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Always Carry a Silver Cross
From New York Times bestselling author Andrea Robertson comes a paranormal rom-com full of spirited seduction, sinister secrets, and the sublimely supernatural.
Who knew life could get so…weird? Selene’s best friend is dead, and now she finds herself raising a precocious teen, Allie—though she never even wanted to be a mom. To top it off, they’re living in her deceased friend’s house in a small town that’s one enchanted forest away from belonging in a fairy tale.
Then Allie spills a shocking secret that leaves Selene questioning reality. And maybe her sanity. Suddenly she’s plunged into a bizarre world of moonlit revelries, mystical neighbors, and alluring dangers. But untangling the truth of her new home only brings more peril. Caught up with a mysteriously seductive man who makes her heart palpitate (and spine tingle), she encounters strangers with blood-soaked pasts and bona fide skeletons in their closets.
The deeper Selene spirals into this twisted realm, the more she realizes all is not as it seems. And with temptations too sweet to resist, one wrong move could be her last.
Who knew life could get so…weird? Selene’s best friend is dead, and now she finds herself raising a precocious teen, Allie—though she never even wanted to be a mom. To top it off, they’re living in her deceased friend’s house in a small town that’s one enchanted forest away from belonging in a fairy tale.
Then Allie spills a shocking secret that leaves Selene questioning reality. And maybe her sanity. Suddenly she’s plunged into a bizarre world of moonlit revelries, mystical neighbors, and alluring dangers. But untangling the truth of her new home only brings more peril. Caught up with a mysteriously seductive man who makes her heart palpitate (and spine tingle), she encounters strangers with blood-soaked pasts and bona fide skeletons in their closets.
The deeper Selene spirals into this twisted realm, the more she realizes all is not as it seems. And with temptations too sweet to resist, one wrong move could be her last.
367 pages, Paperback
Published October 21, 2025
129 people are currently reading
5322 people want to read
About the author
Andrea Robertson
4 books195 followersAndrea Roberston (formerly Andrea Cremer) is the internationally bestselling author of the Nightshade series and of Invisibility, which she co-wrote with David Levithan. She is also the author of the Inventor's Secret trilogy. Originally from Minnesota, she now lives in California.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
July 13, 2025
⭐️⭐️½ (2.5)
The book Always Carry a Silver Cross had an interesting concept but failed to deliver the promised weirdness. Selene's transition from Los Angeles to guardianship happens without much emotional impact because it feels like moving furniture instead of a life-changing decision and Allie's energetic personality shifts from appealing to annoying.
The ritual scenes create expectations of intense magical moments but fail to deliver anything beyond dim lighting effects. The "mysteriously magnetic" stranger fails to make an impact because his seduction attempts feel more dull than exciting. Every ceremony functions as a blueprint for "paranormal world" yet the actual worldbuilding remains extremely thin.
The found-family moments appear too short in the story. The plot requires a pulse so the neighbors and spirits disappear like paper cutouts without delivering any emotional weight. The romantic plotline pushes out any genuine supernatural tension so that magic fans will experience disappointment when they finish the story.
This is a 2.5-star read. The story provides a suitable guardian-child narrative with gentle romantic elements for readers who want this type of content. The story lacks genuine paranormal elements and meaningful scares so readers should bring their own silver cross and stronger magical abilities.
The book Always Carry a Silver Cross had an interesting concept but failed to deliver the promised weirdness. Selene's transition from Los Angeles to guardianship happens without much emotional impact because it feels like moving furniture instead of a life-changing decision and Allie's energetic personality shifts from appealing to annoying.
The ritual scenes create expectations of intense magical moments but fail to deliver anything beyond dim lighting effects. The "mysteriously magnetic" stranger fails to make an impact because his seduction attempts feel more dull than exciting. Every ceremony functions as a blueprint for "paranormal world" yet the actual worldbuilding remains extremely thin.
The found-family moments appear too short in the story. The plot requires a pulse so the neighbors and spirits disappear like paper cutouts without delivering any emotional weight. The romantic plotline pushes out any genuine supernatural tension so that magic fans will experience disappointment when they finish the story.
This is a 2.5-star read. The story provides a suitable guardian-child narrative with gentle romantic elements for readers who want this type of content. The story lacks genuine paranormal elements and meaningful scares so readers should bring their own silver cross and stronger magical abilities.
October 16, 2025
DNF at 31%
Honestly, after the first chapter I was creeped out, but I kept going to see what was going to to happen. Because why was a teenage boy licking the blood off of his hand out in the open when he knew she was human….Then, we get the very casually “Josh is a warewolf,” in chapter 2?! That was odd, and the multiple faintings within the first 7 chapters. I did not think the warewolf thing was odd…until we find out he was born in the 1930s and is almost 100 years old, dating a 16 year old. I fear that is a literal child that he wants to commit to a TEN YEAR COURTSHIP?! Overall very odd. What led me to finally decide to dnf was the dinner that happened where Fenris gets up in Selene’s business and she has to force herself out of his grip, in front of her adopted niece. There were so many things happening in such a short time and none of the characters really stood out as super likable to me, they felt very dull and almost stiff. I really wanted this to be a great October read, and I am so to report that it is not.
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the digital ARC. All opinions are my own.
Honestly, after the first chapter I was creeped out, but I kept going to see what was going to to happen. Because why was a teenage boy licking the blood off of his hand out in the open when he knew she was human….Then, we get the very casually “Josh is a warewolf,” in chapter 2?! That was odd, and the multiple faintings within the first 7 chapters. I did not think the warewolf thing was odd…until we find out he was born in the 1930s and is almost 100 years old, dating a 16 year old. I fear that is a literal child that he wants to commit to a TEN YEAR COURTSHIP?! Overall very odd. What led me to finally decide to dnf was the dinner that happened where Fenris gets up in Selene’s business and she has to force herself out of his grip, in front of her adopted niece. There were so many things happening in such a short time and none of the characters really stood out as super likable to me, they felt very dull and almost stiff. I really wanted this to be a great October read, and I am so to report that it is not.
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the digital ARC. All opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 6, 2025
I had an E- Arc
So… no trigger warnings for the multiple sexual assaults that happened on page. If I could have DNF’d I would’ve but since this was an arc I felt obligated to finish. That alone was enough for me to be pissed and never recommend this book to anyone.
So… no trigger warnings for the multiple sexual assaults that happened on page. If I could have DNF’d I would’ve but since this was an arc I felt obligated to finish. That alone was enough for me to be pissed and never recommend this book to anyone.
did-not-finish
October 15, 2025I stopped reading this book at 30% because it's creeping me out.
This woman moved to a magical town after her best friend died so she could take care of the friend's 16-year old daughter. Soon after they move, the teenager introduces her werewolf boyfriend. Who happens to be 90-100 years old (at least). Yes, the heroine tries to reason with the 16-year old and say the age gap is too big. But, she finally gives in after talking to the local alpha she's got the hots for and he tells her that werewolf custom is to have a 10-year courtship. And she goes "okay, that seems fair".
Uh. This girl is 16! And the man was alive in the 1930s.
And now, she's getting all horny for the werewolf that is "crusades level of old". It's fine. Age gaps are less gross when you're older than 30.
But, add to this that the heroine is overly dumb about basic things and keeps fainting? I can't.
I received this book as an audiobook advanced reader copy and the narrator isn't great either. She speaks overly bright and upbeat for everything.
This isn't my book.
This woman moved to a magical town after her best friend died so she could take care of the friend's 16-year old daughter. Soon after they move, the teenager introduces her werewolf boyfriend. Who happens to be 90-100 years old (at least). Yes, the heroine tries to reason with the 16-year old and say the age gap is too big. But, she finally gives in after talking to the local alpha she's got the hots for and he tells her that werewolf custom is to have a 10-year courtship. And she goes "okay, that seems fair".
Uh. This girl is 16! And the man was alive in the 1930s.
And now, she's getting all horny for the werewolf that is "crusades level of old". It's fine. Age gaps are less gross when you're older than 30.
But, add to this that the heroine is overly dumb about basic things and keeps fainting? I can't.
I received this book as an audiobook advanced reader copy and the narrator isn't great either. She speaks overly bright and upbeat for everything.
This isn't my book.
May 14, 2025
This was a perfect fun, thrilling and whimsical paranormal romance. The opening premise of this book was really interesting. I was intrigued to see how Selene would settle into a new life becoming Allie’s guardian and moving into a magical small town.
I enjoyed being in Selene’s perspective as she dealt with everything she discovered. I did find some of it repetitive as what was revealed to her would be recalled to friends and family constantly.
I loved our introduction to Fen and his world. I also loved that we got POV’s from other characters, it added more intrigue to the book.
This book was just the right amount of magic and romance without it being overpowered by either. I’ve read a few werewolf romances and have found them to be focused on the spice. I enjoyed that this was a cozier book that reminded me of The Ex Hex and Well Met. BUT it wasn’t all cozy romance and magic as things get deeper and more troubling I found myself desperate to know what would happen next. I actually didn’t know this book was a series so I was surprised with how it finished but i’m so excited to continue being in this world and see what’s to come.
Overall I really enjoyed this book, thought it was really well written and executed. I’ve never read anything by Andrea Robertson before this but i’ll definitely look into more of her books in the future.
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
I enjoyed being in Selene’s perspective as she dealt with everything she discovered. I did find some of it repetitive as what was revealed to her would be recalled to friends and family constantly.
I loved our introduction to Fen and his world. I also loved that we got POV’s from other characters, it added more intrigue to the book.
This book was just the right amount of magic and romance without it being overpowered by either. I’ve read a few werewolf romances and have found them to be focused on the spice. I enjoyed that this was a cozier book that reminded me of The Ex Hex and Well Met. BUT it wasn’t all cozy romance and magic as things get deeper and more troubling I found myself desperate to know what would happen next. I actually didn’t know this book was a series so I was surprised with how it finished but i’m so excited to continue being in this world and see what’s to come.
Overall I really enjoyed this book, thought it was really well written and executed. I’ve never read anything by Andrea Robertson before this but i’ll definitely look into more of her books in the future.
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
May 26, 2025
WOW! I could not put this down! I love me a good and spicy paranormal romance with some suspense! From start to finish I was hooked and I’m so here for this.
I’m guessing this will be part of a series so I’ll be keeping my eye out for that! But you have werewolves, you have vampires, fairies and witches! All part of a small town, cozy community. Selene moves to Avondale unexpectedly and discovers a whole new world. It’s not a repeat of our favorite vamps and werewolf hotties. It’s original and it will hook you in!
Thank you NetGalley, Author and Publisher for the opportunity to read this eARC in exchange for my honest review! Loved it!!!!
I’m guessing this will be part of a series so I’ll be keeping my eye out for that! But you have werewolves, you have vampires, fairies and witches! All part of a small town, cozy community. Selene moves to Avondale unexpectedly and discovers a whole new world. It’s not a repeat of our favorite vamps and werewolf hotties. It’s original and it will hook you in!
Thank you NetGalley, Author and Publisher for the opportunity to read this eARC in exchange for my honest review! Loved it!!!!
October 26, 2025
This book is pure paranormal romcom. A grieving woman caring for her late best friend's teenager, a mysterious small town, and a whole lot of supernatural weirdness collide into something that’s super fun to read. It's fun and light, but it does absolutely have some pretty dark themes in it. Which makes the tone a little hard to pin down.
Selene’s guardian arc is endearing, and I loved how the story mixed humor with genuine heart. And the romance has a nice balance of supernatural intrigue and romantic tension. Fen definitely brings that dark, brooding energy that fits the genre so well.
But there were a few things that didn’t quite click for me. There was a romance between a werewolf and a teenager. Josh being an “adult” from the 1930s but still acting like a modern teen threw me off. That choice made his romance with Selene's teenage ward awkward in a way that didn’t sit right. Why not just make him a teenager? He acted like one. And the age gap just made things uncomfortable. The pack rules didn't help because why would a teenager respect those?
And while the romance between Selene and Fen was cute, it happened fast, with little emotional buildup. Fen’s controlling tendencies didn’t help either. I was confused with so many of the choices in this. It clearly wanted that romcom feel, but also to tell a deeper story with far more complex themes and that almost seemed to stretch the story between two opposite vibes. Part was fun and part was uncomfortable, which is a weird place for a romcom to sit.
That said, it’s charming, funny, and very easy to binge. I absolutely had a good time, as long as I could ignore some things that made me quite uncomfortable... which wasn't that successful. It’s a great pick if you’re in the mood for something supernatural and steamy, but maybe don’t look too hard at the areas in which things become more complex.
Thanks so much to the author, Montlake publishing, and Luna Blooms PA for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
Selene’s guardian arc is endearing, and I loved how the story mixed humor with genuine heart. And the romance has a nice balance of supernatural intrigue and romantic tension. Fen definitely brings that dark, brooding energy that fits the genre so well.
But there were a few things that didn’t quite click for me. There was a romance between a werewolf and a teenager. Josh being an “adult” from the 1930s but still acting like a modern teen threw me off. That choice made his romance with Selene's teenage ward awkward in a way that didn’t sit right. Why not just make him a teenager? He acted like one. And the age gap just made things uncomfortable. The pack rules didn't help because why would a teenager respect those?
And while the romance between Selene and Fen was cute, it happened fast, with little emotional buildup. Fen’s controlling tendencies didn’t help either. I was confused with so many of the choices in this. It clearly wanted that romcom feel, but also to tell a deeper story with far more complex themes and that almost seemed to stretch the story between two opposite vibes. Part was fun and part was uncomfortable, which is a weird place for a romcom to sit.
That said, it’s charming, funny, and very easy to binge. I absolutely had a good time, as long as I could ignore some things that made me quite uncomfortable... which wasn't that successful. It’s a great pick if you’re in the mood for something supernatural and steamy, but maybe don’t look too hard at the areas in which things become more complex.
Thanks so much to the author, Montlake publishing, and Luna Blooms PA for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
October 31, 2025
ONE OF THE TOP THIS YEAR!
This book BLEW ME AWAY! Woman moves to supernatural town with her teen niece. There she meets a group of supernatural beings and has to make choices that will affect her life forever.
This was my first book by this author and it was so well written and plotted that I was hooked by chapter 3 and couldn’t put it down. By chapter 8, I was fully invested and had collected a new book boyfriend (oh Fenris! Swoon!)
This book had me giggling and kicking my feet and squealing! It had me anxious for more and wanting to know what happened next. I didn’t want it to end! I prolonged it out bc I in fact didn’t want this book to end because I knew that was it.
This story was utterly fulfilling in all the best ways. Love, family, found family, friendship, belonging. It was heartbreaking and heart warming all at the same time. I loved the cozy vibes mixed with the supernatural.
The writing was top tier. The story flowed well and was easy to follow. I never found a lull in the story where it was fell flat. Pacing was consistent and only got better. The characters were well written and developed and I found them all interesting. (Especially Fen…did I mention I have a crush? Ha!) I love this mixed heart warning moments with serious and then funny. I loved our main characters and their banter.
I really hope with how this book ended that we will get a book 2! This can’t be it. I need more of those wonderful characters!
Audiobook was amazing! I have nothing but praises for the production and narration.
This book is a great choice if you love supernatural, cozy vibes, small towns and true Blood, Twilight, and vampire Diaries.
Did I mention I love Fenris? Ha! I know, I know! I might have mentioned it a couple times!
This book BLEW ME AWAY! Woman moves to supernatural town with her teen niece. There she meets a group of supernatural beings and has to make choices that will affect her life forever.
This was my first book by this author and it was so well written and plotted that I was hooked by chapter 3 and couldn’t put it down. By chapter 8, I was fully invested and had collected a new book boyfriend (oh Fenris! Swoon!)
This book had me giggling and kicking my feet and squealing! It had me anxious for more and wanting to know what happened next. I didn’t want it to end! I prolonged it out bc I in fact didn’t want this book to end because I knew that was it.
This story was utterly fulfilling in all the best ways. Love, family, found family, friendship, belonging. It was heartbreaking and heart warming all at the same time. I loved the cozy vibes mixed with the supernatural.
The writing was top tier. The story flowed well and was easy to follow. I never found a lull in the story where it was fell flat. Pacing was consistent and only got better. The characters were well written and developed and I found them all interesting. (Especially Fen…did I mention I have a crush? Ha!) I love this mixed heart warning moments with serious and then funny. I loved our main characters and their banter.
I really hope with how this book ended that we will get a book 2! This can’t be it. I need more of those wonderful characters!
Audiobook was amazing! I have nothing but praises for the production and narration.
This book is a great choice if you love supernatural, cozy vibes, small towns and true Blood, Twilight, and vampire Diaries.
Did I mention I love Fenris? Ha! I know, I know! I might have mentioned it a couple times!
October 18, 2025
I was genuinely excited to read Always Carry a Silver Cross — the premise sounded like the kind of supernatural story I’d love. Unfortunately, the execution just didn’t live up to the idea.
The plot felt disjointed, with moments that didn’t always connect or make sense. Things happened without much setup, and there were enough loose ends and plot holes that it pulled me out of the story more than once. The potential was definitely there, but it needed stronger direction and a smoother flow to really land.
While the romance between Allie and her werewolf boyfriend wasn’t the central focus, it was significant enough to stand out — and not in a good way. The age gap and dynamic between them came across more uncomfortable than endearing, which made those parts of the story hard to enjoy.
I also went in expecting something with a little humor or self-awareness, but that never really materialized. There were a few mildly entertaining moments, but they were too few and far between to carry the tone the book seemed to be going for.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Amelia Hugh, who did a solid job. Her pacing was good, she handled the different characters well, and the overall production was clean and easy to follow. Her narration was honestly one of the highlights for me.
In the end, Always Carry a Silver Cross had a great premise and a few enjoyable beats, but it just didn’t come together in the way I hoped. It was fine — a decent listen to pass the time, but not one that’s going to stick with me.
was fortunate to receive a complimentary ALC from Brilliance Publishing via NetGalley, which gave me the opportunity to share my voluntary thoughts.
How I Rate
Because I mostly read ARCs, I focus on how I think fellow readers with similar tastes will respond. I sometimes round up or down based on pacing, prose, or overall impact, and I try to keep my personal preferences from weighing too heavily.
⭐️ 1 Star – Finished, but not for me; I never DNF ARCs.
⭐️⭐️ 2 Stars – Struggled due to writing, content, or editing issues.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3 Stars – Decent read with untapped potential; recommend with some reservations.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 Stars – Really enjoyed it and would recommend for several reasons.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars – Exceptional; lingers in my mind well after reading. A story I’d gladly revisit.
The plot felt disjointed, with moments that didn’t always connect or make sense. Things happened without much setup, and there were enough loose ends and plot holes that it pulled me out of the story more than once. The potential was definitely there, but it needed stronger direction and a smoother flow to really land.
While the romance between Allie and her werewolf boyfriend wasn’t the central focus, it was significant enough to stand out — and not in a good way. The age gap and dynamic between them came across more uncomfortable than endearing, which made those parts of the story hard to enjoy.
I also went in expecting something with a little humor or self-awareness, but that never really materialized. There were a few mildly entertaining moments, but they were too few and far between to carry the tone the book seemed to be going for.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Amelia Hugh, who did a solid job. Her pacing was good, she handled the different characters well, and the overall production was clean and easy to follow. Her narration was honestly one of the highlights for me.
In the end, Always Carry a Silver Cross had a great premise and a few enjoyable beats, but it just didn’t come together in the way I hoped. It was fine — a decent listen to pass the time, but not one that’s going to stick with me.
was fortunate to receive a complimentary ALC from Brilliance Publishing via NetGalley, which gave me the opportunity to share my voluntary thoughts.
How I Rate
Because I mostly read ARCs, I focus on how I think fellow readers with similar tastes will respond. I sometimes round up or down based on pacing, prose, or overall impact, and I try to keep my personal preferences from weighing too heavily.
⭐️ 1 Star – Finished, but not for me; I never DNF ARCs.
⭐️⭐️ 2 Stars – Struggled due to writing, content, or editing issues.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3 Stars – Decent read with untapped potential; recommend with some reservations.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 Stars – Really enjoyed it and would recommend for several reasons.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars – Exceptional; lingers in my mind well after reading. A story I’d gladly revisit.
October 14, 2025
I would like to thank Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an audio ARC.
The beginning of this book was very strong. The world is intriguing and the characters are interesting. Their introductions are all great. The situation that they are in also is written very well in the beginning. Selene is taking care of a sixteen year old after the death of her best friend. I think ot is very interesting how her having to be a caretaker is written alongside her introduction into he paranormal community. I did feel that this book seemed to be missing emotional aspects and I would have loved to see Selene's grief and feel her struggles. I also felt that there could have been more development and changes with the characters in this book. They just seemed quite stagnant in this book. I also started to get a bit annoyed with Selene's train of thought in this book and I know she was taking care of a teenager, but it became annoying with Allie's boyfriend. This book is also the beginning of a series, so I'm sure that there will be more development to the characters, but I just felt I wanted more in this first book. I think the narrator did a great performance.
The beginning of this book was very strong. The world is intriguing and the characters are interesting. Their introductions are all great. The situation that they are in also is written very well in the beginning. Selene is taking care of a sixteen year old after the death of her best friend. I think ot is very interesting how her having to be a caretaker is written alongside her introduction into he paranormal community. I did feel that this book seemed to be missing emotional aspects and I would have loved to see Selene's grief and feel her struggles. I also felt that there could have been more development and changes with the characters in this book. They just seemed quite stagnant in this book. I also started to get a bit annoyed with Selene's train of thought in this book and I know she was taking care of a teenager, but it became annoying with Allie's boyfriend. This book is also the beginning of a series, so I'm sure that there will be more development to the characters, but I just felt I wanted more in this first book. I think the narrator did a great performance.
October 16, 2025
2.5 stars, rounded up.. The beginning of this book started out very strong and I loved the premise, but towards the end everything felt like the plot started unravelling and going in several different directions. I loved Selene and Fen’s relationship, but did NOT like Allie and Josh’s relationship. I was very confused the entire time why everyone (except Selene, although she got over it) was ok with a 100 year old werewolf dating a 16-year old…
My favorite part of the story overall was the town itself, and I would’ve liked to see more of that included. This is apparently going to be a series, although I thought it was a standalone, so maybe there will be more of that in the future; however, I’m on the fence as to whether I’ll continue the story or not. The ending just didn’t do it for and nothing made me want to keep going with the story to find out what happens.
My favorite part of the story overall was the town itself, and I would’ve liked to see more of that included. This is apparently going to be a series, although I thought it was a standalone, so maybe there will be more of that in the future; however, I’m on the fence as to whether I’ll continue the story or not. The ending just didn’t do it for and nothing made me want to keep going with the story to find out what happens.
August 8, 2025
This was a 2.5 star situation for me. It took me a little bit to get into it, and I did enjoy the book. I didn’t love the insta-lust and I felt like the conflicts in the book could’ve gone on for longer. It seemed like one crisis after another was happening. Overall, it was good and I would read a second book if this became a series.
May 27, 2025
This was a perfect thrilling, fun & playful paranormal romance! From the very first page it had be captivated and interested!
August 24, 2025
Absolutely loved this!
I’ve been a huge fan of Andrea Robertson for many years and loved reading this adult PNR from her!
I’ve been a huge fan of Andrea Robertson for many years and loved reading this adult PNR from her!
October 13, 2025
This actually surprised me by how much I liked it. Her reactioned seemed more authentic to learning about the mythical world. Often in fantasy, books and movies/shows the characters are just too accepting too easily. This was a really fun read and the narrator did a great job depicting it.
A great rom-com read/listen.
A great rom-com read/listen.
May 27, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the digital ARC!
Firstly, I must clarify that this is apparently part of a series, or at least the first book. I didn't realise this, so the ending was pretty disappointing to me, as everything else was giving off standalone contemporary fantasy romance. Not only that, but I, unfortunately, have no intention of continuing on the series. I actually almost DNF'ed this about halfway through, but decided to keep reading to see if it gets better. It didn't.
The initial premise of this was good. I liked the concept of Avondale as a town for supernatural creatures, with humans in the know and only allowed to live there with permission. Selene moved back because it's where Allie grew up and felt most comfortable, which made sense. It equally made sense why she'd be given permission even if she had nothing to do with that world. This means that Selene is shocked when she finds out what's happening, which is incidentally on the first night.
And basically, here's why my issues started and never stopped.
Allie is 16 and reveals out of nowhere that she has a boyfriend, Jake. Jake is a werewolf. Selene is rudely introduced into this world within hours of arrival, which is stupid. Why would you do that to someone living as a normal human and expect her to be okay with it?
As a character, Allie was very annoying, but she was 16 and acted like a 16-year-old, so I can at least forgive her for that. Jake...why the hell was everyone okay with Jake being with Allie? He's over a hundred years old, and he's...dating a 16-year-old? And was dating a 15-year-old, because of the timelines. What the hell. Why was no one else weirded out by this?! I couldn't get over it, and the fact that everyone just...accepted it.
The side characters existed. Selene's neighbours felt like they were there just for plot points, like 'oh, we need a healer character'. Her friendship with Natalie was way too fast, which is my main complaint about this book. Everything happens within the space of a week or two, from what I understood. It's even more silly when you consider that Selene is almost 40!
On the topic of Selene, she was a poor main character. As far as I know, we get minimal character building from her. I don't entirely understand her job. Is it something about environmental campaigning? I don't know. I understand she's just been introduced to this world, so many complaints and criticisms make sense. But then what happens at the end of the book just annoyed me. She's been in this world for less than a month and feels she has the right to make demands and proclaim laws to be stupid? You've only just bloody moved here! Her wishy-washy attitude to everything annoyed me, along with the instant lust with Fen.
Who is another character who annoyed me? He's hundreds of years old, and within two weeks, he's making ridiculous offers to Selene. Offers that, according to everything we learn earlier, he shouldn't be doing. I won't specify more, but it made me side-eye him. That was about all the characterisation he got. He wasn't interesting, and I didn't care about him.
The introduction of a specific character in this book (you'll understand when you read, they're the only character I haven't mentioned) was...well, pointless? Why were they brought in? Everything got resolved too quickly, and I didn't understand their point.
I will concede that the writing was good overall and easy to read, but I just wasn't into the characters or the story.
Firstly, I must clarify that this is apparently part of a series, or at least the first book. I didn't realise this, so the ending was pretty disappointing to me, as everything else was giving off standalone contemporary fantasy romance. Not only that, but I, unfortunately, have no intention of continuing on the series. I actually almost DNF'ed this about halfway through, but decided to keep reading to see if it gets better. It didn't.
The initial premise of this was good. I liked the concept of Avondale as a town for supernatural creatures, with humans in the know and only allowed to live there with permission. Selene moved back because it's where Allie grew up and felt most comfortable, which made sense. It equally made sense why she'd be given permission even if she had nothing to do with that world. This means that Selene is shocked when she finds out what's happening, which is incidentally on the first night.
And basically, here's why my issues started and never stopped.
Allie is 16 and reveals out of nowhere that she has a boyfriend, Jake. Jake is a werewolf. Selene is rudely introduced into this world within hours of arrival, which is stupid. Why would you do that to someone living as a normal human and expect her to be okay with it?
As a character, Allie was very annoying, but she was 16 and acted like a 16-year-old, so I can at least forgive her for that. Jake...why the hell was everyone okay with Jake being with Allie? He's over a hundred years old, and he's...dating a 16-year-old? And was dating a 15-year-old, because of the timelines. What the hell. Why was no one else weirded out by this?! I couldn't get over it, and the fact that everyone just...accepted it.
The side characters existed. Selene's neighbours felt like they were there just for plot points, like 'oh, we need a healer character'. Her friendship with Natalie was way too fast, which is my main complaint about this book. Everything happens within the space of a week or two, from what I understood. It's even more silly when you consider that Selene is almost 40!
On the topic of Selene, she was a poor main character. As far as I know, we get minimal character building from her. I don't entirely understand her job. Is it something about environmental campaigning? I don't know. I understand she's just been introduced to this world, so many complaints and criticisms make sense. But then what happens at the end of the book just annoyed me. She's been in this world for less than a month and feels she has the right to make demands and proclaim laws to be stupid? You've only just bloody moved here! Her wishy-washy attitude to everything annoyed me, along with the instant lust with Fen.
Who is another character who annoyed me? He's hundreds of years old, and within two weeks, he's making ridiculous offers to Selene. Offers that, according to everything we learn earlier, he shouldn't be doing. I won't specify more, but it made me side-eye him. That was about all the characterisation he got. He wasn't interesting, and I didn't care about him.
The introduction of a specific character in this book (you'll understand when you read, they're the only character I haven't mentioned) was...well, pointless? Why were they brought in? Everything got resolved too quickly, and I didn't understand their point.
I will concede that the writing was good overall and easy to read, but I just wasn't into the characters or the story.
May 13, 2025
𝓐𝓵𝔀𝓪𝔂𝓼 𝓬𝓪𝓻𝓻𝔂 𝓪 𝓼𝓲𝓵𝓿𝓮𝓻 𝓬𝓻𝓸𝓼𝓼 🌔
“she'd confessed she loved him. He'd believed. He'd known it in his heart, his blood, his bones."
Hello, my sweet, awful creatures! 🦇
It is Official! I got my first ever ARC!!!
If that wasn't already amazing news, I absolutely loved this book! As you all know, I'm usually more of a vampire girly, having reviewed nearly every vampire-related book out there. That's also why I signed up for this book. However, after reading the first chapter, I realized that this was a werewolf romance. We all remember the Team Edward vs. Team Jacob feud and have likely chosen our sides since then. I am firmly Team Edward, but for the first time, I began to understand why someone might choose a strong, attractive werewolf who is completely devoted to them. Why? The answer lies in my review. Let's get started!
Our story begins with our female protagonist, Selene, who moves to a new town called Avondale to care for her deceased friend's daughter, Allison, who has been left parentless since her father disappeared ten years ago. What Selene doesn't realize is that Allison is not entirely alone; she has a secret boyfriend who may appear to be an ordinary seventeen-year-old, but is much more than that—Josh is a werewolf. Unprepared to parent a sixteen-year-old girl, Selene never imagined in her wildest dreams that she would not only take on the role of guardian but also delve into the depths of a new, magical, and dangerous life. What if Josh isn’t the only mythical being in Avondale?
Ahhhhhh! I can’t begin to express how much I loved this story! I finished the book in just two days, which is unusual for me, especially considering it is written in the third person. The narrative is so well-crafted that I couldn’t put it down whenever I had a moment to read. Selene and Fen are a match made in heaven—literally. Their love story is both intriguing and exhilarating, keeping me on the edge of my seat the entire time! (You could say I'm still on edge since the book ends on a cliffhanger.) They are drawn to each other from the moment they first meet, as if their fates were intertwined long before she even moved to Avondale. However, as romantic and passionate as their relationship is, there are also many heartbreaking scenes that brought tears to my eyes, so keep a box of tissues nearby. Although their initial connection is driven by animalistic instinct, time reveals the depth of their love for one another. Will Fen's position in the pack create obstacles for them, or is their love strong enough to defy the rules of his pack?
The scene that truly captivated me in this story was the bonfire ritual. Let me tell you, it was the most exhilarating, giggle-inducing, foot-kicking type of smut I have ever read. I gasped when he declared that he would own her—that's apparently what werewolf romance is all about.
My rating is as follows: I want the prequel now! 5/5 bats. 🦇
If you're a fan of werewolf or monster romance, preorder this book now and be prepared for a steamy ride!
Until next time!
Mira 💗
“she'd confessed she loved him. He'd believed. He'd known it in his heart, his blood, his bones."
Hello, my sweet, awful creatures! 🦇
It is Official! I got my first ever ARC!!!
If that wasn't already amazing news, I absolutely loved this book! As you all know, I'm usually more of a vampire girly, having reviewed nearly every vampire-related book out there. That's also why I signed up for this book. However, after reading the first chapter, I realized that this was a werewolf romance. We all remember the Team Edward vs. Team Jacob feud and have likely chosen our sides since then. I am firmly Team Edward, but for the first time, I began to understand why someone might choose a strong, attractive werewolf who is completely devoted to them. Why? The answer lies in my review. Let's get started!
Our story begins with our female protagonist, Selene, who moves to a new town called Avondale to care for her deceased friend's daughter, Allison, who has been left parentless since her father disappeared ten years ago. What Selene doesn't realize is that Allison is not entirely alone; she has a secret boyfriend who may appear to be an ordinary seventeen-year-old, but is much more than that—Josh is a werewolf. Unprepared to parent a sixteen-year-old girl, Selene never imagined in her wildest dreams that she would not only take on the role of guardian but also delve into the depths of a new, magical, and dangerous life. What if Josh isn’t the only mythical being in Avondale?
Ahhhhhh! I can’t begin to express how much I loved this story! I finished the book in just two days, which is unusual for me, especially considering it is written in the third person. The narrative is so well-crafted that I couldn’t put it down whenever I had a moment to read. Selene and Fen are a match made in heaven—literally. Their love story is both intriguing and exhilarating, keeping me on the edge of my seat the entire time! (You could say I'm still on edge since the book ends on a cliffhanger.) They are drawn to each other from the moment they first meet, as if their fates were intertwined long before she even moved to Avondale. However, as romantic and passionate as their relationship is, there are also many heartbreaking scenes that brought tears to my eyes, so keep a box of tissues nearby. Although their initial connection is driven by animalistic instinct, time reveals the depth of their love for one another. Will Fen's position in the pack create obstacles for them, or is their love strong enough to defy the rules of his pack?
The scene that truly captivated me in this story was the bonfire ritual. Let me tell you, it was the most exhilarating, giggle-inducing, foot-kicking type of smut I have ever read. I gasped when he declared that he would own her—that's apparently what werewolf romance is all about.
My rating is as follows: I want the prequel now! 5/5 bats. 🦇
If you're a fan of werewolf or monster romance, preorder this book now and be prepared for a steamy ride!
Until next time!
Mira 💗
December 24, 2025
Always Carry a Silver Cross by Andrea Robertson
~ This is more than the blurb/synopsis suggests ~ a whole lot more ~ I didn’t know going in it was a series and hated finding out I would be left on the cliffhanger edge waiting for more ~ But ~ that is where I find myself ~ I had thought this was a book “not for me” but moved on to…” Where is the rest of this story/series? and How long do I have to wait for the next book! ~
What I Liked
* The setting and setup: guardian taking on her best friend’s teenaged daughter, moving to a new home for the two of them, and being lambasted with paranormal vibes immediately and the…Kapowie
* Selene: business owner, grieving Emma/BF, guardian of Allie, taking on a new town, protective, proactive, orphaned on a church doorstep early in life, more than she know…but I want to know…
Allie: Emma’s daughter, abandoned by her father, bright, articulate, misses her mother, manipulable, “in love” with Josh
Allie: Emma’s & Daniel’s daughter, teenager with questions, unsettled, wise, caring, attracted to Werewolf Josh
* Fenrin/Fen: ancient, fought in crusader wars, widow, werewolf, protective, caring, rigid, tenacious, has a good counsel to refer to.
* Fenrin’s counsellors – like Gabriel, expect his story soon and wonder about the other two…and all the potential stories this introduction to the serieus could tap into
* Josh: werewolf, smitten with Allie, young wolf “born” in 1930’s
* Natalie: Witch, friend to abused humans and paranormals, takes chances, perhaps the soul mate of Gabriel
* That I was taken in, made part of the story, and though I thought this book was not for me…It must have been because I want more
Did I like this book? I did
Would I read more in this series? [hooray, there will be another book or more]
Thank you to Montlake and NetGalley ~ This is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
BLURB
From New York Times bestselling author Andrea Robertson comes a paranormal rom-com full of spirited seduction, sinister secrets, and the sublimely supernatural.
Who knew life could get so…weird? Selene’s best friend is dead, and now she finds herself raising a precocious teen, Allie—though she never even wanted to be a mom. To top it off, they’re living in her deceased friend’s house in a small town that’s one enchanted forest away from belonging in a fairy tale.
Then Allie spills a shocking secret that leaves Selene questioning reality. And maybe her sanity. Suddenly she’s plunged into a bizarre world of moonlit revelries, mystical neighbors, and alluring dangers. But untangling the truth of her new home only brings more peril. Caught up with a mysteriously seductive man who makes her heart palpitate (and spine tingle), she encounters strangers with blood-soaked pasts and bona fide skeletons in their closets.
The deeper Selene spirals into this twisted realm, the more she realizes all is not as it seems. And with temptations too sweet to resist, one wrong move could be her last.
~ This is more than the blurb/synopsis suggests ~ a whole lot more ~ I didn’t know going in it was a series and hated finding out I would be left on the cliffhanger edge waiting for more ~ But ~ that is where I find myself ~ I had thought this was a book “not for me” but moved on to…” Where is the rest of this story/series? and How long do I have to wait for the next book! ~
What I Liked
* The setting and setup: guardian taking on her best friend’s teenaged daughter, moving to a new home for the two of them, and being lambasted with paranormal vibes immediately and the…Kapowie
* Selene: business owner, grieving Emma/BF, guardian of Allie, taking on a new town, protective, proactive, orphaned on a church doorstep early in life, more than she know…but I want to know…
Allie: Emma’s daughter, abandoned by her father, bright, articulate, misses her mother, manipulable, “in love” with Josh
Allie: Emma’s & Daniel’s daughter, teenager with questions, unsettled, wise, caring, attracted to Werewolf Josh
* Fenrin/Fen: ancient, fought in crusader wars, widow, werewolf, protective, caring, rigid, tenacious, has a good counsel to refer to.
* Fenrin’s counsellors – like Gabriel, expect his story soon and wonder about the other two…and all the potential stories this introduction to the serieus could tap into
* Josh: werewolf, smitten with Allie, young wolf “born” in 1930’s
* Natalie: Witch, friend to abused humans and paranormals, takes chances, perhaps the soul mate of Gabriel
* That I was taken in, made part of the story, and though I thought this book was not for me…It must have been because I want more
Did I like this book? I did
Would I read more in this series? [hooray, there will be another book or more]
Thank you to Montlake and NetGalley ~ This is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
BLURB
From New York Times bestselling author Andrea Robertson comes a paranormal rom-com full of spirited seduction, sinister secrets, and the sublimely supernatural.
Who knew life could get so…weird? Selene’s best friend is dead, and now she finds herself raising a precocious teen, Allie—though she never even wanted to be a mom. To top it off, they’re living in her deceased friend’s house in a small town that’s one enchanted forest away from belonging in a fairy tale.
Then Allie spills a shocking secret that leaves Selene questioning reality. And maybe her sanity. Suddenly she’s plunged into a bizarre world of moonlit revelries, mystical neighbors, and alluring dangers. But untangling the truth of her new home only brings more peril. Caught up with a mysteriously seductive man who makes her heart palpitate (and spine tingle), she encounters strangers with blood-soaked pasts and bona fide skeletons in their closets.
The deeper Selene spirals into this twisted realm, the more she realizes all is not as it seems. And with temptations too sweet to resist, one wrong move could be her last.
October 9, 2025
I love rom-coms that take place in secret towns that house the paranormal so I was so excited to receive an advanced copy of this book.
I was convinced in the first half of this book that it was going to be a five star read, but the second half lost me a lot. I am going to break it down into what I loved and what I didn't love
What I loved:
1. I love the relationship between Allie and Selene. I was immediately intrigued with the idea of a woman who suddenly is raising a 16 year old girl after the death of her best friend. I loved how close they were, but I also loved that this relationship dynamic felt so real.
2. Fen from early on had all of the features that I love in a MMC. I loved how respected he was and how much he cares for his people. The relationship he has with Selene is very much insta-love, but it worked for me because of the wolf mating bond and I liked that aspect of this book.
3. The town was so much fun and I was laughing out loud watching Selene be thrust into this paranormal world. It was so much fun and so funny.
4. I loved the vampire storyline!
What didn't work for me:
1. Allie is 16 and Josh is 100 and they started dating when Allie is 15 and none of the adults thought this was weird other than Selene, but then she just accepted it way to fast for me.
2. I wanted more from the side characters. There was so much potential for this found family, but it came off more forced. These characters are lying and unaliving for their friends they met last week that we haven't seen them interact with and it was just a little unnatural for me.
3. Fan felt like a completely different character in the second half of this book and I couldn't stand him by the end.
4. The plot line with Natalie felt like it didn't fit in the book and I didn't like it. This book could have easily been a stand alone fun rom-com if the book focused on the vampire plot instead of shifting to this second main plot with Natalie.
5. I had no idea this was a series and I wish it would have been marketed better. I personally wouldn't consider this a romance story. This is a book one in a fantasy series that has a few romance sub plots. The cover, to me, screams rom-com with a paranormal twist, but that is not what I got from the book itself. The first half of this book fit the same vibe from the cover, but then it shifted.
I don't think I will continue with this series because I didn't like where this book went. I loved it in the beginning and there was so much potential, but then the story and plot took a turn that doesn't interest me nearly as much.
Thank you to the Author and The Nerd Fam for the advanced reader copy of the book. Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced listening Copy. I did a tandem read of this and I feel like I would have DNFd this book if I didn't have the audio to help me push through.
I was convinced in the first half of this book that it was going to be a five star read, but the second half lost me a lot. I am going to break it down into what I loved and what I didn't love
What I loved:
1. I love the relationship between Allie and Selene. I was immediately intrigued with the idea of a woman who suddenly is raising a 16 year old girl after the death of her best friend. I loved how close they were, but I also loved that this relationship dynamic felt so real.
2. Fen from early on had all of the features that I love in a MMC. I loved how respected he was and how much he cares for his people. The relationship he has with Selene is very much insta-love, but it worked for me because of the wolf mating bond and I liked that aspect of this book.
3. The town was so much fun and I was laughing out loud watching Selene be thrust into this paranormal world. It was so much fun and so funny.
4. I loved the vampire storyline!
What didn't work for me:
1. Allie is 16 and Josh is 100 and they started dating when Allie is 15 and none of the adults thought this was weird other than Selene, but then she just accepted it way to fast for me.
2. I wanted more from the side characters. There was so much potential for this found family, but it came off more forced. These characters are lying and unaliving for their friends they met last week that we haven't seen them interact with and it was just a little unnatural for me.
3. Fan felt like a completely different character in the second half of this book and I couldn't stand him by the end.
4. The plot line with Natalie felt like it didn't fit in the book and I didn't like it. This book could have easily been a stand alone fun rom-com if the book focused on the vampire plot instead of shifting to this second main plot with Natalie.
5. I had no idea this was a series and I wish it would have been marketed better. I personally wouldn't consider this a romance story. This is a book one in a fantasy series that has a few romance sub plots. The cover, to me, screams rom-com with a paranormal twist, but that is not what I got from the book itself. The first half of this book fit the same vibe from the cover, but then it shifted.
I don't think I will continue with this series because I didn't like where this book went. I loved it in the beginning and there was so much potential, but then the story and plot took a turn that doesn't interest me nearly as much.
Thank you to the Author and The Nerd Fam for the advanced reader copy of the book. Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced listening Copy. I did a tandem read of this and I feel like I would have DNFd this book if I didn't have the audio to help me push through.
October 12, 2025
🐺
⚜️ Book Title - Always Carry A Silver Cross
⚜️ Author - Andrea Robertson
⚜️ Rating - ⭐️⭐️
⚜️ Some Genre/Themes/Tropes: Adult Fiction, Romance and Fantasy
I received an advanced reader copy (ARC) of this book. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. This is my honest review.
I wanted to dive into this because I’m a sucker for anything paranormal; wolves, vampires, witches… I’m in. But this wasn’t quite what I expected. I’ve read a lot of the author’s YA books and loved them, so I was keen for a similar writing style.
Firstly, this really needs a trigger warning page. Some aspects can be quite confronting for readers. I’m generally fine with most triggers, but a few scenes had me flipping back to check if I’d missed one.
I did enjoy the overall plot enough to keep reading, but there were so many little things that didn’t work for me, and I struggled with quite a few aspects. They did add up, which affected my rating.
Number one… Allie and Josh’s age gap. I think because we’re experiencing the situation from Selene, the main character’s perspective, the whole Josh and Allie thing just didn’t sit well with me. If it were me, I’d be a lot more ruthless in questioning their relationship. That’s a significant age gap, especially considering Allie’s age. I know I’ve read other stories with similar concepts (like Twilight or The Vampire Diaries), but it still throws me every time.
It’s also very insta-love, and I’m a slow-burn girl. Even though we don’t meet the MMC until about 20% (or more) into the book, the story dove headfirst into the romance once he appeared. I don’t know why exactly, but I’m not a fan of the “lost a mate to tragic events or other means, then meets someone new who becomes their true mate” trope. It’s hard to buy into when there’s so much emotional history involved. 🫣
On top of that, everything happened so quickly on the timeline. There was a lot going on in such a short period… it gave me whiplash. I think the entirety of the book unfolded over a week?
Selene’s character development also felt lacking. I guess she couldn’t really progress with everything happening so fast. She was constantly learning something new or getting blindsided, and it felt like she was stuck in a perpetual state of shock, looping through the same thoughts again and again.
Overall, I don’t know if I’ll continue the series.
Note (How I rate): One is DNF. Two is got there but struggled. Three stars is a good, enjoyable read. Four is an excellent read and five is a comfort read that lingers with me for life. My five stars can be imperfect but to me they hit right.
⚜️ Book Title - Always Carry A Silver Cross
⚜️ Author - Andrea Robertson
⚜️ Rating - ⭐️⭐️
⚜️ Some Genre/Themes/Tropes: Adult Fiction, Romance and Fantasy
I received an advanced reader copy (ARC) of this book. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. This is my honest review.
I wanted to dive into this because I’m a sucker for anything paranormal; wolves, vampires, witches… I’m in. But this wasn’t quite what I expected. I’ve read a lot of the author’s YA books and loved them, so I was keen for a similar writing style.
Firstly, this really needs a trigger warning page. Some aspects can be quite confronting for readers. I’m generally fine with most triggers, but a few scenes had me flipping back to check if I’d missed one.
I did enjoy the overall plot enough to keep reading, but there were so many little things that didn’t work for me, and I struggled with quite a few aspects. They did add up, which affected my rating.
Number one… Allie and Josh’s age gap. I think because we’re experiencing the situation from Selene, the main character’s perspective, the whole Josh and Allie thing just didn’t sit well with me. If it were me, I’d be a lot more ruthless in questioning their relationship. That’s a significant age gap, especially considering Allie’s age. I know I’ve read other stories with similar concepts (like Twilight or The Vampire Diaries), but it still throws me every time.
It’s also very insta-love, and I’m a slow-burn girl. Even though we don’t meet the MMC until about 20% (or more) into the book, the story dove headfirst into the romance once he appeared. I don’t know why exactly, but I’m not a fan of the “lost a mate to tragic events or other means, then meets someone new who becomes their true mate” trope. It’s hard to buy into when there’s so much emotional history involved. 🫣
On top of that, everything happened so quickly on the timeline. There was a lot going on in such a short period… it gave me whiplash. I think the entirety of the book unfolded over a week?
Selene’s character development also felt lacking. I guess she couldn’t really progress with everything happening so fast. She was constantly learning something new or getting blindsided, and it felt like she was stuck in a perpetual state of shock, looping through the same thoughts again and again.
Overall, I don’t know if I’ll continue the series.
Note (How I rate): One is DNF. Two is got there but struggled. Three stars is a good, enjoyable read. Four is an excellent read and five is a comfort read that lingers with me for life. My five stars can be imperfect but to me they hit right.
October 18, 2025
After the death of her best friend Emma Bancroft, Selene Jones’ live changed forever, not only has she lost her best friend, but she has become guardian to Emma’s sixteen-year-old daughter Allison. Feeling out of her league and hoping that she is making the right decisions, she leaves her life in LA and relocates to Emma’s house in the small town of Avondale to raise Allie. Already feeling out of sorts, nothing could have prepared her for the shock she is about to receive when she arrives at Emma’s house and meets Allie’s boyfriend Josh, who happens to be a werewolf. The shocks keep coming when she meets her neighbors and learns that Avondale is a paranormal haven, ruled by Fenris Hall, a werewolf and a man she knows of (but never met) from her job as a professional fundraiser.
She is still reeling from learning that Avondale is filled with Werewolves, Vampires, Magi and Fey beings, and she isn’t prepared for her first meeting with Fenris to discuss the relationship between Allie and Josh. She is stunned at her immediate attraction to him and even more surprised when it becomes clear that he returns that attraction. She returns home wondering how a relationship between the pack leader of Avondale and a human could work and is confronted with a ghost from the past – Allie’s father, Daniel Brix who disappeared without a trace ten years ago. Things will only get more heated and complicated from here…
This book is not what I was expecting, the blurb calls it “a paranormal rom-com full of spirited seduction, sinister secrets, and the sublimely supernatural” I am going to have to disagree with part of that description, because this was definitely not a “Rom-com” – it was intense and it was filled with seduction, secrets and the supernatural – but it was not a romantic comedy and it had scenes that were downright horrific – not in a scary sense, but in a violating sense and I hope the publisher adds a content warning to the blurb to protect more sensitive readers. Overall, I liked the book, I thought it was well written and flowed well, and even though I wasn’t super happy with the ending, I would definitely read the next book. If you are a fan of insta-lust, soulmates, touch-her-and-die heroes and heroines who can take care of themselves – you will probably like this book. I am happy to recommend it but would caution there are some scenes that might be disturbing to some readers, and I would highly recommend checking for trigger/content warnings before reading this book.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher/author. All opinions in this review are my own. *
She is still reeling from learning that Avondale is filled with Werewolves, Vampires, Magi and Fey beings, and she isn’t prepared for her first meeting with Fenris to discuss the relationship between Allie and Josh. She is stunned at her immediate attraction to him and even more surprised when it becomes clear that he returns that attraction. She returns home wondering how a relationship between the pack leader of Avondale and a human could work and is confronted with a ghost from the past – Allie’s father, Daniel Brix who disappeared without a trace ten years ago. Things will only get more heated and complicated from here…
This book is not what I was expecting, the blurb calls it “a paranormal rom-com full of spirited seduction, sinister secrets, and the sublimely supernatural” I am going to have to disagree with part of that description, because this was definitely not a “Rom-com” – it was intense and it was filled with seduction, secrets and the supernatural – but it was not a romantic comedy and it had scenes that were downright horrific – not in a scary sense, but in a violating sense and I hope the publisher adds a content warning to the blurb to protect more sensitive readers. Overall, I liked the book, I thought it was well written and flowed well, and even though I wasn’t super happy with the ending, I would definitely read the next book. If you are a fan of insta-lust, soulmates, touch-her-and-die heroes and heroines who can take care of themselves – you will probably like this book. I am happy to recommend it but would caution there are some scenes that might be disturbing to some readers, and I would highly recommend checking for trigger/content warnings before reading this book.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher/author. All opinions in this review are my own. *
May 20, 2025
TL/DR: You’ve read the synopsis, right? Great! Now what you need to know is this is not your average, quick read paranormal. It takes everything we think we know and the author makes it her own. Be prepared for a rollercoaster of emotions, use caution when drinking any liquid (you’ll get it, trust me) and be prepared for an exceptional story. I’ve already ordered a copy for my trophy shelf. Yeah, it’s that good.
I was expecting a fun, quick, little paranormal read. What I wasn’t expecting was for the author to break my heart, gently put it back together and then leave me in a puddle of heartbreak and happiness. Weird combo, I’ll give you that, but this book had everything and if it is not at the very least a duology, even better a trilogy or series, I am going to cry.
The characters and the world are so rich it makes the town of Avondale feel like it doesn’t just exist in the author’s mind, but somewhere along the California coast.
Allie, 16, one of our FMC has recently lost her Mom to a tragic event, and our other FMC, Selene, has lost her best friend, her found family. She has also been granted guardianship of Allie. She is no longer just the fun aunt, she is responsible for her in every way and because of this, she brings Allie back to Avondale, to something familiar, albeit with a new routine, in a home that is comforting while they are still grieving and growing.
To learn that Avondale, a place Allie’s mom said felt like home was just a little different than what she expected was a shock. She didn’t think they kept anything from each other.
Then Allie throws another shock at her, she has a boyfriend, he’s paranormal and oh yeah, Selene’s biggest donor (to her campaigns, usually environmental in nature) is kinda like his Dad.
This book will have you sympathizing with how quickly Selene’s world is changing, laughing at her reactions and faux-pas, and then getting swept up in everything that happens from the first page to the last.
I want to thank the author, Montlake publishing and NetGalley for a copy of this book. I definitely need a copy for my trophy shelf. All opinions are my own and my review is voluntarily given. As always, I wish you happy reading.
#Montlake #NetGalley #Paranormal #NotQuiteHuman
#Werewolves #Fae #Witches #Vampires #ParanormalRomance
#ContemporaryParanormal #ContemporaryFantasy #ContemporaryParanormalRomance
I was expecting a fun, quick, little paranormal read. What I wasn’t expecting was for the author to break my heart, gently put it back together and then leave me in a puddle of heartbreak and happiness. Weird combo, I’ll give you that, but this book had everything and if it is not at the very least a duology, even better a trilogy or series, I am going to cry.
The characters and the world are so rich it makes the town of Avondale feel like it doesn’t just exist in the author’s mind, but somewhere along the California coast.
Allie, 16, one of our FMC has recently lost her Mom to a tragic event, and our other FMC, Selene, has lost her best friend, her found family. She has also been granted guardianship of Allie. She is no longer just the fun aunt, she is responsible for her in every way and because of this, she brings Allie back to Avondale, to something familiar, albeit with a new routine, in a home that is comforting while they are still grieving and growing.
To learn that Avondale, a place Allie’s mom said felt like home was just a little different than what she expected was a shock. She didn’t think they kept anything from each other.
Then Allie throws another shock at her, she has a boyfriend, he’s paranormal and oh yeah, Selene’s biggest donor (to her campaigns, usually environmental in nature) is kinda like his Dad.
This book will have you sympathizing with how quickly Selene’s world is changing, laughing at her reactions and faux-pas, and then getting swept up in everything that happens from the first page to the last.
I want to thank the author, Montlake publishing and NetGalley for a copy of this book. I definitely need a copy for my trophy shelf. All opinions are my own and my review is voluntarily given. As always, I wish you happy reading.
#Montlake #NetGalley #Paranormal #NotQuiteHuman
#Werewolves #Fae #Witches #Vampires #ParanormalRomance
#ContemporaryParanormal #ContemporaryFantasy #ContemporaryParanormalRomance
November 16, 2025
I feel like I’ve stepped into an alternate universe where I finally understand why Jacob and Charlie were so opposed to Edward and Bella. Edward might have been frozen at 17, but he had a full century of life experience, and Bella was an actual teenager. Has the story changed, or have I finally become the adult in the room. (Spoiler: it’s me.)
Allie is 16. Josh is also 16, although he has been that age since the 1930s thanks to the whole immortal werewolf thing. Reading this as 38 year old Selene, Allie’s aunt, suddenly puts everything into focus. If you found 17 year old Bella frustrating or irresponsible, you are not ready for 16 year old Allie. She is Bella turned up to eleven. Again, is it Allie, or is it just me. When I first read Twilight I was 15. I am now 35. Perspective really is a powerful, brutal thing. (But really though, why would Allie ever think introducing her aunt to Josh like that would be a good idea??????)
Parts of this story genuinely worked for me, and parts of it didn’t. The villain was theatrical in a way that felt unintentionally comical, and the entire plot unfolds over what feels like one extremely chaotic month. Selene, you were the only one behaving like a person with a functioning frontal lobe. Honestly, you handled everything with far more grace than expected.
If you loved Twilight, were firmly Team Jacob, and once thought you know what this needs, more heat and more supernatural hormones, you’ll love this. If you hated Twilight, turn back now. There are also definite True Blood vibes. As someone who devoured Charlene Harris books as a teen, this pleased me.
I also struggled when the POV suddenly changed about a third of the way through. Nothing prepares you for it, and after spending so long in Selene’s head, the switch feels more jarring than intentional.
If you can silence your logical brain, this is a quick, spicy, entertaining ride. Just do not think too hard about it. Or at all.
Thank you to NetGalley, Montlake, and Andrea Robertson for the advanced copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
Allie is 16. Josh is also 16, although he has been that age since the 1930s thanks to the whole immortal werewolf thing. Reading this as 38 year old Selene, Allie’s aunt, suddenly puts everything into focus. If you found 17 year old Bella frustrating or irresponsible, you are not ready for 16 year old Allie. She is Bella turned up to eleven. Again, is it Allie, or is it just me. When I first read Twilight I was 15. I am now 35. Perspective really is a powerful, brutal thing. (But really though, why would Allie ever think introducing her aunt to Josh like that would be a good idea??????)
Parts of this story genuinely worked for me, and parts of it didn’t. The villain was theatrical in a way that felt unintentionally comical, and the entire plot unfolds over what feels like one extremely chaotic month. Selene, you were the only one behaving like a person with a functioning frontal lobe. Honestly, you handled everything with far more grace than expected.
If you loved Twilight, were firmly Team Jacob, and once thought you know what this needs, more heat and more supernatural hormones, you’ll love this. If you hated Twilight, turn back now. There are also definite True Blood vibes. As someone who devoured Charlene Harris books as a teen, this pleased me.
I also struggled when the POV suddenly changed about a third of the way through. Nothing prepares you for it, and after spending so long in Selene’s head, the switch feels more jarring than intentional.
If you can silence your logical brain, this is a quick, spicy, entertaining ride. Just do not think too hard about it. Or at all.
Thank you to NetGalley, Montlake, and Andrea Robertson for the advanced copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
June 5, 2025
Andrea Robertson delivers a darkly whimsical and surprisingly heartfelt journey in Always Carry a Silver Cross, a novel that starts as a slow burn and ends with a heart-stopping cliffhanger that will leave you desperate for the next installment.
Selene never planned on motherhood—especially not to a sharp, spirited teen like Allie. But after her best friend's death, Selene finds herself not only guardian to Allie, but also uprooted to a strange small town where the line between fairy tale and nightmare is dangerously thin. What begins as a reluctant attempt at rebuilding quickly descends into a world filled with cryptic neighbors, hidden dangers, and haunting secrets.
At first, the story leans into a cozy-meets-creepy vibe with touches of cheese—in the best possible way. There's something undeniably charming about the town’s eccentricities and Selene’s awkward attempts to settle in. But don’t get too comfortable: the plot twists sharply midway through, transforming into a fast-paced, eerie mystery brimming with gothic allure and romantic tension.
Robertson balances humor, suspense, and magic with just the right amount of melodrama. Selene is a relatable heroine—reluctant, flawed, but fiercely determined—and the supporting cast is both quirky and chilling. The romance is slow-building yet tantalizing, and the supernatural elements are richly woven into the emotional heart of the story.
By the time you reach the final chapters, the pace quickens and the revelations come hard and fast, culminating in a cliffhanger that will make you shout, "Where's the next book?!"
Verdict: A slightly cheesy, slow-burn supernatural adventure that sneaks up on you with real emotional stakes and a fantastically twisty plot. If you're a fan of gothic fantasy, reluctant heroines, and found-family stories, Always Carry a Silver Cross is a must-read. Bring on book two—because we need answers!
Selene never planned on motherhood—especially not to a sharp, spirited teen like Allie. But after her best friend's death, Selene finds herself not only guardian to Allie, but also uprooted to a strange small town where the line between fairy tale and nightmare is dangerously thin. What begins as a reluctant attempt at rebuilding quickly descends into a world filled with cryptic neighbors, hidden dangers, and haunting secrets.
At first, the story leans into a cozy-meets-creepy vibe with touches of cheese—in the best possible way. There's something undeniably charming about the town’s eccentricities and Selene’s awkward attempts to settle in. But don’t get too comfortable: the plot twists sharply midway through, transforming into a fast-paced, eerie mystery brimming with gothic allure and romantic tension.
Robertson balances humor, suspense, and magic with just the right amount of melodrama. Selene is a relatable heroine—reluctant, flawed, but fiercely determined—and the supporting cast is both quirky and chilling. The romance is slow-building yet tantalizing, and the supernatural elements are richly woven into the emotional heart of the story.
By the time you reach the final chapters, the pace quickens and the revelations come hard and fast, culminating in a cliffhanger that will make you shout, "Where's the next book?!"
Verdict: A slightly cheesy, slow-burn supernatural adventure that sneaks up on you with real emotional stakes and a fantastically twisty plot. If you're a fan of gothic fantasy, reluctant heroines, and found-family stories, Always Carry a Silver Cross is a must-read. Bring on book two—because we need answers!
September 16, 2025
I received this ARC from NetGalley, Montlake Publishing and Andrea Robertson and I’m glad I did. This book could only be made better by reading it during spooky season.
This book follows Selene, who loses her best friend, Emma. While she’s devastated from that, she ends up becoming guardian to her daughter Allie and has to change her life and move to a small magical town called Avondale.
Once getting to Avondale, within what seemed like minutes, Selene finds out that Allie (16) has a boyfriend, Josh (17) who happens to be a werewolf. I will be honest, I was hoping for more of a building up and information to come out about the paranormal side of things, but I get it… like she was thrown into “parenthood” we were along for the ride.
We are along for the ride as Selene navigates life full of Werewolves, Vampires, Fae and Witches. Helping Allie deal with a teenager’s first love… while finding something like that herself with a moody pack leader Fenris (Fen). I do feel like the relationship with Fen and Selene felt rushed, but I liked the banter and feel of them together.
When I got to the end of the book, I was like WAIT… is this a series? There’s no way you could leave me like that… so I’m now waiting for the next book. Some things I hope are better in the next book include better world building. The story could have had better pacing to draw the reader in more. Some things happened too fast while others seemed not to at all. But the book had good overall character development and which I enjoyed, but it would be nice to have a bit more of it. I would recommend this book to others!
If you like the following, this book is for you:
✨ Small-town vibes
✨ Fated mates
✨ Touch her & die vibes
✨ Found family
✨ Paranormal
✨ Secrets
Rate: 3/5⭐️⭐️ ⭐️
Spice: 2/5🌶️🌶️
Releases October 21st
This book follows Selene, who loses her best friend, Emma. While she’s devastated from that, she ends up becoming guardian to her daughter Allie and has to change her life and move to a small magical town called Avondale.
Once getting to Avondale, within what seemed like minutes, Selene finds out that Allie (16) has a boyfriend, Josh (17) who happens to be a werewolf. I will be honest, I was hoping for more of a building up and information to come out about the paranormal side of things, but I get it… like she was thrown into “parenthood” we were along for the ride.
We are along for the ride as Selene navigates life full of Werewolves, Vampires, Fae and Witches. Helping Allie deal with a teenager’s first love… while finding something like that herself with a moody pack leader Fenris (Fen). I do feel like the relationship with Fen and Selene felt rushed, but I liked the banter and feel of them together.
When I got to the end of the book, I was like WAIT… is this a series? There’s no way you could leave me like that… so I’m now waiting for the next book. Some things I hope are better in the next book include better world building. The story could have had better pacing to draw the reader in more. Some things happened too fast while others seemed not to at all. But the book had good overall character development and which I enjoyed, but it would be nice to have a bit more of it. I would recommend this book to others!
If you like the following, this book is for you:
✨ Small-town vibes
✨ Fated mates
✨ Touch her & die vibes
✨ Found family
✨ Paranormal
✨ Secrets
Rate: 3/5⭐️⭐️ ⭐️
Spice: 2/5🌶️🌶️
Releases October 21st
September 26, 2025
🌕 3.5 stars 🌕
Thank you, Netgalley and Montlake, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
📆 Publication date: October 21, 2025
Always Carry a Silver Cross tropes:
🌙 paranormal romance
🐺 werewolf hero
🌙 werewolves, vampires, fae, witches
🐺 self-discovery (main character)
🌙 guardianship of a teenager (guardian/ward dynamic)
🐺 found family/meddling side characters
🌙 (likely) part of a series
I would rate this one on the spicy scale as a 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (3 chile peppers); it has a couple of descriptive sex scenes.
Selene's world has drastically changed when she takes guardianship of her best friend's teenager, Allie, after her sudden death. She and Allie move to Avondale, Allie's home before the loss, and are shocked to discover that the town is a safe harbor for many within the paranormal community. A community that Selene thought was only part of fiction. Selene quickly becomes immersed in this strange new world, with revelations from Allie, past skeletons coming to light, and a possible romantic interest.
I quite enjoyed the first 55% of the book, but I felt like things really started to shift and had questionable elements in the second half. The romantic scenes felt misplaced and had me questioning whether the characters were truly consenting . There are also multiple on-page sexual assault attempts.
The novel also leaves many open threads to explore and resolve, leading me to believe that a sequel is likely to follow. I would have preferred for the main plot points to be nicely wrapped up in this novel alone, and would have been okay with never getting the answers to specific questions.
Thank you, Netgalley and Montlake, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
📆 Publication date: October 21, 2025
Always Carry a Silver Cross tropes:
🌙 paranormal romance
🐺 werewolf hero
🌙 werewolves, vampires, fae, witches
🐺 self-discovery (main character)
🌙 guardianship of a teenager (guardian/ward dynamic)
🐺 found family/meddling side characters
🌙 (likely) part of a series
I would rate this one on the spicy scale as a 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (3 chile peppers); it has a couple of descriptive sex scenes.
Selene's world has drastically changed when she takes guardianship of her best friend's teenager, Allie, after her sudden death. She and Allie move to Avondale, Allie's home before the loss, and are shocked to discover that the town is a safe harbor for many within the paranormal community. A community that Selene thought was only part of fiction. Selene quickly becomes immersed in this strange new world, with revelations from Allie, past skeletons coming to light, and a possible romantic interest.
I quite enjoyed the first 55% of the book, but I felt like things really started to shift and had questionable elements in the second half. The romantic scenes felt misplaced and had me questioning whether the characters were truly consenting . There are also multiple on-page sexual assault attempts.
The novel also leaves many open threads to explore and resolve, leading me to believe that a sequel is likely to follow. I would have preferred for the main plot points to be nicely wrapped up in this novel alone, and would have been okay with never getting the answers to specific questions.
October 25, 2025
📖 Title: Always Carry a Silver Cross-a standalone
✍🏾 Author: Andrea Robertson-new to me author
📅Publication date: 10-21-25 | Read: 10-23-25
📃 Format: e-Book 364 pgs.
Genre:
*Paranormal Romance
*Fantasy
Tropes:
*werewolves, witches, vampires, fae
*single parent/guardian
*1st love-teen
*magical small town
👆🏾POV: 3rd person
⚠️TW: death of a parent, grief, parental abandonment, SA attempt, murder, foster care
🌎 Setting: Avondale, CA
Summary: After the death of her BFF Emma, Selene moves to Avondale to care for Allie-Emma's 16-year-old daughter. When Allie reveals she is in love with a werewolf, Selene is thrown into the supernatural world with hidden secrets, rules, and rituals.
👩🏾 Heroine: Selene Jones-consulting and public relations for nonprofits
👨🏾 Hero: Fenris Hall-leader of the werewolf pack and town
🎭 Other Characters:
* Emma Bancroft-Allie mom, Selene's BFF (deceased)
*Allison Bancroft-Emma's daughter,16
*Josh-turned werewolf in 1932 by Fen, in love w/ Allie
*Daniel Brix-Allie's father, disappeared 10 years ago
*Natalie Lyon- a witch, owns a hair salon, befriends Selene
*Gabriel- one of Fen's guards
🤔 My Thoughts: This had a few plots which intertwined. Selene became a parent, found out supernatural creatures existed, and fell in love with a werewolf. She was in foster care, so her lineage remained a mystery, but she was drawn to Avondale. Allie fell in love with an immortal with strict rules. Her long-lost father reappeared with his own agenda. And Natalie-a witch with a hair salon- had a secret enterprise in direct violation of Fenris's orders. It ended on a cliffhanger, and I hope for more stories with as much mystery, adventure, spice, and romance as this.
Rating: 5/5 ✨
Spice level: 4/5🌶️
🙏🏾Thanks to NetGalley, Montlake, and Andrea Robertson for this ARC! I voluntarily give my honest review, and all opinions are my own.
✍🏾 Author: Andrea Robertson-new to me author
📅Publication date: 10-21-25 | Read: 10-23-25
📃 Format: e-Book 364 pgs.
Genre:
*Paranormal Romance
*Fantasy
Tropes:
*werewolves, witches, vampires, fae
*single parent/guardian
*1st love-teen
*magical small town
👆🏾POV: 3rd person
⚠️TW: death of a parent, grief, parental abandonment, SA attempt, murder, foster care
🌎 Setting: Avondale, CA
Summary: After the death of her BFF Emma, Selene moves to Avondale to care for Allie-Emma's 16-year-old daughter. When Allie reveals she is in love with a werewolf, Selene is thrown into the supernatural world with hidden secrets, rules, and rituals.
👩🏾 Heroine: Selene Jones-consulting and public relations for nonprofits
👨🏾 Hero: Fenris Hall-leader of the werewolf pack and town
🎭 Other Characters:
* Emma Bancroft-Allie mom, Selene's BFF (deceased)
*Allison Bancroft-Emma's daughter,16
*Josh-turned werewolf in 1932 by Fen, in love w/ Allie
*Daniel Brix-Allie's father, disappeared 10 years ago
*Natalie Lyon- a witch, owns a hair salon, befriends Selene
*Gabriel- one of Fen's guards
🤔 My Thoughts: This had a few plots which intertwined. Selene became a parent, found out supernatural creatures existed, and fell in love with a werewolf. She was in foster care, so her lineage remained a mystery, but she was drawn to Avondale. Allie fell in love with an immortal with strict rules. Her long-lost father reappeared with his own agenda. And Natalie-a witch with a hair salon- had a secret enterprise in direct violation of Fenris's orders. It ended on a cliffhanger, and I hope for more stories with as much mystery, adventure, spice, and romance as this.
Rating: 5/5 ✨
Spice level: 4/5🌶️
🙏🏾Thanks to NetGalley, Montlake, and Andrea Robertson for this ARC! I voluntarily give my honest review, and all opinions are my own.
May 14, 2025
When I read the premise of Always Carry a Silver Cross, I was excited. A world where magical creatures like vampires and werewolves coexist with humans (who are actually aware of their existence)? It gave me major Sookie Stackhouse meets Halloweentown vibes, and I was definitely intrigued.
Unfortunately, that early excitement faded pretty quickly. From page one, I realized the book is written in third-person point of view—something that’s not usually my preference, but I’ve enjoyed many third-person narratives before. However, by the end of the first chapter, I knew this would be a tough read for me.
The main character, Selene, just didn’t draw me in. Her internal thoughts didn’t feel compelling, and her dialogue often felt flat or forced. I think there was an attempt to make her quirky or cheeky, but it didn’t quite land. For example, thoughts like “You’re in the country now, Selene. Chill.” felt more like filler than insight into her personality.
There was also a missed opportunity with a key plot moment. When Selene’s niece, Allie, introduces her boyfriend and casually says, “Josh is a werewolf,” it felt rushed. As a reader, I wanted more build-up or emotional weight to such a major reveal. Instead, the moment felt glossed over, and Josh’s character didn’t add much beyond being polite and helpful—which, while nice, didn’t make him stand out.
That said, the concept behind the story is genuinely strong. I wanted to enjoy this book. The world-building had real potential, and the idea of integrating supernatural creatures into a contemporary setting is always fun when done well. With stronger character development and dialogue, this could have been an engaging, entertaining read.
Ultimately, I stopped reading around the 50-page mark. I skimmed a few later chapters hoping for deeper character arcs or a spark of momentum, but I didn’t quite find it. Still, I appreciate the creative vision behind the story and hope others may connect with it more than I did.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Unfortunately, that early excitement faded pretty quickly. From page one, I realized the book is written in third-person point of view—something that’s not usually my preference, but I’ve enjoyed many third-person narratives before. However, by the end of the first chapter, I knew this would be a tough read for me.
The main character, Selene, just didn’t draw me in. Her internal thoughts didn’t feel compelling, and her dialogue often felt flat or forced. I think there was an attempt to make her quirky or cheeky, but it didn’t quite land. For example, thoughts like “You’re in the country now, Selene. Chill.” felt more like filler than insight into her personality.
There was also a missed opportunity with a key plot moment. When Selene’s niece, Allie, introduces her boyfriend and casually says, “Josh is a werewolf,” it felt rushed. As a reader, I wanted more build-up or emotional weight to such a major reveal. Instead, the moment felt glossed over, and Josh’s character didn’t add much beyond being polite and helpful—which, while nice, didn’t make him stand out.
That said, the concept behind the story is genuinely strong. I wanted to enjoy this book. The world-building had real potential, and the idea of integrating supernatural creatures into a contemporary setting is always fun when done well. With stronger character development and dialogue, this could have been an engaging, entertaining read.
Ultimately, I stopped reading around the 50-page mark. I skimmed a few later chapters hoping for deeper character arcs or a spark of momentum, but I didn’t quite find it. Still, I appreciate the creative vision behind the story and hope others may connect with it more than I did.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this ARC.
July 23, 2025
3.5⭐️
Always Carry a Silver Cross is a fun paranormal romance. The story follows our FMC Selene who decided to move to Avondale to make it easier for her niece Allie after the death of Allie's mother and Selene's bestfriend Emma. Selene is quickly thrust into the magical world of Avondale, a haven for the supernatural world. The setup is compelling and had me excited to read this book.
Selene's decent into the supernatural is initially entertaining and completely relatable, her reaction to Allie's boyfriend being a werewolf and much older than initially thought was justified and refreshing. I did wish she kept some of her real world sensibilities as the story continued. I do wish Selene could have more time to learn about the supernatural - though since this is the first book in the series and there is a plot point hinted in this book i expect it to be continued in the next one.
The strongest relationship and what i feel is the heart of this novel is the relationship between Selene and Allie. The bond the pair share is very sweet and a highlight in a book i feel struggled with establishing/ fleshing out the relationships. The relationship between Selene and our MMC Fenris felt rushed to me and i didn't feel myself caring for their relationship or really buying into the fact they were meant to be. Selene's friendships were good but i wish they had some more development especially with the later plot.
All in all, it's a quick fun read perfect for the upcoming spooky season.
Thanks to Montlake for providing me with an ARC. All opinions are my own.
Always Carry a Silver Cross is a fun paranormal romance. The story follows our FMC Selene who decided to move to Avondale to make it easier for her niece Allie after the death of Allie's mother and Selene's bestfriend Emma. Selene is quickly thrust into the magical world of Avondale, a haven for the supernatural world. The setup is compelling and had me excited to read this book.
Selene's decent into the supernatural is initially entertaining and completely relatable, her reaction to Allie's boyfriend being a werewolf and much older than initially thought was justified and refreshing. I did wish she kept some of her real world sensibilities as the story continued. I do wish Selene could have more time to learn about the supernatural - though since this is the first book in the series and there is a plot point hinted in this book i expect it to be continued in the next one.
The strongest relationship and what i feel is the heart of this novel is the relationship between Selene and Allie. The bond the pair share is very sweet and a highlight in a book i feel struggled with establishing/ fleshing out the relationships. The relationship between Selene and our MMC Fenris felt rushed to me and i didn't feel myself caring for their relationship or really buying into the fact they were meant to be. Selene's friendships were good but i wish they had some more development especially with the later plot.
All in all, it's a quick fun read perfect for the upcoming spooky season.
Thanks to Montlake for providing me with an ARC. All opinions are my own.
July 7, 2025
If Always Carry a Silver Cross had been marketed as urban fantasy I would have rated it five stars. I thought the idea of having a guardian have to handle a teen in a paranormal relationship was a really fun plot idea and I loved learning about their paranormal small town. The characters are interesting and well developed. I liked that we mainly got Selene's POV but we got glimpses into other characters.
The problem is that this book is being marketed as a romcom and is being published by a romance imprint. This means I was anticipating a story focused on the romance between the main characters with an HEA. Instead this is a story with a strong romantic sublot that I am guessing will continue in a sequel. From a story perspective I was happy to see this because I don't think the romance was well developed enough for it to be wrapped up in this book BUT a romance book absolutely requires an HEA. I am aware romance readers read more books than any other readers but fantasy readers exist too and bait and switch marketing is not the answer.
If you like a cozy fantasy with a strong romantic subplot with humor that is likely the start of a fun series I highly recommend this one. If you need an HEA or HFN skip it.
Thanks to Montlake for providing me with an ARC. All opinions are my own.
The problem is that this book is being marketed as a romcom and is being published by a romance imprint. This means I was anticipating a story focused on the romance between the main characters with an HEA. Instead this is a story with a strong romantic sublot that I am guessing will continue in a sequel. From a story perspective I was happy to see this because I don't think the romance was well developed enough for it to be wrapped up in this book BUT a romance book absolutely requires an HEA. I am aware romance readers read more books than any other readers but fantasy readers exist too and bait and switch marketing is not the answer.
If you like a cozy fantasy with a strong romantic subplot with humor that is likely the start of a fun series I highly recommend this one. If you need an HEA or HFN skip it.
Thanks to Montlake for providing me with an ARC. All opinions are my own.
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