilyfernbooks for sending me an ARC!
I had no idea what to expect when I started this book but it is honestly a perfect fall cozy read.
After a horrendous day at work, Doria stumbles across a mysterious bookshop. The enigmatic owner, Miles, recommends a book to her that's way out of her comfort zone. Soon, she returns for more than just books, but to unravel the mystery of the shop and its owner.
➕
- Short, easy and sweet read. It's whimsical and cozy with a touch of magic.
- I love the premise of the book. It is so adorably bookish. Miles slowly converting Doria into a romantasy reader made me smirk!
- I enjoyed reading the stories within the story, especially with Doria's commentary. It felt like I was buddy reading with her.
➖
- Cliffhanger alert!! Thankfully, the sequel comes out later this year.
- I wanted more of Doria and Miles. I love then together but their relationship needed more substance.
🌶️
Thank you to Book Funnel and @lilyfernbooks for sending me an ARC!
I had no idea what to expect when I started this book but it is honestly a perfect fall cozy read.
After a horrendous day at work, Doria stumbles across a mysterious bookshop. The enigmatic owner, Miles, recommends a book to her that's way out of her comfort zone. Soon, she returns for more than just books, but to unravel the mystery of the shop and its owner.
➕
- Short, easy and sweet read. It's whimsical and cozy with a touch of magic.
- I love the premise of the book. It is so adorably bookish. Miles slowly converting Doria into a romantasy reader made me smirk!
- I enjoyed reading the stories within the story, especially with Doria's commentary. It felt like I was buddy reading with her.
➖
- Cliffhanger alert!! Thankfully, the sequel comes out later this year.
- I wanted more of Doria and Miles. I love then together but their relationship needed more substance.
September 27, 2023
In the interest of full transparency, I still don’t know how I feel about this book. I didn’t hate it, but it wasn’t my favorite either. I feel like it has a lot of potential, but it cuts off right when things really get good.
Doria James has been stuck in dead end town for years following a bad breakup. On a rainy day, she stumbles into Vespertine Books seeking shelter. Except, she’s pretty sure she’s never seen this store before. And that’s just the start of the weirdness.
Let’s start with the plot. Mysterious cursed bookshop, mysterious hot owner of said bookshop, and flirting by exchanging books. It’s a great setup, it just didn’t really seem to hit its stride until the last third of the book. A large portion of the story is actually the stories that the MMC recommends to our FMC. Our FMC, usually a horror/thriller junky, is lured into reading our MMC’s preferred romantasies. These sub-stories were interesting, and the FMC’s commentary was a good way to bring the reader back to the main storyline, but a majority of the overall story ended up just being other stories. The main plot really didn’t develop until the end, and the book ends on a huge cliffhanger. Book 2 releases December 2023, but I wasn’t prepared for such an abrupt ending just as I was getting into things, and I didn’t care for it.
The writing style itself was fairly basic, but fine. It definitely smoothed out and improved as the story went on; it kind of gave me the feeling like this was all written in one go without any reworking later.
We really only get to see one character— our FMC— in any depth, and truth be told she’s kind of irritating at first. Maybe it’s just because I’m a hardcore romantasy lover, but her constant cynicism regarding all romantic fantasies as containing the traditional ‘helpless heroine who only wants spicy times’ was grating. We’re also told that the only reason our FMC is in this town to start with is that she dropped out of college and gave up on her dreams to follow a boyfriend all the way there. A good reason to be cynical, but geez. It’s fiction; it’s not supposed to look real. (This would be a good time to reiterate that I am a highly biased individual in this field and the defensiveness should be taken with a grain of salt…or three) Unfortunately, since most of this book was spent relaying other stories, we don’t get to see a whole lot of character development from our FMC. Maybe it’s coming in book 2, but there’s really no telling.
Overall, I have a lot of mixed feelings about this book. I really want to read book 2 to see what happens with the MMC and his story, but if things are just going to cut off again with very little character or plot development I may have to pass. It feels like the author had a lot of stories they wanted to tell, but didn’t have enough for each to be their own thing, so they all got shoved into this one. Lots of potential, just a little lacking in the execution for my personal tastes.
Doria James has been stuck in dead end town for years following a bad breakup. On a rainy day, she stumbles into Vespertine Books seeking shelter. Except, she’s pretty sure she’s never seen this store before. And that’s just the start of the weirdness.
Let’s start with the plot. Mysterious cursed bookshop, mysterious hot owner of said bookshop, and flirting by exchanging books. It’s a great setup, it just didn’t really seem to hit its stride until the last third of the book. A large portion of the story is actually the stories that the MMC recommends to our FMC. Our FMC, usually a horror/thriller junky, is lured into reading our MMC’s preferred romantasies. These sub-stories were interesting, and the FMC’s commentary was a good way to bring the reader back to the main storyline, but a majority of the overall story ended up just being other stories. The main plot really didn’t develop until the end, and the book ends on a huge cliffhanger. Book 2 releases December 2023, but I wasn’t prepared for such an abrupt ending just as I was getting into things, and I didn’t care for it.
The writing style itself was fairly basic, but fine. It definitely smoothed out and improved as the story went on; it kind of gave me the feeling like this was all written in one go without any reworking later.
We really only get to see one character— our FMC— in any depth, and truth be told she’s kind of irritating at first. Maybe it’s just because I’m a hardcore romantasy lover, but her constant cynicism regarding all romantic fantasies as containing the traditional ‘helpless heroine who only wants spicy times’ was grating. We’re also told that the only reason our FMC is in this town to start with is that she dropped out of college and gave up on her dreams to follow a boyfriend all the way there. A good reason to be cynical, but geez. It’s fiction; it’s not supposed to look real. (This would be a good time to reiterate that I am a highly biased individual in this field and the defensiveness should be taken with a grain of salt…or three) Unfortunately, since most of this book was spent relaying other stories, we don’t get to see a whole lot of character development from our FMC. Maybe it’s coming in book 2, but there’s really no telling.
Overall, I have a lot of mixed feelings about this book. I really want to read book 2 to see what happens with the MMC and his story, but if things are just going to cut off again with very little character or plot development I may have to pass. It feels like the author had a lot of stories they wanted to tell, but didn’t have enough for each to be their own thing, so they all got shoved into this one. Lots of potential, just a little lacking in the execution for my personal tastes.
October 4, 2023
I loved this book! I do wish it was longer for selfish reasons, but it honestly was perfect for the story being told.
I went into this book completely blind, and it did not disappoint! I loved the idea of putting stories within the story. I loved the short stories that were being told and that we got to read what the FMC Doria was reading.
Doria was definitely a riot. I found her to be relatable in a lot of ways. Someone who is pessimistic and cynical as life gets her down and finding a home between the pages of a good book. Her book snobish attitude towards books that are more airy, sugary as she would say, and less action and gore left little to be desired (but also relatable because that used to be me unfortunately), but she was a good character. I found myself on the same side as Miles wanting her to find that book that would change or lessen her stance on books that aren't as dark. Miles on the other hand, he has this air about him that made me want to get to know everything about him, to sit and talk literature with him for hours, but also want to know, as Felicity would say, know what's underneath it all. Doria was right he's a hunky nerd for sure. As for the lovely minor characters Cassie, Eleanor, and Felicity they were lovely and amazing definitely hope there's more interaction with them and Doria in the next book! Peter on the other hand can go kick rocks with his creepy self.
Overall, I think it was a lovely book and I can't wait to see where this story takes Miles and Doria!
I went into this book completely blind, and it did not disappoint! I loved the idea of putting stories within the story. I loved the short stories that were being told and that we got to read what the FMC Doria was reading.
Doria was definitely a riot. I found her to be relatable in a lot of ways. Someone who is pessimistic and cynical as life gets her down and finding a home between the pages of a good book. Her book snobish attitude towards books that are more airy, sugary as she would say, and less action and gore left little to be desired (but also relatable because that used to be me unfortunately), but she was a good character. I found myself on the same side as Miles wanting her to find that book that would change or lessen her stance on books that aren't as dark. Miles on the other hand, he has this air about him that made me want to get to know everything about him, to sit and talk literature with him for hours, but also want to know, as Felicity would say, know what's underneath it all. Doria was right he's a hunky nerd for sure. As for the lovely minor characters Cassie, Eleanor, and Felicity they were lovely and amazing definitely hope there's more interaction with them and Doria in the next book! Peter on the other hand can go kick rocks with his creepy self.
Overall, I think it was a lovely book and I can't wait to see where this story takes Miles and Doria!
October 1, 2023
Plot: 4.5
Engagement: 4.25
Characters: 4.25
Style: 4.75
Overall Rating: 4.44/5
Review: This book had a little fantasy and magic, a little romance, a little mystery and it was a fun easy read!
I have read A Simple Tale of Water and Weeping (a novel by Kami King Larsen-Aster Rye is a pen name) and I absolutely loved that book. I love this author's writing style!
The main story with Doria and Miles and the mysterious bookstore kept me guessing as to what was going on. I really like a mystery I can't solve immediately. I thought this one was well done. I also really liked the multiple books that were included as part of what Doria was reading over the course of the book. Stories within a story! As a fun addition, Doria reads one short story that references another of this author's works that I'd previously read.
This is relatively tame on the spice scale for most of the book, but does have a sexy scene near the end. This will be continued in a second book, so don't expect a full resolution.
Read if you like romance, with some magic/fantasy, a mysterious MMC, and cynical FMC.
Engagement: 4.25
Characters: 4.25
Style: 4.75
Overall Rating: 4.44/5
Review: This book had a little fantasy and magic, a little romance, a little mystery and it was a fun easy read!
I have read A Simple Tale of Water and Weeping (a novel by Kami King Larsen-Aster Rye is a pen name) and I absolutely loved that book. I love this author's writing style!
The main story with Doria and Miles and the mysterious bookstore kept me guessing as to what was going on. I really like a mystery I can't solve immediately. I thought this one was well done. I also really liked the multiple books that were included as part of what Doria was reading over the course of the book. Stories within a story! As a fun addition, Doria reads one short story that references another of this author's works that I'd previously read.
This is relatively tame on the spice scale for most of the book, but does have a sexy scene near the end. This will be continued in a second book, so don't expect a full resolution.
Read if you like romance, with some magic/fantasy, a mysterious MMC, and cynical FMC.
October 11, 2023
“Books have the power to change us, heal us, show us worlds, and people, and attitudes we never knew existed. And sometimes, when we least expect it, they can bring people together as well.”
"But magic is a complex thing. Sometimes it’s woven into the very fabric of our lives, guiding us toward moments of discovery and transformation. What some would say is an enchantment, others would call a curse.”
"The deep love they both held for books and stories served as a common thread that connected them, but somehow, over the past few days, the connection had grown so much stronger than a love of good fiction."
I just can't wait to talk to you about this one! First off I read it almost a week ago and I still keep thinking about it. Such a fun concept of a book! Reading stories with the characters of the book? Hearing their opinions of said stories out loud? It was super fun and cracked me up at times! Another thing that just made me smile is I actually got to meet this author for breakfast and I remember she told me she couldn't imagine writing spicy scenes, she said she just couldn't do it... but HERE SHE IS, DOING IT! And it wasn't cringey and it didn't sidetrack from the story which I love! Way to go Kami! I just love reading your works and seeing your writing style evolve right in front of my eyes! Can't wait to read more of this adventure! I'm hooked!
CHECK THIS ONE OUT! It's on Kindle unlimited!
I give Bittersweet Breadcrumbs by Aster Rye (Pen Name for Kami King Larsen) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.⭐️
"But magic is a complex thing. Sometimes it’s woven into the very fabric of our lives, guiding us toward moments of discovery and transformation. What some would say is an enchantment, others would call a curse.”
"The deep love they both held for books and stories served as a common thread that connected them, but somehow, over the past few days, the connection had grown so much stronger than a love of good fiction."
I just can't wait to talk to you about this one! First off I read it almost a week ago and I still keep thinking about it. Such a fun concept of a book! Reading stories with the characters of the book? Hearing their opinions of said stories out loud? It was super fun and cracked me up at times! Another thing that just made me smile is I actually got to meet this author for breakfast and I remember she told me she couldn't imagine writing spicy scenes, she said she just couldn't do it... but HERE SHE IS, DOING IT! And it wasn't cringey and it didn't sidetrack from the story which I love! Way to go Kami! I just love reading your works and seeing your writing style evolve right in front of my eyes! Can't wait to read more of this adventure! I'm hooked!
CHECK THIS ONE OUT! It's on Kindle unlimited!
I give Bittersweet Breadcrumbs by Aster Rye (Pen Name for Kami King Larsen) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.⭐️
October 6, 2023
Bittersweet Breadcrumbs is about Doria James. She accidentally finds a " new" bookstore. The owner is the handsome Miles Oak. Miles convinced her to read a book outside het comfortzone. After she read it she comes back to talk about it with Miles. Miles makes more recommendations and Doria realised that she is becoming to like the stories. In the meanwhile there is something strange happening. The store and Miles have a little secret.
I really love the little stories in this novel. They are spicy retellings with a dark side. It made me want to read more. Curious about the next story.
The energy between Doria and Miles is fantastic. The further I was in the book how more magic was between them. When I thought they are finally getting together an mystery is happening and the novel is ending with a huge cliffhanger .
I read these story in an couple.of days. The mix between spicy, mystery, romance and a little bit horror is fantastic. It is easily read, realistic with enough fantasy. I can wait to read part two.
I really love the little stories in this novel. They are spicy retellings with a dark side. It made me want to read more. Curious about the next story.
The energy between Doria and Miles is fantastic. The further I was in the book how more magic was between them. When I thought they are finally getting together an mystery is happening and the novel is ending with a huge cliffhanger .
I read these story in an couple.of days. The mix between spicy, mystery, romance and a little bit horror is fantastic. It is easily read, realistic with enough fantasy. I can wait to read part two.
September 22, 2023
I really didn’t know what to expect when I dove into this one and I was delighted in all the short stories sprinkled throughout. The only thing I will criticize is that I wanted a bit more of Miles and Doria. And also that last short story…I need more of that please!! What I like is that the story kept me guessing. Though the short stories were predictable, the main plot itself was a bit of mystery. Who the hell is this Miles guy? Why does the book store disappear? Does it disappear?
There were so many questions about what was going on but they were all answered at the end and of course there’s another book because this is a series ahhhhh! Now I have to wait for more. I really can’t wait to see more of Miles. His story is incredibly intriguing. And though I couldn’t relate to Doria’s anger toward romance books, I love her stubborn, give-no-shits, attitude.
A quirky, enjoyable read with a variety of romance and a taste of magic.
There were so many questions about what was going on but they were all answered at the end and of course there’s another book because this is a series ahhhhh! Now I have to wait for more. I really can’t wait to see more of Miles. His story is incredibly intriguing. And though I couldn’t relate to Doria’s anger toward romance books, I love her stubborn, give-no-shits, attitude.
A quirky, enjoyable read with a variety of romance and a taste of magic.
March 3, 2025
The start did not get me going, and that’s a lot of the reason why it went down to three stars. Another reason, more an ick than anything else, is that the mmc in the first story was called both Bastion and Bastian every other sentence, and that frustrated me.
After the second story, things started to pick up and I got more into it. Doria and Miles were cute together, and I liked the side characters very much. And then when it got kinda good it ended - which was annoying 🥴😂 But it made me curious to see if they could come up with solutions to the issue at hand, so I guess the author did well in that regard.
After the second story, things started to pick up and I got more into it. Doria and Miles were cute together, and I liked the side characters very much. And then when it got kinda good it ended - which was annoying 🥴😂 But it made me curious to see if they could come up with solutions to the issue at hand, so I guess the author did well in that regard.
October 23, 2023
Bittersweet Breadcrumbs: after a tough day at work, Doria ducks into Vespertine Books to escape a downpour. She’s never noticed the shop before, but immediately feels drawn to it. Miles, the good looking owner doesn’t hurt, even if Doria doesn’t like his taste in literature. Miles loans Doria books in an effort to show her romance isn’t all bad, and of course, to see more of her. But Doria notices the shop isn’t always where she expects, and suspects Miles might have some secrets. But his secret isn’t anything she could have expected.
Ok, this book was so cool. A magical, mystery romance! Miles lends Doria books of fairy tale retellings, and the stories are fully included in the text of BB, so you get to read along with Doria. Books within a book! I’ve read books with a framing device like this before, but the frame was just there to house the shorter stories. Not here, where the stories are more like fun little excursions inside the novel, which has its own thing going on. I just love it! I also love that Doria is so mad about romances when she first meets Miles! She doesn’t know she is IN a romance and that greatly pleases me. I think the only thing I don’t like is that I have to wait to read the next book and see how the mystery resolves!
Thank you Aster Rye and Library Thing for the ARC!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Ok, this book was so cool. A magical, mystery romance! Miles lends Doria books of fairy tale retellings, and the stories are fully included in the text of BB, so you get to read along with Doria. Books within a book! I’ve read books with a framing device like this before, but the frame was just there to house the shorter stories. Not here, where the stories are more like fun little excursions inside the novel, which has its own thing going on. I just love it! I also love that Doria is so mad about romances when she first meets Miles! She doesn’t know she is IN a romance and that greatly pleases me. I think the only thing I don’t like is that I have to wait to read the next book and see how the mystery resolves!
Thank you Aster Rye and Library Thing for the ARC!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
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