I try really hard not to DNF ARCs, especially ones that I’ve been invited to read (which happened in both of these cases), but I just could not make myself continue.
But just because it happened to me it does not mean that everyone will hate them. So here are quick blurbs and even quicker thoughts on Cruel Summerween and The Matcha Maker Cafe in case you do decide to pick them up (they’re both out now).
Cruel Summerween by Heather Spellman
Summary:
One witch. Two brothers. A choice that could shatter the magic…
Molly always looked forward to summers at Whisperwind Cove, a magical haven where her powers flourish and old friendships deepen. But this year, the magic feels different… Each year, under the warm glow of the sun, Molly reunites with a unique circle – her family of choice, where both magic and love thrive. Caught between the easy charm and playful magic of Finn and the quiet strength and mysterious gaze of Noah, two brothers who have always been by her side, Molly finds her heart pulled in opposing directions. As ancient spells stir and loyalties are tested, Molly must navigate a treacherous path where one wrong choice could unravel not only her own future, but the very fabric of their magical world. Molly must decide where her true allegiances lie – and which guy holds the key to her destiny.
My thoughts:
1/5 ⭐️
DNF at 19%, I didn’t even get to the ancient spell part. The FMC called the MMCs “brothers” and “siblings” at least 3 times in 6 chapters. I understand wanting to convey that they all grew up together, but there must be better ways of describing childhood friends.
All the characters also felt VERY young, and they were supposed to be in their 20s.
All in all not for me, but looking at the other reviews on NetGalley I’m sure it will find its audience.
The Matcha Maker Cafe by Lily Chen
Summary:
At Matcha Moments, owner Sasha Lee is a star matchmaker, helping customers find love over a smooth cup of matcha. You’d think that as the master she’d be living her fairytale ending, but Sasha is allergic to commitment. With a growing reputation, her successes are challenged when the ‘unmatchable’ Ben walks in – a man who believes he’s too boring for love. As Sasha tries to match him, she slowly finds herself drawn to his quiet charm. As their daily banter becomes the highlight of her day, Sasha must confront the possibility that her own love story might be brewing. Will she embrace the unexpected romance, or let her past fears keep her from true love?
My thoughts:
2/5 ⭐️
The premise and the setting had a lot of potential but unfortunately this just did not work for me. The writing was repetitive and equal parts overly descriptive (in places that it really did not need to be) and not descriptive enough.
The dialogue often felt stilted and the side characters were just annoying. This book being advertised for “BK Borison lovers” (who I absolutely am) felt like a insult to BK if I’m being honest.
Shoutout to small businesses trying to survive in this economy though!
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