Review – What We Broke by Marley Valentine

What We Broke
(standalone)

Publication Date: June 1, 2023

Genre/Tropes: MM Romance/Hurt-Comfort/Second Chance Romance

Author: Marley Valentine

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:
Beautifully crafted heartache wrapped up in a beautiful love story.

Leo is broken, he’s depressed, and he’s circling the drain. His life is clouded in grief and he can’t find a way out of it. His husband, the man he promised to love, and cherish through sickness and health…Leo can’t come to terms with what those vows mean after suffering a major loss.

Jesse is the stability and light between the two of them and wholeheartedly believes in forever after. He knows Leo is suffering, but he also wishes that Leo gave him one moment to allow his own grief to escape. Instead Jesse is the rock for everyone around him and as the rock he can’t break.

From the beginning of the book, Marley writes this story in such a way that Leo always appears to have one foot out the door while Jesse is all in and desperately pulling on both of Leo’s arms to stay. You see, Leo never had faith in himself even from the beginning of their relationship, so he was already half depleted when their world fell apart. So the question stands…how do you find the strength to support your partner when you have nothing left to even support yourself?

Marley wrote, yes, an intense, but meaningful look at the inside of marriage when it’s not all shiny and rose colored, but instead what can happen to two happy people when the unthinkable occurs.

Leo and Jesse suffer a tragedy and together they each battle through their own grief, but in completely different ways. The highs and lows they faced came in waves throughout this story and I was completely engrossed in each part of the story, grasping for answers, and wanting conclucions before the next wave hit. I loved how Marley wove their past and present together interchanging back and forth so I constantly wanted more and more of their story until the very end.

If you love a really good story mixed with heartache, angst, and a tremendous love, than this book is all of that and more.

Synopsis:
If someone asked me to describe our love story, I would only need to use two words.

Before and After.

• • • •

When I met Leonardo Ricci, he was determined I would only be a fling, while I was certain he was my forever.

Seven years later, we’re the perfect couple. Happy, married, and in love-in sickness and health, till death do us part.

At least until the unthinkable happens.

Now we can’t look at each other. We don’t sleep in the same bed. We can’t even be in the same room. The loss is too great and the pain runs too deep.

But this man is the love of my life. I convinced him once, and I would be damned if I couldn’t do it again. I would be damned if I couldn’t fix what we broke.

*please check out marleyvbooks dot com for content warnings related to this book*

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Review – Oblivious by Leslie McAdam

Oblivious; IOU #3
(Interconnected standalone within a series)

Publication Date: June 15, 2023

Genre/Tropes: MM/Friends-to-Lovers/Workplace Romance

Author: Leslie McAdam

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:
I absolutely adore books that are both make-my-heart-melt sweet and make-my-panties-wet steamy. Oblivious hit the spot on both accounts and I’m giving extra props to Leslie because the title was so spot on.😉

August and Noah have been best friends since they were nine years old. Just imaging these two young boys growing up and getting into all kinds of mischief made my heart melt. The pranks they began on one another in childhood continued into adulthood, which led to part of a risqué moment 🔥, but also kept them bonded with true friendship and laughter. August and Noah have something so many of us crave and miss as we get older, a true friend, but Noah also has a secret…he’s been secretly in love with August for pretty much most of his life and once you get a deeper understanding of August I think he’s had the same feelings for Noah, he’s just a tad oblivious to it.

These two men have a true understanding of each other, a partnership at work and even one outside of it. A relationship, if you will, just without the actual label. It’s that label, the romance that’s missing from what they share after all the time they spend together. Literally everyone around them sees it, except for the two of them. Well, mostly August, but Noah isn’t completely blameless either.  They are both oblivious to how the other feels beyond friendship, which is adorable, but also a little frustrating considering they have been friends since they were nine years old. Moving those barriers seems impossible, but not improbable, especially when they are surrounded by wonderful friends and family ready to support them.

How can two people so attuned to one another be so tuned out when it comes to love? Oh these two are just too cute. Watching them fall and then, just like Leslie promises, all…the…proposals ❤️ This book is fantastically perfect 🥰

Synopsis:
My hot best friend has no idea what he’s doing to me.

He sends me naughty texts at the most inappropriate times. He lets me fall asleep on top of him when we watch movies. And his protective side comes out if I dance too close to anyone at our favorite club.

Correct me if I’m wrong, but those are things a boyfriend does. Except August isn’t my boyfriend, he’s my best friend, and those lines are drawn in permanent marker. The one time we tried to cross the boundary between friends and lovers, it failed so spectacularly that we never did it again. So … “friends” is good enough. That’s what I tell myself. Because at least I have him in my life. Without him, I’d be lost.

But after we’re dared to kiss, and that kiss reshapes reality, we agree to be friends who do things with each other. Nakey things.

That makes my life so much better. And so much worse. After all, August doesn’t want to settle down, and he never wants to get married. While I do.

Most importantly, no matter how our relationship changes, he can’t find out I’m desperately in love with him.

Oblivious is a sweet and steamy contemporary m/m romance about best friends who don’t know they’re already dating. Noah and August are always touching, finish each other’s sentences, and bristle whenever the other gets within six feet of a date, but they can’t see what’s crystal clear to everyone else. Oblivious features badly timed schmexy texts, a hot kiss that rocks two men’s universes, and (unofficially, but likely) the highest number of heartfelt marriage proposals in a romance novel ever.

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Review – Crushed But Not Defeated by Nicole Dykes

Crushed But Not Defeated; Spark of Hope #5
(#5 within a series)

Publication Date: May 29, 2023

Genre/Tropes: Forced Proximity/Second Chance/Fake Relationship/MM Romance

Author: Nicole Dykes

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:
Can this series make my heart grow any bigger or beat any faster…after reading this book I can say…yes, yes it can.

Andrew has been a staple from the beginning and he has the biggest, sweetest heart. As a therapist he is already attuned and sensitive to people and their feelings, but sometimes he misses being attuned to his own. While he was the one to come up with the idea to the Spark of Hope meetings and convinced Ben to hold it at his gym, thus being the sort of behind the scenes fairy godmother in a way to the beginning of several happy and successful relationships, Andrew is obvious when it comes to the man who not only helps him out, but also is standing right beside him, pining after him, wanting him desperately, Miles.

Miles is a criminal prosecutor, which is sort of the opposite spectrum of what Andrew does, but personally Miles is a pretty great guy. However, Andrew is still holding a grudge from years ago so whenever these two have been in a room together Andrew instantly prickles up. However, when Andrew needs Miles help, even thought these two have a lot of water under the bridge Miles steps up and and helps. He’s been waiting for the right moment to make things right and this is finally his chance. He’s not about to screw it up.

This book is emotional, steamy, and emotional, yeah I said it again…because not only is it heartfelt, but it’s also the last one in the series. There are special moments with all of the past characters and Andrew has been there for each of them in some small way. Miles was a total surprise, but in the best way possible. These two guys together were really great and as a couple, Nicole saved the best couple for last, in my opinion. I’m going to miss reading about this world.

Synopsis:
Miles
Selfish.
That’s the only way Andrew will ever see me. An abused boy who grew up and became a defense attorney for the rich and famous.
I’ll never forget the look on his face when I told him. The hurt and disgust I saw in his eyes as I stomped all over his dreams.
He left me behind, convincing me he’d hate me forever. Now, circumstances have brought me back into his life. I have one more chance to prove I’m not the man he thinks I am.
I’ll do anything to prove I’m worthy of him.

Andrew
Fixer.
I have been since I was a child, watching my abusive father escape justice, time and time again, and a mother who refused to see his wrongs.
So I grew up to become a therapist, determined to never feel that helpless again.
I swore to make the world a better place, and I had a plan. One I thought I’d execute with my best friend in the world.
Only he had other dreams. He smashed all my hopes in one night, and I’ll never trust him again.
Now I need his help, but I refuse to let him in completely.
He crushed me once, but now, I’m strong and stubborn. I’ll never be defeated.

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Review – Redemption Refused by Marie James

Redemption Refused; Mission Mercenaries #5
(#5 within a series)

Publication Date: June 1, 2023

Genre/Tropes: Dark/Antihero/Mercenary/Small Age Gap/Suspense Romance

Author: Marie James

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:
Redemption Refused revolves around Donavan and Alani. There were peeks of them in the last book and I was salivating to find out the rest of their story in this book.

Donovan is a phoenix, a man reborn from the dark life he had before. He may be the biological brother to Madelene from Bridges Burned, but mentally, emotionally he left that world behind when he lost his first love and the baby she carried. Now he goes by Donovan and works for Angel as a mercenary, only caring about his next paycheck and not necessarily about whoever is attached to it. This attitude carries for a lot of the story and his trauma is very understandable, even when you want to dislike him at times.

Alani is Ayla’s sister from Depravity Delivered, currently attending college and under watch considering what Ayla just went through. Alani could easily be the next target considering it was Angel and the Cerberus’ men who took out everyone and rescued Ayla and Nash (another of Angel’s men) from their imprisonment in Cortez’s $ex trafficking compound. Alani was a mixed bag of emotions for me. I wavered back and forth, ultimately liking her by the end, it just took me awhile, but I’m glad I stayed with it.

Alani doesn’t realize the danger she’s in, but her babysitter, Donovan, to whom she’s been assigned could be just as bad. Their toxic back and forth goes on for months, even with Donovan’s threats that she needs to be more careful with her life. Their pull to one another is unique. Alani seems to keep looking for trouble, mostly as she looks in the shadows for Donovan, but all in all this girl is toxic with a capital T, but Donovan isn’t much better. His world carries demons and he knows he will only bring them to her doorstep. He is no white knight, but is she necessarily looking for one?

I don’t want to call this a slow burn, because all these two seem to do is burn the sheets up…okay, technically there aren’t sheets involved when these two get together, but you’ll get the drift. However, emotional attachment, yeah…completely slow burn between them because both of them have extreme emotional damage, but the end product is well worth the toxic stew these two brew to get there.

While Marie James doesn’t necessarily state that this is the finale, there also isn’t a progression like the other books. There is still one final member of Angel’s mercenary group lingering unattached. I’m going to hold out hope that we get to find out more about him in the future.

Synopsis:

Hooking up with the college freshman I was supposed to keep an eye on was easier than tracking her.

Kidnapping her after that first night was easier than following her around campus.
I’m massive, scarred, and tattooed. I don’t exactly fit in with her crowd.
After the job was done, cutting her loose was the hard part.
Making it through the day without seeing her became impossible.
Some may call it stalking, but I call it vigilance.
She seems invested in this game of cat and mouse we’re playing, but she’s mistaken.
I’m not a toy she can discard when she’s bored.
Trying to get her out of my system may leave us both in pieces.

Catch up on the series – https://amzn.to/41DaPvr

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Review – The Wild and The Free by K. Webster

The Wild; The Wild #1
(#1 within a series)

Publication Date: August 2, 2017

Genre/Tropes: Age Gap/Taboo/Forbidden/Light Suspense Romance

Author: K. Webster

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:
I’ve read forbidden and I’ve read taboo books before, but The Wild dove into the deep end of both with a splash of controversy mixed in and a whole lot of no holds barred in any of those categories. It was a thrill ride I didn’t know I needed until I couldn’t stop reading it and while this book may not be for everyone, I love pushing my reading boundaries, after all it’s fiction and I love the escape it provides.

I’m honestly so glad I had no knowledge about what this book was about before jumping into it. The shock and curiosity of what I was reading was completely my own, with zero bias and I loved experiencing every taboo moment with virgin eyes. It gave me that little extra thrill knowing all the pearl clutchers would be saying a prayer that my wicked soul was reading such a twisted book.

I’ve have seen posts, or referrals in Webster’s newsletter where she’s talked about her banned books, but I’ve never specifically placed exactly which ones she was referring to. I know she loves to push boundaries, its one of the reasons I enjoy reading her books, aside from her excellent writing, but I can see this particular book making that list. Webster surely crafted the plot of The Wild in such a way that I will say it’s by far the most taboo book I’ve ever read and that is saying a lot with everything I do read. However, I loved it and will proudly claim the title of having read a banned book.

Are there questions as to how they truly survived the wilderness…sure, but do I necessarily care…it’s fiction, so ultimately no! I read books all the time that leave me with more questions than answers, but it’s fiction, ultimately I’m there for the love story not how to solve the worlds problems. I loved the tabooness of the underlying conflict. The big controversy that makes this such a forbidden book. That’s the story I wanted to read and I loved it.

Synopsis:
I brought them to the wilderness because we couldn’t cope with our reality.
The plan was to make a new life that didn’t include heartache.

No people. No technology. No interference.
Just us.
A chance to piece together what was broken.

But the wilderness is untamed and harsh.
Brutal and unforgiving.
It doesn’t give a damn about your feelings.

Tragedy lives there too.
No escaping the truths that won’t let you go.

All you can do is survive where love, no matter how beastly, is the only thing you can truly count on.

Confusing. Wrong. Twisted. Beautiful. Sick.

Love is wild.
And we’re going to set it free.

Warning:
The Wild is an extremely taboo story. Most will find that the themes in this book will make you incredibly uncomfortable. This book is only for the brave, the open-minded, and the ones who crave love in even the most dismal of situations. Extreme sexual themes and violence in certain scenes, which could trigger emotional distress, are found in this story. If you are sensitive to heavy taboo themes, then this story is not for you.

The Free; The Wild #2
(#2 within a series)

Publication Date: March 6, 2020

Genre/Tropes: Age Gap/Taboo/Forbidden/Light Suspense Romance

Author: K. Webster

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:
The Free continues in the same environment as The Wild, while it is still is a taboo story, the entire book isn’t quite as controversial as the first one, or is it?

Atticus Knox, appeared in the first book, worried about the situation with Reed and Devon, so you know he’s a man who cares, but he also kept to himself when they both told him butt out. He’s loyal, he cares and he’s a man who will have your back, which is why when Eve, a girl who lives alone in the wild, needs help, Atticus is there to lend a hand. However, his feelings for her are something he can’t turn off even when he does everything to fight them.

Eve is a powerhouse in a tiny little body. The fact that she grew up in the wild, with no formal education doesn’t even cross Atticus’ mind when it comes to his attraction to her, it’s her resilience and fortitude that makes her more attractive. It’s the huge age gap and the fact that she’s so young that he can’t wrap his head around. He fights and fights, which is totally hot, until he breaks and dammmmnnnnn it’s fire!!

The Free is a bit lighter than the first book, but still delves into taboo subjects. I loved exploring the modernized world through Eve’s eyes, and even with all the controversy I’m sure this book stirred up, I loved how this book ended.

Synopsis:
This is Atticus Knox’s book.

He took me from the wilderness.
I was all alone and death was near.
His plan was to heal me and then let me go.
A reprieve from my harsh reality.

Food. Warmth. Safety.
Just us.
It’s temporary and one day I’ll be forced to go home.
But I don’t I want to go back.
I want him to keep me. To tame and love me.

Freeing the wild comes with grave consequences.
He thinks they’ll cage him for being with me.

Our love’s not right.
They won’t understand it.
Forbidden. Immoral. Perverse. Vile.

I don’t care what they think.
It should only matter to us.
We are innocent and beautiful and worthy.

Love is wild.
And we’re going to set it free.

Warning:
The Free is the second book in The Wild Series. It can be read as a stand-alone. If you are sensitive to taboo themes, then this story is not for you.

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Review – A Very Grumpy Father’s Day by Kayley Loring

A Very Grumpy Father’s Day; Very Holiday #3.5
(#3.5 within a series)

Publication Date: June 1, 2023

Genre/Tropes: Novella/Holiday/Romantic Comedy

Author: Kayley Loring

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:
A funny, tender, and oh-my-goodness super, hot novella that takes a peek inside the married lives of Kayley Loring’s first couple in her beloved Very Holiday series. This book is about Declan, Maddie, and their ten month old, Ciara, leading up to and on Father’s Day.

This book is so genuine as it looks at all of the lovely truths that surround the busy lives of both marriage and parenthood. It’s a pull-the-curtains back look into stolen moments between husband and wife as you sneak in kisses between baby naps, or under the shirt gropes while wishing for more, but your baby is playing playing with their blocks right on the floor beside you. While this book brought back lots of memories for me and it’s certainly laughable now reading it through Declan and Maddie’s eyes, I loved how Kayley gave Declan and Maddie their own take on leading up to such a big day, especially for someone with such a big ego like Declan has.

Declan loves his wife and his daughter, there is no doubt about that. However, finding time to actually spend time alone with his wife is nearly impossible. Add in why his daughter suddenly cries whenever he is near and Declan feels like a failure. That’s a no can do for a man such as him. Declan gets things done and I adore his perseverance and the overwhelming love he has for his family. His big ego has always paid off in the past, but this Father’s Day he may need a little help, even from the unlikeliest of places.

This novella is a quick read, but full of family, fun, and fan yourself steamy, hot good times. I loved it and am looking forward to more Very Holiday books!!

Synopsis:
What’s the actual last thing you’d ever want your spouse to see you doing when you’ve been trying to get it on for weeks? Dancing around your baby’s room to “Come and Get Your Love” like Star-Lord in Guardians of the Galaxy—in an Elmo costume? Yeah. Me too.

And yet, here we are.

This isn’t even the most humiliating thing I’ve done lately.

The first was leaving drunk messages when I was out partying with my cousins.

The second was trying to seduce her on the Staten Island Ferry.

The third was so terrible, I’m not even going to tell you about it.

I need to pull it together before the hot, busy, suddenly grumpy mother of my child forgets why she married her sexy, brilliant, occasionally infuriating former boss in the first place.

This is just how it goes for the men in my family… We get knocked down…but we get up again.

And nothing’s ever going to keep me down when it comes to my wife.

* PLEASE NOTE: This 35,000-word novella is a follow-up to A VERY BOSSY CHRISTMAS by Kayley Loring! You will probably enjoy it more if you’ve already read A VERY BOSSY CHRISTMAS. Or you might enjoy it even less, who knows?! Kayley doesn’t know anything, she just writes stuff.

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Review – Liars Like Us by J.T. Geissinger

Liars Like Us; Morally Gray #1
(#1 within a series)

Publication Date: May 25, 2023

Genre/Tropes: Antihero/Billionaire//Marriage of Convenience/Contemporary Romance

Author: J.T. Geissinger

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:
Liars Like Us is a book I couldn’t put down once I started. It’s filled with tons of steam and a great moments that made me laugh out loud. Plus, to put the decadent cherry on this delicious cake, Callum McCord is intense, fascinating, and an obsessive billionaire that I completely fell for.

Emery’s life is falling apart around her. The bookstore that her father began is on the brink of closing, her rent is increasing, and that is just the beginning of her problems. Emery has no idea how to dig herself out of the hole she’s in, but when a mysterious billionaire offers to basically solve her problems, Emery begins to wonder if she’s on a reality show waiting for the punch line because mysterious men offering to be her white knight is not her reality. Emery is super sassy, with a huge heart for those in her close circle. She makes this book a ton of fun to read and that is only part of why I loved it.

Liars Like Us is witty and drenched in a ton of intrigue. Callum rolls into Emery’s life under this cloud of mystery and only gives Emery bits and pieces of his life that is pertinent to the right now. He dishes her only what he needs to and mostly it is centered around his urgent need of why he needs her in his life. Callum never expands beyond the present and he’s very good at changing direction or distracting Emery so she doesn’t notice until later that she actually doesn’t know him at all. I will say though in either her defense or perhaps in opposition, either way, Emery is super sassy and never wanted to listen, but as the story progressed, there was purpose to the enigmatic Callum and his distraction was intent-full. He wanted to wait to give answers to Emery at the exact right time, like I said…he’s full of mystery.

The book is told completely from Emery’s point of view, which also helped keep Callum in his cloud of intrigue. She is super sarcastic and never failed to speak her mind, and I loved her sassy wit, which is one of the things that drew Callum to her as well. While instantly being drawn to him, her sense held him at bay, but what else do you do when a billionaire propositions you and life seems to point at all signs of saying yes?

Synopsis:
A young woman on the verge of bankruptcy.
A mysterious billionaire with an offer that will change her life.
An obsession so powerful, it could destroy them both.

Sex
Lies
Secrets
Passion

What Callum McCord wants, he takes.
No matter what he has to do to get it.

~~~~~~~~~~

Author’s note: Liars Like Us is a standalone marriage of convenience romance with an obsessive & possessive morally gray hero and spicy bedroom scenes intended for mature readers only.

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Review – Brutal Days by Isla Vaughn

Brutal Days; Hidden Valley Elite #3
(#3 within a series, #1 within a duet)

Publication Date: May 25, 2023

Genre/Tropes: New Adult/Enemies-to-Lovers/Sports/Opposites Attract Romance

Author: Isla Vaughn

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:
Pure fire and steam! Damon and Sky have volcanic attraction that dripped off the page with their raging intensity that I can only refer to as steamy, emotional turbulence.

Sky will do anything to help her best friend, Gia, achieve her four point goal list before senior year ends. The list includes things like losing her v-card and becoming prom queen, which is a huge feat considering Gia is basically a nobody, something Sky enjoys about being her friend, but suddenly changes with this list.

What does all of this mean in the grand sceme of the plot….well, helping Gia suddenly means letting Damon Savage have access to what he desperately wants…her.

Sky hates everything about the Elites and athletes. She holds nothing back when it comes to speaking her mind, especially to Damon. Probably to most people the animosity in Sky turns them away, but instead the constant back and forth heat between them is like catnip to his twisted mind.

Damon can’t get enough of the girl who literally wants nothing to do with him. He enters into a bargain just to get what he wants…her.

This book was pure fire🔥! The tangled web that the two of them weave was addictive to read. It was, grab a bucket of popcorn and watch the destruction unravel worthy. I loved it!!!

Synopsis:

No sacrifice is too big.
No secret too small.
I’m out to win, and I don’t even know the game.

My opponents? They’re the Academy’s football stars, gods among their peers, and I want nothing to do with them.
But I’m stuck on a mission to help out a friend, and keeping my distance shouldn’t be too hard.
That’s when Damon Savage walks in, looking like he stepped out of a magazine, and worse—my friend wants him… and I’m the one who has to play matchmaker.
I’m tangled in a web of lies, and only I can set myself free.

There’s only one problem with my plan… Damon’s determination to bend me to his will and my dark desires to let him.

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Review – An Armored Heart by R.C. Boldt

An Armored Heart
(standalone)

Publication Date: May 23, 2023

Genre/Tropes: Contemporary/Opposites Attract/Fake Dating/Millionaire Romance

Author: R.C. Boldt

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:
This book melted my heart and brought tears of absolute joy to my eyes by the very end. I swooned, I laughed, and I fell hard for the “Tin Man”.

Ella Marchetti is a total spitfire and I LOVED her!!! Her comebacks and tenacity were utterly fantastic! Agreeing to fake date Steele Cunningham to save her family restaurant gave her gumption and nerves of steel to face Mr. Cunningham’s family and mean spirited ex-girlfriend. Ella had me giggling hysterically with all of her amazing jabs and quips. She is top quality, BFF girlfriend material. 💗

Steele was in a whirlwind of basically not knowing what to do the moment Ella stepped into his office. Yes, he came off all aloof and cold, a tin man as Ella called him, but once his armored heart starts to unclink, he becomes defenseless against her wit and snark. I too was helpless, like Ella, and fell for the man with the cold, tin heart.

The battle of wills, not to mention the agreement they have in place, ramps up the chemistry between these two and makes for one very heart pounding and steamy read. Plus, I was totally fanning myself, and needed several change of panties while reading because Mr. Cunningham is one hot, dirty talker. 🔥🔥

This book is crazy good! Funny, emotional, wicked hot, with a great plot from start to finish.

Synopsis:
RULE #1: Do NOT catch feelings for the man who doesn’t believe in love.

Four months. That’s how long I’ll need to pretend to be Steele Cunningham’s doting girlfriend.

I agreed to this insanity only to save my restaurant. He’s doing it because he needs someone outside his “social circle” to stick it to his meddling parents and clingy ex.

Ruthless and emotionless in both his personal life and his career, Steele’s ego rivals his net worth.

Operating on joy and positivity—and a healthy bit of feistiness—I challenge him at every step.

He’s a tin man—heartless and cold. Falling for him would be a colossal mistake, because there’s no chance he’ll ever love me.

He can’t.

After all, he’s the man with an armored heart.

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Review – Scoring the Player by Rebecca Jenshak

Scoring the Player; Campus Wallflower #3
(standalone within a series)

Publication Date: May 23, 2023

Genre/Tropes: New Adult/Sports/Opposites Attract/Fake Dating Romance

Author: Rebecca Jenshak

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:
Super sweet and kind of dreamy new addition to the Wallflower Valley U series.

Is it fake when it always felt real? Don’t ask Felix and Dahlia their opinion on this matter as they completely faked themselves out when they both agreed to this plan to avoid lots of real feelings.

While they both jump in and agreed to the terms of a fake relationship, their relationship was anything but. To the outside eye, no one would have guessed that they weren’t actually boyfriend and girlfriend. Even Felix’s sisters couldn’t tell his relationship wasn’t real…sooooo, just who were these two pretending for? That’s a question I’ll leave for the reader to discover.

What was lovely though, Felix and Dahlia had a very easy friendship. There was nothing fake or forced about it. Yes, at first Dahlia was a little shy around him, but once she opened up her word vomit actually intrigued him.

Like Felix, Dahlia is as athlete, she was extremely busy with school, golf tournaments and her future career as a fashion designer. Boys had never really factored into her plans, but with Felix now in the mix they made it work because he had the same crazy schedule. It was actually nice to talk to someone who understood the pressure they both shared.

Felix had never had a girl to share anything with or even close to what he felt in his daily life and having Dahlia to talk to was what he enjoyed most, aside to the intimacy it created. She opened up a whole new world to him.

Their relationship was easy, with a slow burn, but also with great chemistry. It’s low drama except for what they themselves created, cause you know…fake relationship and all….everyone sees what they don’t. 😉 It’s a great addition to this sweet series.

Synopsis:
Valley U’s hottest QB has heard in detail how I want to climb him like a tree.
One viral video and my life as a wallflower is over.
Felix Walters knows exactly how I feel about him—so does everyone else on campus.
It was supposed to be a private conversation between friends.
Now I’m the butt of every joke and everywhere I turn all eyes are on me.
It’s every shy girl’s nightmare.
Except now the hottest guy on campus wants to be my fake boyfriend.
Six weeks. Just pretend.
I’m a wallflower fake dating Valley U’s hottest player.

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Review – Neutral Zone by Teagan Hunter

Neutral Zone; Comets #7
(standalone within a series)

Publication Date: May 18, 2023

Genre/Tropes: Contemporary/Sports/Opposites Attract Romance

Author: Teagan Hunter

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:
Big, tough hockey player who is shy, blushes, and is a little bit naughty…oh my, Fitz, you completely stole my heart.

Rosie is sweet, tough, and also a bit of a hot mess, but she is the kryptonite to Fitz’s voyeuristic tendencies and I totally loved her character. Rosie is the salty to Fitz’s sweet which made a perfect blend, both in and out of the bedroom, for this new couple in the Comets world.

Fitz’s duality of shy guy and aggressive hockey player was incredibly endearing. His down home, raised by his mama right, sweet side is toothacheingly nice. And speaking of teeth- or missing one in particular- Rosie is enamored by Fitz’s toothless smile. Yeah, these two are just too cute.

Now, let’s talk about his naughty side. The one he keeps to himself, sort of. Rosie plays a big part in his fantasy kink and I love this side of both Fitz and Rosie. Talk about empowerment to both of them. 😍

This book is truly the best of both adorable and naughty. I loved this continual mash up that walked the line along with lots of moments where the other couples popped up or stopped in to give advice to this blushing or tongue tied couple.

Neutral Zone is both seriously cute and hot all wrapped into one book.

Synopsis:
To my fans, I’m known as Ivan Fitzgerald.
To my teammates, I’m just Fitz.
And to the girl I’ve been talking to online, I’m ShootsAndScores.

There’s no doubt in my mind that the woman on the other side of the screen is completely out of my league. Why wouldn’t she be? Sure, I’m a professional hockey player, but that doesn’t mean anything when I’m shy and awkward in the most basic social situations and she’s a fiery vixen who oozes sex appeal.

No matter how badly I want her, I can’t have her. Because the woman I love watching so much? The one I might be slowly falling for?

She’s not just some stranger on the internet. It’s Rosie, the woman who serves me coffee and donuts every morning.

And she has no clue it’s me.

👨 a shy hockey player
👩🏼 A strong curvy heroine
📱 Touch of an online romance
🏒 Hockey hotties
🔥 Slow burn but WORTH IT!
🤣 Lots and lots of fun banter
💕 Light angst

NEUTRAL ZONE is a standalone sports romance novel. It features a hot, toothless hockey player, a curvy woman who is confident in her body, lots of fun banter, and STEAM!

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Review – Omega and Love by K. Webster

Omega and Love; Part #2
(#2 within a series)

Publication Date: July 2015, Re-vamped May 15, 2023

Genre/Tropes: Supernatural/Second Chance Love/Paranormal Romance

Author: K. Webster

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:
Welcome to the inferno! Love can make you do crazy things and Omega and Lovenia or Love proved this theory.

I originally wasn’t a huge fan of this couple in the first book, but by the end of this book…Omega and Love completely won me over. I was a snotty, teary mess who fell in love with no only them, but also some very special new secondary characters.

This story was another beautiful book about faith, hope, and the biggest thing we all need to lean on which is love. Did I mention the big, fat tears that rolled down my face…no joke…Jes and his observation deck…the entire concept-it is a beautiful picture that stole my breath as emotions leaked all over my face.

Who is this Jes? Well…he’s great and I loved how his character was portrayed. That’s all I’m going to say.

While Omega and Love had a lot to fight for, their love, their very souls, this book really is about the people in your life that you love. I adored how Webster pieced this story together to slowly open up each character where I fell in love with them page by page instead of all at once because these two people needed that time to really tell their story and it made it that much more powerful by the end.

This book really should be read after Alpha and Omega for the best reading enjoyment.

Synopsis:
They now call me a Leviathan. A monster.
And maybe I am.
I know one soul who believes that with every part of his being.
If only he knew the truth.
If only I could make him see that I’m more than the surface of lies I spin. That I’m more than someone out for their own gain. I wish he could see—know who I was before all of this. The person I desperately cling on to that is still inside of me. The person I must protect.
One day I hope to hand him the key to the fortress that is my heart.
I just hope he doesn’t give up on Love and throw it all away…
***
I hate Love.
***
I’m looking at her.
There’s an innocence to her that she keeps carefully hidden.
But I see it.
Inside of her is someone that she has revealed to no one.
Not even me when I once thought we were in love.
Of course now I know that was all a farce but still, she hid that even from me.
But not now—now, I see more.

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Review – Alpha and Omega by K. Webster

Alpha and Omega; Part One
(#1 within a series)

Publication Date: February 2015, Re-vamped May 15, 2023

Genre/Tropes: Supernatural/Star Crossed Lovers/Paranormal Romance

Author: K. Webster

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:
This story hit me in all the feels and even days after finishing it I can’t stop talking about it.

It’s an other worldly book containing supernatural angels and demons and a story that revolves around destiny and hope. By the very last page my heart was ready to burst with ALL of the emotions!!

I still sit here in awe of the beauty of this book even days after finishing it; lost in the absolute wonder of the supernatural mixed with the raw emotions, and the deep felt love and connection between Lark and Alpha. It made for a mesmerizing read. My heart burst with every emotion possible!

Webster’s talent for drawing me into her worlds never ceases to amaze me. I was enthralled right from the start and finished this book within just a few hours. Alpha and Larks story is one of heartbreak, friendship, soulmates, and redemption. It’s a story like I’ve never read and I loved every page of it.

I realize the thought of the afterlife or the supernatural isn’t a subject for everyone, but perhaps if you get to know it through the eyes of Lark and Alpha it could affect you as much as it did me.

This book was basically Wow, Wow, Wow and one I know I won’t forget anytime soon.

Synopsis:
One smile. One damn beautiful smile infected my heart and soul with such a force that I nearly exploded. All hopes of afterlife and the eagerness to leave this one vanished with that one handsome smile.
Thump.
My heart gave one painful thud and began beating for the first time in its life.
And then he spoke. The beautiful smile had an even more beautiful voice. And with each word, each joke, and, eventually, each touch, I intertwined my soul so intricately with his that I never had a chance of letting go. I fell in love. And suddenly, life wasn’t long enough.
***
‘Til Death.
***
This is bad. But oh so good. The first kiss we shared was a glimpse into her soul. Her past. Her pain. This kiss is yet another glimpse into her soul. This time, fire and heat. And me.
The thought of her in eternal, torturous agony sends rage swirling in my veins. She can’t die. She can’t go to Hell. It doesn’t make sense. Then a dark thought enters my mind. I’ll protect her. Forever.

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Review – You Will Bow by Rachel Leigh

You Will Bow; Wicked Boys of BCU #2
(#2 within a series)

Publication Date: May 19, 2023

Genre/Tropes: New Adult/Dark/Bully/Reverse Harem/Secret Society/Suspense Romance

Author: Rachel Leigh

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:
Ridge, Maddox, Lev, and Riley pick right back up in this intense and very steamy second book. I couldn’t set the book down once I picked it up, loving every word in this fast moving story.

Lev was fascinating and everything I was hoping for in his original lack of empathetic character. His growth and change, that he attributed to Riley, was fascinating to read. Not only was he was brutal and callus, but he was exactly what Riley needed even when she didn’t understand why she needed it at first.

Riley already has a relationship going with Maddox, who is the perfect boyfriend in every way possible, but once Riley gets pulled into Lev’s orbit she soon realizes that she needs the dark edginess of Lev to talk to her dark side, to help expunge her demons. It doesn’t mean she likes Maddox any less, she still needs his light side, she’s just needs them both.

Then we have Ridge…the beautiful, crazy, and insanely obsessed Ridge and I love his deep intensity. He loves without limits and says exactly what’s on his mind. Yes, can be off putting, or a tad much as it freaks out Riley, but as she’s learning, his passion is also really great and she misses his presence when he’s not stalking her or even right by her side.

This book focuses a lot on the relationship between the three guys’ long standing friendship as they figure out how a love can work between them and Riley. The suspenseful, fast moving plot is still moving around all of this steaminess and it’s filled with suspense and heat and chemistry galore! I can’t wait to find out what happens in the next book.

Synopsis:

My first year at college has been anything but ordinary.

After spending so much energy trying to protect my secret, I failed to realize it’s not the past I need to fear—It’s my future that’s at stake.

I’ve finally found someone who doesn’t judge me for my sins and stays by my side while I trudge through the shadowy corners of my past.

The only problem is, his friends have other plans.

One watches me day and night—painting a picture of a disturbed life together.

And the other is hanging my secret over my head as leverage to aid in his own scheme.

But everyone has a weakness, and that weakness will be mine.

There once was a sicko

who watched me day and night.

His invisible leash,

never let me out of his sight.

His friends were unlike him,

one a monster I feared.

The other bled crimson,

with a heart that was pure.

The series needs to be read in order for the best reading enjoyment.

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Review – I’ll Always Be With You by Monica Murphy

I’ll Always Be With You; Lancaster Prep #4
(standalone within a series)

Publication Date: May 18, 2023

Genre/Tropes: New Adult/Enemies-to-Lovers/Sports/Billionaire/Academy Romance

Author: Monica Murphy

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:

From the very first chapter I was hooked, I melted, and I was ready to give my heart away to West Fontaine. I give this book ALL the stars!!

West Fontaine is drawn to Carolina Lancaster while on holiday in Europe. It was a chance run-in, considering they are both are US citizens and they met in a club in Paris. Carolina has never attended the school her family owns and West is currently the top dog considering no Lancaster is currently attending Lancaster Prep. Their meeting sets off a chain of events that seem like fate…perhaps, but I love this story of serendipity and West is now one of my favorite book boyfriends.

Weston Fontaine may have had a few moments throughout the story where he was riding the ego train and I wanted to put him in a serious timeout, but, be still my heart…West didn’t ride that train for long. It was easy to forget that both West and Carolina were only eighteen and both seniors in high school. Their life experiences both aged them in a lot of ways, but Murphy was great in circling back and grounding us, the reader, to flush out those moments reminding us just how young they both were.

While West had his moments where he thought he was ready to knock Carolina Lancaster down from the proverbial tower that she lived in, he really wore his emotions on his sleeve. Carolina, although closed off and cold to basically everyone, she was her true self when she was with West. These two were melty, ooohy-gooey, with the right amount of angst, goodness that I love reading in Murphy’s new adult books. Their back and forth was page-turning and I was so wrapped up in West and Carolina’s story that I never wanted to leave. Yes, it was that good. Completely heartbreakingly wonderful!!

Synopsis:

Pre-order the new novel in the highly addictive Lancaster Prep series . . .

Weston Fontaine is the hottest senior at Lancaster Prep.

And he knows it.

He’s gorgeous. Confident. Smart.

Too smart.

Everyone loves him. He could have any girl on campus, except for one.

Me.

I’m a Lancaster, meaning I’m basically untouchable–or so I thought. It’s my family who owns this God forsaken private school that I don’t want to attend. But according to my parents, I have to endure my senior year at Lancaster Prep before I can return to what I love the most: ballet.

West doesn’t make my time here easy. He’s arrogant. Crude. Insufferable. He torments me in the worst way, to the point that I can’t stand him. Yet he’s the only boy I’ve ever let touch me…

You see, West and I? We share a secret. On a hot summer night in Paris, we hooked up. And I never do that. Ever. I revealed parts of myself to him I’ve never shown anyone else. He’s seen me at my most vulnerable. I told him my secrets. And he told me his. In Paris, he was sexy. Protective. Even dare I say…sweet.

Now he’s the villain in my story, yet I can’t help but chase after that feeling only West can give me. Despite our hatred for each other, we somehow burn brighter when we’re together. So what happens when you helplessly fall for the one person you know is bad for you?

If you’re like me, you go ahead and fall for him anyway.

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Review – Court of Nightmares by K.A. Knight

Court of Nightmares
(standalone)

Publication Date: May 12, 2023

Genre/Tropes: Paranormal/Reverse Harem/Royal/Dark Romance

Author: K.A. Knight

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:
A wickedly good, twisted, and intense vampyr novel. Knight has created a deeply flushed out world with rich emotions and dark passions. It’s not for the faint of heart, but for those who love why choose and dark fantasy this is a no brainer!

Althea was born from one of the most powerful seerer vampyr’s ever to live. While Althea herself doesn’t seem to possess that particular gift, she herself is destined for something greater. Without giving the plot away, Althea ends up basically banished from the court where she grew up and ends up in the hands of the Court of Nightmares. A place that is only spoken about in whispers, thought to be a myth, but as Althea discovers it is very real.

In the Court of Nightmares Althea finds seven of the most beautiful and powerful vampyrs she’s ever meet or heard about; Nathair, Osis, Azul, Lycus, Reve, Conall, and Zale. Each has their own special power (something unique that blends paras like I’ve never read before) and they all have their own story as to how they came to be part of the court.

As Althea learns about each of the Kings, their love, bond, and friendship grew stronger with each heart gripping moment. As I read I experienced moments of pure joy and also moments where tears gathered in my eyes. The Kings personal stories were all very moving.

Now let me tell you about all the nekky times…

This book is spicy knocked up 1000 degrees!! It’s also gory and intense mixed in with all kinds of spice. I mean they are vampyrs so that sort of goes hand in hand, but there were a few parts that even made me cringe, but it wasn’t until Althea actually proclaimed loving her monsters that I had an Aha moment! I didn’t realize I had stepped into this realm, but in for a penny and all that…However, I confess that my cringe had to do with my own phobias revolving around certain insects or is it bugs…whatever the case may be it’s a totally a me issue and I just read with my eyes closed. 😂 But the rest of the time I was reading with my eyes wide open because it was HOT!!🔥🔥

On another note, I am constantly amazed with any writer who can do a why choose book with so many peens because I had to have a notebook on who was who until I really nailed down their unique characteristics, but even then…brava to Althea on keeping up with so many men. I’d be exhausted and want to sleep for days with seven men constantly at me!! Don’t even get me started on doing their laundry…😂

Synopsis:

There are many things that go bump in the night, and I am one of them.

As a vampyr who was born to fulfill a prophecy, my life was planned before I was created. I obeyed every rule, and I became the perfect vampyr, but one night changed everything.

Rejected by the man who was destined for me, who was supposed to love me forever, I do the only thing I can, I flee…

Into the night, nursing my broken heart.

Being a rejected mate corrupts the soul, however, and in this game of Courts and Kings, nobody wins.

Nobody except the monsters in the shadows.

The monsters that save me, welcome me, and make me one of them.

Welcome to the Court of Nightmares, where all your wicked dreams come true.

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Review – Lace Vengeance by Eve Dangerfield

Lace Vengeance; Snow White #3
(#3 within a series)

Publication Date: May 9, 2023

Genre/Tropes: Trilogy/Reverse Harem/Midnight Dynasty/Mafia/Dark Fairytale Romance

Author: Eve Dangerfield

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:
January and her four men all return in the final twisted Snow White book filled with a ton of steamy passion and great twists and turns.

A year had passed since the last book and January has blossomed from the young naive girl she once was into a woman with an identity of her own. Working as a bartender in a stripclub that is owned by the Velvet House she feels more independent, is secure in her relationships with all four men, and is safe knowing she never has to see Mr. Parker ever again.

Or does she?

January’s stepmother, Corinne Whitehall, is everything that evil step-monsters embody. When that woman reappears a ripple effect begins, but truth be told, it just makes the story juicier and ripe with tension while everyone is left wondering what will happen next. Everyone knows that Corinne’s presence is never good news and all of January’s men will do anything to protect the woman they love.

This book is intensely hot, full of twists, that left me right on the edge of my seat. I still went back and forth on choosing my favorite guy, although I still love Doc’s crazy something fierce and Eli’s steadfast consistently is something to treasure as well. I’m not sure what that says about me and the two opposite extremes, but I love the other two trapped right in the middle as well. Hence, why choose is always a favorite of mine.

Lace Vengeance and the Snow White trilogy is an excellent addition to the Midnight Dynasty series along with the perfect steamy read for why choose fans.

Synopsis:
Once upon a time I had everything. Four perfect husbands, a gorgeous home, a shining future. I was the princess of Velvet House. The beloved jewel of the men I love.

My heart understood this perfect snapshot could not last. My evil stepmother conspires with my twisted ex-fiancé, watching for me in the darkness.

They won’t rest until my life is ashes.

My men vow to protect me, but when the nightmare falls, they are put in chains. I stand alone and alone I must seek vengeance for my lovers…

To become the queen I was born to be.

LACE VENGEANCE is book three in the SNOW WHITE trilogy. This is a scorching romance between a woman and four beautifully dangerous men in which she never has to choose.

Welcome to the Midnight Dynasty… The warring Morelli and Constantine families have enough bad blood to fill an ocean, and their brand new stories will be told by your favorite dangerous romance authors.

WARNING: This book is intended for readers eighteen years old and over. It contains material that some readers could find disturbing. Enter at your own risk…

The series should be read in order for the best reading enjoyment:

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Review – The Sneak Peak by Victoria Wilder

The Sneak Peak; Subtitle #3
(standalone within a series)

Publication Date: May 12, 2023

Genre/Tropes: Age Gap/Single Dad/Friends to Lovers Romance

Author: Victoria Wilder

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:
A lovely friends to lovers story with well written real life issues and experiences.

Michael Riggs is a single father of two six year old twins, Sammy and Miles. An adorable boy and girl who light up the pages. Gracie has had a long term crush on Michael for years, but luckily has been able to keep it in check while being his best friend.

They sort of work together, she’s a physical therapist and Michael’s family owns a sports company where many high caliber athletes train, hence these two spend a lot of time together both in and outside of work.

They know pretty much everything about one another, including Michael’s several case of anxiety, which Grace handles like a pro. She’s been there when Michael needs someone- whether it’s with his overwhelming panic attacks, or when he needs a hand with his kids. In fact, if it wasn’t for the line that he’d set between them years before Gracie would probably already be more in their lives, but instead she’s there whenever and however she can.

Grace has had a huge crush on Michael since she was a teenager and while Michael may be twelve years her senior and already a father of two, that has never held her feelings back.

When Grace finally sets down the gauntlet on moving forward or staying friendzoned, that line that Michael drew years ago begins to blur. He doesn’t want to take away anything from her by cutting off any of her youthful choices, but he also doesn’t want to lose her.

Michael suffers from terrible anxiety and I love how the author writes about his condition and how he seeks treatment for it. It was never brushed under the rug or glossed over.

Gracie is definitely the sunshiny one of the couple, which is cute. Seeing her with Michael’s kids is adorable and then watching her with him is just down right steamy. The dirty talk and nekky times…oh my…these two are hot!

This was my first book by Victoria Wilder and it was a very enjoyable read.

Synopsis:
My Best Friend. Young. Tempting.

She bid on me at my company’s charity auction and won. Back then, she was too young, with hearts in her eyes and her whole life ahead of her. That’s how we started, and after all this time, she’s become my best friend.

Being a single dad of twins and running Colorado’s most successful summer sports company requires control and focus. Both of which are slipping through my fingers.

I just crashed her date and watched her kiss another man. The whole time her eyes were on me.

Now, she’s living in my house, nannying my kids for the summer, and saying she wants to “explore” things that drip with the kind of filthy curiosity that I crave.

I don’t want her to have anyone else, but I know it’ll change us if I take what I want. And, if we destroy our friendship, it’ll ruin me. Or worse, end up breaking my kid’s hearts and hers.

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Review – Wicked As Secrets by Shayla Black

Wicked As Secrets; Matt & Madison #1, Wicked & Devoted #7
(#7 within a series, #1 within a duet)

Publication Date: May 16, 2023

Genre/Tropes: Duet/BDSM/Suspense/Second Chance/Forbidden Romance

Author: Shayla Black

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:
Heart-pounding action and lots of steamy chemistry from the very start of this book!! I loved every moment of it!!

Matt Montgomery and Madison Archer-Pershing had one hot and heavy weekend three years ago and then sadly Madison married someone else. Now after witnessing something horrific and life changing, her husband is after her because of what she saw and with no where else to turn she goes to the one person she can think of…Matt.

I loved returning to this world A LOT!! Yes, there were updates from past characters, which was amazing, but this book also felt brand new. It wasn’t overwhelming for a new reader to get lost and it was exactly the right amount of reunion for a fan like me.

I’ve read Shayla for years, along with other books that covered the D/s lifestyle. I can’t stress enough how much I loved how this particular book that made stepping into this world feel like new again. What Shayla gives us, as readers, is brilliant for anyone new to reading this series, or new to reading about this topic, or even a refresher course for fans. Let me explain, Matt has always felt this burning desire to basically possess and dominate Madison when he was near her, even when he didn’t use those words. It was what basically scared him away three years ago. While he is aware of his friends being in the lifestyle, he never really knew what that meant. Now that Madison has come back into his life those feelings are back tenfold and then add in the savage need of saving her life. Matt is finally introduced to what his feelings mean and how to channel it. His vitality and need for Madison…wow…I was constantly fanning myself. I would want Matt in my corner anytime of the day.

Now, the whopper of a cliffhanger….my mouth was hanging wide open and I need the next book immediately!!

Synopsis:
He’ll do anything to protect her from danger…but it will cost her everything.

Security specialist Matt Montgomery has never forgotten—or forgiven—Madison Archer for walking away and ripping out his heart. Three years later, she crashes back into his life, terrified that her wealthy husband is trying to kill her. Matt vows to protect Madison…but there’s a price. He’ll have revenge by making her submit to his every sexual demand.

Part of a powerful, ruthless political dynasty, Madison’s soon-to-be ex has deep, dark secrets. When uncovering them nearly proves fatal, she turns to the one man she knows can protect her—the lover she’s never been able to forget. Matt’s ultimatum is both shocking and intoxicating. But if she wants to keep herself and her ailing father alive, he’s her only option.

As the danger escalates, so do Madison and Matt’s feelings. But navigating their rocky past while trying to stay one step ahead of her deadly husband proves perilous. Will their forbidden love survive the danger and give them a second chance at happiness?

**Wicked as Secrets is part of the Wicked Lovers: Soldiers for Hire romantic suspense series. Stories in this series are told in a duet of two full-length novels. Each duet can be read as a standalone. Includes strong language, sexy times, alpha male attitude, and a guaranteed happily ever after. Enjoy!**

❤️‍🔥 Bodyguard
❤️‍🔥 Danger
❤️‍🔥 Forbidden Love
❤️‍🔥 Forced Proximity
❤️‍🔥 Former Military Security Team
❤️‍🔥 Lovers Reunited
❤️‍🔥 Second Chance Romance
❤️‍🔥 OG Wicked Lovers cameos!

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Review – Save One Thing by Julia Wolf

Save One Thing; Savage Academy #1
(#1 within a series)

Publication Date: May 11, 2023

Genre/Tropes: New Adult/Sports/Academy Romance

Author: Julia Wolf 

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:
What a beautiful and heartfelt book!! Julia Wolf has once again captivated me by her soul deep, intense, and all encompassing characters. I was completely blown away.

Who would have guessed that Julien’s little brother, Beckett Savage, would have stolen the number one spot that Julien currently held. However, it shouldn’t have been a total surprise because there is something about those brothers that hits me hard and just like his older brother, Beckett blew me out of the water. I couldn’t help falling for each and every moment he was on the page and of how hard he loved or of how deeply devoted he was to Luciana.

Luciana Ortega is the younger sister to Helen. This is Luciana’s senior year at Savage Academy and for some reason she seems to be running into Beckett everywhere she turns. Yes, she knows who he is, his brother is friends with her sister, but luckily she hasn’t run into him much in her prior years since she began attending there. Luciana doesn’t date and she especially doesn’t date rich, entitled guys. Beckett Savage screams all of that. However, Beckett seems to be everywhere she turns and it doesn’t take long for him to burrow under her skin and to find out just how long she’s been burrowed under his.

Save One Thing is deeply touching. A book I don’t get the pleasure of reading often. These two are closer in so many ways and I couldn’t stop turning the pages because I was so engrossed in their story. Their story was mesmerizing and honestly quite beautiful. Save One Thing is a story that is magnetizing and brilliantly written.

I can’t wait to return and see what couple could possibly be next. This new series is now wrapped around my heart and I’m sooooo ready to return!!

Synopsis:
I have one simple rule: no boyfriends until graduation.

I’m too close to my goal of landing a full ride to college to get distracted now.

Besides, I blend in better at the skate park than I do in the hallowed halls of Savage Academy, boarding school for the rich and overprivileged, so staying away from guys hasn’t been a problem…

Until him.

Beckett Savage. Coldly handsome. Forever brooding. I thought he hated me. His attempt to get me expelled two years ago would leave that impression on anyone.

But lately, Beckett isn’t acting like he hates me.

He’s watching me with his icy blue eyes, showing up everywhere I go, and getting between me and any other guy who dares to look at me.

When he lets me see beneath his untouchable veneer, I’m shocked at what I find.

Suddenly, my one simple rule is becoming complicated.

Giving in to my feelings for Beckett Savage could either be the beginning of something great…or the end of everything I’ve worked for.

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Review – Iced Out by Veronica Eden

Iced Out; Heston U Hotshots #1
(#1 within a series)

Publication Date: May 8, 2023

Genre/Tropes: New Adult/Sports/Brother’s Nemesis Romance

Author: Veronica Eden

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:
There is something so sweet, so endearing about a boy who falls head over heels in love for the very first time.

Easton Blake is no stranger to heat between the sheets, but when it comes to matters of the heart he’s a total newbie and reading every moment of his fall was the icing on this amazingly beautifully written cake.

Maya Donnelly is a bit of a hellcat, but in truly the best ways for Easton. She doesn’t instantly fall at his feet, she makes him work for every moment to be with her. She is the reason he finds his big beautiful heart, to be the perfect man for her. Together they are total couple goals.

The story isn’t high angst, instead it’s the perfect love story. The kind that makes you smile and gives you huge butterflies in your chest while reading it. I couldn’t have loved it more.

I’m sooooo on board with this entire series especially knowing that this is the first book. My heart is soaring with so much love for Heston U.

Synopsis:
From USA Today bestselling author Veronica Eden comes an all-new college sports romance series.

Meet a new group of college friends and fall for these irresistible, sexy hockey player heroes and their swoonworthy love stories with their matches off the ice.

Dancing on bartops means the night is going great. Exiting the bar hauled over the shoulder of Heston University’s infamous hockey captain? Not my idea of a good time.

But my would-be knight would have to do. I needed an escape route from my brother…his biggest rival.

Easton Blake is the perfect reminder of why I avoid hockey players.

Cocky.
Frustratingly sexy.
Accustomed to every girl in his orbit falling for his charm.

With his sultry smile that tells me he knows all the ways to make girls come undone with his touch, I’m almost the next score on his stats. Except I have no time for distractions when I’m focused on graduating early. Gaining Easton’s attention wasn’t part of my plans. Of course, from the moment he catches me shaking my assets on the bar, he decides I’m his next goal.

Instead of sticking to my own rules, I do something I shouldn’t: I dare him to try.

Easton’s never met a challenge he wouldn’t accept. He makes it clear he won’t be iced out without convincing me to give him a chance.

I swore off hockey players for a reason. Can I risk making the same mistake again?

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Review – Sinful Kingdom by Tracy Lorraine

Sinful Kingdom; Sinful Trilogy #3
(#3 within the trilogy, #18 within the series)

Publication Date: April 27, 2023

Genre/Tropes: Trilogy/New Adult/Dark/Mafia/Suspense Romance

Author: Tracy Lorraine

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:
This is the final book in Alex and Evie’s trilogy, not to mention this is the final book in one of the most all consuming, heart-pounding, and amazing series that Lorraine has written to date.

Sinful Kingdom did not disappoint for one single moment. Sweet, beautiful Alex was put through the wringer and all of my emotions went on a rollercoaster ride with him as well.

Alex and his mum, be still my heart.

Alex with Zay, my heart about burst.

Alex with Evie , my heart overflowed and melted on the spot.

I’ve said it before, but Alex was so worth the wait. He stole my heart and I don’t want it back.

Saving the best for last has been no joke when it comes to this book or even for this final trilogy. Am I sad to see it all come to an end…definitely! It’s been an awesome ride, but there have been some bread crumbs sprinkled throughout that make me believe these Knights may pop up here and there when their help is needed. Call me excited for future books with any interconnected ties, I will be there with my heart wide open for more panty stealers.

Synopsis:
USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Tracy Lorraine brings you the final instalment of her dark mafia, high school romance story set in the Knight’s Ridge Empire world.

Everything I thought I knew was a lie.

And the notion that I was safe and protected is shattered with every step I run.

Much like Alex, this world is a wolf dressed in sheep’s clothing.

Beautiful, breathtaking.

Until…

Dear Readers,

Sinful Kingdom is the conclusion to Alex and Evie’s trilogy and the final couple in my Knight’s Ridge Empire series. This book is a dark forbidden bully romance that contains mature content and demanding alphaholes that some readers may find disturbing. You have been warned.

This is the final book in a trilogy and cannot be read as a standalone.

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Review – The Blood We Crave Part 2 by Monty Jay

The Blood We Crave Part 2; Hollow Boys #4
(#2 of a duet, #4 within a series)

Publication Date: April 28, 2023

Genre/Tropes: Book Duet/Antihero/New Adult/Dark/Suspense/Intrigue Romance

Author: Monty Jay

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:
The Blood We Crave, part one, was a fascinating, spine-tingling book, but part two was darkly devine and even more engrossing than the first half!

Thatcher Pierson is still one of the most brutally fascinating characters I’ve ever read. I’d say I’m just as obsessed with him as Lyra is.

Thatcher is cold, sharp, and deeply depraved, devoid of emotions, except where Lyra is concerned. She snuck into his crevices weaving her color and light, but also intriguing him with her own side of darkness.

As it turns out, Thatcher is just as obsessed with Lyra as she is with him. They are two broken halves that make up one dark soul, as their mindsets on so many things touch on a soul-deep and unbreakable level.

“The world is changed because you are made of midnights and crimson. The curves of your lips rewrite my purpose. -T.”

Lyra, she too is quite the specimen. While she may try to hide under her bright clothes and odd personality, being with Thatcher unleashed her inner psycho. She can’t really hide from a man like Thatcher, nor does he want her to. She is just as embedded under his skin as he is under hers.

They both see one another beyond their masks and therein lies what makes up their unique love. It’s beautiful in a very dark way, which is totally why I love these books.

The ever evolving plot of solving the mystery of who is behind what is happening in Ponderosa Springs continues in this book. The suspense that has driven higher with each book thickens as the stakes have never been more dire since three of the four guys now have more to lose.

I am in total awe of how this series has wrapped me up, from the very beginning, in all the mystery, blood, and depravity that I love to read and now can’t seem to get enough of. I am hooked!!

Synopsis:

Will obsession be enough?

I’d always believed my love was enough to save him. To protect him.

I was wrong.

The Copycat killer gets closer every day, and I can’t help but feel his every move is in my direction.

With dead ends around every curve and bodies piling up, it seems our time is running out.

They took him from me. Stole the last bit of light and left him empty.

Now, it’s not only the Hollow Boys who are seeking revenge.

I’m out for blood. A war path for vengeance.

They wanted a villain?

I’ll give them one.

This is part two and needs to be read after book one.

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Review – 6 Clues Your Nemesis Loves You by Kelly Siskind

6 Clues Your Nemesis Loves You; Bower Boys #3
(#3 within a series)

Publication Date: May 3, 2023

Genre/Tropes: Romcom/Small Town/Enemies to Lovers/Second Chance Romance

Author: Kelly Siskind

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:
I have loved this series from the beginning and each Bower brother just gets better and better.

I always love a good enemies to lovers story, so it’s no wonder I fell in love with this book.

Maggie Edelstein and Lennon Bower were sweet, they made me laugh, and they set the pages on fire with their slow, flirtatious burn.

I am so in love with how this book had me laughing hysterically like a hyena one minute and then completely swooning the next. The rollercoaster of emotions were totally all of the best ones.

Lennon is soooo over the top on basically everything…I loved him! He can take a good ribbing just as much as he dishes it out, which is hysterical. His good nature made him extremely easy to fall for, so that even his nemesis came off with this easy breezy vibe.

While he and Maggie worked on being friends before jumping into something more, their chemistry always boiled and since this is told completely from his POV it all comes down to – Lennon is just a ton of fun to read.

Synopsis:
Enemies spark in this Bower Boys romance full of banter, sizzling heat, second chances, and small-town charm.

In high school, Maggie Edelstein set the rules of our secret relationship, but I’m calling the shots now. In my dreams.

Maggie’s still infuriating and confusing, and absolutely stunning. She’s also still pretending we barely spent time together as teens, when we met up nightly at her family’s pond.

Over a decade later, I’m back in my hometown and some things haven’t changed. My chemistry with Maggie is once again hotter than a four-alarm fire, and she’s intent on denying it. I don’t blame her. The last night we saw each other I made a horrible mistake and hurt her, then I vanished into witness protection for ten years.

But there’s something else going on with her.

I recognize a secret when I see one, and her friends say she doesn’t do commitment. If I can get her to forgive me and open up, maybe she’ll break her rules and give us a second chance. Or she’ll light my heart on fire and dance around the flames…

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Review – Break the Girl by Rachel Jonas and Nikki Thorne

Break the Girl; Savage Kings of Bradwyn U #1
(#1 within a series)

Publication Date: April 28, 2023

Genre/Tropes: Reverse Harem/New Adult/Bully/Fraternity/Antihero/Intrigue/Dark Romance

Author: Rachel Jonas and Nikki Thorne

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:
A brand new world filled with Savage boys and a fierce girl who fights back just as hard. Once I picked up this delicious, dark filled book, I couldn’t set it down. It’s filled with mystery, darkness, and hot men with issues, check, check, and check please! Then add in an amazing girl who gave back as good as she got…I couldn’t stop turning the pages. I love a heroine that doesn’t lie down and take what’s dished out to her, withering away waiting to be rescued. So huge check to the yes!!

Stevie Heron is searching for clues…I won’t say exactly to what to give anything away, but it sets a target on her back when she does. This target is placed by three guys; Micah, Vince and Ashton. Three guys who all belong to The Brotherhood, a fraternity of sorts, but more than that, these three guys have a longer history of shared trauma and darkness that binds them closer than even college would.

Just a little overview of who these three boys are; They all have a little bit of psycho living under their facade, some more than the others. They all play hockey, but that part of their persona is all off book, however it helps in knowing they are big, fit and have a bit of rage to their personalities. These three are close and have been through a lot, but it comes out as the story progresses, keeping the mystery and allure to not only the book, but also to each guy, so I will keep that anything else about them close to my chest as well. Sorry, not sorry.

When Micah, Vince, and Ash meet and get closer to Stevie, darkness understands darkness and more than they ever would have guessed, things begin to change between them. Hate morphs into something that’s not hate and it throws all of them for a loop. Stevie is a girl that may fit into their world, but does she want to?

With so many twists and turns, dark moments and chemistry through the roof, this jump into a brand new world is intoxicating. Especially with the cliffhanger at the end…I can hardly wait for more!!

Synopsis:
Everyone knows not to cross the campus d-bags. On or off the ice.

You don’t sneak into their house, thinking no one’s watching. You don’t ransack their bedrooms, tripping over hockey gear as you rummage through their things. And you definitely don’t get caught with your head under one’s bed and your size-sixteen backside pointed right at their camera.

Unless, of course… you’re me.

I was so desperate to get my hands on their brotherhood’s Book of Sins that I did all the above. I was in search of proof that could incriminate Tate, my soon-to-be stepbrother and former member of the frat. But not only do I come up empty, I’ve now unknowingly invited three shadows to darken my world.

The most broken and twisted of them all—Micah, Vince, and Ash.

They promise no one has to know I trespassed on their territory. My secret is safe with them, safe from the others, but there’s a cost.

Their silence for my freedom.

I’ll be theirs to control, to own—these sick devils with perfect smiles masking their cold hearts. And if I can’t find a way to beat them at their game… they’ll break my world and my soul into a million tiny pieces.

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Review – Savage Truth by Isla Vaughn

Savage Truth; Hidden Valley Elite #2
(#2 within a series)

Publication Date: April 27, 2023

Genre/Tropes: Duet/New Adult/Enemies to Lovers/Bully/Suspense Romance

Author: Ilsa Vaughn

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:
The second half of this duet is smexy and full of high stakes.

Cole and Riley pick up right where they left off in Savage Lies, with lots of tension and lots of angst. While these two still have a ton of back and forth, because let’s face it they love to push each other’s buttons more than anyone else, but this time their chemistry finally explodes into some steamy, nekky times too. Once those clothes come off, it’s hard to separate lies from truth, but the suspense gets higher once Riley’s past comes calling. If you thought Cole was OTT before, that pushes his buttons even further.

It may sound crazy, but I loved that Riley is a never sit down and take it kind of girl, even at the worst of times. She never gives up, even when all seems dire. Her spirit is what makes their relationship work, because who else could handle Cole…honestly.

I’m looking forward to reading who’s next because these guys have had an emotional time and any girl who comes along is going to need a strong backbone.

Synopsis:
Rejected by a teenage god.
Lies so dangerous our lives are at stake.
A game worth playing.

Cole Savage doesn’t hate anyone as much as he hates me… or the fact that he wants me just as much.

We all have issues, and the less he knows about me, the better. I just have to keep him unbalanced, which is harder than I thought it would be.

Yeah, he wants me.
But I want him just as much.
And that’s a secret I’ll kill over.

Until I overhear Cole saying “she’s not my type.”
Game on, pretty boy.
Because the kiss that seared me to my core told a different story.

Let’s see how tall and proud he walks when I put him in his place—which is hands-off of me.

Savage Truth is an enemies-to-lovers, new adult, high school bully romance with plenty of angst, heat, and a HEA. This is the conclusion of Savage lies, and Riley and Cole’s duet. This book contains mature content that some readers may find disturbing.

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Review – Unexpected Bliss by Lexi Blake writing as Sophie Oak

Unexpected Bliss ; Nights In Bliss #13
(#13 within a series)

Publication Date: May 9, 2023

Genre/Tropes: MFM/Suspense/Intrigue/Small Town Romance

Author: Lexi Blake writing as Sophie Oak

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:
Unexpected Bliss is a book about love, friendship, and finding your home within the people you love.

Elisa Leal heads to Bliss looking for her father, Mel Hughes, the beloved beet lover, all knowing alien aficionado. She is also debating the possibility of starting her life over. A recent survivor of breast cancer and with her career in the military now behind her she’s hoping that once she meets her father, she’ll get some direction. She never expected to get that direction when she meet Hale and Van.

Van is the little brother of Jake Dean. Yes, THE Jake who is married to the romance writer, Serena and the intelligence software developer, Adam. One of the few guys who drives Ian Taggart crazy and I love it! So, Van and his best friend, Hale, have been around a menage relationship for years, making Bliss a very normal place for them to experience.

Elise came to meet her father, Mel for the first time on her life and she’s hoping to stay. While she didn’t plan on meeting more than just her father, she can hardly ignore the two men she’s highly attracted to. The entire town of Bliss is a new experience and it’s cute to enjoy the eye opening moments along with her as she understands whats happening around her.

The same goes for Hale and Van. They’ve been best friends for over a decade and basically finish each others sentences. As they change and blossom in Bliss it’s adorable. They both want Elise, but Van has his own reservations since he’s not sure about his future, which causes tension between everyone, and Hale has his own reservations only because he’s never made a move without his best friend. Hale is so sweetly adorable, especially since he takes a ton of advice from Max, yes, Max!! Can this book get any sweeter? I loved it!!

Van is such an interesting character, actually Hale is too. They definitely complete one another in the very best ways that best friends can. I loved them both equally and together with Elisa they make a really great throuple. The give and take, push and pull between all three of them was perfect.

The entire town of Bliss rallies around these three; Max, Gemma, Nate, Zane, Stef, Mel and so many other beloved characters all step in to give advice and they genuinely want want what’s best for Van, Hale, and Elise and to stay in town.

Unexpected Bliss couldn’t have been a better title for returning to Bliss, Colorado. While neither Hale, Van, nor Elisa grew up there, they felt right at home among the people who lived there. Just as Van has a thought at one point, it’s “Bliss normal”, which really means, it’s the perfect place for the un-normal. Slightly weird or misfits, certainly polyamorous, slightly different…then Bliss is the perfect place for you. I loved it!!

Lastly, the dedication Lexi writes makes me cry every single time. I look forward to that just as much as I do the story. This new book was beautiful, it was therapy, it was also coming home to family. I began reading Bliss stories a long time ago and not only did Sophie Oak restart my reading desire again, especially when I was a tired mother of young children, but she opened up new worlds and passions. Sophie Oak who I later learned was Lexi Blake, all of her characters soon became family members. I crave diving back in and revisting no matter which world I’m reading. She never fails to make me laugh, bring me to tears, and she always squeezes my heart with so much joy. I look forward to each and every release.

Synopsis:
Elisa Leal is looking for some joy in her life. Years of tragedy and struggle took their toll, and now she is searching for new connections to raise her spirits. When she discovers proof that her biological father is alive, she decides to find him and make contact. Her quest leads her to the small town of Bliss, Colorado, and the strangest man she’s ever met—Mel Hughes. He believes in aliens and sasquatch conspiracies, but he’s also kind of awesome. And there might be even more in Bliss to make her smile.

Sylvan Dean and Hale Galloway have enjoyed wandering their way through life, always in motion. Always searching for the woman who could make their life complete. Living in Bliss made them realize it’s time to settle down. Van’s finally going to college and has a job lined up with his brother when he finishes. That job is in Dallas, and while Hale is happy for Van, he can’t imagine leaving Bliss behind. It feels like everything is coming apart until they meet Elisa. She’s the one they have been searching for, and she is worth the wait.

The future looks bright until the guys’ past comes back to haunt them. Danger lurks in every corner, but it may not be the biggest threat to their happily ever after. The citizens of Bliss know how to handle a killer, but handling Elisa, Van, and Hale might require some cosmic intervention.

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Review – Saving the Single Dad by Ashley Muñoz

Saving the Single Dad; Mount Macon #3
(Standalone within an interconnected series)

Publication Date: April 27, 2023

Genre/Tropes: Contemporary/Close Proximity/Nanny-Single Dad/Small Town/Age-Gap Romance

Author: Ashley Muñoz

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:
OH MY HEART!!! Haley, Liam, AND Maddy, Mila, and Seraph (because their family wouldn’t be complete without those precious children) completely melted my heart, made me cry so many times, and made me feel a part of something so precious…it was like being part of their family.

The story begins with a brief look at Haley as a young teen and the lonely childhood she had (broke my heart). Fast forward to the present and she turned that loneliness into a kind heart with a sharp mind who is the absolute best person to step into Liam’s life to look after his children. The moment when Haley talks to Maddy about how not everyone is cut out to be a mom…yeah, I needed serious tissues 😭 Sometimes having a garbage mom means you are the best fit because you can relate and you ultimately know what not to do.

So many feels. 😭🥰

Haley may have her doubts, but she never voices them, but instead tackles hardship head on and loves with her whole heart. Those girls become her entire world and it’s only seconday that she falls for their father.

Be still my heart. It stole Liam’s too. Someone who loved his girls as much as he did. Someone who put his girls first. He didn’t stand a chance against Haley.

Liam Croft owns a gym, a logical choice after his boxing days, but it was about go under if he doesn’t get some financial help. While he took up Haley’s offer to watch his children, he was too prideful to take anything else.

You see, Haley may be young, but she’s a shrewd business woman and is the one who helped her brother out when his business needed it, but Liam refuses to go down that path with her. As he sees it, Haley can nanny his kids, rearrange his home, but his business is just that, his business. How can he be the man in her life if she’s supporting everything in it?

Could Liam’s pride be the end to their new family? Cue the tears…

Both Liam’s and Haley’s stories have been building since Liam is best friends with Colson and Haley is Colson’s sister. Colson and Nora just had their HEA where Haley actually begins watching Maddy, Mila, and Seraph, but this book also reads as a standalone quite nicely, even though both couples make appearances in this story too.

Saving the Single Dad is emotional, super steamy, and absolute-heart-melting perfection!!

Synopsis:
Being a nanny for three little girls who belong to a grumpy boxing legend was not on my list of plans when I followed my brother to Macon, Oregon.

But the three little girls stole my heart instantly and their dad…well, we worked out a deal.

One that I shouldn’t have asked for.

One he shouldn’t have agreed to…

This is Book Three in the Mount Macon series.

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Review – A Shot of Pretty Poison #3 by Kelsey Clayton

A Shot of Pretty Poison; Pretty Poison #3
(#3 within a series)

Publication Date: April 13, 2023

Genre/Tropes: Trilogy/New Adult/Brother’s Best Friend/Sports/Intrigue/Second Chance Romance

Author: Kelsey Clayton

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:
With intrigue around every corner and second chance romance at stake this final book in the trilogy was intense!

Hayes Wilder is broken, absolutely broken through most of this book, but I can’t blame him. Not only did the love of his life disappear, but he’s struggling with huge life hits coming at him left and right so keeping his spirits high isn’t easy.

Even after his wife reappeared in his life it’s not like Hayes could instantly turn back on all of his feelings, or probably more accurately turn off every insecurity, doubt, trust issue, or panic attack over if Laiken could leave him again. Hayes grew up in a broken home so his issues on relationships were already jaded, so when Laiken left she took his views and shattered them to pieces.

While part of this book is searching for answers, it’s also about rebuilding a broken trust between these two people.

Yes, Laiken may have left to save Hayes after one of the worst nights of her life, but she wasn’t off living a grandiose life. She was barely keeping her head above water, drowning in her decision to leave. The only thing keeping her afloat if that Hayes is safe and her decision has kept him moving forward and living his dream.

Unfortunately, these two don’t realize that their dreams are really with each other and until they figure out how to move forward from their past, they won’t solve who is threatening everything and everyone they love in time.

This final book is a page turning mystery wrapped around a heart breaking love story and it’s so very good.

This entire trilogy has been a touching, emotional, and mind-blowing story from start to finish.

Synopsis:

I can still taste her on my lips, lingering there like a shot of pretty poison.I should hate her for what she did. No one would blame me for it—not even her brother. The pain I felt that day ripped me apart until all that remained was the shell of the man I used to be. And now I’m left to lie in the aftermath.

I should hate her for what she did. No one would blame me for it—not even her brother. The pain I felt that day ripped me apart until all that remained was the shell of the man I used to be. And now I’m left to lie in the aftermath.

Devastating news has my life spiraling further out of control. If I don’t get a handle on it, I could end up losing it all. But nothing cuts deeper than the shards of a broken heart, and the scars that won’t fade make it hard for me to care.

Everything changed for us when tragedy struck. The events of that night still haunt all of our dreams. We think the darkest moments are behind us, leaving a black stain on our past, until we realize that this nightmare is far from over.

Someone is out there who knows our secrets and gets off on risking the lives of those I love most. You can’t trust anyone, especially when your enemies crave the taste of revenge, but we’re not going down without a fight.

I’ll burn the world to the ground before I let anyone hurt her—even if she’s responsible for hurting me

This is a full-length novel and the final book in a trilogy. It cannot be read as a standalone. This book contains sensitive topics that may not be suitable for all readers. If needed, you can find a list of trigger warnings on Kelsey Clayton’s website. Please read safely.

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Review – Defender by Nicole Dykes

Defender; Kensley Panthers #3
(Standalone within a series)

Publication Date: April 17, 2023

Genre/Tropes: New Adult/MM/Opposites Attract/Grumpy-Sunshine/Small Town Romance

Author: Nicole Dykes

Review Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Review/Synopsis:

Review:
Oakley Easton is one of those characters who just make you smile. His fun loving attitude and sunshiny chill vibe is infectious and the fact that Travis is the complete opposite of him on every vibe or wavelength just made this story better.

Oakley’s main goal is for everyone around him to have fun. The fact that Travis doesn’t makes it basically Oakley’s personal mission. This book is sweet, while also super steamy and it’s never once malicious which made this a really great read.

While a friendship between Oakley and Travis would seem inevitable; they went to school together, their best friends are a couple, and now they work together, it was not a given, but Oakley wasn’t going to take a no much to Travis’ kicking and rolling his eyes at first. Luckily Oakley is persistent.

I truly love Oakley’s big, huge heart in everything he does. There is this big openness to him that makes him so loveable. I really, really loved him.

Travis may be grumpy, but he’s not exactly living the life he was dreaming about. Living small town life and working in landscaping is not his ideal, but when Oakley breaks down some of his walls that idealistic life of his begins to change.

I loved these two together and how they made one another better. A really great book.

Synopsis:
Travis Wyatt
All I’ve ever wanted was to go to college and get out of Kensley. That small town is all I’ve ever known. I want to be free to be myself, not stifled by small minds in the football-loving town where I grew up.
And then I blew my one and only chance.
So now, I’m just stuck. Stuck in small-town life, with the same small-town people I’ve always known. Stuck where I don’t want to be. Constantly on the defense and hiding secrets about myself. To never be the real me.
I’m lost, and I’m angry. But those people I was desperate to get away from, they don’t stop. They insist on showing me that maybe it’s not about my location.
That maybe I can be free right where I am.

Oakley Easton
Travis is way too uptight. I don’t know why. He has everything a guy could want—a steady job and friends who would do anything for him. A great simple, small-town life. But I guess that’s not what he wants.
He’s always been different. Better. Smarter. Stronger.
Still, I find myself wanting to show him everything he’s dreamed of is within his grasp. That he doesn’t have to be so serious all the time. That he can be himself wherever he is, and I’ll back him up.
Because that’s what I’m good at—on and off the field. I’ll always be his defender.
If he’d only let me.

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