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Ladybirds
Miracles don't come free and words are binding...
His miracles have a cursed edge, but he’s not the villain Sara expected. Still, she’s not exactly thrilled about being stuck with a centuries old ghost with a flair for the dramatic and a nasty habit of pushing her buttons just for the fun of it. With his penchant for boredom—and the fact that she’s the only one able to see and hear him—he’s about as common as her shadow and as welcome as mold.
Even if he is pretty handy in her British Literature class.
A story of Faustian bargains, a lot of pride, and a helping of prejudice.
His miracles have a cursed edge, but he’s not the villain Sara expected. Still, she’s not exactly thrilled about being stuck with a centuries old ghost with a flair for the dramatic and a nasty habit of pushing her buttons just for the fun of it. With his penchant for boredom—and the fact that she’s the only one able to see and hear him—he’s about as common as her shadow and as welcome as mold.
Even if he is pretty handy in her British Literature class.
A story of Faustian bargains, a lot of pride, and a helping of prejudice.
302 pages, Paperback
Published April 1, 2022
94 people are currently reading
2191 people want to read
About the author
R. Raeta
8 books745 followersR. Raeta lives in Northern California with her husband and young son. When she isn’t agonizing over word choices, she enjoys telling the dog how handsome he is and sitting in on the nightly therapy sessions the cat so generously provides for her. She is a Trigiminal Neuralgia survivor and believes in living your best life day by day.
Her traditionally published works are written under the name Rachelle Raeta.
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Her traditionally published works are written under the name Rachelle Raeta.
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 246 reviews
February 13, 2024
r. raeta... you have been promoted.. you are now one of my elite employees
April 2, 2022
I feel like I've been waiting a long time for *this* book. A book with prose so luscious it grips you from the first paragraph and characters so real they'll stay with you long after the end of their story. Ladybirds is a rare gem, the sort of book that halfway through you become heartbroken at the thought of it ending. Raeta excels in writing likeable, fully-realised characters you long for. I wanted to reach into this book and hug all of them. The way she writes emotion is frankly second to none and I simple cannot wait to see what she does next.
Ladybirds is flawless. You should all be reading it.
Ladybirds is flawless. You should all be reading it.
May 6, 2024
The lovely thing about Raeta books is I can’t put them down. One sitting read. Excellent. Loved every page!
May 14, 2022
Ladybirds by R. Raeta is akin to a paranormal Pride and Prejudice. Wrapped in velvet-smooth prose that evokes a firestorm of emotions, this romance is sure to leave fans of the genre swooning for weeks after reading.
The main reason for said swooning is Seth, our ghostly Mr. Darcy. Underneath the haughty, closed-off exterior lurks a sweet, wonderfully protective protagonist with old-world charm and razor-sharp wit. Cursed centuries ago, he has to make deals with the living in order for anyone to even see him. And to be touched? He longs for that most basic human connection terribly, even if he won’t admit it.
Enter Sara, the main point of view character for Ladybirds. After making a deal with Seth, her entire life changes, and throughout the tale, she goes through a marvelous transformation. At the start of the story, she’s sympathetic, but she grows into a self-assured woman who finally, truly, understands her strength and worth in a way she didn’t before meeting Seth.
Themes like the power of forgiveness, the importance of human connection, and the discovery of one’s true self are all woven effortlessly through the story. The settings are rich with sensory details and every character is robust and real. Once the slow burn romance started, there was no putting the book down. The chemistry and longing between the characters was tangible and addictive.
R. Raeta has, once again, created an incredible story. Her voice is poetic and powerful, and I fully intend on picking up everything she deems fit to share with the world. I recommend you do as well.
The main reason for said swooning is Seth, our ghostly Mr. Darcy. Underneath the haughty, closed-off exterior lurks a sweet, wonderfully protective protagonist with old-world charm and razor-sharp wit. Cursed centuries ago, he has to make deals with the living in order for anyone to even see him. And to be touched? He longs for that most basic human connection terribly, even if he won’t admit it.
Enter Sara, the main point of view character for Ladybirds. After making a deal with Seth, her entire life changes, and throughout the tale, she goes through a marvelous transformation. At the start of the story, she’s sympathetic, but she grows into a self-assured woman who finally, truly, understands her strength and worth in a way she didn’t before meeting Seth.
Themes like the power of forgiveness, the importance of human connection, and the discovery of one’s true self are all woven effortlessly through the story. The settings are rich with sensory details and every character is robust and real. Once the slow burn romance started, there was no putting the book down. The chemistry and longing between the characters was tangible and addictive.
R. Raeta has, once again, created an incredible story. Her voice is poetic and powerful, and I fully intend on picking up everything she deems fit to share with the world. I recommend you do as well.
April 2, 2022
Seth is my new book boyfriend.
I was part of the Beta reading group for this book. Raeta had been teasing for months, dropping lines on Twitter and I begged to get first access.
This is the kind of speculative/paranormal type fiction books need more of! The plot is very identifiable for adults entering University, especially if they experience some personal tragedies or stresses that make it hard to cope. It's a true "coming into adulthood" story in the form of a believable and fun fairytale.
But that's all just the background soundtrack for the central romance, which is the ultimate slow burn. The tension and back and forth between the characters is so perfectly danced. Not a moment to exchange sarcasm was missed, and yet the author managed to make the exchanges affectionate rather than toxic. There was also such attention to each intimate and emotional moment, written with flawless prose (no less than I would have expected from Raeta).
The cast is diverse (again, Raeta's calling card), relationships are healthy--except when they aren't, and are dealt with accordingly--and you won't be able to put it down. This one can't be missed.
P.S. I didn't even own a plaid shirt before reading this book, but I bought one after because I can't see the print and not laugh now.
TW:
The book does contain themes of abandonment, unhealthy parental relationship interactions, and loss (that are all dealt with in a very positive and healthy manner).
I was part of the Beta reading group for this book. Raeta had been teasing for months, dropping lines on Twitter and I begged to get first access.
This is the kind of speculative/paranormal type fiction books need more of! The plot is very identifiable for adults entering University, especially if they experience some personal tragedies or stresses that make it hard to cope. It's a true "coming into adulthood" story in the form of a believable and fun fairytale.
But that's all just the background soundtrack for the central romance, which is the ultimate slow burn. The tension and back and forth between the characters is so perfectly danced. Not a moment to exchange sarcasm was missed, and yet the author managed to make the exchanges affectionate rather than toxic. There was also such attention to each intimate and emotional moment, written with flawless prose (no less than I would have expected from Raeta).
The cast is diverse (again, Raeta's calling card), relationships are healthy--except when they aren't, and are dealt with accordingly--and you won't be able to put it down. This one can't be missed.
P.S. I didn't even own a plaid shirt before reading this book, but I bought one after because I can't see the print and not laugh now.
TW:
The book does contain themes of abandonment, unhealthy parental relationship interactions, and loss (that are all dealt with in a very positive and healthy manner).
May 6, 2022
Loved it! It was a slow burning, ghostly delight. Just as well-written and endearing as the author's debut novel, Everlong, but with a softer, happier ending. The two MCs are the highlight of the story, and I'm pretty sure I'll be dreaming of Seth for weeks to come. HIGHLY recommend.
July 29, 2025
I just eat up anything, R.Raeta publishes 🤭
August 20, 2025
4.25⭐️
another lovely book by R. Raeta! she never misses 🖤🐞
another lovely book by R. Raeta! she never misses 🖤🐞
February 25, 2022
Oh boy, where do I begin?! What a truly fantastic story. I loved the authors first book Everlong, so I went in to this one feeling confident I would like it as well as the first book. What I didn't expect was that I would now have a hard time deciding which one I like better!
The two main characters capture you and make you want the world for them. To see their pain and problems vanish and for them to find the happiness and love they both deserve. While things start of with a real sinister tone, you are soon left wondering if you have good and evil mixed up. Who was once good is no longer and the one who appears to be the devil, is really a beautiful lost soul. The pages are filled with stories of lost love, new love, family... the good and bad, good friends and a world of unseen forces at play. It was sweet, sad, beautiful and left my heart full of joy. This will be a book that I read again and again. Safe to say, I will forever be a fan of R. Raeta and the worlds she creates.
The two main characters capture you and make you want the world for them. To see their pain and problems vanish and for them to find the happiness and love they both deserve. While things start of with a real sinister tone, you are soon left wondering if you have good and evil mixed up. Who was once good is no longer and the one who appears to be the devil, is really a beautiful lost soul. The pages are filled with stories of lost love, new love, family... the good and bad, good friends and a world of unseen forces at play. It was sweet, sad, beautiful and left my heart full of joy. This will be a book that I read again and again. Safe to say, I will forever be a fan of R. Raeta and the worlds she creates.
Currently reading
January 12, 2026 .# preread.
Reading a third book by R.Raeta I think I'm obsessed
Reading a third book by R.Raeta I think I'm obsessed
July 28, 2022
Ladybirds is the first book I’ve read by Raeta but it definitely won’t be the last.
I finished this book over 24 hours ago and I can’t stop thinking about it. It’s one of those stories that feels so real, as if I lived it along with the characters. I already miss Sara and Seth, which shows how skillfully the author brought them to life.
The prose the author uses is also beautiful. It put me in Sara’s head and I felt everything she was feeling. This was a very enjoyable story and I am honored to have been able to read it early.
*I received an ARC of this book via BookSprout and this is my honest, voluntary review.*
I finished this book over 24 hours ago and I can’t stop thinking about it. It’s one of those stories that feels so real, as if I lived it along with the characters. I already miss Sara and Seth, which shows how skillfully the author brought them to life.
The prose the author uses is also beautiful. It put me in Sara’s head and I felt everything she was feeling. This was a very enjoyable story and I am honored to have been able to read it early.
*I received an ARC of this book via BookSprout and this is my honest, voluntary review.*
April 6, 2023
I loved this book! The story hooked me and did not let go! It was beautifully written with a well-developed cast of characters. The best part was the slow-burn romance – truly enchanting and I was surprised how much warm and fuzzy feelings I could have for a ghost, haha!
April 13, 2022
Let me be clear; This book was a full 4.5 stars and deserves every bit.
Ladybirds reminded me of those fantasy books from about 10 years ago that I completely devoured, and the same happened here!
Sara was a very likeable character. You could tell right from the first page who she was and what she wanted, and you wanted to follow her on her journey. Seth was also a delight - I mean, a sarcastic, classic quoting ghost? Their chemistry came easily and I found myself enjoying their interactions and their movements throughout the story - especially considering the plot hinges around their relationship.
I will admit, at first, the present tense of how the story is written threw me. I’m not used to that style of story-telling. But the more I read, the easier it became.
Ladybirds is a perfect read for those who enjoy subtle fantasies with a small cast of characters who all have to interact to drive the plot of bargains and prices of magical deals.
Ladybirds reminded me of those fantasy books from about 10 years ago that I completely devoured, and the same happened here!
Sara was a very likeable character. You could tell right from the first page who she was and what she wanted, and you wanted to follow her on her journey. Seth was also a delight - I mean, a sarcastic, classic quoting ghost? Their chemistry came easily and I found myself enjoying their interactions and their movements throughout the story - especially considering the plot hinges around their relationship.
I will admit, at first, the present tense of how the story is written threw me. I’m not used to that style of story-telling. But the more I read, the easier it became.
Ladybirds is a perfect read for those who enjoy subtle fantasies with a small cast of characters who all have to interact to drive the plot of bargains and prices of magical deals.
December 9, 2024
4.5 Stars
After Peaches & Honey I had to immediately jump into her other books. This was fantastic in an unexpected way. Someone else described it this way, but I very much agree that it's a bit of a Pride & Prejudice x Mr. Darcy... ghost story? That sounds strange but it works perfectly and was so much fun to read.
I very much enjoyed Sara, our FMC, who has lived a hard life and now finds herself bonded to a mystery man. Said mystery man, Seth, is hilarious and I love their enemies to lovers journey. I highly recommend giving this a try - it's a short, very fun read.
After Peaches & Honey I had to immediately jump into her other books. This was fantastic in an unexpected way. Someone else described it this way, but I very much agree that it's a bit of a Pride & Prejudice x Mr. Darcy... ghost story? That sounds strange but it works perfectly and was so much fun to read.
I very much enjoyed Sara, our FMC, who has lived a hard life and now finds herself bonded to a mystery man. Said mystery man, Seth, is hilarious and I love their enemies to lovers journey. I highly recommend giving this a try - it's a short, very fun read.
August 10, 2025
Absolutely beautiful! R. Raeta is quickly becoming my new favourite author. The way she writes is hypnotizing and I love that there’s always a supernatural element. This story was so moving, sweet and realistic. I love Sara and Seth sm
February 20, 2023
So, I bought Ladybirds the day it released and for some reason, just haven't gotten around to reading it until now. I could kick myself for waiting for so long! If you haven't read this one yet, you're seriously missing out! It's officially one of the best books I've read this year!
Enemies-to-lovers is one of my favorite tropes, but it can be super hard to do. Often times the relationships are toxic and ick. But not between Sara and Seth. Seth was never a villain, although he definitely saw himself as such. He was just a young man who made a selfish mistake, pissed off the wrong grandma, and suffered CENTURIES for it. But I loved watching as Sara began to thaw towards him. His curse and her accidental acceptance of his offer bonded them and it was so fun to see how they adjusted to each other's presence. FORCED PROXIMITY FOR THE WIN!
While Sara was a cool character, Seth was the reason I devoured this book as fast as I did. He is the sweetest and I found his sarcastic remarks so amusing. My favorite scene was when they were in the club for Jen's bachelorette party and he was saying all sorts of Millennial comments. I seriously cracked up!
This book has a fantastic plot, lovable characters you root for every step of the way, and the writing is absolutely beautiful. Like, for real. Raeta's writing is superb. What's not to love?! 5 stars!!
Enemies-to-lovers is one of my favorite tropes, but it can be super hard to do. Often times the relationships are toxic and ick. But not between Sara and Seth. Seth was never a villain, although he definitely saw himself as such. He was just a young man who made a selfish mistake, pissed off the wrong grandma, and suffered CENTURIES for it. But I loved watching as Sara began to thaw towards him. His curse and her accidental acceptance of his offer bonded them and it was so fun to see how they adjusted to each other's presence. FORCED PROXIMITY FOR THE WIN!
While Sara was a cool character, Seth was the reason I devoured this book as fast as I did. He is the sweetest and I found his sarcastic remarks so amusing. My favorite scene was when they were in the club for Jen's bachelorette party and he was saying all sorts of Millennial comments. I seriously cracked up!
This book has a fantastic plot, lovable characters you root for every step of the way, and the writing is absolutely beautiful. Like, for real. Raeta's writing is superb. What's not to love?! 5 stars!!
February 10, 2023
4.5 ⭐️
•Paranormal Romance
•Adult Casper
•Slowburn
•No spice 🌶️
•Banter
I absolutely loved this book! It made me feel a lot of things. It gave me The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue and Pride and Prejudice modern day vibes.
The banter is top notch. 👌🏻
I laughed. I cried. The author got me. It made me feel things. I love when books do that.
This was almost a 5 ⭐️ read but a couple things made me knock it down. I didn’t really like all the parentheses. Idk. It’s just a weird small thing.
I also wished we saw more depth into the father/daughter relationship. I felt like it was incomplete. Like I was missing something. But maybe it’s by design.
But I will be reading all her other works and I DO RECOMMEND THIS BOOK. I loved it.
•Paranormal Romance
•Adult Casper
•Slowburn
•No spice 🌶️
•Banter
I absolutely loved this book! It made me feel a lot of things. It gave me The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue and Pride and Prejudice modern day vibes.
The banter is top notch. 👌🏻
I laughed. I cried. The author got me. It made me feel things. I love when books do that.
This was almost a 5 ⭐️ read but a couple things made me knock it down. I didn’t really like all the parentheses. Idk. It’s just a weird small thing.
I also wished we saw more depth into the father/daughter relationship. I felt like it was incomplete. Like I was missing something. But maybe it’s by design.
But I will be reading all her other works and I DO RECOMMEND THIS BOOK. I loved it.
May 5, 2025
I don't know why this book isn't insanely popular. I stumbled across it, not expecting much but I thought the premise sounded interesting. I absolutely loved this book. I would recommend it to anyone. The characters felt real and the plot was amazing.
December 31, 2024
Another R. Raeta banger.
January 17, 2025
3.5 - How did the ghost get a passport
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 10, 2022
I absolutely loved this novel. I guarantee you will too!
So I was asked by the author to be a beta-reader for Ladybirds, which was a tremendous honor. This is the first time a published writer has done this for me. Naturally, I dove in with both feet--enthusiastically!
I must say that I don't think I took a breath during the first quarter of the book. I was immediately hooked from the first few pages, and I think the writing here is some of the strongest I've ever read. I can see how the author has upped their game since their debut novel, Everlong, which is an achievement considering it was once of the best I read in 2021. I'm not a habitual reader of the PNR (paranormal romance) sub-genre, however after reading this one, I feel I could become one.
Sara, our protagonist, is about to have her life turned upside down by Seth. I don't want to reveal too many spoilers here, but let's just say that I think Seth is one of the most interesting characters I've discovered in quite a long time. Seth is going to amuse you, charm you, perhaps infuriate you, and maybe even scare you a little. Seth is so expertly written--within a logical set of paranormal parameters--that he's an absolute delight to be around. The author's real skill is in their dialog in this story. Heartfelt, real, raw, and emotional. Everything you could possibly want is here. The story just flies off the page, and believe me, as an author myself, I am taking notes! Really, you should stop reading my review, and go read R. Raeta's new novel. Trust me!
I cannot wait to be the first person to purchase R. Raeta's second novel Ladybirds, when it's published later this year! The author has produced an instant classic and I cannot wait to continue to see what they come up with next! Bravo R. Raeta!!
So I was asked by the author to be a beta-reader for Ladybirds, which was a tremendous honor. This is the first time a published writer has done this for me. Naturally, I dove in with both feet--enthusiastically!
I must say that I don't think I took a breath during the first quarter of the book. I was immediately hooked from the first few pages, and I think the writing here is some of the strongest I've ever read. I can see how the author has upped their game since their debut novel, Everlong, which is an achievement considering it was once of the best I read in 2021. I'm not a habitual reader of the PNR (paranormal romance) sub-genre, however after reading this one, I feel I could become one.
Sara, our protagonist, is about to have her life turned upside down by Seth. I don't want to reveal too many spoilers here, but let's just say that I think Seth is one of the most interesting characters I've discovered in quite a long time. Seth is going to amuse you, charm you, perhaps infuriate you, and maybe even scare you a little. Seth is so expertly written--within a logical set of paranormal parameters--that he's an absolute delight to be around. The author's real skill is in their dialog in this story. Heartfelt, real, raw, and emotional. Everything you could possibly want is here. The story just flies off the page, and believe me, as an author myself, I am taking notes! Really, you should stop reading my review, and go read R. Raeta's new novel. Trust me!
I cannot wait to be the first person to purchase R. Raeta's second novel Ladybirds, when it's published later this year! The author has produced an instant classic and I cannot wait to continue to see what they come up with next! Bravo R. Raeta!!
January 10, 2025
Sara had no idea how much her life would change after meeting a strangely accented man outside the hospital’s walls. She had just chalked it up to stress induced hallucinations. Because no sane person just offers up ridiculous fantastical deals. Especially ones that call for a soul for a life. However she finds herself once again staring at said strange man only this time in her apartment. After a few screams, thrown objects, and a visit from the local authorities does Sara realize only she can see her new spector roommate. Finally understanding the interaction and agreement she gave the man outside the hospital to be in fact real. Leaving her with a ghostly new addition. One that seems to have no intention of leaving anytime soon.
Ever since I read Ghost Walk and Phantasma last year I’ve found myself becoming a huge fan of this unconventional pairing between a ghost and a human. So of course when I heard one of my favorite authors had this trope I immediately knew I needed to read it. And I was not disappointed. This ghostly good paranormal enemies to lovers romance was a perfectly sweet treat quick read that left me smiling the entire time. As I’ve come to learn and expect, R. Raeta again successfully created believable and authentic characters to this otherwise unbelievable story. Our spectoral MMC served all the sassy grumpy British energy I had hoped for and then some. Because let’s be real the only ghosts we want haunting us are of the swoon worthy variety. Sara as an FMC added a layer of vulnerability to the story as we learned and experience some of her struggles in life alongside her. Watching the pairs tension and banter slowly morph into mutual friendship, love, and respect was also very heartwarming. Bottom line this book was a hauntingly fun little read. If you’re like me and love a good slow burn enemies to lovers romance with an added obstacle of say death itself then definetly pick this one up.
March 29, 2022
When I decided to read this book, I wasn’t even sure what it was about, but the cover was pretty and interesting enough to want to pick it up. And I’m so glad I did.
Since the prologue, which I know tend to have bad reputations, I was hooked to the characters. Who are they? What are they? I had so many questions, and the short chapters made sure that I kept reading until I found my answers. The way is written is different from what I’ve read before, but it was beautiful, even in dealing with hard situations. Going along Sara and her healing journey was gratifying, as it gives hope to people going through hard situations.
The characters were relatable, and I immediately took a liking for them (specially Seth). I guess that what made me like this book the most was the fact that, fantastic beings aside, it is very much something someone could go through in real life, the grieving and pain, and the healing that comes afterwards. Add to that a sarcastic gentleman and you have a perfect story. And easy and quick read, absolutely recommend and will be reading it again soon.
Quote: "There are no prayers passing her pale lips, but he knows that look."
Since the prologue, which I know tend to have bad reputations, I was hooked to the characters. Who are they? What are they? I had so many questions, and the short chapters made sure that I kept reading until I found my answers. The way is written is different from what I’ve read before, but it was beautiful, even in dealing with hard situations. Going along Sara and her healing journey was gratifying, as it gives hope to people going through hard situations.
The characters were relatable, and I immediately took a liking for them (specially Seth). I guess that what made me like this book the most was the fact that, fantastic beings aside, it is very much something someone could go through in real life, the grieving and pain, and the healing that comes afterwards. Add to that a sarcastic gentleman and you have a perfect story. And easy and quick read, absolutely recommend and will be reading it again soon.
Quote: "There are no prayers passing her pale lips, but he knows that look."
August 4, 2024
4,5 for this beautifully written, lovely book. Sara has had a lot of hardships in her life, but her Oma gave her a home. There are a few things that weren't explained in detail, but it doesn't matter - this book is mostly about connection, acceptance and seeing people for who they are and what they need.
Seth was really annoying and unfeeling in the beginning, but the gradual development of his character and their relationship was great.
Seth was really annoying and unfeeling in the beginning, but the gradual development of his character and their relationship was great.
January 7, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
March 29, 2022
I received a free ARC copy of this book and am leaving a review voluntarily.
Oh. Oh, goodness. What a brilliant story! The author knows how to craft memorable characters and relationships that you will believe and root for. Each character is a fully developed person with flaws and strengths and their own demons to fight.
Because of this, the romance soars.
The chemistry between our leads to palatable and believable. Each challenge met is an opportunity for them to discover more about not only themselves but who they are together. It’s a wonderful study of how real relationships work and grow—the growth of the individual results in the growth of the couple and it’s magnificent to witness.
The hint of paranormal gives it just the right dusting of unusual to sell a beautiful and memorable experience
Oh. Oh, goodness. What a brilliant story! The author knows how to craft memorable characters and relationships that you will believe and root for. Each character is a fully developed person with flaws and strengths and their own demons to fight.
Because of this, the romance soars.
The chemistry between our leads to palatable and believable. Each challenge met is an opportunity for them to discover more about not only themselves but who they are together. It’s a wonderful study of how real relationships work and grow—the growth of the individual results in the growth of the couple and it’s magnificent to witness.
The hint of paranormal gives it just the right dusting of unusual to sell a beautiful and memorable experience
March 2, 2022
There's something that I really love about R. Raeta's books, is that at the beginning, you have no idea where this is going, but you just love it. I fell in love with Everlong, so I was pretty confident that I was going to love Ladybirds too, and I'm impressed with how the author took me yet again on a beautiful journey made of smiles and tears. Sara and Seth are lovely, I love how their relationship evolve throughout the book, how we can see Sara grow into the woman she was always meant to be. Despite the paranormal aspect of the book, I felt that it was a very realistic tale, very relatable and down to earth, and I highly appreciate that, because it strikes right through the heart. Thank you to the author for writing this book, now everyone go read it !!!
October 23, 2024
I think that I went into this book with the wrong expectations. It was recommended to me based on the fact that I really like The Mediator series by Meg Cabot, which is about a girl who can see ghosts and has to help them pass on. I was hoping for a more supernatural/urban fantasy angle here, which this book really doesn't have for the most part. Unfortunately, this is more of a slice of life type story, which I am not generally a fan of personally. There are supernatural elements, certainly, but the events of the book focus more on the main character's ordinary life than anything else. The majority of the conflict, outside of the unusual bond between the two main characters, comes from mundane occurrences involving family relationships, loss and school. That being said, I just wanted to start this review with full disclosure by saying that I just don't think that I was the target audience for this book.
Considering I came into it looking for something more supernatural, I found this book to be largely boring and mundane. I really and truly wanted to like it, and I kept hoping that the story would pick up. There were glimmers here and there where I thought it would become more exciting, but the conflict just never really took off. It never really felt like there were any major consequences or stakes. A good portion of the book left me feeling somewhat depressed due to the fact that there was a heavy emphasis on loss and grief. Sara's deal with Seth was never fully elaborated on, and I found myself with a lot of lingering questions. The resolution just sort of seemed to...happen, to the point where it actually took me a little while to realize what had even taken place. It all just felt very anticlimactic.
Probably my favorite thing about the book was how well written it is. I'm not a huge fan of the use of the present tense over past tense, and it did seem like the book could have benefited from a little more editing, but otherwise I really enjoyed the writing style. The author definitely has a way with words that I don't often see in a lot of modern writing. She is very skilled at painting a vivid picture in the readers mind. Her word choice is beautiful and artistic. I couldn't help feeling that I would have loved this story just based on the writing alone if it had been more in line with my personal tastes plot wise.
I did also enjoy the slow burn romance between the two main characters. I felt that the conclusion was a bit rushed, but the journey was very sweet. Sara and Seth's story was incredibly refreshing compared to so many popular romance novels that are solely focused on spice and rife with insta-love relationships. I really enjoyed seeing the slow progression here and how the characters' feelings for each other gradually changed over time.
Overall, I would not recommend this story to someone looking for an exciting supernatural ghost romance. However, if you are someone who enjoys slice of life stories and slow burn romance, this may just be the book for you. Personally, I am willing to give the author another chance just based on her lovely writing style. Hopefully, Peaches & Honey will be more my cup of tea.
Considering I came into it looking for something more supernatural, I found this book to be largely boring and mundane. I really and truly wanted to like it, and I kept hoping that the story would pick up. There were glimmers here and there where I thought it would become more exciting, but the conflict just never really took off. It never really felt like there were any major consequences or stakes. A good portion of the book left me feeling somewhat depressed due to the fact that there was a heavy emphasis on loss and grief. Sara's deal with Seth was never fully elaborated on, and I found myself with a lot of lingering questions. The resolution just sort of seemed to...happen, to the point where it actually took me a little while to realize what had even taken place. It all just felt very anticlimactic.
Probably my favorite thing about the book was how well written it is. I'm not a huge fan of the use of the present tense over past tense, and it did seem like the book could have benefited from a little more editing, but otherwise I really enjoyed the writing style. The author definitely has a way with words that I don't often see in a lot of modern writing. She is very skilled at painting a vivid picture in the readers mind. Her word choice is beautiful and artistic. I couldn't help feeling that I would have loved this story just based on the writing alone if it had been more in line with my personal tastes plot wise.
I did also enjoy the slow burn romance between the two main characters. I felt that the conclusion was a bit rushed, but the journey was very sweet. Sara and Seth's story was incredibly refreshing compared to so many popular romance novels that are solely focused on spice and rife with insta-love relationships. I really enjoyed seeing the slow progression here and how the characters' feelings for each other gradually changed over time.
Overall, I would not recommend this story to someone looking for an exciting supernatural ghost romance. However, if you are someone who enjoys slice of life stories and slow burn romance, this may just be the book for you. Personally, I am willing to give the author another chance just based on her lovely writing style. Hopefully, Peaches & Honey will be more my cup of tea.
May 1, 2025
”’And isn’t that a thought?’ he breathes, wonder in his voice. ‘To live.’”
After reading her Peaches and Honey duology, I immediately wanted to immerse myself in more of R. Raeta’s work. This book was different than my usual preferences, but I enjoyed it for those differences. The paranormal aspect was intriguing to me. I flew through this book, finishing it in one day, as it was a very easy read. But I also felt like I was reading to ~get to somewhere~ in the book. Chasing the plot, waiting for something ~big~ to happen. Nonetheless, I liked the story and found it endearing and the characters charming. Seth, a ghostly version of a man from a Jane Austen novel? Yeah, how could anyone say no to that? He even has a hand flex moment. Mr. Darcy but with more personality.
”’No. You are mine, Sara, but only because I am equally yours.’”
Watching Seth and Sara’s forced proximity turn into welcomed companionship turned into undeniable love was so sweet. The book ended on a lovely note, leaving the readers satisfied and whole.
After reading her Peaches and Honey duology, I immediately wanted to immerse myself in more of R. Raeta’s work. This book was different than my usual preferences, but I enjoyed it for those differences. The paranormal aspect was intriguing to me. I flew through this book, finishing it in one day, as it was a very easy read. But I also felt like I was reading to ~get to somewhere~ in the book. Chasing the plot, waiting for something ~big~ to happen. Nonetheless, I liked the story and found it endearing and the characters charming. Seth, a ghostly version of a man from a Jane Austen novel? Yeah, how could anyone say no to that? He even has a hand flex moment. Mr. Darcy but with more personality.
”’No. You are mine, Sara, but only because I am equally yours.’”
Watching Seth and Sara’s forced proximity turn into welcomed companionship turned into undeniable love was so sweet. The book ended on a lovely note, leaving the readers satisfied and whole.
July 11, 2024
Picked this up since I really enjoyed Peaches & Honey and love this cover, and thought it was pretty enjoyable. Big fan of the deal-with-the-devil stories and this was a very short and sweet version of it. It makes so much sense that this came out prior to Peaches & Honey, since this didn’t quite have the depth and scale of that story. The drama and conflict just never really materialized towards the end, so it was maybe a bit boring in terms of plot. Still enjoyed overall. 3/5
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