MM romance novels have had a resurgence and deviation from the MM rom-com BS that Red White & Royal Blue created and I'm loving it. Even though RWRB wMM romance novels have had a resurgence and deviation from the MM rom-com BS that Red White & Royal Blue created and I'm loving it. Even though RWRB wasn't my favorite novel ever, I appreciated it bringing MM Romance to mainstream fiction. That being said, it watered down a lot of the MM romance novels that I've been wanting to read (fade to black, ridiculous heteronormative dating styles, etc.). Jordan Clayden-Lewis' new novel, WHEN THINGS HAPPEN TOGETHER breaks away from that mold and I'm so happy to see it doing its own thing. I don't want to dive into specifics about the synopsis because its a romance novel, figure it out. However, this book dives into depression, violence, drugs, and provides the explicit graphic steam I expect coming from MM romance novels. This fast-paced book can be read in one sitting, trust me I did it myself! Jordan Clayden-Lewis has now gotten my attention and I can't wait until his next novel.
Books like When Things Happen Together remind me of real gay relationships. My relationship with my husband is not reflected in this book, but our journey has followed a path I wouldn't see in the MM romance rom-coms I've read in this past. I want more stories like When Things Happen Together moving forward.
Merged review:
MM romance novels have had a resurgence and deviation from the MM rom-com BS that Red White & Royal Blue created and I'm loving it. Even though RWRB wasn't my favorite novel ever, I appreciated it bringing MM Romance to mainstream fiction. That being said, it watered down a lot of the MM romance novels that I've been wanting to read (fade to black, ridiculous heteronormative dating styles, etc.). Jordan Clayden-Lewis' new novel, WHEN THINGS HAPPEN TOGETHER breaks away from that mold and I'm so happy to see it doing its own thing. I don't want to dive into specifics about the synopsis because its a romance novel, figure it out. However, this book dives into depression, violence, drugs, and provides the explicit graphic steam I expect coming from MM romance novels. This fast-paced book can be read in one sitting, trust me I did it myself! Jordan Clayden-Lewis has now gotten my attention and I can't wait until his next novel.
Books like When Things Happen Together remind me of real gay relationships. My relationship with my husband is not reflected in this book, but our journey has followed a path I wouldn't see in the MM romance rom-coms I've read in this past. I want more stories like When Things Happen Together moving forward....more
Everyone has been saying to me that I need to read Freida McFadden's THE HOUSEMAID for months and I completely ignored them. I was wrong. Yo4.5 stars!
Everyone has been saying to me that I need to read Freida McFadden's THE HOUSEMAID for months and I completely ignored them. I was wrong. You need to read this book. The story centers around a young woman named Millie and her journey with becoming the housekeeper for the uber wealthy Winchester family. Millie has a dark past and really needs this job, but she has no idea what she's signing up for with the Winchester family. The matriarch, Nina Winchester, is a total monster and Millie must learn how to navigate this problematic woman at any cost. She can't go back to where she was. However, when Millie realizes that something sinister is at play, what can she do to survive?
This book is incredibly fun! It's fun, fast, and juicy in every way. Do not read ANY spoilers and honestly, don't even read the synopsis. Just go in knowing nothing and you will be SO HAPPY you did. I did take a half star off because I did figure out how the story was going to go, but it does NOT take away from how flippin fun this book is. I absolutely loved it and I finished this book in one sitting. The accolades for this book hold true. YOU MUST READ THIS BOOK! I'm hearing a sequel is coming out in February and I cannot wait until to read it!...more
ON THE SAVAGE SIDE is such a powerful, heartbreaking, and dark story involving two sisters鈥擜rcade (Arc) and Daffodil (Daffy), who grow up in a poor neON THE SAVAGE SIDE is such a powerful, heartbreaking, and dark story involving two sisters鈥擜rcade (Arc) and Daffodil (Daffy), who grow up in a poor neighborhood in Ohio. Both daughters are livewires with dreams of a future for their own, however with a widowed drug addicted prostitute mother, they have been handed a life that they don鈥檛 deserve. The two sisters grow up in a severely traumatic and emotional environment that triggered me immensely (major trigger warnings!) and left me shaken to my core. The synopsis talks about how this book dives into the Chillicothe Six (the six women murdered by a local serial killer), but the messaging through the eyes of Arc and Daffy are so much more profound. This book is an incredible (albeit too long) and will stay with me for a long time. ...more
I have to admit, ANON PLS. by @deuxmoi was not at the top of my TBR list because I ultimately didn't think she had a lot to say, especially because I I have to admit, ANON PLS. by @deuxmoi was not at the top of my TBR list because I ultimately didn't think she had a lot to say, especially because I felt that this debut was going to be loosely based off the formation of the pop cultural phenomenon she manages on Instagram. However, @emilybookedup is a bookstagrammer who I highly respect and when she tells you to read it, YOU READ IT!
This book focuses on Cricket Lopez, an assistant to a popular celebrity stylist who has a reputation that isn't the most favorable in the fashion industry. Feeling stuck, Cricket reignites an old style instagram account and turns it into a celebrity gossip page while drinking with friends. After a successful night of attention, DeuxMoi continues to blow up even farther than Cricket ever expected. However, keeping her identity a secret is more important than ever while she leaks celebrity gossip for millions of viewers. What could go wrong with this plan and is this venture worth the path she's always had for herself?
This book was juicy AF! That's basically my review right there. As mentioned above, this book is based off the inception of DeuxMoi so I just kept trying to piece who is who and what is what when it comes to the story. You can totally tell who is who (Duke?! You already know...), but there's many I had no clue. I didn't think I'd be a fan of this book, but ANON PLS. really hooked me in. If I can enjoy the fast paced celeb gossip, just imagine what fans of the account will say when reading this book. Honestly, this book was a very pleasant surprise and I definitely recommend it if you need something unique and fun. ...more
I've never read anything by Tess Stimson before, but her latest novel, THE NEW HOUSE, is a great read for anyone who likes psychological thrillers. InI've never read anything by Tess Stimson before, but her latest novel, THE NEW HOUSE, is a great read for anyone who likes psychological thrillers. In the vein of Lisa Jewell and Shari Lapena, Stimson has crafted an awesome slow burn suspense novel. The synopsis is vague on purpose鈥攖his book is not just about a glass house and realtors. Usually, I like to binge read psychological thrillers, but this book did an amazing job building the suspense slowly that I wanted to savor every bite. There's a bit of fluff in the story that made it longer than it needed to be, however, it really captivated the build up perfectly. I kind of saw how it was playing out, but that doesn't mean that I wasn't entertained. This book is definitely recommended for anyone who wants a unique psychological thriller. Sorry, I'm keeping it vague on purpose out of respect for the publisher's synopsis. ...more
The Writing Retreat is Julia Bartz' debut novel, coming out February 2023, and if you've heard the name before that's because she's sisters with thrilThe Writing Retreat is Julia Bartz' debut novel, coming out February 2023, and if you've heard the name before that's because she's sisters with thriler author Andrea Bartz. I was really excited to pick up The Writing Retreat for two reasons, one being that I'm hearing SO MUCH BUZZ about this book already, and second because I wanted to compare sisters since I'm dramatic. Both sisters write compelling mysteries and I'm actually shocked that this book is a debut.
The story focuses on a book within a book narrative, which I usually despise, but Bartz pulls this storyline together effortlessly. As the mystery begins to evolve, people begin to disappear, and sinister acts are being performed by the powers at be (I'm purposely being vague here so read the synopsis if you want to be spoiled), our protagonist Alex begins to uncover a major secret within this small group of authors. A secret that people would kill to protect.
The Writing Retreat is a slow building suspense novel, with very subtle social commentaries that I found very intriguing. You have never, and most likely never will again, read a book like The Writing Retreat....more
Glitterland was originally self published years ago by Alexis Hall, but thankfully @sourcebookscasa is rereleasing it January 2023. The story has multGlitterland was originally self published years ago by Alexis Hall, but thankfully @sourcebookscasa is rereleasing it January 2023. The story has multiple triggers (swipe to the next page if you'd like to know) and it is NOT a romantic comedy. I love when MM romance is dark and NOT funny, sorry I just do. The story focuses on author, Ash Winters and his journey through bipolar disorder and depression while trying to live his life and have a sex life. Ash is haunted by his traumatic past, specifically a breakdown that has led him into utter despair. However, things change immediately once he meets Darian Taylor at a bachelor party for his friend Max. Darian is from Essex (so prepare for the writing in Darian's voice to be exactly that鈥攚hile reading, I was hearing it exactly as an Essex accent, but can be difficult to understand at first), spray tanned, a model, and nothing like Ash. After the two have a one-night stand, the complexities between the two lead to begin to grow. Ash has a lot of baggage and Darian is the complete opposite of him in every way, but can the two actually be more than just friends with benefits?
THIS BOOK WAS INCREDIBLE. I actually teared at one point! Coming from someone who struggles with mental health and always felt that I wasn't worthy of love prior to meeting my husband, this book was meant for me. I read this book in two sittings because I just couldn't put it down. No wonder why Sourcebooks Casablanca is rereleasing this book because GLITTERLAND is the best Alexis Hall book I've ever read. This book will be my auto-recommendation to any readers who want a serious MM romance without the comedy and with explicit and graphic STEAM ...more
Beautifully set up but I think I'm too brainless to enjoy the dense writing.Beautifully set up but I think I'm too brainless to enjoy the dense writing....more
Kimberly Belle really is a domestic thriller queen. All of her books are a fun time, whether this genre is for you or not, you know when picking up heKimberly Belle really is a domestic thriller queen. All of her books are a fun time, whether this genre is for you or not, you know when picking up her books that you will be entertained. I really enjoyed Kimberly Belle's upcoming popcorn thriller / domestic suspense novel, THE PERSONAL ASSISTANT. This book dives into the world of influencers and social media with the domestic suspense you've grown to love from Belle's books. I won't give you a synopsis of this book, because the publisher really tells you all you need to know. I loved the dynamics between Alex, mommy-blogger, and her husband Patrick while dealing with a social media crisis. Alex's social media has spurred outrage and controversy for the entire family (my worst nightmare, but also my dream), with each member having to figure out how they're going to forge ahead. I thought the storyline was great for a popcorn thriller and fun ride, but really let yourselves enjoy this one. Don't play detective and let the chaos envelope you. Kimberly Belle has become a staple in my thriller reads and THE PERSONAL ASSISTANT just continues to cement her in this genre....more
This is one messed up family saga. One thing I love about John Marrs is that he always brings originality to every book he鈥檚 ever released. I鈥檝e read This is one messed up family saga. One thing I love about John Marrs is that he always brings originality to every book he鈥檚 ever released. I鈥檝e read a few of his books so far and each one feels so completely different in the best way possible. With Marrs鈥� latest novel, KEEP IT IN THE FAMILY, the story focuses on Finn and Mia, a couple purchasing a fixer-upper to finally call their own. After living with Finn鈥檚 parents, Debbie and Dave, the couple is ready for their new chapter. Almost immediately after purchasing this home, Mia discovers she鈥檚 pregnant and finds a chilling message saying 鈥淚 WILL SAVE THEM FROM THE ATTIC.鈥� This house is hiding secrets, and you鈥檒l never see it coming!
This book follows the domestic thriller / psychological suspense formula you鈥檇 come to expect with those types of books, but it鈥檚 also a completely wild and outrageous ride. This book is dark and oozes suspense and it was a completely different expectation I had when starting this book. If you like Karin Slaughter and old school Ruth Ware, KEEP IT IN THE FAMILY will be your type of book....more
THE BUTCHER AND THE WREN is completely bonkers in the best way. I should've known that true crime podcaster Alaina Urquhart would be the mastermind foTHE BUTCHER AND THE WREN is completely bonkers in the best way. I should've known that true crime podcaster Alaina Urquhart would be the mastermind for this graphic, fast-paced procedural. At around 250 pages, we are given a a very fast glimpse into the world of a serial killer lurking in the shadows in the Louisiana bayou. The killer is methodical, intelligence, and completely twisted. Emotionally manipulative and sinister in every way, this serial killer has been able to avoid police apprehensive for a long time. That is, until forensic pathologist Dr. Wren Miller begins to investigate the similarities between the cases she's been assigned. Wren starts piecing together the puzzle between the killer's victims and decides she's the best candidate to help find this killer.
Like I mentioned previously, the book isn't that long, so I won't go further. Just know that this book really showcases body horror in ways that are captivating and cringeworthy. This book is a complete whirlwind of emotions, so just prepare before diving in! We don't get a lot of "meat" in this book, so you're right in the action from the first chapter. I finished this book in one sitting and just know that I'll be in a book slump because nothing will be as fast-paced as this book. If you want a shorter horror procedural that is similar to Meg Gardiner's UNSUB (book 1 of the series), I would highly recommend picking this book up. If you really just want crime and chaos, this is your book for sure....more
I'm not sure if me not remembering anything about The Scarlet Letter helped or hindered me with this book, but for a retelling, I was pleasantly surprI'm not sure if me not remembering anything about The Scarlet Letter helped or hindered me with this book, but for a retelling, I was pleasantly surprised. Usually I despise retellings and it wasn't until after I picked it up that I was told it was a feminist retelling of The Scarlet Letter. The story centers around a young seamstress, Isobel Gamble, and her emigration from Scotland to Salem. Isobel is soon deserted by her husband after joining a ship in the New World as a medic, with no money and forced to figure out her own path. After meeting Nathanial Hawthorne, the two get closer and more romantically involved. What's the worst that could happen?
This book is a complete atmospheric read in every way. That being said, the slow build up once you get about 25% in doesn't move faster until the very end. The early chapters of this book really enrich the story's exposition and I was so ready to see what happens, but then it takes way too long for a build up. I enjoyed the spin on Nathaniel Hawhorne's character and I also enjoyed how beautifully set everything is. Although Hester is definitely leaning towards one of my more enjoyable retelling reads, it further proves that retellings are just not for me. ...more
To think I almost skipped this book because I hate the cover! I've never read anything from Deanna Raybourn, but I definitely know who she is. I belieTo think I almost skipped this book because I hate the cover! I've never read anything from Deanna Raybourn, but I definitely know who she is. I believe that KILLERS OF A CERTAIN AGE is her first contemporary thriller, but I could be mistaken. Regardless, this book was fast and fun, with great character development. Without going too much into the synopsis, this book dives into a world with a secret organization and highly-skilled assassins. These assassins are now in the age of retirement and are celebrating on an all-expenses paid vacation on a cruise. However, once they realize that they're being targeted by the Museum, the same organization they've worked for, the group knows that they have to take matters in their own hands.
Like I mentioned, this book is fast and fun, but it also dives into a demographic that pop culture soon forgets, sadly. Our main characters are older and ready to retire, but that doesn't mean they're just left for dead. TV and film usually ages women out at a certain age (assuming this is where the name of the book comes from), but I will bet money that this book was optioned and will showcase this age group of women spectacularly. If this book continues on with a series, I will probably not continue reading, however I did enjoy the story in this book and would recommend it for those who like action thrillers. I really thought that this book gave off Charlie's Angels vibes, but with menopause. I can't imagine this book not being a winner for readers and I am curious to hear what you think....more
This book is a perfect Holiday season rom-com. I loved listening to this on audibook and it's stapled Timothy Janovsky into my now auto-read territoryThis book is a perfect Holiday season rom-com. I loved listening to this on audibook and it's stapled Timothy Janovsky into my now auto-read territory. So cute, romantic, and fun! ...more
Sebastian J. Plata's debut novel, SEEING STRANGERS is literally a gay relationship's worst nightmare coming true.
Full disclaimer before picking this Sebastian J. Plata's debut novel, SEEING STRANGERS is literally a gay relationship's worst nightmare coming true.
Full disclaimer before picking this book up, this book is for a niche market (specifically the gay community) and may not be understood otherwise, so if you are not part of the LGBTQ+ community and pick this up, go in with full understanding that it will be different from what you expect.
Greg Kelly and his husband Cristian are married and preparing for their first child together via surrogacy. Living in Bushwick, Brooklyn, Greg is a translator at an IT startup and Cristian is an artist who Greg met while living in Spain in their early 20s. Greg's sexual appetite is a lot more intense than Cristian's and the two decided to open their marriage so the two can explore their sexuality with other people. As they approach fatherhood and their mid-thirties (Greg being 34 and Cristian being 35), the couple decides to forge a path of monogamy once the baby arrives. Greg's escapades begin to cause havoc onto the couple鈥攅specially when one fling chooses to take matters in his own hands.
This book messed me up. Before I begin and people decide to butt into my personal life, my marriage is monogamous. That being said, I do know people in open relationships, and it's had varying levels of success for them. I think every gay relationship has a moment in their lives where they question if polyamory would be for them鈥攚hether they'd actually want to do it or not. This book scared the F outta me because having trysts with people who could potentially seek and destroy what you love most is my worst nightmare. This book is steamy AF and juicy as hell, and when the book turns upside down, you'll be on the edge of your seat. I read this book in two sittings because sleep got in the way. However, I will be closely tuning into what this author has next for readers.
One thing about Christopher Rice is that his books ALWAYS delivers when it comes to his novels. Earlier this year, Rice took readers on a journey withOne thing about Christopher Rice is that his books ALWAYS delivers when it comes to his novels. Earlier this year, Rice took readers on a journey with the first installment of his MM romance series Sapphire Cove鈥攁ptly titled Sapphire Sunset. It was easily a 5-star read for me as it was the first authentic MM romance that I鈥檝e really enjoyed. In his newest release, SAPPHIRE SPRING, readers are still in the same universe as its predecessor, but we have two new protagonists that share their journey with us. Disclaimer, this book dives a lot deeper and deals with very sensitive topics, such as alcoholism, homophobia, bullying, and sexual assault. It was very emotionally charged with many sensitive yet important to discuss topics.
I don鈥檛 want to go too into the story鈥檚 synopsis (just read it on 欧宝娱乐!) because the best thing about this story is how it develops. I don鈥檛 think I鈥檝e gotten so emotionally invested into a storyline in a book before as I did with this book. The steam was a lot鈥teamier (if that鈥檚 a word) and you鈥檒l be in for a major surprise! I still am like ...more
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